Radiography support apparatus, radiography support system, radiography support method, and program

Abstract

To provide a radiography support apparatus, etc. capable of checking whether or not positional relationships between a radioactive source and an imaging apparatus are matched.SOLUTION: An imaging support system server includes: an optical image acquisition unit for acquiring an optical image G1 in which a portable radiographic imaging apparatus 2 and a subject S are captured; an imaging range determination unit for determining a frame image G2 on the basis of the information on an examination of the subject S; and a display unit 42 for displaying an imaging support system screen 420 for performing positioning between the position of the radiographic imaging apparatus 2 in the optical image G1 acquired by the optical image acquisition unit and the frame image G2 determined by the imaging range determination unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a radiography support device, a radiography support system, a radiography support method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In radiography, whether or not an appropriate radiographic image can be obtained depends on the relative positions of the patient, the tube, and the cassette-type imaging device. In radiography in which the imaging device is fixed to an imaging table and the positional movements of the tube and the imaging table are linked, the relative positions of the tube and the imaging device are linked, so only the position of the patient needs to be considered. However, in cassette radiography in which the imaging device is not fixed to an imaging table, the relative positions of the patient, the tube, and the imaging device must all be manually adjusted by a radiologist or other professional. In this case, if even one element of the patient, the tube, or the imaging device is misaligned, an appropriate radiographic image cannot be obtained, and the image may need to be retaken.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a technology having a display function for displaying the distance between the center of the radiation source and the center of the imaging means as the relative position between the radiation source and the imaging means. Patent Document 2 describes a technology for changing the display position of a positioning indicator image indicating a preset position of the subject in accordance with a change in the cassette position in a camera image. Patent Document 3 describes a technology for notifying whether the distance between the radiation source and the radiation detector calculated based on a signal transmitted from the radiation detector matches the SID at the time of capturing a radiographic image. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-23955 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-33830 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-050693 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In cassette radiography, the patient, tube, and imaging device must be positioned appropriately, and both the distance between the tube and imaging device and the angle of the imaging device relative to the radiation must be appropriate for the area of ​​the subject being radiographed. Conventional technology can display information about the distance and angle between the tube and imaging device. However, there is a problem in that it is not possible to confirm whether the distance between the tube and imaging device and the angle of the imaging device relative to the radiation are both appropriate.

[0006] Therefore, in order to solve the above problem, an object of the present invention is to provide a radiography support device, a radiography support system, a radiography support method, and a program that can confirm whether the positional relationship between a radiation source and an imaging device is consistent. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The radiography support device according to the present invention comprises: an optical image acquisition unit that acquires an optical image of the portable radiographic imaging device and the subject; an imaging range determination unit that determines an imaging range based on information about the examination of the subject; a display unit that displays information for aligning the position of the radiation image capturing device in the optical image acquired by the optical image acquisition unit with the imaging range determined by the imaging range determination unit; and Equipped with.

[0008] The radiography support system according to the present invention comprises: a portable radiographic imaging device for imaging a subject; The radiography support device; Equipped with.

[0009] The radiography assistance method according to the present invention comprises: an acquisition step of acquiring an optical image showing the portable radiographic imaging device and the subject; a determining step of determining an imaging range based on information about the examination of the subject; a display step of displaying information for aligning the position of the radiographic image capturing device in the acquired optical image with the determined capturing range; It has.

[0010] The program according to the present invention comprises: Computer, an optical image acquisition unit that acquires an optical image of the portable radiographic imaging device and the subject; an imaging range determination unit that determines an imaging range based on information about the examination of the subject; a display unit that displays information for aligning the position of the radiation image capturing device in the optical image acquired by the optical image acquisition unit with the imaging range determined by the imaging range determination unit; Function as. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, by looking at the radiographic imaging device and imaging range in the optical image displayed on the display unit, it is possible to confirm whether the positional relationship between the radiographic imaging device and the radiation irradiation device is appropriate. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a radiography support system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram of an imaging device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 3A and 3B are diagrams showing an example of the configuration of a marker portion printed on the imaging device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a photography support system server according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5]10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the imaging support system server when determining whether the relative positions of the radiation source and the imaging apparatus are appropriate before radiography according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 1 is a diagram showing the dimensional relationship between an image capturing device placed at an appropriate position according to the first embodiment and the image capturing device that appears in an optical image captured by an optical camera. FIG. [Figure 7] 5A and 5B are diagrams showing an example of an optical image displayed on a shooting support screen of a display unit according to the first embodiment and a frame image superimposed on the optical image. [Figure 8] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing an example of an optical image of a subject and an imaging device photographed by an optical camera, displayed on an imaging support screen of a display unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is a diagram showing an example of a photographing support screen displayed on a display unit when a photographing device in an optical image according to the first embodiment matches a frame image. FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of match information displayed on a screen of the photographing support system on the display unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of mismatch information displayed on a screen of the photographing support system of the display unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] 10 is a diagram showing an example of unrecognized information displayed on a screen of the photography support system of the display unit according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the imaging support system server when determining whether the relative positions of the radiation source and the imaging apparatus are appropriate before radiography according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a shooting support system screen for selecting an SID or the like, which is displayed on a display unit according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] A radiography support apparatus, a radiography support system, a radiography support method, and a program according to preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0014] [Configuration example of the radiography support system 100] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a radiography support system 100 according to the first embodiment. The radiography support system 100 includes a radiation irradiator 1, a radiographic image capture device 2, an image capture control device 3, and an image capture support system server 4. Hereinafter, the radiation irradiator 1 may be referred to as the irradiator 1, and the radiographic image capture device 2 may be referred to as the image capture device 2. The image capture support system server 4 corresponds to an example of a radiography support system. Each device constituting the radiography support system 100 conforms to a standard, and communication between the devices is performed in accordance with DICOM. DICOM stands for Digital Image and Communications in Medicine. Note that communication between the devices is not limited to the DICOM standard, and files may be transferred between the devices using FTP, for example. FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol.

[0015] The irradiation device 1, the imaging device 2, the imaging control device 3, and the imaging support system server 4 are communicably connected via a network N. Examples of the network N include a LAN, a WAN, and the Internet. LAN is an abbreviation for Local Area Network. WAN is an abbreviation for Wide Area Network. When each device is located within a medical facility, for example, a LAN can be used. The communication method of the network N may be wired communication or wireless communication.

[0016] The irradiation device 1 includes a generator 11, an irradiation instruction switch 12, and a radiation source 13. In response to operation of the irradiation instruction switch 12, the generator 11 applies a voltage based on preset imaging conditions to the radiation source 13, which has, for example, a tube. When voltage is applied from the generator 11, the radiation source 13 generates radiation R at a dose corresponding to the applied voltage. The radiation R is, for example, X-rays. The generator 11 and the radiation source 13 may each have an operation unit and a display unit that accept input of irradiation conditions, etc. The irradiation device 1 generates radiation R in a manner corresponding to the type of imaging, for example, still image imaging or dynamic imaging. The irradiation device 1 may perform processing to automatically recognize and automatically trim the irradiation field of the radiation source 13 according to, for example, the imaging region. A radiologist or the like may be able to set the irradiation field to any size by adjusting a collimator according to the imaging region.

[0017] The irradiation device 1 is equipped with an optical camera 15. The optical camera 15 may be built into a housing or the like that houses the radiation source 13, or may be attached near the radiation source 13 using an attachment mechanism. The optical camera 15 is connected to the imaging support system server 4 or the like via a network N. In this case, the optical camera 15 may be directly connected to the network N, or may be connected to the generator 11 via a hub (not shown) and then connected to the network N via the generator 11. The communication method may be wired communication or wireless communication. The optical axis of the optical camera 15 is parallel to the irradiation axis of the radiation R passing through the center of the irradiation field. The field of view of the optical camera 15 includes, for example, the subject S lying on a bed and the imaging device 2 positioned near the imaging site of the subject S. In other words, the field of view of the optical camera 15 is larger than the irradiation field of the radiation source 13. The optical camera 15 captures an optical image G1 that includes the imaging device 2 and the subject S. The optical image G1 may be a video or a still image. The optical camera 15 transmits optical image data corresponding to the captured optical image G1 to the photography support system server 4, etc. The optical camera 15 may be operated using an operation unit, a display unit, etc. provided in the irradiation device 1, or may be operated by the photography support system server 4, etc.

[0018] The imaging device 2 generates digital image data showing the imaging region of the subject S. For example, a portable FPD is used as the imaging device 2. FPD is an abbreviation for Flat Panel Detector. The imaging device 2 transmits the generated image data to the imaging control device 3, etc. via the network N. The imaging device 2 has a wireless communication unit and a battery, and can also transmit the generated image data, etc. to the imaging control device 3, etc. via an access point, etc. or by direct communication.

[0019] The imaging control device 3 is also called a console and is configured, for example, by a personal computer. The imaging control device 3 sets imaging conditions for the irradiation device 1 and the imaging device 2, and controls the reading operation of the radiographic image captured by the imaging device 2. The imaging control device 3 may automatically set the imaging conditions based on order information transmitted from the RIS, or a radiologist may manually set the imaging conditions by operating the operation unit. Examples of imaging conditions include patient conditions related to the subject S, irradiation conditions related to the irradiation of radiation R, and image reading conditions related to the image reading of the imaging device 2. Examples of patient conditions include the imaging region, imaging direction, and physique. Examples of irradiation conditions include tube voltage (kV), tube current (mA), irradiation time (ms), current-time product (mAs value), irradiation field size (vertical and horizontal aperture size of the collimator), and pulse frame rate. Examples of image reading conditions include pixel size, image size, and frame rate.

[0020] The radiography support system server 4 generates a frame image G2 representing the radiography device 2 that will appear in the optical image G1 when the radiography device 2 is positioned at an appropriate position relative to the radiation source 13. The frame image G2 corresponds to an example of a display frame. The appropriate position refers to the position where the radiography device 2 is positioned at a distance from the radiation source 13 according to the region to be imaged, and the imaging surface of the radiography device 2 is at an appropriate angle for each examination relative to the direction of radiation R. Hereinafter, the distance between the radiation source 13 and the radiography device 2 may be referred to as SID. The radiography support system server 4 displays the generated frame image G2 superimposed on the optical image G1, which depicts the positioned subject S and the radiography device 2 positioned near the region to be imaged of the subject S. A radiologist or the like aligns the radiation source 13 and the radiography device 2 by operating the radiation source 13 while viewing the radiography support system screen so that the frame image G2 aligns with the outer edge of the radiography device 2. For this reason, the radiography support system server 4 is preferably disposed in the periphery of the irradiation device 1. A display unit 42 of the radiography support system server 4, which will be described later, may be located near the radiation source 13. In this embodiment, the radiography support system server 4 generates a frame image G2 for aligning the radiation source 13 with the radiography device 2, and superimposes the frame image G2 on the optical image G1. However, these processes may be performed by the radiography control device 3. In other words, the radiography control device 3 may have the functions of the radiography support system server 4 according to this embodiment. Furthermore, a device other than the radiography control device 3 may be able to execute the functions of the radiography support system server 4.

[0021] [Configuration example of imaging device 2] 2 is a block diagram of the imaging device 2 according to the first embodiment. The imaging device 2 includes a control unit 20, a radiation detection unit 21, a readout unit 22, a storage unit 23, and a signal generation unit 24. The control unit 20, the radiation detection unit 21, the readout unit 22, the storage unit 23, and the signal generation unit 24 are connected by wiring such as a bus 25. Each unit of the imaging device 2, such as the control unit 20, is supplied with a predetermined amount of power from the irradiation device 1, etc., via a communication cable (not shown), for example.

[0022] The control unit 20 includes, for example, processors such as a CPU and a GPU, and memories such as a RAM. CPU is an abbreviation for Central Processing Unit. GPU is an abbreviation for Graphics Processing Unit. RAM is an abbreviation for Random Access Memory. The control unit 20 executes, for example, a program P stored in a memory, a storage unit 23, or the like, thereby realizing processes including control related to radiography.

[0023] The radiation detection unit 21 includes at least a radiation detection element and a substrate. The radiation detection element directly or indirectly generates an electric charge corresponding to the dose of external radiation. A plurality of pixels, each including a switch element that can switch between conductive and non-conductive between the radiation detection element and wiring, are two-dimensionally arranged on the substrate.

[0024] The readout unit 22 reads out signal values ​​corresponding to the amount of charge accumulated in each of the radiation detection elements, and generates image data of the radiation image based on the readout signal values.

[0025] The storage unit 23 includes at least one storage module selected from, for example, an HDD, an SSD, a ROM, and a RAM. HDD is an abbreviation for Hard Disk Drive. SSD is an abbreviation for Solid State Drive. ROM is an abbreviation for Read Only Memory. The storage unit 23 stores, for example, application programs, image data of radiographic images read by the reading unit 22, and the like.

[0026] The signal generating unit 24 has a gyro sensor and the like that detects the attitude and angle of the image capturing device 2. The signal generating unit 24 emits a wireless signal that includes information about the distance to the radiation source 13 and the angle of the image capturing device 2. The wireless signal is, for example, a signal that uses UWB (Ultra Wide Band). As a technique for calculating the distance between the radiation source 13 and the image capturing device 2, for example, a positioning technique can be used. The signal generating unit 24 is mainly used when aligning the radiation source 13 and the image capturing device 2 and the image capturing device 2 does not appear in the optical image G1 captured by the optical camera 15.

[0027] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the marker M printed on the imaging device 2 according to the first embodiment. The imaging device 2 has a housing 26 that is rectangular in plan view. Markers M are printed on each corner of the housing 26. The marker M is used to calculate the SID and the angle of the imaging device 2 relative to the radiation R irradiation direction. The marker M is formed, for example, in a triangular shape to match the shape of the corners of the imaging device 2. The imaging support system server 4 calculates the SID and angle based on the size and shape of the marker M of the imaging device 2 that appears in the optical image G1 captured by the optical camera 15. For example, if the size of the marker M is larger than a reference marker previously set for each imaging region, this means that the imaging device 2 is closer to the radiation source 13. If the shape of the marker M is distorted compared to the shape of the reference marker, this means that the imaging device 2 is tilted relative to the radiation R irradiation direction. 3, the markers M are provided at the four corners of the image capturing device 2 to improve the detection accuracy of the image capturing device 2, but the number of markers M is not limited to four. The markers M may be provided at five or more locations on the image capturing device 2, or at fewer than four locations. The shape of the markers M is not limited to the triangular shape shown in FIG. 3, but may be rectangular, circular, or the like.

[0028] [Configuration example of photography support system server 4] 4 is a block diagram of the photography support system server 4 according to the first embodiment. The photography support system server 4 includes a control unit 40, an operation unit 41, a display unit 42, a storage unit 43, and a communication unit 44. The control unit 40, the operation unit 41, the display unit 42, the storage unit 43, and the communication unit 44 are communicatively connected via wiring such as a bus 45.

[0029] The control unit 40 includes, for example, a processor such as a CPU and a memory such as a RAM. The control unit 40 executes, for example, a program P stored in the memory, storage unit 43, or the like, to perform processing such as displaying information to assist in guiding the radiation source 13 and the imaging device 2 to appropriate positions. The control unit 40 may also include electronic circuits such as ASIC and FPGA. ASIC is an abbreviation for Application Specific Integrated Circuit. FPGA is an abbreviation for Field Programmable Gate Array.

[0030] The control unit 40 functions as an optical image acquisition unit, an imaging range determination unit, a detection unit, and a notification unit. The control unit 40 executes a program P stored in the storage unit 43 or the like to realize the functions of the optical image acquisition unit, the imaging range determination unit, the detection unit, and the notification unit. The optical image acquisition unit acquires an optical image G1 that shows the portable imaging device 2 and the subject S. The imaging range determination unit determines the imaging range based on information related to the examination of the subject S. The imaging range is a frame image G2 that shows the imaging device 2 and is the irradiation range of the radiation source 13 of the irradiation device 1. The imaging range determination unit determines the frame image G2 based on the optical image G1 of the imaging device 2 previously acquired by the optical image acquisition unit and examination information (imaging conditions). The examination information includes SID information, panel information, and irradiation field information. The detection unit detects the position of the imaging device 2. Specifically, the detection unit detects the size, shape, etc. of the marker M of the imaging device 2 by acquiring the marker M provided on the housing 26 of the imaging device 2 that appears in the optical image G1. The detection unit detects the angle of the imaging device 2 relative to the SID and the irradiation direction of the radiation R based on the size, shape, etc. of the detected marker part M. If the position of the imaging device 2 matches the frame image G2 based on the detection result, the notification unit outputs information indicating the match to the display unit 42.

[0031] The operation unit 41 receives instructions in response to various input operations from the user, converts the received instructions into operation signals, and outputs the operation signals to the control unit 40. The operation unit 41 includes, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, switches, buttons, etc. The operation unit 41 may be, for example, a touch panel integrally combined with a display, or may be a user interface that receives voice input from a microphone or the like.

[0032] The display unit 42 displays a GUI for accepting various input operations from the user, the optical image G1 acquired by the optical camera 15, and the like. The display unit 42 is, for example, a display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic electroluminescence (EL) display. Specifically, the display unit 42 displays information for aligning the position of the image capture device 2 in the optical image G1 captured by the optical camera 15 with the frame image G2 generated by the control unit 40, and information for aligning the position of the image capture device 2 in the optical image G1 with the irradiation area by the radiation source 13 of the irradiation device 1. The information for alignment is an image capture support system screen that displays the optical image G1, the frame image G2 superimposed on the optical image G1, and information on whether the frame image G2 matches or does not match the position of the image capture device 2. Other information required for alignment is information for aligning the position of the image capture device 2 in the optical image G1 with the irradiation area by the radiation source 13 of the irradiation device 1. Note that, although the display unit 42 is configured integrally with the image capture support system server 4 in this embodiment, the display unit 42 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 4 , etc. For example, an imaging support system screen or the like displaying the optical image G1, frame image G2, etc. may be displayed on the display unit of the imaging control device 3 installed in each imaging room and on the display unit of the radiation source 13 of the irradiation device 1. Furthermore, a tablet terminal may be wirelessly connected to the imaging support system server 4, and the imaging support system screen or the like may be displayed on the display unit of the tablet terminal. Using the tablet terminal, it is possible to operate the radiation source 13 while viewing the imaging support system screen or the like at a position closer to the radiation source 13.

[0033] The storage unit 43 stores, for example, a system program, an application program, various data, etc. Specifically, the storage unit 43 stores a program P that displays information to assist in guiding the radiation source 13 and the imaging device 2 to appropriate positions. The storage unit 43 includes any storage module, such as an HDD, an SSD, a ROM, and a RAM.

[0034] The communication unit 44 includes, for example, a communication module including an NIC, a receiver, and a transmitter. The communication unit 44 communicates various signals and data with the irradiation device 1, the imaging device 2, the imaging control device 3, etc. via the network N. In this embodiment, the communication unit 44 also functions as a receiver that receives a wireless signal transmitted from the signal generating unit 24 of the imaging device 2.

[0035] [Example of operation of the photography support system server 4] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the imaging support system server 4 when determining whether the relative position between the radiation source 13 and the imaging device 2 is appropriate before radiography according to the first embodiment. The control unit 40 executes the program P to realize the following processes, including an acquisition step, a determination step, a display step, etc.

[0036] Before starting the radiographic examination, the control unit 40 performs camera calibration (step S100). Specifically, the control unit 40 acquires camera information of the optical camera 15 mounted on the irradiation device 1 from the imaging control device 3, the associated irradiation device 1, etc. The camera information includes various information such as the resolution, image sensor size, and focal length of the optical camera 15.

[0037] In camera calibration, the optical camera 15 captures an image of the image capture device 2 placed at a predetermined position. The predetermined position may be, for example, a SID of 100 cm. The image capture device 2 may have a known panel size, such as 10 x 12 inches, 14 x 17 inches, or 17 x 17 inches. The control unit 40 acquires an optical image G1 of the image capture device 2 captured by the optical camera 15. The control unit 40 acquires the number of pixels on the long and short sides of the image capture device 2 captured in the optical image G1. The control unit 40 calculates the length per pixel based on the number of pixels on the long and short sides of the image capture device 2 in the optical image G1 and the panel size of the image capture device 2 used for capturing the image. Panel size information of the image capture device 2 can be acquired, for example, from the image capture device 2, the image capture control device 3, etc.

[0038] Once camera calibration is complete, the examination by radiography begins (step S101). Specifically, in the radiography control device 3, a predetermined examination is selected by a radiological technologist or the like based on order information transmitted from a RIS or the like. The radiography control device 3 sets the radiography conditions corresponding to the selected examination in the radiography device 2 and the irradiation device 1. The radiological technologist or the like may set the radiography conditions by operating the operation units of the irradiation device 1, the radiography control device 3, etc.

[0039] The control unit 40 receives examination information from the imaging device 2, the irradiation device 1, the imaging control device 3, etc. (Step S102). The examination information includes, for example, SID information, panel information, irradiation field information, information on the imaging region, etc. The SID information may be obtained by preparing a table in which imaging regions and SIDs are associated in advance, and obtaining the corresponding SID from the table according to the obtained imaging region. Part of the examination information may be obtained from the order information transmitted from the RIS.

[0040] The control unit 40 acquires SID information, panel information, and irradiation field information from the examination information (step S103). The SID information is set to an appropriate value for each imaging region. For example, if the imaging region is the front of the knee joint, the SID is 100 cm. The panel information is the panel size of the imaging device 2, such as 10×12 inches, 14×17 inches, or 17×17 inches. For example, if the imaging region is the front of the knee joint, the panel information is 10×12 inches. The irradiation field information is information indicating the range of the radiation R irradiated from the radiation source 13. The range of the irradiation field differs depending on, for example, the imaging region. Specifically, if the imaging region is the chest, etc., the imaging region is relatively large. In this case, the irradiation field is set to a range approximately the same as the panel size of the imaging device 2. If the imaging region is the knee, elbow, etc., the imaging region is relatively small. In this case, the irradiation field is set to a range smaller than the panel size of the imaging device 2. Note that if the irradiation field information is set by default when the examination is selected, the irradiation field information is included in the examination information. On the other hand, when a radiologist or the like manually narrows the irradiation field of the radiation source 13, the irradiation field information is output directly from the imaging device 2.

[0041] The control unit 40 generates a frame image G2 indicating the imaging device 2 to be displayed within the optical image G1 (step S104). The frame image G2 is an image indicating the imaging device 2 that should appear within the optical image G1 when the imaging device 2 is placed at an appropriate position with respect to the radiation source 13.

[0042] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the dimensional relationship between the image capturing device 2 disposed at an appropriate position according to the first embodiment and the image capturing device 2 captured in an optical image G1 when the image capturing device 2 is captured by the optical camera 15. In FIG. 6, the short side of the actual image capturing device 2 is H1 (hereinafter referred to as the short side H1). The distance (SID) from the image sensor 15a of the optical camera 15 to the actual image capturing device 2 is d1 (hereinafter referred to as the distance d1). The short side of the image capturing device 2 captured on the image sensor 15a of the optical camera 15 is L1 (hereinafter referred to as the short side L1), and its long side is L2 (hereinafter referred to as the long side L2). The focal length from the image sensor 15a of the optical camera 15 to the pinhole PH is d2 (hereinafter referred to as the focal length d2).

[0043] The short side H1 of the image capture device 2 can be obtained from the panel size in the panel information. The distance d1 can be obtained from the SID information. The focal length d2 can be obtained as the number of pixels from the design information of the optical camera 15, etc. The control unit 40 calculates the number of pixels of the short side L1 of the image capture device 2 captured on the image sensor 15a based on the acquired short side H1 of the image capture device 2, the distance d1, and the focal length d2. The control unit 40 calculates the length of the short side L1 of the image capture device 2 captured on the image sensor 15a from the length per pixel calculated by camera calibration. The control unit 40 calculates the length of the long side L2 of the image capture device 2 captured on the image sensor 15a using the same method as for the short side L1 of the image capture device 2. In this way, the control unit 40 generates a frame image G2 representing the outer edge of the image capture device 2 to be displayed within the optical image G1 using the calculated short side L1 and long side L2 of the image capture device 2. In this embodiment, an example has been described in which the frame image G2 is generated after the photographing conditions are set, but the order of these processes may be reversed, or they may be performed at the same timing.

[0044] The control unit 40 displays the generated frame image G2 representing the imaging device 2, superimposed on the optical image G1 captured by the optical camera 15 (step S105). FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the optical image G1 displayed on the imaging support system screen 420 of the display unit 42 according to the first embodiment and an example of the frame image G2 superimposed on the optical image G1. The imaging support system screen 420 displays the optical image G1 captured by the optical camera 15. The frame image G2 representing the imaging device 2 is superimposed on the optical image G1. The optical camera 15 is attached at a fixed position relative to the radiation source 13. Therefore, the center of the irradiation field in the optical image G1 is at a fixed position, and the center of the frame image G2 displayed in the optical image G1 coincides with the center of the irradiation field.

[0045] Next, the radiologist or the like guides the patient to a position appropriate for the region to be imaged and the direction of imaging. The radiologist or the like adjusts the positions of the imaging device 2, the patient, and the radiation source 13 so that the region to be imaged of the patient falls within the irradiation field. For example, if the region to be imaged is the hip joint, the radiologist or the like has the patient lie down on bed B (in the supine position) and positions the imaging device 2 so that it faces the knee joint.

[0046] In this state, the optical camera 15 captures the subject S and the photographing device 2 placed at the photographing position. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of an optical image G1 of the subject S and the photographing device 2 photographed by the optical camera 15, displayed on the photographing support system screen 420 of the display unit 42 according to the first embodiment. In addition to the actual subject S and the photographing device 2, a frame image G2 is displayed in the optical image G1, indicating the photographing device 2 that would appear in the optical image G1 if placed at an appropriate position. In FIG. 8, the photographing device 2 is positioned away from the appropriate position, so the position of the photographing device 2 does not match the frame image G2. Note that the timing of capturing the optical image G1 of the subject S, etc. may be before the frame image G2 is displayed.

[0047] The control unit 40 determines whether the photographing device 2 can be recognized in the optical image G1 captured by the optical camera 15 (S106). Examples of methods that can be used to recognize the image of the photographing device 2 include machine learning and deep learning, which is a type of machine learning. Other image recognition methods include pattern matching and other known techniques. If the control unit 40 determines that the photographing device 2 can be recognized in the optical image G1, the process proceeds to step S107. In this case, the control unit 40 may superimpose an image (hereinafter referred to as a first similar image) on the photographing device 2 in the optical image G1 to make it easier to recognize the photographing device 2 in the optical image G1. The first similar image may be, for example, an image such as a frame that schematically represents the photographing device 2.

[0048] The control unit 40 determines whether the photographing device 2 shown in the optical image G1 matches the frame image G2 superimposed on the optical image G1 (step S107). Whether the photographing device 2 in the optical image G1 matches the frame image G2 can be determined based on, for example, the size, shape, etc. of the marker M of the photographing device 2 shown in the optical image G1. The marker M of the photographing device 2 can be detected by the image recognition technology described above. It is sufficient that at least one marker M of the photographing device 2 can be detected.

[0049] The control unit 40 determines whether the detected marker matches the size and shape of a preset reference marker. The reference marker is, for example, a pre-stored marker of the image capturing device 2 that appears in the optical image G1 when the image capturing device 2 is placed at an appropriate position set for each imaging region. If the detected marker matches the size and shape of the reference marker, the control unit 40 determines that the relative position between the radiation source 13 and the image capturing device 2 is appropriate. In other words, the control unit 40 determines that the SID is appropriate and that the angle of the image capturing device 2 relative to the radiation source 13 is also appropriate. The control unit 40 may also determine that the relative position between the radiation source 13 and the image capturing device 2 is appropriate if the outer edge of the image capturing device 2 appearing in the optical image G1 overlaps with the frame image G2. When the control unit 40 superimposes a first similar image on the image capturing device 2 in the optical image G1, the control unit 40 may determine whether the image capturing device 2 in the optical image G1 matches the frame image G2 based on whether the frame image G2 matches the first similar image. Here, the state in which the outer edge of the photographing device 2 shown in the optical image G1 overlaps with the frame image G2 also includes a state in which they do not completely match on a pixel-by-pixel basis. Specifically, the control unit 40 sets a pixel value for the frame image G2 within an allowable range of deviation with a predetermined margin, and determines whether the outer edge of the photographing device 2 shown in the optical image G1 is within the allowable range of deviation.

[0050] Furthermore, the control unit 40 may determine that the image capturing device 2 and the frame image G2 in the optical image G1 match when the following conditions are met. Specifically, the control unit 40 may determine that the relative positions of the image capturing device 2 and the radiation source 13 are appropriate when the image capturing device 2 and the frame image G2 in the optical image G1 match in at least one frame among the multiple frames. The control unit 40 may also determine that the relative positions of the image capturing device 2 and the radiation source 13 are appropriate when the image capturing device 2 and the frame image G2 in the optical image G1 match in N frames among the multiple frames within a certain period, where N is a positive integer. Note that the timing at which the control unit 40 determines whether the image capturing device 2 and the frame image G2 in the optical image G1 match may be, for example, when the user presses the first-stage irradiation instruction switch 12.

[0051] If the control unit 40 determines that the image capturing device 2 captured in the optical image G1 matches the frame image G2 displayed in the optical image G1, the process proceeds to step S108. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of an image capturing support system screen 420 that is displayed on the display unit 42 when the image capturing device 2 in the optical image G1 matches the frame image G2 according to the first embodiment. When the relative positions of the image capturing device 2 and the radiation source 13 become appropriate, the image capturing support system screen 420 displays the frame image G2 in the optical image G1 overlapping with the outer edge of the image capturing device 2.

[0052] The control unit 40 notifies the user of the matching information Ia, which indicates that the relative position between the radiation source 13 and the imaging device 2 has become appropriate (step S108). FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the matching information Ia displayed on the imaging support system screen 420 of the display unit 42 according to the first embodiment. The matching information Ia, stating "SID and angle match," is displayed on the imaging support system screen 420 of the display unit 42. In this case, the radiologist or the like can determine that the relative position between the radiation source 13 and the imaging device 2 has become appropriate, and can proceed to radiography.

[0053] If the control unit 40 determines in step S107 that the image capturing device 2 captured in the optical image G1 does not match the frame image G2 displayed in the optical image G1, the process proceeds to step S109. The control unit 40 then notifies the user of inconsistency information Ib, indicating that the relative positions of the radiation source 13 and the image capturing device 2 are inappropriate (step S109). FIG. 11 shows an example of the inconsistency information Ib displayed on the image capturing support system screen 420 of the display unit 42 according to the first embodiment. The image capturing support system screen 420 of the display unit 42 displays the inconsistency information Ib stating, "SID and angle do not match." After displaying the inconsistency information Ib on the screen, the control unit 40 returns to step S107. In this case, the radiologist or the like adjusts the position and angle of the radiation source 13 or the like while viewing the frame image G2 and the image capturing device 2 in the optical image G1 so that the outer edge of the frame image G2 matches the outer edge of the image capturing device 2.

[0054] Returning to step S106, if the control unit 40 determines that the image capturing device 2 cannot be recognized in the optical image G1, the process proceeds to step S110. Specifically, this is the case when the entire image capturing device 2 is hidden by the image capturing region of the subject S. In this case, the control unit 40 determines whether the image capturing device 2 can be recognized by a wireless signal from the signal generating unit 24 built into the image capturing device 2 (step S110). Note that the position of the image capturing device 2 hidden by the subject S may be predicted using a trained model trained by machine learning.

[0055] If the control unit 40 determines that the image capturing device 2 has been recognized in the optical image G1, the process proceeds to step S107. In this case, the control unit 40 determines whether the image capturing device 2 captured in the optical image G1 matches the frame image G2 displayed in the optical image G1. The control unit 40 acquires information regarding the SID, the angle of the image capturing device 2, and the like, based on the wireless signal received from the image capturing device 2. The control unit 40 generates an image such as a frame that schematically represents the actual image capturing device 2 (hereinafter referred to as a second similar image) based on the acquired information. The control unit 40 determines whether the relative positions of the radiation source 13 and the image capturing device 2 are appropriate, based on the frame image G2 in the optical image G1 and the second similar image. In this case, if the radiation source 13 is moved during alignment between the radiation source 13 and the image capturing device 2, the angle of view of the optical camera 15 also changes, and therefore the second similar image in the optical image G1 also changes and moves in accordance with the position and size of the image capturing device 2.

[0056] If the control unit 40 determines that the photographing device 2 cannot be recognized in the optical image G1, the process proceeds to step S111. In this case, the control unit 40 notifies the user of non-recognition information Ic indicating that the photographing device 2 cannot be recognized in the optical image G1 (step S111). FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the non-recognition information Ic displayed on the photographing support system screen 420 of the display unit 42 according to the first embodiment. The non-recognition information Ic stating "Panel cannot be recognized" is displayed on the photographing support system screen 420 of the display unit 42.

[0057] The control unit 40 may return to step S106 and determine again whether the imaging device 2 was recognized in the optical image G1. A radiologist or the like may move the subject S, the imaging device 2, and the radiation source 13 so that the imaging device 2 can be recognized in the optical image G1. Alternatively, radiation imaging may be performed in a state where the imaging device 2 cannot be recognized in the optical image G1.

[0058] According to the first embodiment, a radiologist or the like can check whether the positional relationship between the radiation source 13 and the imaging device 2 is appropriate by looking at the imaging device 2 and the frame image G2 that appear in the optical image G1 displayed on the display unit 42. This can eliminate imaging errors caused by insufficient alignment between the radiation source 13 and the imaging device 2. As a result, an appropriate radiographic image can be obtained, and the risk of having to retake the image can be reduced.

[0059] According to the first embodiment, it is possible to determine whether the SID of the imaging device 2 and the angle of the imaging device 2 relative to the radiation are appropriate by detecting the size and shape of the marker M of the imaging device 2. This makes it possible to more accurately confirm whether the positional relationship between the radiation source 13 and the imaging device 2 is appropriate.

[0060] According to the first embodiment, whether the imaging device 2 in the optical image G1 matches the frame image G2 or not is displayed on the imaging support system screen 420 of the display unit 42 based on the detection result of the marker M of the imaging device 2 or the like. This allows a radiologist or the like to accurately grasp the positional relationship between the radiation source 13 and the imaging device 2 by looking at the imaging support system screen 420. When mismatch information Ib indicating a mismatch between the imaging device 2 in the optical image G1 and the frame image G2 is displayed, the radiologist or the like can adjust the position of the radiation source 13 while looking at the imaging support system screen 420. This enables faster alignment of the radiation source 13 and the imaging device 2 and improved alignment accuracy.

[0061] Second Embodiment In the second embodiment, when the examination information cannot be automatically acquired from the irradiation device 1 or the like, the examination information is acquired manually using the imaging support system screen 420 or the like. In the following, the components that are substantially the same as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0062] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the imaging support system server 4 when determining whether the relative positions of the radiation source 13 and the imaging apparatus 2 are appropriate before radiography according to the second embodiment.

[0063] Before starting the radiographic examination, the control unit 40 performs camera calibration (step S200). After the camera calibration is completed, the radiographic examination is started (step S201).

[0064] Here, depending on the type of imaging device 2, such as CR, it may not be possible to cooperate with the irradiation device 1, etc., and it may not be possible to acquire examination information from the irradiation device 1, etc. In this case, the control unit 40 acquires SID information, panel information, etc., through a selection operation by a radiologist, etc. on the imaging support system screen 420 (step S202).

[0065] The control unit 40 displays a selection image for selecting the SID and the panel size of the imaging device 2 on an imaging support system screen 420 of the display unit 42. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the imaging support system screen 420 for selecting the SID, etc., displayed on the display unit 42 according to the second embodiment. The imaging support system screen 420 displays a SID selection image G3 for selecting the SID and a panel size selection image G4 for selecting the panel size of the imaging device 2. The SID selection image G3 is composed of multiple buttons indicating SIDs. Examples of the multiple buttons indicating SIDs are 100 cm, 120 cm, 150 cm, 180 cm, and 200 cm. This allows a radiologist or the like to select an appropriate SID depending on the imaging region, etc.

[0066] The panel size selection image G4 is composed of multiple panel size buttons. Examples of the multiple buttons indicating panel sizes are 10×12 inches, 14×17 inches, and 17×17 inches. Here, an imaging device 2 of a given panel size may be provided by multiple vendors. In this case, different camera calibrations are performed for the imaging device 2 for each vendor. Therefore, for example, if a 14×17 inch imaging device 2 is provided by multiple vendors, multiple 14×17 inch buttons may be provided according to the number of vendors. This allows radiologists and the like to select an appropriate panel size depending on the imaging area, vendor, etc.

[0067] The radiologist or the like may select a specific selected image by operating the operation unit 41 to move the cursor over the desired SID selection image G3 or panel size selection image G4 and press it. If the display unit 42 is a touch panel, the radiologist or the like may select a specific selected image by touching the desired SID selection image G3 or panel size selection image G4.

[0068] The panel size of the imaging device 2 may be obtained by using a QR code (registered trademark), a barcode, or the like. For example, an OR code or the like may be attached or printed on the periphery of the housing 26 of the imaging device 2. In this case, the radiologist or the like moves the imaging device 2 to a position where it can be read by the optical camera 15. The optical camera 15 reads the QR code or the like attached to the imaging device 2. The control unit 40 obtains information about the panel size of the imaging device 2 stored in the QR code or the like read by the optical camera 15.

[0069] In the second embodiment, a frame image G2 to be displayed within an optical image G1 is generated based on SID information and panel information selected by a radiologist or the like on an imaging support system screen 420. The control unit 40 determines whether the imaging device 2 shown in the optical image G1 matches the frame image G2, and causes the display unit 42 to display a message according to the determination result. Note that the processing of steps S203 to S210 is the same as the processing of steps S106 to S111 in the first embodiment, and therefore a description of each step will be omitted.

[0070] The second embodiment can also achieve the same effects as the first embodiment. According to the second embodiment, even if examination information cannot be automatically acquired from the irradiation device 1 or the like, a radiologist or the like can manually input the examination information on the imaging support system screen 420 or the like. This makes it possible to check whether the positional relationship between the radiation source 13 and the imaging device 2 is appropriate, even when an imaging device 2 such as a CR is used.

[0071] While the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings, the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to such examples. Furthermore, various modifications and improvements made by those skilled in the art will naturally fall within the scope of the technical ideas described in the claims.

[0072] In the above embodiment, the image capturing device 2 that appears in the optical image G1 when the image capturing device 2 is set at an appropriate position is represented by a frame image G2 that represents the outer edge of the image capturing device 2. However, this is not limiting. For example, the image capturing device 2, which is positioned at an angle and SID according to the imaging region, may be represented by projected light. In this case, the irradiation device 1 has a projection unit for projecting the irradiation field (irradiation range) of radiation from the radiation source 13. The irradiation field is determined based on information related to the subject's examination, and the projected light has the same shape and size as the irradiation field. The projection unit may emit projected light of a special color that can be seen by a radiologist or the like even when the room lights are turned off. When the examination begins, the radiologist or the like activates the projection unit to emit projected light toward the image capturing device 2. The radiologist or the like may use the irradiated projected light as a clue to move the radiation source 13 or the like so that the projected light is aligned with the image capturing device 2, or may capture the projected light with the optical camera 15 and align the projected light with the image capturing device 2 as in the first and second embodiments. [Explanation of symbols]

[0073] 1 Radiation irradiation equipment, irradiation equipment 13 Radiation source 2 Radiation imaging devices, imaging devices 4. Radiography support system server (radiography support device) 40 Control Unit 42 Display section 100 Radiography Support System G1 Optical Image G2 Frame image (display frame) M marker section P Program S Subject

Claims

1. an optical image acquisition unit that acquires an optical image of the portable radiographic imaging device and the subject; an imaging range determination unit that determines an imaging range based on information about the examination of the subject; a display unit that displays information for aligning the position of the radiation image capturing device in the optical image acquired by the optical image acquisition unit with the imaging range determined by the imaging range determination unit; and A radiography support device equipped with the device.

2. the imaging range is a display frame showing the radiation image capturing device; The radiography support device according to claim 1 .

3. the imaging range determination unit determines the imaging range based on an optical image of the radiation image capturing device acquired in advance by the optical image acquisition unit and imaging conditions; The radiography support device according to claim 1 .

4. the imaging conditions include information on a distance from a radiation irradiating device to the radiation image capturing device, information on a size of the radiation image capturing device, and information on an irradiation field by the radiation irradiating device; The radiography support device according to claim 3 .

5. The imaging range is an irradiation range by a radiation irradiation device. The radiography support device according to claim 1 .

6. the irradiation range is determined based on distance information from the radiation irradiating device to the radiographic image capturing device, size information of the radiographic image capturing device, and irradiation field information by the radiographic image capturing device, which are included in information related to the examination of the subject. The radiography support device according to claim 5 .

7. a detection unit that detects the position of the radiation image capturing device; a notification unit that notifies the user when the position of the radiographic image capturing device detected by the detection unit matches the display frame of the capturing range on the screen of the display unit; The radiography support device according to claim 2 , further comprising:

8. the detection unit detects the position of the radiation image capturing device based on the optical image acquired by the optical image acquisition unit. The radiography support device according to claim 7 .

9. the detection unit detects the position of the radiation image capturing device by acquiring an image of a marker unit provided on a housing of the radiation image capturing device. The radiography support device according to claim 8 .

10. the detection unit detects an angle of the radiographic imaging device with respect to an irradiation direction of radiation based on an image of the marker unit. The radiography support device according to claim 9.

11. the display unit is provided near a radiation source of the radiation irradiation device; The radiography support device according to claim 1 .

12. a projection unit that projects an irradiation range of radiation from a radiation source, the irradiation range being determined based on information regarding the examination of the subject; The radiography support device according to claim 1 .

13. a portable radiographic imaging device for imaging a subject; The radiography support device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, A radiography support system equipped with

14. an acquisition step of acquiring an optical image showing the portable radiographic imaging device and the subject; a determining step of determining an imaging range based on information about the examination of the subject; a display step of displaying information for aligning the position of the radiographic image capturing device in the acquired optical image with the determined capturing range; A radiography assistance method comprising:

15. Computer, an optical image acquisition unit that acquires an optical image of the portable radiographic imaging device and the subject; an imaging range determination unit that determines an imaging range based on information about the examination of the subject; a display unit that displays information for aligning the position of the radiation image capturing device in the optical image acquired by the optical image acquisition unit with the imaging range determined by the imaging range determination unit; A program to function as a

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