X-ray diagnostic apparatus, x-ray diagnostic system, and control method

Abstract

To reduce the possibility of causing unnecessary exposure to a subject in general X-ray imaging.SOLUTION: An X-ray diagnostic apparatus includes a tag, a tag detector, a comparison part, and a notification part. The tag is provided on at least one of an X-ray detector that detects X-rays and a grid that removes scattered rays, and indicates a specification of at least one of the X-ray detector and the grid. The tag detector is provided in each of a stand that supports the X-ray detector during standing position imaging of the subject and a bed on which the subject is placed, and detects the tag. The comparison unit compares a relationship between first specification information on a specification indicated by the tag detected by the tag detector and second specification information on a specification of at least one of the X-ray detector and the grid scheduled to be used for predetermined imaging. When the relationship between the first specification information and the second specification information does not satisfy a predetermined condition, the notification unit notifies the fact.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to an X-ray diagnostic apparatus, an X-ray diagnostic system, and a control method. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, X-ray diagnostic apparatuses (general X-ray imaging apparatuses) used for general X-ray imaging have been known that have a configuration used for multiple imaging (for example, an FPD (Flat Panel Detector), multiple grids, etc.).

[0003] For example, in a device with multiple FPDs and multiple grids, a user may take an image using an FPD that is smaller than the size that should be used, or may take an image using a grid with an inappropriate focal distance. In such cases, the image may have to be taken again, resulting in unnecessary exposure of the subject to radiation. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-294276 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to reduce the possibility of unnecessary exposure of a subject in general X-ray imaging. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described below can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment includes a tag, a tag detector, a comparison unit, and a notification unit. The tag is provided on at least one of an X-ray detector that detects X-rays and a grid that removes scattered radiation, and indicates specifications of at least one of the X-ray detector and the grid. The tag detector is provided on both a stand that supports the X-ray detector when imaging a subject in an upright position and a bed on which the subject is placed, and detects the tag. The comparison unit compares first specification information relating to the specifications indicated by the tag detected by the tag detector with second specification information relating to the specifications of at least one of the X-ray detector and the grid to be used in a predetermined imaging operation. The notification unit notifies the user when the relationship between the first specification information and the second specification information does not satisfy a predetermined condition. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of an installation position of the first RFID reader / writer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the installation position of the second RFID reader / writer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data configuration of the device information according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the installation position of the first RFID reader / writer according to the second modification. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the installation position of the second RFID reader / writer according to the second modification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. The apparatus according to the embodiment will be described by taking as an example a case where the X-ray diagnostic apparatus is a general X-ray imaging apparatus. In the following embodiments, parts with the same reference numerals perform similar operations, and redundant descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0009] (First embodiment) Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing another example of the configuration of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus. Fig. 1 shows an example of the configuration of a general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 when X-ray imaging a subject P in an upright position, and Fig. 2 shows an example of the configuration of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 when X-ray imaging a subject P in a supine position.

[0010] 1 and 2, the general X-ray imaging device 1 includes an imaging device 10 and a console 20. The imaging device 10 includes an X-ray tube 31 that generates X-rays, an X-ray detector 13 that detects the X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 31 and transmitted through the subject P, and a grid 13a that removes scattered rays.

[0011] 1, when X-ray imaging of a standing subject P, an imaging device 10 includes a stand 11, an X-ray tube holding device 12, an X-ray detector 13 supported movably relative to the stand 11, a high-voltage power supply 14, an aperture control device 15, a drive circuit 16, and a controller 17. In addition, a first RFID reader / writer 34a is provided on the stand 11.

[0012] On the other hand, when X-raying a subject P in a supine position, as shown in Fig. 2, the imaging device 10 has a bed 42 equipped with a top plate 41 on which the subject P is placed, instead of the stand 11. The top plate 41 moves up and down under the control of the controller 17 via the drive circuit 16. Similarly, the top plate 41 moves in the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction). In addition, a second RFID reader / writer 34b is provided on the bed 42.

[0013] The X-ray tube holding device 12 of the imaging device 10 has an X-ray tube 31 , a diaphragm 32 , and an operation panel 33 .

[0014] When X-ray imaging is performed on a standing subject P, the subject P is positioned in front of a stand 11 as shown in Fig. 1. The X-ray tube holding device 12 and the X-ray detector 13 are controlled by a controller 17 via a drive circuit 16, and can be linked together to maintain the positional relationship between the center position of the X-ray tube 31 and the X-ray detector 13.

[0015] For example, the X-ray detector 13 supported by the stand 11 moves along the stand 11 in conjunction with the movement of the X-ray tube holding device 12 so that the center position of the X-ray tube 31 and the approximate center position of the X-ray detector 13 remain facing each other.

[0016] When X-ray imaging is performed on a subject P in a supine position, the subject P is placed on a tabletop 41 as shown in Fig. 2. In this case, as in the case of upright imaging, the X-ray tube holding device 12 and the X-ray detector 13 are controlled by the controller 17 via the drive circuit 16, and can be linked to maintain the positional relationship between the center position of the X-ray tube 31 and the X-ray detector 13.

[0017] In this embodiment, an example will be described in which the X-ray tube holding device 12 and the X-ray detector 13 are controlled by the controller 17 via the drive circuit 16 and move automatically, but one of the X-ray tube holding device 12 and the X-ray detector 13 may be moved by manual operation by the user. Also, both the X-ray tube holding device 12 and the X-ray detector 13 may be moved by manual operation by the user.

[0018] When one of the X-ray tube holding device 12 and the X-ray detector 13 is moved by manual operation by the user, when one of them is moved by manual operation by the user, the other may be controlled by the controller 17 via the drive circuit 16 to move so as to maintain the positional relationship between the center position of the X-ray tube 31 and the X-ray detector 13.

[0019] The X-ray detector 13 is configured with a flat panel detector (FPD) having a plurality of X-ray detection elements arranged two-dimensionally, detects X-rays that have passed through the subject P and are irradiated onto the X-ray detector 13, and outputs X-ray imaging data based on the detected X-rays. This imaging data is provided to the console 20 via the controller 17. The X-ray detector 13 may also include an image intensifier, a TV camera, etc.

[0020] Various types of X-ray detectors 13 are used depending on the examination protocol described later. The X-ray detector 13 is replaceably installed on the stand 11 or the bed 42 through an installation port (not shown) provided in the stand 11. An RFID tag described later is attached to the back side of the X-ray detector 13.

[0021] The grid 13a removes scattered rays incident on the detection surface of the X-ray detector 13. The grid 13a is provided in front of the detection surface of the X-ray detector 13.

[0022] Various types of grids 13a are used depending on the distance from the X-ray tube 31 to the subject P (SID: Source To Image Distance) included in the examination protocol.

[0023] The grid 13a, like the X-ray detector 13, is replaceably mounted on the stand 11 or the bed 42 through a mounting port provided in the stand 11. An RFID tag is attached to the back side of the grid holder for mounting the grid 13a. Alternatively, an RFID tag may be attached to the front side of the grid holder.

[0024] The X-ray tube 31 is a vacuum tube that irradiates thermoelectrons from a cathode (filament) to an anode (target) by application of high voltage from the high-voltage power supply 14. The X-ray tube 31 is disposed opposite the X-ray detector 13 across the subject P. The X-ray tube 31 is controlled by the controller 17 via the drive circuit 16, and moves in conjunction with the movement of the X-ray detector 13 so as to maintain a state in which the center position of the X-ray tube 31 faces the approximate center position of the X-ray detector 13.

[0025] The high voltage power supply 14 is composed of electrical circuits such as a transformer and a rectifier, and is also composed of a high voltage generator that has the function of generating a high voltage to be applied to the X-ray tube 31, and an X-ray control device that controls the output voltage according to the X-rays irradiated by the X-ray tube 31.

[0026] The aperture 32 has multiple blades made of a metal that blocks X-rays, such as lead, and has a mechanism for adjusting the irradiation field of the X-rays generated by the X-ray tube 31. The aperture 32 is controlled by the controller 17 via the aperture control device 15, and adjusts the irradiation range of the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 31.

[0027] The operation panel 33 is provided on the housing of the X-ray tube holding device 12 and has hard keys such as buttons that, when pressed by a user, provide unique instruction signals to the processor, and a display input device. The display input device has a display as a display unit and a touch sensor as an input unit provided near the display.

[0028] The display of the operation panel 33 displays various images, such as images showing information about the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 and reference images of the subject P captured by a camera. Furthermore, a user can input various instructions for the images displayed on the display to the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 via the touch sensor or hard keys of the operation panel 33. The operation panel 33 outputs signals corresponding to the user's inputs to the processing circuitry 24 of the console 20.

[0029] The first RFID reader / writer 34a communicates with the RFID tags provided on each of the X-ray detectors 13 and the RFID tags provided on each of the grids 13a, and reads data from the memory of each RFID tag and writes data to the memory of each RFID tag.

[0030] 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of an installation position of the first RFID reader / writer 34a according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the stand 11 is provided with a mounting opening 11a for mounting the X-ray detector 13 and the grid 13a. The first RFID reader / writer 34a is provided near the mounting opening 11a.

[0031] The first RFID reader / writer 34a is provided near the mounting opening 11a, so that when a user inserts the X-ray detector 13 and the grid 13a into the mounting opening 11a, the first RFID reader / writer 34a can read data from the memories of the RFID tags attached to the X-ray detector 13 and the grid 13a. The first RFID reader / writer 34a sends the read data to the processing circuit 24, which will be described later.

[0032] The second RFID reader / writer 34b, like the first RFID reader / writer 34a, reads data from the memory of the RFID tag and writes data to the memory of the RFID tag.

[0033] 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of an installation position of the second RFID reader / writer 34b according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, a mounting opening 42a for mounting the X-ray detector 13 and the grid 13a is provided in the bed 42. The second RFID reader / writer 34b is provided near the mounting opening 42a.

[0034] The second RFID reader / writer 34b is provided near the mounting opening 42a, so that when a user inserts the X-ray detector 13 and the grid 13a into the mounting opening 42a, the second RFID reader / writer 34b can read data from the memories of the RFID tags attached to the X-ray detector 13 and the grid 13a. The second RFID reader / writer 34b sends the read data to the processing circuit 24, which will be described later.

[0035] Here, the memory of the RFID tag attached to the X-ray detector 13 stores specification information data relating to the specifications of the X-ray detector 13. Therefore, the RFID tag can be considered an example of a tag. The specification information of the X-ray detector 13 is, for example, information indicating the size of the FPD. Furthermore, the memory of the RFID tag attached to the grid holder stores specification information data relating to the specifications of the grid 13a. The specification information of the grid 13a is, for example, information indicating the grid type.

[0036] The controller 17 includes at least a processor and a memory circuit. The controller 17 is controlled by the console 20 in accordance with a program stored in the memory circuit, and controls all components of the imaging device 10.

[0037] On the other hand, the console 20 has an input interface 21, a display 22, a memory 23, and a processing circuit 24. In this embodiment, the console 20 is installed outside the examination room. Note that the console 20 does not have to be installed independently. For example, the functions of the input interface 21 and the display 22 of the console 20 may be performed by the operation panel 33 of the imaging device 10, and the functions of the memory 23 and the processing circuit 24 may be performed by the storage circuit and the processor of the controller 17 of the imaging device 10, respectively.

[0038] The input interface 21 of the console 20 is composed of, for example, common pointing devices such as a joystick, trackball, trackball mouse, keyboard, touch panel, and numeric keypad, as well as a hand switch for indicating the timing of X-ray exposure, and outputs an operation signal corresponding to a user's operation to the processing circuit 24.

[0039] The display 22 is configured by a general display output device such as a liquid crystal display or an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) display, and displays various information under the control of the processing circuit 24.

[0040] The memory 23 stores various types of information. The memory 23 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, etc. The memory 23 stores, for example, imaging data captured by the imaging device 10. The memory 23 also stores, for example, an examination protocol and device information 231. The examination protocol and device information 231 will be described later.

[0041] The memory 23 also stores dedicated programs for realizing the display control function 241, reception function 242, identification function 243, detection function 244, comparison function 245, notification function 246, registration function 247, shooting control function 248, and image generation function 249, which will be described later.

[0042] The processing circuitry 24 controls the overall operation of the general X-ray imaging device 1. The processing circuitry 24 has, for example, a display control function 241, a reception function 242, a specification function 243, a detection function 244, a comparison function 245, a notification function 246, a registration function 247, an imaging control function 248, and an image generation function 249.

[0043] The display control function 241 and the notification function 246 are examples of a notification unit. The identification function 243 is an example of a first identification unit. The detection function 244 is an example of a detection unit and a first control unit. The comparison function 245 is an example of a comparison unit.

[0044] In this embodiment, each processing function performed by the components of the display control function 241, reception function 242, identification function 243, detection function 244, comparison function 245, notification function 246, registration function 247, shooting control function 248, and image generation function 249 is stored in memory 23 in the form of a program that can be executed by a computer.

[0045] The processing circuitry 24 is a processor that realizes the functions corresponding to each program by reading and executing the programs from the memory 23. In other words, after each program has been read, the processing circuitry 24 has the functions shown in FIG.

[0046] In Figure 2, it has been explained that the processing functions performed by the display control function 241, reception function 242, identification function 243, detection function 244, comparison function 245, notification function 246, registration function 247, shooting control function 248, and image generation function 249 are realized by a single processing circuit 24, but it is also possible to configure the processing circuit 24 by combining multiple independent processors and realize the functions by each processor executing a program.

[0047] In other words, each of the above functions may be configured as a program and one processing circuit may execute each program, or a specific function may be implemented in a dedicated, independent program execution circuit.

[0048] The term "processor" used in the above description refers to circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphical Processing Unit), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD), a Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD), and a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)).

[0049] The processor realizes its functions by reading and executing a program stored in the memory 23. Note that instead of storing a program in the memory 23, the processor may be configured so that the program is directly embedded in its circuitry. In this case, the processor realizes its functions by reading and executing the program embedded in the circuitry.

[0050] The display control function 241 controls the display of various information on the display 22. For example, the display control function 241 causes a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for executing various operations to be displayed on the display 22. Furthermore, for example, the display control function 241 causes the display 22 to display various notification messages for the user.

[0051] The reception function 242 receives various instructions from the user. For example, the reception function 242 receives input of an examination protocol from the user via the input interface 21. As an example, the user inputs the examination protocol by selecting an examination protocol to be executed from a plurality of examination protocols displayed in a list format on the display 22.

[0052] The examination protocol is information that specifies procedures for controlling the X-ray detector 13, the X-ray tube 31, and the aperture 32 to capture an image of the subject P. The examination protocol may be a data file that specifies a series of conditions, such as setting conditions for the X-ray diagnostic apparatus, X-ray conditions, and imaging technique conditions, depending on the examination area of ​​the diagnostic target and the purpose of the examination.

[0053] As an example, the examination protocol is information including a group of parameters such as the imaging region, imaging conditions, posture of the subject P, body position of the subject P, X-ray tube angle, X-ray detector position, etc. The examination protocol may also include information such as the X-ray irradiation angle with respect to the subject P, the positions of the X-ray tube 31 and X-ray detector 13 with respect to the subject P, the angle of the X-ray detector 13 with respect to the subject P, the X-ray irradiation range with respect to the subject P, and SID.

[0054] The specification function 243 specifies scheduled device information relating to the specifications of the device to be used. The device is, for example, the X-ray detector 13 and the grid 13a. The scheduled device information is an example of second specification information and scheduled information.

[0055] For example, the identification function 243 identifies scheduled device information based on the examination protocol accepted by the acceptance function 242 and the device information 231 stored in the memory 23. The device information 231 is, for example, information that associates an examination protocol with information on the specifications of the device used to execute the examination protocol.

[0056] Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of the device information 231. In the example of Fig. 5, the device information 231 is information that associates an examination protocol, an apparatus, an FPD size, the number of FPDs, a grid type, and an SID.

[0057] The examination protocol is information indicating the name of each examination protocol stored in the memory 23. The device is information indicating whether the device used to support the subject P when the examination protocol is executed is a standing stand (stand 11) or a bed device (bed 42).

[0058] Furthermore, the FPD size is information indicating the size of the FPD (X-ray detector 13) used to execute the examination protocol. The grid type is information indicating the type of grid 13a used to execute the examination protocol. The SID is information indicating the SID in the examination protocol. The grid type is determined according to the SID.

[0059] In the example of Figure 5, the first line of the device information 231 indicates that in an examination protocol named "Examination Protocol 1," X-ray imaging is performed using a "standing stand," an FPD with a size of "14*14 inches," and a grid with a grid type of "A," and the SID is "110 cm."

[0060] As an example, if the examination protocol accepted by the reception function 242 is "Examination protocol 1," the identification function 243 identifies "Stand 11," "14*14 inch X-ray detector 13," and "Grid 13a with grid type A" as the scheduled equipment information.

[0061] The detection function 244 detects an RFID tag indicating the specifications of the device. For example, if the scheduled device information identified by the identification function 243 includes information indicating "standing position stand," the detection function 244 causes the first RFID reader / writer 34a to start emitting radio waves. This enables the first RFID reader / writer 34a to read the data in the memory of the RFID tag.

[0062] Furthermore, for example, if the scheduled device information identified by the identification function 243 includes information indicating a "bed device," the detection function 244 causes the second RFID reader / writer 34b to start emitting radio waves, which enables the second RFID reader / writer 34b to read data from the memory of the RFID tag.

[0063] Furthermore, for example, the detection function 244 acquires data representing attached device information relating to the specifications of the attached X-ray detector 13 and data representing attached device information relating to the specifications of the attached grid 13a, which are sent from the first RFID reader / writer 34a or the second RFID reader / writer 34b. The attached device information is an example of first specification information.

[0064] Furthermore, for example, when the detection function 244 acquires both data representing the device information attached to the X-ray detector 13 and data representing the device information attached to the grid 13a from the first RFID reader / writer 34a or the second RFID reader / writer 34b, it stops the first RFID reader / writer 34a or the second RFID reader / writer 34b from emitting radio waves after a predetermined time has elapsed (puts the first RFID reader / writer 34a or the second RFID reader / writer 34b into standby state).

[0065] In this way, only when it is necessary to read data from the memory of the RFID tag, and depending on the device to be used (stand 11 or bed 42), only the corresponding RFID reader / writer (first RFID reader / writer 34a or second RFID reader / writer 34b) is allowed to emit radio waves, thereby reducing the power consumption of the first RFID reader / writer 34a and the second RFID reader / writer 34b.

[0066] The comparison function 245 compares the relationship between the scheduled device information identified by the identification function 243 and the attached device information acquired by the detection function 244 .

[0067] For example, the comparison function 245 compares the relationship between the information representing the size of the X-ray detector 13 and the information representing the grid type of the grid 13a contained in the planned equipment information identified by the identification function 243 and the information representing the size of the X-ray detector 13 and the grid type of the grid 13a acquired by the detection function 244 as data representing the attached equipment information.

[0068] Specifically, the comparison function 245 determines whether the size of the X-ray detector 13 in the attached device information matches the size of the X-ray detector 13 in the scheduled device information.

[0069] The comparison function 245 may determine whether the size of the X-ray detector 13 in the attached device information is equal to or larger than the size of the X-ray detector 13 in the planned device information. This is because even if X-ray imaging is performed using an X-ray detector 13 that is larger than the size planned to be used, it is unlikely that imaging will have to be repeated because the part that should be imaged could not be imaged.

[0070] Furthermore, the comparison function 245 determines whether the grid type of the attached device information matches the grid type of the scheduled device information.

[0071] If the comparison result by the comparison function 245 does not satisfy a predetermined condition, the notification function 246 notifies the fact.

[0072] For example, if the condition that the size of the X-ray detector 13 in the attached device information matches the size of the X-ray detector 13 in the scheduled device information is not met, the notification function 246 generates a message urging the user to check the size of the attached X-ray detector 13.

[0073] Also, for example, if the condition that the grid type of the attached device information matches the grid type of the scheduled device information is not met, the notification function 246 generates a message urging the user to check the grid type of the attached grid 13a.

[0074] The notification function 246 sends the generated message to the display control function 241. The display control function 241 displays the message sent from the notification function 246 on the display 22. In addition to the above, the notification function 246 may also perform control to output a warning sound from an audio output device such as a speaker.

[0075] The notification function 246 may also generate a message as audio data and output it to an audio output device such as a speaker. In this case, the notification to the user is performed by audio. The notification function 246 may also notify the user by both display and audio.

[0076] The registration function 247 registers specification information on the specifications of the device to be registered in the RFID tag. For example, when the reception function 242 receives a new registration operation of the X-ray detector 13 from the user, the registration function 247 registers the specification information in the RFID tag.

[0077] As an example, the user inputs information to register a new X-ray detector 13 via the GUI displayed on the display 22. At this time, the user inputs the size of the X-ray detector 13 to be newly registered and the designation of the device (the stand 11 or the bed 42) to be used for registration.

[0078] When the user designates the stand 11 as the device to be used for registration, the registration function 247 causes the first RFID reader / writer 34a to start emitting radio waves. The user sets the target X-ray detector 13 to be newly registered in the mounting port 11a. The first RFID reader / writer 34a writes the input information data indicating the size of the target X-ray detector 13 as specification information into the memory of the RFID tag attached to the target X-ray detector 13.

[0079] Furthermore, when the user designates the bed 42 as the device to be used for registration, the registration function 247 causes the second RFID reader / writer 34b to start emitting radio waves. The user sets the target X-ray detector 13 in the mounting port 42a. The second RFID reader / writer 34b writes the input information data indicating the size of the X-ray detector 13 to be registered as specification information into the memory of the RFID tag attached to the target X-ray detector 13.

[0080] Furthermore, when the target device to be newly registered is the grid 13a, the registration function 247 performs the same processing as above.

[0081] The processing circuitry 24 does not necessarily have to have the registration function 247. In this case, the process of writing the specification information to the target device can be performed by a device other than the general X-ray imaging device 1. When the processing circuitry 24 is configured not to have the registration function 247, the first RFID reader / writer 34a and the second RFID reader / writer 34b may be RFID readers without a writing function.

[0082] The imaging control function 248 performs X-ray imaging of the subject P. For example, the imaging control function 248 controls the X-ray detector 13, the X-ray tube 31, and the aperture 32 in accordance with the examination protocol to perform X-ray imaging of the subject P. Specifically, when the imaging control function 248 receives an instruction to perform imaging from a user, it controls the X-ray tube 31, the X-ray detector 13, and the aperture 32 in accordance with the examination protocol received by the reception function 242.

[0083] When long-length imaging is performed, the imaging control function 248 performs X-ray imaging by moving the center of the X-ray tube 31 to positions corresponding to each of a plurality of imaging regions that form the imaging range of the long-length image.

[0084] The image generation function 249 generates an X-ray image based on the X-ray photography. For example, when long-length photography is performed, the image generation function 249 generates a long-length image based on the X-ray photography performed in each of a plurality of photography regions. The X-ray image and the long-length image generated by the image generation function 249 are stored in the memory 23.

[0085] Next, a description will be given of the processing executed by the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing executed by the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 according to this embodiment.

[0086] First, the reception function 242 receives an input of an examination protocol (step S101). For example, the reception function 242 receives an input of an examination protocol from a user via the input interface 21.

[0087] Next, the identification function 243 identifies scheduled device information (step S102). For example, the identification function 243 refers to the device information 231 stored in the memory 23, and identifies information on the device corresponding to the examination protocol received in step S101 as scheduled device information.

[0088] Next, the detection function 244 determines whether the stand 11 (referred to as a standing stand in FIG. 6) is scheduled to be used in the examination protocol to be executed (step S103). For example, if the scheduled device information identified in step S102 includes information representing the stand 11, the detection function 244 determines that the stand 11 is scheduled to be used. On the other hand, if the information representing the stand 11 is not included, the detection function 244 determines that the stand 11 is not scheduled to be used.

[0089] If the stand 11 is to be used (step S103: Yes), the detection function 244 causes the first RFID reader / writer 34a to start emitting radio waves (step S104).

[0090] This allows the first RFID reader / writer 34a to read the data in the memory of the RFID tag attached to the X-ray detector 13 or the grid holder with the grid 13a set therein when the user inserts the X-ray detector 13 or the grid holder with the grid 13a set therein into the mounting port 11a of the stand 11.

[0091] On the other hand, if the standing stand is not to be used (step S103: No), the detection function 244 causes the second RFID reader / writer 34b to start emitting radio waves (step S105).

[0092] This allows the second RFID reader / writer 34b to read the data in the memory of the RFID tag attached to the X-ray detector 13 or the grid holder with the grid 13a set therein when the user inserts the X-ray detector 13 or the grid holder with the grid 13a set therein into the mounting opening 42a of the bed 42.

[0093] After the process of step S104 or step S105, the detection function 244 acquires attached device information relating to the attached X-ray detector 13 (referred to as FPD in FIG. 6) (step S106).

[0094] For example, when the first RFID reader / writer 34a is made to start emitting radio waves in step S104, the detection function 244 acquires, as attached device information, information data indicating the size of the X-ray detector 13 read from the memory of the RFID tag attached to the X-ray detector 13 attached to the attachment port 11a and transmitted from the first RFID reader / writer 34a.

[0095] Also, for example, when the second RFID reader / writer 34b is made to start emitting radio waves in step S105, the detection function 244 acquires, as attached device information, information data indicating the size of the X-ray detector 13 read from the memory of the RFID tag attached to the X-ray detector 13 attached to the attachment port 42a and transmitted from the second RFID reader / writer 34b.

[0096] Next, the comparison function 245 determines whether the relationship between the specifications of the X-ray detector 13 in the mounted device information and the specifications of the X-ray detector 13 in the scheduled device information satisfies a predetermined condition (step S107). For example, the comparison function 245 determines whether the size of the X-ray detector 13 included in the mounted device information acquired in step S106 matches the size of the X-ray detector 13 included in the scheduled device information identified in step S102.

[0097] If the predetermined condition is met (step S107: Yes), the process proceeds to step S109, which will be described later. On the other hand, if the predetermined condition is not met (step S107: No), the notification function 246 notifies the user to check whether the attached X-ray detector 13 is correct (step S108).

[0098] For example, the notification function 246 generates a text message urging the user to check the size of the attached X-ray detector 13 because it is highly likely that the attached X-ray detector 13 is of a size different from the size of the X-ray detector 13 to be used for X-ray imaging. The notification function 246 sends the generated message to the display control function 241. The display control function 241 displays the message sent from the notification function 246 on the display 22.

[0099] Next, the detection function 244 acquires the attachment device information regarding the attached grid 13a (step S109).

[0100] For example, when the first RFID reader / writer 34a is made to start emitting radio waves in step S104, the detection function 244 acquires, as attached device information, information data indicating the grid type read from the memory of the RFID tag attached to the grid holder attached to the attachment port 11a and transmitted from the first RFID reader / writer 34a.

[0101] Also, for example, when the second RFID reader / writer 34b is made to start emitting radio waves in step S105, the detection function 244 acquires, as attached device information, information data indicating the grid type read from the memory of the RFID tag attached to the grid holder attached to the attachment port 42a and transmitted from the second RFID reader / writer 34b.

[0102] Next, the comparison function 245 determines whether the relationship between the information indicating the type of the grid 13a to be used and the specification information of the attached grid 13a satisfies a predetermined condition (step S110). For example, the comparison function 245 determines whether the grid type of the grid 13a included in the specification information acquired in step S109 matches the grid type included in the scheduled-use device information identified in step S102.

[0103] If the predetermined condition is met (step S110: Yes), this process ends. On the other hand, if the predetermined condition is not met (step S110: No), the notification function 246 notifies the user to check whether the attached grid 13a is correct (step S111), and then this process ends.

[0104] For example, the notification function 246 generates a text message urging the user to check the grid type of the attached grid 13a because it is highly likely that a grid of a different grid type than the grid type planned to be used for X-ray imaging has been attached. The notification function 246 sends the generated message to the display control function 241. The display control function 241 displays the message sent from the notification function 246 on the display 22.

[0105] 6, the processes of steps S109 to S111 are described as processes after step S108, but the processes of steps S109 to S111 may be performed in parallel with the processes of steps S106 to S108. Furthermore, the processes of steps S109 to S111 may be performed after the process of step S105 and before the process of step S106.

[0106] The general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment described above acquires attached device information relating to the specifications of the actually attached devices from the RFID tags attached to the actually attached devices (X-ray detector 13 and grid 13a) by controlling the first RFID reader / writer 34a provided on the stand 11 or the second RFID reader / writer 34b provided on the bed 42. The general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 according to this embodiment compares the relationship between the acquired attached device information and predetermined planned device information relating to the specifications of devices to be used, and notifies the user if the relationship does not satisfy a predetermined condition.

[0107] As a result, for example, when a user attaches an X-ray detector 13 or a grid 13a different from the X-ray detector 13 or grid 13a intended to be used to the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 when X-ray imaging a subject P, the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 according to this embodiment can notify the user that an X-ray detector 13 or a grid 13a different from the X-ray detector 13 or grid 13a intended to be used may have been attached. The user who receives the notification can realize that the X-ray detector 13 or the grid 13a has been attached incorrectly before starting imaging of the subject P, and can reattach the correct X-ray detector 13 or grid 13a in advance. Therefore, the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 according to this embodiment can reduce the possibility of having to redo X-ray imaging due to an incorrect attachment of the X-ray detector 13 or the grid 13a. In other words, the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 according to this embodiment can reduce the possibility of unnecessary exposure of the subject to radiation during general X-ray imaging.

[0108] Furthermore, the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 according to this embodiment determines whether the stand 11 or the bed 42 will be used for X-ray imaging based on equipment information in use, which includes information indicating whether the stand 11 or the bed 42 will be used when imaging a subject; if it is determined that the stand 11 will be used, the first RFID reader / writer 34a provided on the stand 11 is set to a state in which it can read RFID tags; if it is determined that the bed 42 will be used, the first RFID reader / writer 34a provided on the bed 42 is set to a state in which it can read RFID tags; and if the data in the memory of the RFID tag has been read, the first RFID reader / writer 34a or the second RFID reader / writer 34b is set to a standby state after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0109] As a result, the first RFID reader / writer 34a or the second RFID reader / writer 34b is enabled to read RFID tags only when it is necessary to read an RFID tag. In other words, when it is not necessary to read an RFID tag, the first RFID reader / writer 34a and the second RFID reader / writer 34b are in a standby state. In other words, the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 according to this embodiment can reduce the amount of power consumed by the first RFID reader / writer 34a and the second RFID reader / writer 34b.

[0110] (Second embodiment) In the first embodiment described above, a form has been described in which a notification is given when the relationship between the attached device information acquired by the detection function 244 and the scheduled device information identified by the identification function 243 does not satisfy a predetermined condition. In the second embodiment, a form will be described in which settings related to X-ray imaging are changed in accordance with the device actually attached (X-ray detector 13 or grid 13a).

[0111] In the following, differences from the above-described embodiment will be mainly described, and detailed descriptions of commonalities with the above-described embodiment will be omitted. Furthermore, each embodiment described below may be implemented individually or in appropriate combination.

[0112] First, the configuration of a general X-ray imaging apparatus 1a according to the second embodiment will be described. Figures 7 and 8 are block diagrams showing an example of the configuration of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1a according to the second embodiment. The general X-ray imaging apparatus 1a according to the second embodiment has a configuration substantially similar to that of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2, but differs from the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment in that it has a console 20a.

[0113] The console 20a has a configuration substantially similar to that of the console 20 of the general X-ray imaging device 1 according to the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2, but differs from the console 20 of the general X-ray imaging device 1 according to the first embodiment in that it has a processing circuit 24a.

[0114] The processing circuit 24a has a configuration substantially similar to that of the processing circuit 24 of the general X-ray imaging device 1 according to the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, but differs from the processing circuit 24 of the general X-ray imaging device 1 according to the first embodiment in that it has an image generation function 249a and a modification function 250.

[0115] The following describes the change function 250. The change function 250 changes the settings related to the examination of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 to settings that match the attached device. The change function 250 is an example of a first change unit and a second change unit.

[0116] For example, if the comparison function 245 determines that the relationship between the attached device information and the planned device information does not satisfy a predetermined condition, the change function 250 changes the settings related to X-ray imaging of the subject P to match the device (X-ray detector 13 or grid 13a) actually attached to the general X-ray imaging device 1a.

[0117] As an example, if the size of the X-ray detector 13 actually installed does not match the size of the X-ray detector 13 to be used, the change function 250 changes the settings related to X-ray irradiation to settings suitable for irradiating X-rays to the X-ray detector 13 of the size actually installed.

[0118] Incidentally, when the size of the actually mounted X-ray detector 13 is smaller than the size of the X-ray detector 13 to be used, if the settings related to X-ray irradiation are changed to settings suitable for X-ray irradiation to the X-ray detector 13 of the actually mounted size and an examination is performed, there is a possibility that the part of the subject P to be imaged will fall outside the imaging range. In this case, imaging may need to be redone, which may cause inconvenience when the examination is performed.

[0119] Therefore, in this embodiment, even if the relationship between the attached device information and the planned device information does not satisfy a specified condition, the change function 250 will not perform the setting change process if the changeable condition, which is a condition under which the setting can be changed, is met, namely, the size of the actually attached X-ray detector 13 is larger than the size of the X-ray detector 13 planned to be used.

[0120] As another example, if the grid type of the actually attached grid 13a does not match the grid type of the grid 13a to be used, the change function 250 changes the settings related to image processing for the X-ray image to settings suitable for the grid 13a of the actually attached grid type. Here, the image processing for the X-ray image is, for example, processing to remove stripes that appear on the X-ray image.

[0121] Here, in the case of the grid 13a, even if the settings related to image processing for the X-ray image are changed to settings suitable for the grid 13a of the type of grid actually installed, there is little possibility that the image will have to be retaken, so there is no need to define changeable conditions as in the case of the X-ray detector 13.

[0122] In the above case, the image generating function 249a executes various image processes in accordance with the settings changed by the changing function 250, and generates an X-ray image (or a long image).

[0123] In this way, the change function 250 changes the settings related to the examination of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 to match the equipment actually installed, so that the user can examine the subject P without having to replace the equipment. In other words, it is possible to improve user convenience.

[0124] The change function 250 may automatically perform the process of changing the above settings, or may display a message on the display 22 asking whether it is OK to change the settings, and may perform the process of changing the above settings when it receives input from the user indicating that it approves the change of settings.

[0125] Next, a process executed by the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1a according to the second embodiment will be described. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the process executed by the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1a according to the present embodiment. The process from step S201 to step S206 in Fig. 9 is the same as the process from step S101 to step S106 in Fig. 6, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0126] After step S206, the comparison function 245 determines whether the size of the actually mounted X-ray detector 13 (denoted as FPD in FIG. 9) is equal to or larger than the size of the X-ray detector 13 to be used (step S207).

[0127] If the size of the actually installed X-ray detector 13 is equal to or larger than the size of the X-ray detector 13 to be used (step S207: Yes), the comparison function 245 determines whether the size of the actually installed X-ray detector 13 matches the size of the X-ray detector 13 to be used (step S209).

[0128] If the two sizes match (step S209: Yes), the process proceeds to step S211. The process of step S211 is the same as the process of step S109 in Fig. 6, so a description thereof will be omitted. On the other hand, if the two sizes do not match (step S209: No), the change function 250 changes the settings related to X-ray irradiation of the subject P to settings that match the X-ray detector 13 that is actually attached (step S210).

[0129] After the process of step S210, the process proceeds to step S211, but the processes of steps S211 to S212 are the same as the processes of steps S109 to S110 in Fig. 6, so a description thereof will be omitted. If the relationship between the information indicating the type of grid 13a to be used and the specification information of the attached grid 13a satisfies a predetermined condition in step S212 (step S212: Yes), this process ends.

[0130] On the other hand, if the predetermined condition is not satisfied (step S212: No), the change function 250 changes the setting related to image processing for the X-ray image to a setting that matches the grid type of the actually attached grid 13a (step S213), and ends this processing. For example, the change function 250 changes the setting related to processing to remove stripe patterns that appear on the X-ray image to a setting that matches the grid type of the actually attached grid 13a.

[0131] Furthermore, if the size of the X-ray detector 13 actually attached in step S207 is smaller than the size of the X-ray detector 13 to be used (step S207: No), the process proceeds to step S208. The process of step S208 is the same as the process of step S108 in Fig. 6, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. After the process of step S208, the process proceeds to step S211. The subsequent processes are the same as those described above, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0132] The general X-ray imaging device 1a according to the second embodiment described above compares the relationship between the acquired attached device information and the predetermined planned device information regarding the specifications of the device to be used, and if the relationship does not satisfy predetermined conditions, changes the settings related to X-ray imaging to settings that match the device actually attached.

[0133] This allows the user to examine the subject P without replacing the attached device, for example. In other words, the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1a according to this embodiment can improve user convenience.

[0134] Furthermore, the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1a according to this embodiment changes the settings related to X-ray imaging to settings that match the equipment that is actually attached, when the changeable conditions are met.

[0135] This makes it possible to prevent the change process from being performed in cases where, for example, the size of the X-ray detector 13 actually attached is smaller than the size of the X-ray detector 13 to be used, and if the settings are changed to match the equipment actually attached and the examination is performed, there is a possibility that the part of the subject P to be photographed may fall outside the range to be photographed and the photograph may have to be retaken.

[0136] The above-described embodiment can be modified as needed by partially changing the configuration or functions of each device. Therefore, several modifications of the above-described embodiment will be described below as other embodiments. The following mainly focuses on differences from the above-described embodiment, and detailed descriptions of commonalities with the content already described will be omitted. The modifications described below may be implemented individually or in appropriate combination.

[0137] (Variation 1) In the first and second embodiments described above, a configuration has been described in which, during X-ray imaging, it is determined whether the subject P is supported by the stand 11 or the bed 42, based on the received examination protocol and the device information 231 in the memory 23. In the present embodiment, a configuration will be described in which it is determined whether the subject P is supported by the stand 11 or the bed 42, using a camera provided in a general X-ray imaging device.

[0138] The general X-ray imaging device 1 (1a) according to this modification has a camera. For example, the camera is provided on the housing of the X-ray tube holding device 12. The camera is, for example, an optical camera capable of collecting camera images in the same direction as the direction in which X-rays are irradiated in the X-ray tube holding device 12 that holds the X-ray tube 31.

[0139] The camera is composed of a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor. The camera photographs the state of the subject P standing on the stand 11 or the subject P lying on the tabletop 41, captures the captured image, and outputs the captured image to the memory 23.

[0140] The camera also outputs the captured image to the processing circuit 24 of the console 20 via the controller 17. The camera may be equipped with a wide-angle lens or a fisheye lens so that a wider range of camera images of the subject P can be acquired. The camera may also be installed on a wall surface, including the ceiling, of the examination room. The camera is a visible light camera. Note that the camera is not limited to a visible light camera and may also be an infrared camera.

[0141] The identifying function 243 according to this modification uses a known image recognition technique or the like to analyze the image output from the camera to the processing circuitry 24 after the X-ray tube holding device 12 is moved to a position according to the examination protocol to be executed, either by the user or automatically based on the camera image of the subject P. This allows the identifying function 243 to identify the direction in which the X-rays are irradiated.

[0142] Furthermore, if the direction in which the identified X-rays are irradiated is the direction in which the stand 11 exists, the identification function 243 determines that the subject P will be supported by the stand 11 during X-ray imaging. Furthermore, if the direction in which the identified X-rays are irradiated is the direction in which the bed 42 exists, the identification function 243 determines that the subject P will be supported by the bed 42 during X-ray imaging.

[0143] As a result, even if the equipment information 231 does not specify the device that supports the subject P during X-ray imaging, the identification function 243 can identify whether the subject P is supported by the stand 11 or the bed 42 during X-ray imaging.

[0144] The identification function 243 according to this modification is an example of a second identification unit, and the detection function 244 according to this modification is an example of a second control unit.

[0145] (Variation 2) In the above-described first and second embodiments, a configuration has been described in which the first RFID reader / writer 34a (or the second RFID reader / writer 34b) is provided at a position where it can read the RFID tags attached to the X-ray detector 13 and the grid holder when the X-ray detector 13 and the grid holder are inserted.

[0146] In this modified example, a first RFID reader / writer 34a (or a second RFID reader / writer 34b) is provided at a position where it can read the RFID tags attached to the X-ray detector 13 and the grid holder after the X-ray detector 13 and the grid holder are inserted.

[0147] Fig. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the installation position of an RFID reader / writer according to Modification 2. As shown in Fig. 10, in this modification, the first RFID reader / writer 34a is provided on the side where the back surface of the X-ray detector 13 is located when the X-ray detector 13 is attached inside the attachment opening 11a.

[0148] The first RFID reader / writer 34a is provided on the side where the back of the X-ray detector 13 is located when the X-ray detector 13 is attached in the attachment port 11a, so that once the user has completed attachment of the X-ray detector 13 and grid 13a to the attachment port 11a and identified the stand, the first RFID reader / writer 34a can read the data in the memory of the RFID tag attached to each of the attached X-ray detector 13 and grid 13a.

[0149] After the stand is identified, the first RFID reader / writer 34a may be switched from the standby state to a state in which the data in the memory of the RFID tag can be read. In this case, the first RFID reader / writer 34a may be switched to the standby state after reading the data in the memory of the RFID tag.

[0150] This makes it possible to reduce the power consumption of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 (1a).

[0151] 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of an installation position of the second RFID reader / writer 34b according to Modification 2. As shown in Fig. 11, in this modification, the second RFID reader / writer 34b is provided on the side where the back surface of the X-ray detector 13 is located when the X-ray detector 13 is attached inside the attachment opening 11a.

[0152] The second RFID reader / writer 34b is provided on the side where the back of the X-ray detector 13 is located when the X-ray detector 13 is attached in the attachment port 11a, so that once the user has completed attachment of the X-ray detector 13 and grid 13a to the attachment port 42a and identified the bed, the second RFID reader / writer 34b can read the data in the memory of the RFID tag attached to each of the attached X-ray detector 13 and grid 13a.

[0153] After the bed is identified, the second RFID reader / writer 34b may be switched from the standby state to a state in which the data in the memory of the RFID tag can be read. In this case, the second RFID reader / writer 34b may be switched to the standby state after reading the data in the memory of the RFID tag.

[0154] This makes it possible to reduce the power consumption of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 (1a).

[0155] In this modification, the RFID tag may be attached to the side of the grid 13a itself, rather than to the grid holder.

[0156] According to this modification, after the attachment of the X-ray detector 13 and the grid 13a is completed, the RFID tag attached to each of them can be read. After the attachment is completed, the X-ray detector 13 and the grid 13a are in a stationary state, so the first RFID reader / writer 34a or the second RFID reader / writer 34b can read the RFID tag while the RFID tag is in a stable state.

[0157] (Variation 3) In the first and second embodiments described above, the tag is an RFID tag and the tag detector is an RFID reader. However, the combination of the tag and the tag detector is not limited to the above.

[0158] For example, the tag may be a code symbol such as a barcode or a two-dimensional code, and the tag detector may be a barcode reader, an optical camera, etc. In this case, the detection function 244 may identify the specifications of the device and identify the attached device information based on the code acquired by reading the code symbol attached to the device with the barcode reader or the optical camera and correspondence information that associates the code stored in the memory 23 or the like with the device specifications (FPD size, grid type).

[0159] Alternatively, for example, the tag may be a color sheet and the tag detector may be a color sensor that detects the color of an object. In this case, the detection function 244 may identify the specifications of the device and identify the attached device information based on color information indicating the color of the color sheet attached to the device detected by the color sensor and correspondence information that associates the color information with the device specifications stored in the memory 23.

[0160] According to this modified example, it is possible to identify the information of the attached device even in a situation where there is a possibility of interference from surrounding radio waves, which may prevent the RFID reader from reading the RFID tag.

[0161] (Variation 4) In the first and second embodiments described above, the specifications of the device (FPD size, grid type) are stored in the memory of the RFID tag attached to the device. In this modification, a device ID that identifies the device is stored in the memory of the RFID tag attached to the device.

[0162] In this modification, a specification master (not shown) that associates a device ID with the specifications of the device identified by the device ID is stored in the memory 23. The first RFID reader / writer 34a (or the second RFID reader / writer 34b) in this modification reads the device ID from the memory of the RFID tag attached to the attached device and sends it to the processing circuit 24.

[0163] The detection function 244 of this modified example acquires the device ID sent from the first RFID reader / writer 34a (or the second RFID reader / writer 34b). The detection function 244 identifies the specifications of the device corresponding to the device ID based on the acquired device ID and the specification master, thereby identifying the attached device information.

[0164] According to this modification, for example, even when various information such as the manufacturer of the equipment, the serial number of the equipment, and the date of manufacture of the equipment, in addition to the above-mentioned FPD size and grid type, is registered as equipment specification information, the amount of data written to the memory of the RFID tag can be reduced.

[0165] (Variation 5) In the first and second embodiments described above, the configurations in which both the X-ray detector 13 and the grid 13a are targeted as devices have been described. However, it is also possible to target only one of the X-ray detector 13 and the grid 13a.

[0166] (Variation 6) In the above-described first and second embodiments, the general X-ray imaging device 1 (1a) has the tag detectors (the first RFID reader / writer 34a and the second RFID reader / writer 34b). In this modified example, a description will be given of a configuration in which an information processing device different from the general X-ray imaging device 1 (1a) has the tag detector.

[0167] The information processing device of this modified example is, for example, a device such as a PC (Personal Computer) or a tablet terminal. A storage device included in the information processing device of this modified example stores device information 231. Furthermore, a processing circuit included in the information processing device of this modified example has a detection function 244.

[0168] The reception function 242 of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 (1 a) of this modified example sends information representing the received examination protocol to the information processing device via a communication interface and a network (neither of which are shown in the figures). The detection function 244 of the information processing device identifies the scheduled device information based on the information representing the examination protocol sent from the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 (1 a) and the device information 231.

[0169] The detection function 244 also sends the attached device information identified based on the data acquired from the memory of the RFID tag attached to the device to the general X-ray imaging device 1 (1a).

[0170] According to this modification, the processing load on the processing circuit 24 (24a) of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 (1a) can be reduced.

[0171] In this modification, some or all of the functions of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 1 (1a) may be provided in an information processing apparatus.

[0172] According to at least the embodiment and modifications described above, it is possible to reduce the possibility of unnecessary exposure of a subject to radiation in general X-ray imaging.

[0173] Although several embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations of embodiments can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0174] 1, 1a General X-ray equipment 10 Imaging equipment 11 Stand 12 X-ray tube holding device 13 X-ray detector 20 Console 21 Input Interface 22 Display 23 Memory 24, 24a Processing circuit 31 X-ray tube 32 Squeezer 33 Operation Panel 34a 1st RFID reader / writer 34b Second RFID reader / writer 41 Top plate 42 berths 241 Display Control Function 242 Reception Function 243 Specific Functions 244 detection function 245 Comparison Function 246 Notification function 247 Registration Function 248 Shooting control function 249, 249a Image generation function 250 Change Function

Claims

1. a tag provided on at least one of an X-ray detector that detects X-rays and a grid that removes scattered radiation, the tag indicating specifications of at least one of the X-ray detector and the grid; a tag detector provided on a stand that supports the X-ray detector when the subject is being photographed in a standing position and on a bed on which the subject is placed, and that detects the tag; a comparison unit that compares first specification information relating to the specifications indicated by the tag detected by the tag detector with second specification information relating to the specifications of at least one of the X-ray detector and the grid to be used for predetermined imaging; a notification unit that notifies the user when a relationship between the first specification information and the second specification information does not satisfy a predetermined condition; An X-ray diagnostic apparatus comprising:

2. the first specification information includes information representing a size of the X-ray detector attached to the stand or the bed, and the second specification information includes information representing a size of the X-ray detector to be used for imaging; the comparison unit compares whether the size of the attached X-ray detector matches the size of the X-ray detector to be used for imaging; the notification unit issues a notification to prompt a user to check the size of the attached X-ray detector when the size of the attached X-ray detector does not match the size of the X-ray detector to be used for imaging.

2. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

3. the comparison unit, when the size of the attached X-ray detector does not match the size of the X-ray detector to be used for imaging, determines whether the size of the attached X-ray detector is larger than the size of the X-ray detector to be used for imaging; the notification unit issues a notification to urge the user to check the size of the attached X-ray detector when the size of the attached X-ray detector is smaller than the size of the X-ray detector to be used for imaging, and does not issue a notification when the size of the attached X-ray detector is larger than the size of the X-ray detector to be used for imaging.

3. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2.

4. a first change unit that changes settings related to X-ray imaging so as to irradiate X-rays in accordance with the size of the attached X-ray detector when the size of the attached X-ray detector does not match the size of the X-ray detector to be used for imaging; 3. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2.

5. the first change unit changes the settings related to X-ray imaging so as to irradiate X-rays in accordance with the size of the attached X-ray detector when a changeable condition that enables the setting change is satisfied.

5. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 4.

6. the changeable condition is that the size of the attached X-ray detector is larger than the size of the X-ray detector to be used for imaging; 6. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 5.

7. the first specification information includes information representing a grid type of the grid attached to the stand or the bed, and the second specification information includes information representing a grid type of the grid to be used for imaging, the comparison unit compares whether the grid type of the attached grid matches the grid type of the grid to be used for imaging; the notification unit issues a notification to prompt a user to check the size of the attached X-ray detector when the grid type of the attached grid does not match the grid type of the grid to be used for imaging.

2. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

8. and a second changing unit that changes settings related to image processing of the X-ray image so as to perform image processing to remove stripes from the X-ray image in accordance with the grid type of the attached grid when the grid type of the attached grid does not match the grid type of the grid to be used for imaging.

8. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 7.

9. a first specifying unit that specifies whether to use the stand or the bed when imaging the subject, based on scheduled information that determines in advance whether to use the stand or the bed; a first control unit that, when it is determined that the stand will be used, causes the tag detector provided on the stand to be in a state where the tag can be detected, and, when it is determined that the bed will be used, causes the tag detector provided on the bed to be in a state where the tag can be detected, and, when the tag is detected, causes the tag detector to be in a standby state after a predetermined time has elapsed; 9. An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

10. a camera that captures an image in the direction of the X-ray irradiation; a second identification unit that identifies whether the stand or the bed is in a direction in which the X-rays are irradiated based on the captured image; a second control unit that, when it is determined that the stand exists, causes the tag detector provided on the stand to be in a state where the tag can be detected, and, when it is determined that the bed exists, causes the tag detector provided on the bed to be in a state where the tag can be detected, and, when the tag is detected, causes the tag detector to be in a standby state after a predetermined time has elapsed; 9. An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

11. The tag detector is a non-contact sensor.

9. An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

12. The tag is provided on both the X-ray detector and the grid.

9. An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

13. a tag provided on at least one of an X-ray detector that detects X-rays and a grid that removes scattered radiation, the tag indicating specifications of at least one of the X-ray detector and the grid; a tag detector provided on a stand that supports the X-ray detector when the subject is being photographed in a standing position and on a bed on which the subject is placed, and that detects the tag; a comparison unit that compares first specification information relating to the specifications indicated by the tag detected by the tag detector with second specification information relating to the specifications of at least one of the X-ray detector and the grid to be used for predetermined imaging; a notification unit that notifies the user when a relationship between the first specification information and the second specification information does not satisfy a predetermined condition; An X-ray diagnostic system comprising:

14. A control method for an X-ray diagnostic apparatus including: a tag provided on at least one of an X-ray detector that detects X-rays and a grid that removes scattered rays, the tag indicating specifications of at least one of the X-ray detector and the grid; and tag detectors provided on a stand that supports the X-ray detector when imaging a subject in a standing position and a bed on which the subject is placed, each of which detects the tag, a comparison step of comparing a relationship between first specification information relating to specifications indicated by the tag detected by the tag detector and second specification information relating to specifications of at least one of the X-ray detector and the grid to be used for predetermined imaging; a notification step of notifying the user that a relationship between the first specification information and the second specification information does not satisfy a predetermined condition; A control method comprising:

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