Image display device, image display method, and image display program

Abstract

To provide an image display device, an image display method, and an image display program capable of improving usability.SOLUTION: An image display device 10 includes at least one processor. The processor receives designation of a display position for an image in a screen, selects a layout corresponding to the display position of a plurality of layout candidates associated with each position in the screen, which are layout candidates in which at least one of the number and the shape of a display frame for displaying the image in the screen is determined, and arranges the image in the display frame corresponding to the display position in the selected layout.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image display device, an image display method, and an image display program. [Background technology]

[0002] Currently, medical image diagnosis is performed using various imaging devices (so-called modalities), such as X-ray devices, CT (Computed Tomography) devices, and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) devices. In medical image diagnosis, multiple medical images may be acquired for the same subject. For example, with a CT device, multiple tomographic images are acquired in one examination. For more detailed diagnosis, the same subject may be imaged multiple times with different imaging conditions or modalities. For follow-up observation, the same subject may be imaged multiple times with different imaging times.

[0003] For such multiple medical images, comparative interpretation may be performed in which the images are compared while being interpreted. As a technology for supporting comparative interpretation, a technology relating to a layout method when multiple medical images are displayed on a display device such as a liquid crystal display is known.

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses that when laying out a plurality of inspection images in a plurality of display frames, the number of display frames is changed to the same number as the number of selected inspection images. Also, for example, Patent Document 2 discloses that in an image display device capable of multiple split display, a screen switching process associated in advance is determined according to a touch operation by a user and the number of currently displayed screens. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-171546 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-003337 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Conventional layout methods sometimes lack sufficient usability for various user operations such as setting the layout, selecting images to be displayed, and specifying the display position of the images.

[0007] The present disclosure provides an image display device, an image display method, and an image display program that can improve usability. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A first aspect of the present disclosure is an image display device comprising at least one processor, which accepts a specification of a display position of an image on a screen, selects a layout corresponding to the display position from among a plurality of layout candidates corresponding to positions on the screen, the layout candidates defining at least one of the number and shape of display frames for displaying the image on the screen, and arranges the image in the display frame corresponding to the display position in the selected layout.

[0009] In the above aspect, the multiple layout candidates are each associated with a different judgment area included in the screen, and if the display position is included in one of the judgment areas, the processor may select a layout corresponding to the judgment area including the display position, and if the display position is not included in any of the judgment areas, the processor may leave the selected layout selected.

[0010] In the above aspect, the determination area may be smaller than all of the display frames included in the multiple layout candidates.

[0011] In the above aspect, the processor may accept a designation of a display position for one representative image among the multiple images, select a layout corresponding to the display position from multiple layout candidates, place the representative image in a display frame corresponding to the display position in the selected layout, and place multiple images other than the representative image in display frames other than the display frame corresponding to the display position in the selected layout.

[0012] In the above aspect, the processor may arrange multiple images other than the representative image in the display frames, starting from the display frame in which the representative image is arranged, in accordance with a predetermined order for the multiple display frames included in the layout.

[0013] In the above aspect, the processor may limit the number of selectable layout candidates based on the number of images.

[0014] In the above aspect, the processor may display, on the same screen, the display frame and an image list for selecting at least one image to be displayed on the screen.

[0015] In the above aspect, the processor may display a list of images arranged in a display frame.

[0016] In the above aspect, when the processor receives the designation of the display position, the processor may display guide information indicating layout candidates on the screen.

[0017] In the above aspect, the processor may accept a provisional designation of a display position and a confirmed designation of a display position, and when the provisional designation of a display position is accepted, the processor may display guide information on the screen indicating candidate layouts corresponding to the display position for which the provisional designation has been accepted, and when the processor accepts a confirmed designation of a display position, the processor may select a layout corresponding to the display position for which the confirmed designation has been accepted.

[0018] In the above aspect, when the processor receives a tentative designation of a display position, the processor may display, as guide information, a graphic indicating the size and shape of a display frame corresponding to the display position in a candidate layout corresponding to the display position for which the tentative designation was received.

[0019] In the above aspect, the processor may display, as the guide information, an icon representing the number and shape of display frames in each of the plurality of layout candidates.

[0020] In the above aspect, the image may be a medical image.

[0021] A second aspect of the present disclosure is an image display method in which a computer receives a specification of a display position of an image on a screen, selects a layout corresponding to the display position from among a plurality of layout candidates corresponding to positions on the screen, the layout candidates defining at least one of the number and shape of display frames for displaying the image on the screen, and executes a process of placing the image in the display frame corresponding to the display position in the selected layout.

[0022] A third aspect of the present disclosure is an image display program that receives a specification of a display position of an image on a screen, selects a layout corresponding to the display position from among a plurality of layout candidates that are associated with each position on the screen and that define at least one of the number and shape of display frames for displaying the image on the screen, and causes a computer to execute a process of placing the image in the display frame corresponding to the display position in the selected layout. [Effects of the Invention]

[0023] According to the above aspect, the image display device, image display method, and image display program of the present disclosure can improve usability. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of an image display system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of an image display device. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of the image display device. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a correspondence relationship between a position, a layout, and an order of display frames on a screen. [Figure 5] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a screen in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a screen in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a screen in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a screen in the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a screen in the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an image display process. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen in the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen in the second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen in the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen in the second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen in the second embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen in the second embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] [First embodiment] An example of an embodiment of the disclosed technology will be described below with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, identical or equivalent components and parts are designated by the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions will be omitted. Also, the dimensional proportions in the drawings are exaggerated for the sake of explanation and may differ from the actual proportions.

[0026] First, an example of the configuration of an image display system 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 1, the image display system 1 includes an image display device 10, an image capturing device 3, an image server 5, and an image DB (DataBase) 6. The image display device 10, the image capturing device 3, and the image server 5 are connected to each other in a communicable state via a wired or wireless network 9. The network 9 is, for example, a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network).

[0027] The imaging device 3 is a device (modality) that captures an image of a diagnostic target region of a subject, thereby generating a medical image representing the diagnostic target region. Examples of the imaging device 3 include a plain X-ray imaging device, a CT (Computed Tomography) device, an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) device, a PET (Positron Emission Tomography) device, an ultrasound diagnostic device, an endoscope, and a fundus camera. The medical image generated by the imaging device 3 is transmitted to the image server 5.

[0028] The image server 5 is a general-purpose computer installed with a software program that provides the functions of a database management system. The image server 5 is connected to a storage device that configures the image DB 6. When the image server 5 receives a request to register a medical image from the imaging device 3, it formats data related to the medical image in a database format and registers it in the image DB 6. When the image server 5 receives a request to view the medical image from the image display device 10, it searches for the medical image using the image DB 6 and transmits the medical image to the image display device 10 based on the search results.

[0029] The storage constituting the image DB 6 is realized by a storage medium such as a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), or a flash memory. Various information indicating medical images acquired by the imaging device 3 (including, for example, metadata related to the medical images) is associated and registered in the image DB 6. The connection between the image server 5 and the storage constituting the image DB 6 is not particularly limited, and may be via a data bus or a network such as a network attached storage (NAS) or a storage area network (SAN).

[0030] The metadata may include, for example, identification information such as an image ID (identification) for identifying a medical image, a cross-sectional ID assigned to each cross-sectional image included in the medical image, a subject ID for identifying the subject, an examination ID for identifying the examination, etc. Furthermore, for example, the metadata may include information about the subject, such as the subject's name, date of birth, age, and sex.

[0031] Furthermore, for example, the metadata may include information related to imaging, such as the imaging method, imaging conditions, imaging purpose, and imaging date and time for capturing medical images. The "imaging method" and "imaging conditions" refer to, for example, the type of imaging device 3, the manufacturer, the imaging region, the imaging protocol, the imaging sequence, the imaging technique, whether or not a contrast agent is used, and the slice thickness in tomography. The metadata may be obtained from a known external information system, such as a Radiology Information System (RIS) or a Hospital Information System (HIS).

[0032] The devices included in the image display system 1 may be located in the same facility (e.g., a hospital) or in different facilities. The number of devices included in the image display system 1 is not particularly limited, and each device may be made up of multiple devices each having the same function.

[0033] In medical image diagnosis, multiple medical images may be acquired for the same subject. For example, a CT device may acquire multiple tomographic images in one examination. For detailed diagnosis, the same subject may be imaged multiple times with different imaging conditions or modalities. For follow-up observation, the same subject may be imaged multiple times with different imaging times.

[0034] For such multiple medical images, comparative interpretation may be performed, in which the images are compared and interpreted. Specifically, when multiple medical images are displayed on a display device such as a liquid crystal display, the multiple medical images are displayed on a single screen to support the comparative interpretation. In this case, it is desirable to improve the operability of various user operations such as setting the layout, selecting images to be displayed, and specifying the display position of the images, since these operations affect the efficiency of the comparative interpretation.

[0035] Therefore, the image display device 10 according to this embodiment provides an easy-to-operate user interface, thereby improving the usability of operations for displaying images. An example of the configuration of the image display device 10 according to this embodiment will be described below.

[0036] First, an example of the hardware configuration of image display device 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Image display device 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 21, a non-volatile storage unit 22, and a memory 23 serving as a temporary storage area. Image display device 10 also includes a display 24, an input unit 25, and a network I / F (Interface) 26. CPU 21, storage unit 22, memory 23, display 24, input unit 25, and network I / F 26 are connected via a bus 28 such as a system bus and a control bus so as to be able to exchange various types of information with one another.

[0037] The storage unit 22 is realized by a storage medium such as an HDD, an SSD, or a flash memory. The storage unit 22 stores an image display program 27 for the image display device 10. The CPU 21 reads the image display program 27 from the storage unit 22, loads it into the memory 23, and executes the loaded image display program 27. The CPU 21 is an example of a processor of the present disclosure.

[0038] The display 24 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays various information. The input unit 25 includes a pointing device such as a mouse, a keyboard, etc., and is used to input various information to the device itself. The display 24 may be configured as a touch panel and may also serve as the input unit 25.

[0039] The network I / F 26 is an interface for communicating with external devices such as the photographing device 3 and the image server 5 via the network 9. For this communication, for example, a wired communication standard such as Ethernet (registered trademark) or FDDI (Fiber Distributed Data Interface), or a wireless communication standard such as 4G, 5G, or Wi-Fi (registered trademark) is used. As the image display device 10, for example, a personal computer, a server computer, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a wearable terminal, etc. can be appropriately applied.

[0040] Next, an example of the functional configuration of the image display device 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. The image display device 10 includes an acquisition unit 30, a reception unit 32, and a display control unit 34. When the CPU 21 executes the image display program 27, the CPU 21 functions as each of the functional units of the acquisition unit 30, the reception unit 32, and the display control unit 34.

[0041] The acquisition unit 30 acquires a plurality of medical images from the imaging device 3 and / or the image server 5. Specifically, the acquisition unit 30 acquires a plurality of medical images relating to one subject to be interpreted. For example, the acquisition unit 30 may transmit a request to the image server 5 to view medical images to which metadata indicating the subject to be interpreted has been added. The medical images are an example of images in the present disclosure.

[0042] The multiple medical images may be, for example, a collection of multiple tomographic images (so-called volume data) output by a tomography device such as a CT device or an MRI device. Hereinafter, volume data acquired in one imaging session will be referred to as a "series." The acquisition unit 30 may acquire one series or multiple series. That is, the multiple medical images may be, for example, multiple tomographic images included in one series acquired by one chest CT imaging session. Alternatively, the multiple medical images may be, for example, multiple tomographic images included in each of two series acquired by two chest CT imaging sessions. Alternatively, the multiple medical images may be, for example, multiple tomographic images included in each of two series acquired by chest CT imaging and head MRI imaging.

[0043] Furthermore, for example, the multiple medical images may be medical images captured multiple times under different imaging conditions or modalities, or may be medical images captured multiple times at different times for follow-up observation, or may be multiple frame images constituting a moving image captured during a single examination.

[0044] The functions of the reception unit 32 and the display control unit 34 will be described with reference to Figs. 4 to 9. Screen D10 shown in Fig. 5 is an initial screen displayed on the display 24 by the display control unit 34. Screens D11 to D14 shown in Figs. 5 to 9 are screens transitioned from screen D10 by various operations. Screens D10 to D14 are examples of a GUI (Graphical User Interface) that functions as a display screen for medical images and an operation screen for receiving various operations. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between screens D10 to D14, they will simply be referred to as screen D. Note that in Figs. 6 to 9, some reference numerals have been omitted for components that are the same as those in Fig. 5.

[0045] After the acquisition unit 30 acquires a plurality of medical images, the display control unit 34 controls the display 24 to display a screen D10 as an initial screen. The screen D includes an image display area 40, an image list display area 44, a menu display area 46, and an information display area 48.

[0046] The image display area 40 is an area capable of displaying a plurality of medical images. As an example, in FIG. 5, the image display area 40 has a layout in which a total of four display frames 41A to 41D are arranged in a grid of two rows and two columns (2×2). A display frame is a frame for displaying a medical image on the screen D, and one medical image is arranged in one display frame. For example, by arranging a medical image in each of the display frames 41A to 41D, four medical images can be displayed on the screen D.

[0047] Furthermore, the image display area 40 is configured to be changeable in layout, which determines at least one of the number and shape of display frames on the screen D. That is, there are multiple layout options that can be switched to in the image display area 40. Specifically, the image display area 40 can be changed to a layout in which adjacent display frames are combined, with four display frames 41A to 41D being the minimum configuration.

[0048] For example, if the upper left display frame 41A and the upper right display frame 41B are combined, and the lower left display frame 41C and the lower right display frame 41D are combined, a total of two display frames are arranged vertically, resulting in a two-row, one-column (2x1) layout. Furthermore, if the upper left display frame 41A and the lower left display frame 41C are combined, and the upper right display frame 41B and the lower right display frame 41D are combined, a total of two display frames are arranged horizontally, resulting in a one-row, two-column (1x2) layout. Furthermore, if all display frames 41A to 41D are combined, a one-row, one-column (1x1) layout consisting of only one display frame is obtained.

[0049] Furthermore, in the image display area 40, different layouts are associated with different positions on the screen D. Specifically, a plurality of determination areas 42A to 42I are provided in the image display area 40 so as not to overlap one another, and a different layout is assigned to each of these. In other words, a plurality of layout candidates that can be changed on the screen D are associated with the different determination areas 42A to 42I included on the screen D, respectively. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the determination areas 42A to 42I, they will be simply referred to as the determination areas 42.

[0050] As an example, FIG. 4 shows the correspondence between the position, layout, and display frame order on screen D. The "Layout" column indicates the number of rows x the number of columns as the arrangement of the display frames in the image display area 40. The "Display Frame Order" column indicates the arrangement order of medical images for each display frame included in the layout. When multiple medical images are displayed, the multiple medical images are arranged in their respective display frames according to this order.

[0051] The display frame that includes the determination area 42 has the display frame order 1, and the medical image is always placed there. That is, the position of the determination area 42 indicates the initial display position of the medical image. By specifying one determination area 42 on the screen D, the user can simultaneously change the layout and place the medical image in the desired display position.

[0052] In the example of Fig. 5, icons 50A-50I are shown superimposed on the nine determination regions 42A-42I, respectively. The icons 50A-50I represent the number and shape of display frames in each of the multiple layout candidates assigned to each determination region 42A-42I. The icons 50A-50I may also represent the position of the display frame that is first in the display frame order. The positions and sizes of the icons 50A-50I may also be the same as those of the determination regions 42A-42I.

[0053] For example, icon 50A has four rectangles arranged in a 2x2 pattern, thereby representing a 2x2 layout associated with determination area 42A. Furthermore, icon 50A has only the top left rectangle that is a different color from the other three rectangles, thereby representing that the top left display frame is number 1 in the layout associated with determination area 42A.

[0054] For example, icon 50B is made up of two rectangles arranged in a 2x1 pattern, thereby representing a 2x1 layout associated with determination area 42B. For example, icon 50E is made up of a single rectangle, thereby representing a 1x1 layout associated with determination area 42E.

[0055] The image list display area 44 is an area where multiple medical images are displayed as thumbnails. Specifically, the display control unit 34 creates thumbnail images by reducing the number of medical images acquired by the acquisition unit 30, and displays them in the image list display area 44. In the example of Fig. 5, one thumbnail image 52At, 52Bt, and 52Ct are displayed for each series of chest CT scans under lung field conditions, chest CT scans under longitudinal conditions, and abdominal CT scans.

[0056] It is possible to arbitrarily set which medical images among the multiple medical images included in a series are to be displayed as thumbnails. For example, the most head-side tomographic image, the most foot-side tomographic image, the central tomographic image, and a tomographic image including a region of interest such as a lesion may be displayed. Furthermore, when there are a large number of medical images and / or series, the thumbnail images displayed in the image list display area 44 may be changed by operating a scroll bar or the like.

[0057] The menu display area 46 is an area where menu buttons 54 are displayed to instruct the execution of various processes related to the interpretation of medical images. Different functions are assigned to each of the multiple menu buttons 54. When a menu button 54 is selected, a process is executed to realize the function associated with the selected menu button 54. For example, when the "Image List" menu button 54 is selected, a process to open and close the image list is performed. Note that when the image list is closed, the image display area 40 may be expanded by the amount of the image list display area 44.

[0058] Various information related to the medical image is displayed in the information display area 48. The various information may be, for example, information about the subject, such as the subject's name, date of birth, age, and sex. It may also be, for example, information about the imaging, such as the imaging method, imaging conditions, imaging purpose, and imaging date and time. This various information can be obtained, for example, based on metadata associated with the medical image.

[0059] The receiving unit 32 receives a selection of a medical image to be displayed on the screen D (image display area 40) via the input unit 25. For example, the receiving unit 32 receives a selection of at least one of the thumbnail images displayed in the image list display area 44. In this case, the receiving unit 32 considers that the medical image from which the selected thumbnail image was created has been selected.

[0060] Furthermore, the receiving unit 32 receives, via the input unit 25, a designation of the display position of the medical image on the screen D. For example, the receiving unit 32 may receive the determination area 42 as the display position, or may receive a position within the image display area 40 but outside the determination area 42.

[0061] The display control unit 34 selects a layout corresponding to the display position designated by the reception unit 32 from among a plurality of layout candidates associated with each position on the screen D. Then, the display control unit 34 arranges the medical image in the display frame corresponding to the display position in the selected layout. The display frame corresponding to the display position is the display frame with the display frame order 1.

[0062] 6, the thumbnail image 52At is selected from among the thumbnail images 52At, 52Bt, and 52Ct, and the determination area 42C is specified as its display position. In response to these operations, the receiving unit 32 determines that the medical image 52A from which the thumbnail image 52At was created has been selected as the medical image to be displayed in the image display area 40. The receiving unit 32 also determines that the determination area 42C has been specified as the display position of the medical image 52A.

[0063] Note that these operation methods are not particularly limited. For example, as shown by the dashed arrow in Fig. 6, the medical image may be selected and its display position may be specified by dragging and dropping the thumbnail image 52At into the judgment area C with the pointer 60. Also, for example, a method may be used in which the thumbnail image 52At is clicked (tapped) and then the judgment area C is clicked (tapped).

[0064] 7, the display control unit 34 selects a 2×2 layout as the layout associated with the specified determination area 42C. In addition, the display control unit 34 arranges the medical image 52A in the upper right display frame 41B in accordance with the display frame order associated with the determination area 42C (see FIG. 4).

[0065] For example, suppose that a determination area 42G located at the bottom left of the image display area 40 is specified instead of the determination area 42C. In this case, the display control unit 34 selects a 2×2 layout as the layout associated with the specified determination area 42G. The display control unit 34 also arranges the medical image 52A in the lower left display frame 41C in accordance with the display frame order associated with the determination area 42G.

[0066] For example, suppose that the determination region 42B located in the upper center of the image display region 40 is specified instead of the determination region 42C. In this case, the display control unit 34 selects a 2×1 layout as the layout associated with the specified determination region 42B. Furthermore, the display control unit 34 arranges the medical image 52A in the upper display frame, i.e., the display frame formed by combining the display frame 41A and the display frame 41B, in accordance with the display frame order associated with the determination region 42B.

[0067] For example, suppose that a determination region 42E located in the center of the middle row of the image display region 40 is specified instead of the determination region 42C. In this case, the display control unit 34 selects a 1×1 layout as the layout associated with the specified determination region 42E. Furthermore, the display control unit 34 arranges the medical image 52A in the center display frame, i.e., the display frame formed by combining the display frames 41A to 41D, in accordance with the display frame order associated with the determination region 42E.

[0068] In this way, by previously associating a plurality of different layout candidates with each position on screen D, it is possible to simultaneously change the layout and arrange the image at the desired display position. This allows for intuitive and efficient operation, improving usability. Furthermore, improving the operability of arranging images on screen D (viewer) can contribute to shortening the time required for comparative interpretation.

[0069] Furthermore, the image display device 10 according to this embodiment may be configured to allow multiple medical images to be arranged together. Specifically, the reception unit 32 may receive a selection of multiple medical images to be displayed on the screen D (image display area 40). In this case, the reception unit 32 receives a designation of a display position for one representative image among the selected multiple medical images. The representative image may be, for example, the medical image from which the thumbnail image that was dragged and dropped into the determination area 42 was created, or the medical image from which the thumbnail image that was subjected to a specific operation (e.g., double-click) was created.

[0070] The display control unit 34 selects a layout corresponding to the designated display position of the representative image from among multiple layout candidates. The display control unit 34 also arranges the representative image in a display frame corresponding to the display position in the selected layout. That is, the representative image is arranged in the display frame with the display frame order 1.

[0071] Then, the display control unit 34 arranges the multiple medical images other than the representative image in display frames other than the display frame corresponding to the display position in the selected layout. Specifically, the display control unit 34 arranges the multiple medical images other than the representative image in display frames in accordance with a predetermined order for the multiple display frames included in the selected layout, starting from the display frame in which the representative image is arranged. The predetermined order for the multiple display frames is, for example, the order of the display frames in FIG. 4.

[0072] 8, thumbnail images 52At and 52Ct are selected from among thumbnail images 52At, 52Bt, and 52Ct. Also, medical image 52A, which is the original image of thumbnail image 52At, is selected as the representative image, and determination area 42C is specified as its display position.

[0073] In response to these operations, the reception unit 32 determines that the medical images 52A and 52C from which the thumbnail images 52At and 52Ct were created have been selected as medical images to be displayed in the image display area 40. The reception unit 32 also determines that the determination area 42C has been designated as the display position for the medical image 52A, which is the representative image.

[0074] 9, the display control unit 34 selects a 2x2 layout as the layout associated with the determination region 42C specified for the medical image 52A, which is the representative image. Furthermore, the display control unit 34 arranges the medical image 52A, which is the representative image, in the upper right display frame 41B in accordance with the display frame order associated with the determination region 42C. Then, the display control unit 34 arranges the medical image 52C in the lower left display frame 41C, which is second in the display frame order associated with the determination region 42C.

[0075] For example, suppose that a determination area 42G located at the bottom left of the image display area 40 is specified instead of the determination area 42C. In this case, the display control unit 34 selects a 2×2 layout as the layout associated with the specified determination area 42G. Furthermore, in accordance with the display frame order associated with the determination area 42G, the display control unit 34 places the medical image 52A, which is the representative image, in the lower left display frame 41C, and places the medical image 52C in the lower right display frame 41D, which is second in the display frame order.

[0076] For example, suppose that the determination area 42B located in the upper center of the image display area 40 is specified instead of the determination area 42C. In this case, the display control unit 34 selects a 2×1 layout as the layout associated with the specified determination area 42B. Furthermore, the display control unit 34 arranges the medical image 52A, which is the representative image, in the upper display frame in accordance with the display frame order associated with the determination area 42B, and arranges the medical image 52C in the lower display frame, which is second in the display frame order.

[0077] For example, suppose that instead of the judgment area 42C, a judgment area 42E located in the center of the middle row of the image display area 40 is specified. In this case, a 1×1 layout is associated with the judgment area 42E, but this does not provide enough display frames for the number of selected medical images. Therefore, the display control unit 34 may select a 1×1 layout as the layout associated with the judgment area 42E, place the representative image, medical image 52A, in the center display frame, and cancel the placement of medical image 52C.

[0078] In this way, by previously associating a plurality of different layout candidates with each position on the screen D, even when arranging a plurality of images together, it is possible to simultaneously change the layout and arrange the images in the desired display positions, thereby enabling efficient operation and improving usability.

[0079] On screen D, it is desirable to make the determination area 42 for changing the layout smaller than all of the display frames included in the multiple layout candidates. In this case, it becomes easy to perform only the operation of arranging or replacing medical images without changing the layout. Therefore, more flexible operations are possible, for example, by first arranging only some medical images while selecting a layout, and then later arranging additional medical images in the empty display frames.

[0080] Specifically, the display control unit 34 may leave the selected layout selected if the display position accepted by the accepting unit 32 is not included in any of the determination areas 42. For example, assume that a thumbnail image 52Bt is selected on the screen D14 of FIG. 9 and dragged and dropped into the image display area 40. If the dropped position (specified display position) is not included in any of the determination areas 42, the display control unit 34 places the medical image 52B, which is the source of the creation of the thumbnail image 52Bt, in the display frame corresponding to the specified display position.

[0081] Note that, when a medical image has not been placed in the display frame corresponding to the specified display position, such as the display frames 41A and 41D on screen D14, the display control unit 34 additionally places the medical image 52B. On the other hand, when a medical image has already been placed in the display frame corresponding to the specified display position, such as the display frames 41B and 41C on screen D14, the display control unit 34 replaces the medical image 52B with the already placed medical image 52A or 52C. The second row from the bottom in the table in Figure 4 indicates the above processing.

[0082] On the other hand, if the display position accepted by the accepting unit 32 is included in any of the determination areas 42, the display control unit 34 selects a layout corresponding to the determination area 42 that includes the display position, as described above. At this time, if the selected layout is the same as the previously selected layout, the medical images already arranged may remain as they are. Furthermore, if the selected layout is different from the previously selected layout, the arrangement of the medical images already arranged may be canceled.

[0083] When a position outside the image display area 40 is specified as the display position, the reception unit 32 may ignore the specification and wait until a position within the image display area 40 is re-specified, or may cancel the selection of the medical image. This is indicated by "No change" at the bottom of the table in Fig. 4. Examples of positions outside the image display area 40 include the image list display area 44, the menu display area 46, and the information display area 48.

[0084] Furthermore, when accepting the designation of the display position, the display control unit 34 may display guide information indicating layout candidates on the screen D. For example, icons 50A to 50I representing the number and shape of display frames in each of a plurality of layout candidates are an example of the guide information of the present disclosure.

[0085] Furthermore, the display control unit 34 may present the guide information only when the user is about to specify the display position of the medical image on the screen D. According to the image display device 10, the correspondence between the position, layout, and display frame order on the screen D is intuitive and easy to remember, and therefore, for a user who is accustomed to the operation, the constant display of the guide information may feel bothersome.

[0086] Specifically, the receiving unit 32 may receive a provisional designation of the display position and a confirmation designation of the display position. The provisional designation and the confirmation designation may each be realized by a different specific operation. For example, the receiving unit 32 may determine that a provisional designation has been received when the pointer 60 is hovering over the determination area 42 during the process of dragging and dropping a thumbnail image into the image display area 40. Alternatively, for example, the receiving unit 32 may determine that a confirmation designation has been received when the thumbnail image is dropped on the determination area 42.

[0087] When the receiving unit 32 receives a tentative designation of a display position, the display control unit 34 may display guide information indicating layout candidates corresponding to the display position for which the tentative designation has been received on the screen D. For example, the display control unit 34 may display, as the guide information, a graphic indicating the size and shape of a display frame corresponding to the display position in the layout candidates corresponding to the display position for which the tentative designation has been received. That is, this graphic indicates the size and shape of a display frame in which a medical image is to be placed.

[0088] 6 shows a state in which the pointer 60 is hovered over the determination region 42C, and the determination region 42C is designated as a temporary display position. In response to this operation, the display control unit 34 may display a guide frame 41BG indicating the size and shape of the display frame 41B in which the medical image is to be placed (i.e., the display frame order is 1) in the layout candidate corresponding to the determination region 42C for which the temporary designation has been accepted.

[0089] Furthermore, for example, when multiple medical images to be displayed on screen D are selected, multiple graphics indicating the size and shape of the display frame in which each of the selected medical images will be placed may be displayed. Screen D13 in FIG. 8 shows a state in which the pointer 60 is hovered over the determination area 42C, and the determination area 42C is designated as a temporary display position for the representative image. As described above, if the display positions are confirmed in this state, the representative image, medical image 52A, is placed in the upper right display frame 41B, and medical image 52C is placed in the lower left display frame 41C. In response to this operation, the display control unit 34 may display guide frames 41BG and 41CG indicating the size and shape of the display frames 41B and 41C, respectively.

[0090] When the accepting unit 32 accepts the specification of the confirmed display position, the display control unit 34 selects the layout corresponding to the display position for which the specification of the confirmed display position has been accepted. The processing in this case is as described above.

[0091] By displaying the guide information, the correspondence between the position (determination area 42), layout, and display frame order on the screen D is visualized, allowing for intuitive operation and improving usability.

[0092] The above-described guide information is an example and is not limited to this. For example, the icons 50A to 50I may also be displayed on the screen D only when a temporary designation of the display position is accepted. Furthermore, for example, the guide information may be either the icons 50A to 50I or the guide frame. Furthermore, for example, the guide information may be arbitrarily switched between display and non-display.

[0093] Next, the operation of the image display device 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 10. In the image display device 10, the CPU 21 executes the image display program 27, thereby executing the image display process shown in Fig. 10. This process is executed, for example, when a command to start execution is given by the user via the input unit 25.

[0094] In step S10, the acquisition unit 30 acquires a plurality of images. In step S12, the display control unit 34 performs control to display a list of images on the display 24. Specifically, the display control unit 34 creates thumbnail images by reducing the plurality of images acquired in step S10, and displays the image list including the thumbnail images on the screen D.

[0095] In step S14, the receiving unit 32 receives a designation of the display position of the image on the screen D. Specifically, the receiving unit 32 receives a designation of the display position for the medical image from which at least one thumbnail image in the image list displayed in step S12 was created.

[0096] In step S16, the display control unit 34 selects a layout corresponding to the display position specified in step S14 from among multiple layout candidates associated with each position on the screen D. In step S18, the display control unit 34 changes the screen D to the layout selected in step S16, and places the image in the display frame corresponding to the display position specified in step S14. When step S18 is completed, this process ends.

[0097] As described above, the image display device 10 according to this embodiment includes at least one processor, which accepts a specification of a display position of an image on the screen D, selects a layout corresponding to the display position from among a plurality of layout candidates which are associated with positions on the screen D and which determine at least one of the number and shape of display frames for displaying the image on the screen D, and places the image D in the display frame corresponding to the display position in the selected layout.

[0098] That is, according to the image display device 10, different layout candidates are previously associated with each position on the screen D, so that it is possible to simultaneously change the layout and arrange the image at the desired display position. This allows for intuitive and efficient operation, improving usability. Furthermore, improving the operability of arranging images on the screen D (viewer) can contribute to shortening the time required for comparative interpretation.

[0099] [Second embodiment] When arranging multiple medical images together, the selectable layouts may be limited depending on the number of medical images. For example, if each of the layouts shown in Figure 4 is selectable, the number of display frames on screen D is one, two, or four. However, if the number of medical images desired to be arranged is three, a layout with one or two display frames cannot be selected.

[0100] Therefore, the image display device 10 according to this embodiment has a function of limiting the selectable layout candidates based on the number of images to be arranged. The image display device 10 according to this embodiment will be described below, but the same description as in the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0101] The function of the display control unit 34 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 11 to 16. Screens D20 to D25 shown in Figs. 11 to 16 are screens displayed on the display 24 by the display control unit 34, and are screens transitioned from screen D10 in Fig. 4. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between screens D20 to D25, they will simply be referred to as screen D. Note that in Figs. 11 to 16, some of the reference numerals have been omitted for components that are the same as those in Fig. 5.

[0102] As in the first embodiment, the receiving unit 32 receives a selection of multiple medical images to be displayed on the screen D (image display area 40). The display control unit 34 limits the multiple selectable layout candidates based on the number of multiple medical images for which the receiving unit 32 has received a selection. Specifically, the display control unit 34 extracts, from the multiple layout candidates, layouts in which all of the medical images for which the selection has been received can be arranged as selectable candidates, and excludes the rest from the candidates.

[0103] Then, the display control unit 34 causes only the determination region 42 corresponding to the extracted selectable layout candidate to be included on the screen D. In this case, the display control unit 34 may enlarge the determination region 42 corresponding to the extracted selectable layout candidate.

[0104] The receiving unit 32 receives a designation of a display position for one representative image of the selected plurality of medical images. The display control unit 34 selects a layout corresponding to the designated display position for the representative image from the extracted layout candidates. The display control unit 34 also arranges the representative image in a display frame corresponding to the display position in the selected layout. The display control unit 34 then arranges the plurality of medical images other than the representative image in display frames other than the display frame corresponding to the display position in the selected layout.

[0105] 11, all three thumbnail images 52At, 52Bt, and 52Ct are selected and displayed in the image list display area 44. In response to this operation, the display control unit 34 extracts determination areas 42A, 42C, 42G, and 42I that correspond to the layout candidate including four display frames from among the multiple selectable layout candidates (see FIG. 4).

[0106] 11, the display control unit 34 displays icons 50A, 50C, 50G, and 50I superimposed on the determination regions 42A, 42C, 42G, and 42I, respectively. Compared with the determination regions 42A, 42C, 42G, and 42I on the screen D10 in FIG. 5, the determination regions 42A, 42C, 42G, and 42I on the screen D20 are enlarged.

[0107] 12, the medical image 52A from which the thumbnail image 52At was created is selected as the representative image, and the determination area 42C is specified as its display position. In response to these operations, the receiving unit 32 determines that the medical images 52A, 52B, and 52C from which the thumbnail images 52At, 52Bt, and 52Ct were created have been selected as medical images to be displayed in the image display area 40. The receiving unit 32 also determines that the determination area 42C has been specified as the display position of the medical image 52A, which is the representative image.

[0108] As shown on screen D22 in Fig. 13, the display control unit 34 selects a 2x2 layout as the layout associated with the determination region 42C specified for the medical image 52A, which is the representative image. The display control unit 34 also arranges the medical image 52A, which is the representative image, in the upper right display frame 41B in accordance with the display frame order associated with the determination region 42C. The display control unit 34 then arranges the medical image 52B in the lower left display frame 41C, which is second in the display frame order associated with the determination region 42C. The display control unit 34 also arranges the medical image 52C in the lower right display frame 41D, which is third in the display frame order associated with the determination region 42C.

[0109] 14, for example, two thumbnail images 52At and 52Ct are selected from the image list display area 44. In response to this operation, the display control unit 34 extracts determination areas 42B, 42D, 42F, and 42H corresponding to the layout candidate including two display frames from among a plurality of selectable layout candidates (see FIG. 4).

[0110] 14, the display control unit 34 displays icons 50B, 50D, 50F, and 50H superimposed on the determination regions 42B, 42D, 42F, and 42H, respectively. Compared with the determination regions 42B, 42D, 42F, and 42H on the screen D10 in FIG. 5, the determination regions 42B, 42D, 42F, and 42H on the screen D20 are enlarged.

[0111] 15, the medical image 52A from which the thumbnail image 52At was created is selected as the representative image, and the determination area 42B is specified as its display position. In response to these operations, the receiving unit 32 determines that the medical images 52A and 52C from which the thumbnail images 52At and 52Ct were created have been selected as medical images to be displayed in the image display area 40. The receiving unit 32 also determines that the determination area 42B has been specified as the display position of the medical image 52A, which is the representative image.

[0112] 16, the display control unit 34 selects a 2×1 layout as the layout associated with the determination region 42B specified for the medical image 52A, which is the representative image. Furthermore, the display control unit 34 arranges the medical image 52A, which is the representative image, in the upper display frame 41U in accordance with the display frame order associated with the determination region 42B. Then, the display control unit 34 arranges the medical image 52C in the lower display frame 41V, which is second in the display frame order associated with the determination region 42B.

[0113] 15, the pointer 60 is hovered over the determination area 42B, indicating that the determination area 42B is designated as a temporary display position for the representative image. As described above, if the display positions are confirmed in this state, the medical image 52A, which is the representative image, is placed in the upper display frame 41U, and the medical image 52C is placed in the lower display frame 41V. In response to this operation, the display control unit 34 displays guide frames 41UG and 41VG that indicate the sizes and shapes of the display frames 41U and 41V, respectively.

[0114] According to the image display device 10 of this embodiment, it is possible to limit the selectable layout candidates based on the number of images to be arranged. Therefore, it is possible to prevent unnecessary increase in the number of layout candidate options, thereby improving usability. Furthermore, it is possible to enlarge the judgment area 42 on the screen D, which corresponds to the selectable layout candidates, thereby improving operability.

[0115] In the above embodiments, examples in which medical images are used have been described, but the present disclosure is not limited to this example and may be applied to any image other than medical images.

[0116] In addition, although the above embodiments have been described using a grid-like layout, the layout is not limited to this and can be of any shape. In addition, in Fig. 5 and other examples, the borders of the smallest display frames 41A to 41D are displayed to improve visibility, but the borders may be hidden.

[0117] 5 and other figures have been used to describe an example in which an image list (image list display area 44) is displayed alongside a display frame (image display area 40), but this is not limiting. The display control unit 34 may be configured to display the display frame and an image list for selecting at least one image to be displayed on the screen D on the same screen D. Such a screen configuration allows for intuitive and quick operation, improving usability.

[0118] As an example, an example in which display frames are not arranged in an image list but are displayed on the same screen D will be described with reference to Figures 17 to 19. Note that in Figures 17 to 19, some of the reference numerals are omitted for the same components as in Figure 5.

[0119] 17 is a screen D10 in which the image list display area 44 has been omitted. That is, screen D30 includes the image display area 40, the menu display area 46, and the information display area 48. When the "Image List" menu button 54 is selected on screen D30, a bottom-sheet type image list display area 45 is displayed.

[0120] 18 shows a state in which the bottom sheet type image list display area 45 is expanded on the screen D30. In the image list display area 45 of the screen D31, thumbnail images 52At and 52Ct are selected from thumbnail images 52At, 52Bt, and 52Ct. In addition, the medical image 52A from which the thumbnail image 52At was created is selected as the representative image.

[0121] When a representative image is dragged into the image display area 40, the image list display area 45 is folded, and the entire image display area 40 is displayed. Therefore, the user can perform an operation of specifying the display position (determination area 42) of the selected representative image in the image list display area 45 with a single drag-and-drop. Screen D32 in Fig. 19 shows a state in which the image list display area 45 on screen D31 has been folded, and the determination area 42G has been specified as the display position of the representative image.

[0122] 19, the pointer 60 is hovered over the determination area 42G, indicating that the determination area 42G is designated as a temporary display position for the representative image. If the display positions are confirmed in this state, the medical image 52A, which is the representative image, is placed in the lower left display frame 41C, and the medical image 52C is placed in the lower right display frame 41D. In response to this operation, the display control unit 34 displays guide frames 41CG and 41DG that indicate the sizes and shapes of the display frames 41C and 41D, respectively.

[0123] Furthermore, while the image list in Fig. 5 and other figures has been described as an example in which thumbnail images are arranged in a single row horizontally, this is not limiting. For example, as shown in screen D40 in Fig. 20, the image list display area 44 may be configured to include a row of multiple thumbnail images. Also, for example, the image list display area 44 may be configured to include thumbnail images arranged vertically.

[0124] The configuration of the image list can be arbitrarily set depending on, for example, the number of images in the image list, the size and number of display frames, the size of the display 24, and the like.

[0125] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the following various processors can be used as the hardware structure of processing units that perform various processes, such as the acquisition unit 30, the reception unit 32, and the display control unit 34. As described above, the various processors include a CPU, which is a general-purpose processor that executes software (programs) and functions as various processing units, as well as dedicated electrical circuits that are processors having a circuit configuration specifically designed to perform specific processes, such as a programmable logic device (PLD), a processor whose circuit configuration can be changed after manufacture, such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), and an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit).

[0126] A single processing unit may be configured with one of these various processors, or may be configured with a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types (for example, a combination of multiple FPGAs, or a combination of a CPU and an FPGA). Also, multiple processing units may be configured with a single processor.

[0127] Examples of configuring multiple processing units with a single processor include, first, a form in which one processor is configured with a combination of one or more CPUs and software, and this processor functions as multiple processing units, as typified by computers such as client and server. Second, a form in which a processor is used to realize the functions of the entire system including multiple processing units with a single IC (Integrated Circuit) chip, as typified by systems on chips (SoCs). In this way, various processing units are configured using one or more of the above-mentioned various processors as a hardware structure.

[0128] Furthermore, more specifically, the hardware structure of these various processors can be an electric circuit that combines circuit elements such as semiconductor elements.

[0129] In the above embodiment, the image display program 27 is pre-stored (installed) in the storage unit 22, but this is not limiting. The program may be provided in a form recorded on a recording medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), a DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc Read Only Memory), or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. The program may also be downloaded from an external device via a network. Furthermore, the technology of the present disclosure extends to not only programs but also storage media that non-temporarily store programs.

[0130] The technology of the present disclosure can also be appropriately combined with the above-described exemplary embodiments and examples. The above-described description and illustrations are detailed descriptions of the parts related to the technology of the present disclosure and are merely examples of the technology of the present disclosure. For example, the above description of the configuration, functions, actions, and effects is an example of the configuration, functions, actions, and effects of the parts related to the technology of the present disclosure. Therefore, it goes without saying that unnecessary parts may be deleted, new elements may be added, or new elements may be replaced with other elements from the above-described description and illustrations, within the scope of the gist of the technology of the present disclosure.

[0131] The following additional notes are further disclosed regarding the above embodiment. [Appendix 1] at least one processor; The processor: Accepts the specification of the display position of the image on the screen, selecting a layout that corresponds to the display position from among a plurality of layout candidates that define at least one of the number and shape of display frames for displaying the image on the screen and that are associated with each position on the screen; The image is arranged in the display frame corresponding to the display position in the selected layout. Image display device. [Appendix 2] the plurality of layout candidates are respectively associated with different determination areas included in the screen, The processor: If the display position is included in any of the determination areas, selecting the layout corresponding to the determination area including the display position; If the display position is not included in any of the determination areas, the selected layout remains selected. 10. An image display device according to claim 1. [Appendix 3] The determination area is smaller than all of the display frames included in the plurality of layout candidates. 3. An image display device according to claim 2. [Appendix 4] The processor: Accepting a designation of the display position for one representative image among the plurality of images; selecting the layout corresponding to the display position from among the plurality of layout candidates; Arranging the representative image in the display frame corresponding to the display position in the selected layout; In the selected layout, the plurality of images other than the representative image are arranged in the display frames other than the display frame corresponding to the display position. 4. An image display device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. [Appendix 5] The processor: According to a predetermined order for the plurality of display frames included in the layout, the plurality of images other than the representative image are arranged in the display frames, starting from the display frame in which the representative image is arranged. 5. An image display device according to claim 4. [Appendix 6] The processor: Limiting the number of selectable layout candidates based on the number of images. 6. The image display device according to claim 4 or 5. [Appendix 7] The processor: The display frame and an image list for selecting at least one image to be displayed on the screen are displayed on the same screen. 7. An image display device according to any one of claims 1 to 6. [Appendix 8] The processor: The image list is displayed in the display frame. 8. An image display device according to claim 7. [Appendix 9] The processor: When the designation of the display position is accepted, guide information showing the layout candidates is displayed on the screen. An image display device according to any one of Supplementary Note 1 to Supplementary Note 8. [Appendix 10] The processor: accepts a tentative designation of the display position and a definitive designation of the display position; When the provisional designation of the display position is accepted, the guide information indicating the layout candidates corresponding to the display position for which the provisional designation is accepted is displayed on the screen; When the designation of the display position is accepted, the layout corresponding to the display position for which the designation of the display position is accepted is selected. 10. The image display device according to claim 9. [Appendix 11] The processor: When the provisional designation of the display position is accepted, a graphic indicating the size and shape of the display frame corresponding to the display position in the layout candidate corresponding to the display position for which the provisional designation has been accepted is displayed as the guide information. 11. An image display device according to claim 10. [Appendix 12] The processor: As the guide information, an icon representing the number and shape of the display frames in each of the plurality of layout candidates is displayed. 12. An image display device according to any one of claims 9 to 11. [Appendix 13] The image is a medical image. 13. An image display device according to any one of claims 1 to 12. [Appendix 14] Accepts the specification of the display position of the image on the screen, selecting a layout that corresponds to the display position from among a plurality of layout candidates that define at least one of the number and shape of display frames for displaying the image on the screen and that are associated with each position on the screen; The image is arranged in the display frame corresponding to the display position in the selected layout. An image display method in which processing is performed by a computer. [Appendix 15] Accepts the specification of the display position of the image on the screen, selecting a layout that corresponds to the display position from among a plurality of layout candidates that define at least one of the number and shape of display frames for displaying the image on the screen and that are associated with each position on the screen; The image is arranged in the display frame corresponding to the display position in the selected layout. An image display program that allows a computer to perform processing. [Explanation of symbols]

[0132] 1 Image display system 3. Imaging equipment 5 Image Server 6. Image Database 9 Network 10 Image display device 21 CPU 22 Memory section 23 Memory 24 displays 25 Input section 26 Network I / F 27 Image display program 28 Bus 30 Acquisition Department 32 Reception Department 34 Display control unit 40 Image display area 41A~41D, 41L, 41R, 41U, 41V Display frame 41BG, 41CG, 41DG, 41UG, 41VG guide frame 42A~42I Judgment area 44, 45 Image list display area 46 Menu display area 48 Information display area 50A~50I Icon 52A~52C Medical Imaging 52At, 52Bt, 52Ct thumbnail images 54 Menu button 60 Pointer D10~D14, D20~D25, D30~D32, D40 screen

Claims

1. at least one processor; The processor: Accepts the specification of the display position of the image on the screen, selecting a layout that corresponds to the display position from among a plurality of layout candidates that define at least one of the number and shape of display frames for displaying the image on the screen and that are associated with each position on the screen; The image is arranged in the display frame corresponding to the display position in the selected layout. Image display device.

2. the plurality of layout candidates are respectively associated with different determination areas included in the screen, The processor: If the display position is included in any of the determination areas, selecting the layout corresponding to the determination area including the display position; If the display position is not included in any of the determination areas, the selected layout remains selected. The image display device according to claim 1 .

3. The determination area is smaller than all of the display frames included in the plurality of layout candidates. The image display device according to claim 2 .

4. The processor: Accepting a designation of the display position for one representative image among the plurality of images; selecting the layout corresponding to the display position from among the plurality of layout candidates; Arranging the representative image in the display frame corresponding to the display position in the selected layout; In the selected layout, the plurality of images other than the representative image are arranged in the display frames other than the display frame corresponding to the display position. The image display device according to claim 1 .

5. The processor: According to a predetermined order for the plurality of display frames included in the layout, the plurality of images other than the representative image are arranged in the display frames, starting from the display frame in which the representative image is arranged. The image display device according to claim 4 .

6. The processor: Limiting the number of selectable layout candidates based on the number of images. The image display device according to claim 4 .

7. The processor: The display frame and an image list for selecting at least one image to be displayed on the screen are displayed on the same screen. The image display device according to claim 1 .

8. The processor: The image list is displayed in the display frame. The image display device according to claim 7 .

9. The processor: When the designation of the display position is accepted, guide information showing the layout candidates is displayed on the screen. The image display device according to claim 1 .

10. The processor: accepts a tentative designation of the display position and a definitive designation of the display position; When the provisional designation of the display position is accepted, the guide information indicating the layout candidates corresponding to the display position for which the provisional designation is accepted is displayed on the screen; When the designation of the display position is accepted, the layout corresponding to the display position for which the designation of the display position is accepted is selected. The image display device according to claim 9 .

11. The processor: When the provisional designation of the display position is accepted, a graphic indicating the size and shape of the display frame corresponding to the display position in the layout candidate corresponding to the display position for which the provisional designation has been accepted is displayed as the guide information. The image display device according to claim 10.

12. The processor: As the guide information, an icon representing the number and shape of the display frames in each of the plurality of layout candidates is displayed. The image display device according to claim 9 .

13. The image is a medical image. The image display device according to claim 1 .

14. Accepts the specification of the display position of the image on the screen, selecting a layout that corresponds to the display position from among a plurality of layout candidates that define at least one of the number and shape of display frames for displaying the image on the screen and that are associated with each position on the screen; The image is arranged in the display frame corresponding to the display position in the selected layout. An image display method in which processing is performed by a computer.

15. Accepts the specification of the display position of the image on the screen, selecting a layout that corresponds to the display position from among a plurality of layout candidates that define at least one of the number and shape of display frames for displaying the image on the screen and that are associated with each position on the screen; The image is arranged in the display frame corresponding to the display position in the selected layout. An image display program that allows a computer to perform processing.

Images