Radiation imaging control apparatus, radiation imaging control method, and storage medium

Abstract

To provide a radiation image photographing apparatus capable of giving priority to image display for current intermittent photographing over image display for past intermittent photographing when new intermittent photographing is started.SOLUTION: The main body 1 is a radiation imaging control device that outputs a display image generated based on a series of a plurality of frames obtained by capturing a moving image of a subject with radiation, and includes a control unit that, in a plurality of times of intermittent imaging intermittently performed from the start of imaging to the end of imaging in one intermittent imaging mode, gives priority to the display of a display image in the subsequent intermittent imaging over the display of a display image in the previous intermittent imaging in time series.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] In examinations to check the progress of catheter insertion procedures or the condition of the subject immediately after the administration of a contrast agent, a method of intermittently capturing video to obtain images at the required timing has been proposed. However, when using a radiography device via a wireless connection and the communication speed is slow, the frame acquisition speed on the display device side may not meet the specified frame rate. In this case, the display device displays the acquired frame images in the order of capture, but there is a problem that the display of the image of the frame at the required timing is delayed.

[0003] A technology for preventing delays when transmitting captured frames via wireless communication is disclosed in Patent Document 1 below. Patent Document 1 describes a dynamic imaging device that transmits an image containing a region of interest of a subject in the first frame image, and transmits feature amounts related to the dynamics of the subject in the second and subsequent frame images. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-113344 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Conventional technology allows stable communication of frames obtained by video shooting. However, when video shooting involves multiple shooting opportunities, images may not be transmitted to the display device within the period of the current shooting opportunity depending on the number of frames, image conditions, etc. Frames that could not be transmitted during the current shooting opportunity are transmitted to the display device during the next shooting opportunity, and images from the previous shooting opportunity are displayed during the next shooting opportunity. This poses a problem in that images of frames at the required timing cannot be displayed during each shooting opportunity.

[0006] Therefore, in order to solve the above problem, the present invention aims to provide a radiation imaging control device, a radiation imaging control method, and a program that, when new intermittent imaging is started, can prioritize image display for current intermittent imaging over image display for past intermittent imaging. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The radiography control device according to the present invention comprises: A radiography control device that outputs a display image generated based on a series of multiple frames obtained by capturing a moving image of a subject using radiation, The camera is provided with a control unit that prioritizes the display of the display image of a second video taken after the first video taken over the display of the display image of a first video taken during multiple video taken intermittently between the start and end of one video taken.

[0008] The radiography control method according to the present invention comprises: 1. A radiography control method in a radiography control device that outputs a display image generated based on a series of multiple frames obtained by capturing a moving image of a subject using radiation, comprising: The method includes a control step of prioritizing the display of the display image of a second video taken after the first video taken over the display of the display image of a first video taken during multiple video taken intermittently between the start and end of one video taken.

[0009] The program according to the present invention comprises: a computer included in a radiography control device that outputs a display image generated based on a series of multiple frames obtained by capturing a moving image of a subject using radiation; a control unit that prioritizes display of the display image of a second moving image captured after the first moving image capture over display of the display image of a first moving image capture, in multiple moving image captures that are intermittently performed from the start to the end of one shooting; Function as. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, priority is given to displaying images for new intermittent shooting, so the user can reliably check the state of the subject during video shooting. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an in-hospital system including a dynamic image capturing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a main body according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating conventional pulse irradiation in a normal mode. [Figure 4] 4A to 4C are diagrams illustrating pulsed irradiation in an intermittent photography mode according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of a control unit of the main body when an intermittent shooting mode is executed according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a shooting screen displayed on a display unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 is a diagram showing a flow of intermittent photographing by an FPD, frame acquisition by a control unit of the main body, and image display by a display unit of the main body when an intermittent photographing mode according to the first embodiment is executed. FIG. [Figure 8] 10 is a diagram showing the flow of intermittent photographing by an FPD, frame acquisition by a control unit of the main body, and image display by a display unit of the main body when an intermittent photographing mode according to a first modified example is executed. FIG. [Figure 9] 10 is a diagram showing the flow of intermittent photographing by an FPD, frame acquisition by a control unit of the main body, and image display by a display unit of the main body when an intermittent photographing mode according to a second modified example is executed. FIG. [Figure 10] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing an example of various information displayed on the shooting screen of the display unit before execution of the intermittent shooting mode according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing an example of various information displayed on the shooting screen of the display unit while the intermittent shooting mode according to the second embodiment is being executed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] A radiation imaging control device, a radiation imaging control method, and a program according to preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0013] First Embodiment [Configuration example of dynamic image capturing system 10] 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an in-hospital system including a dynamic imaging system 10 according to a first embodiment. The dynamic imaging system 10 is a system for performing dynamic imaging of patients who have difficulty moving around during rounds, for example. The dynamic imaging system 10 includes a main body 1, a radiation source 2, and an FPD 3.

[0014] The main body 1 has wheels and is configured as a mobile medical cart. The dynamic imaging system 10 may also be a portable system without wheels. The main body 1 is connected to a communication network N, such as an in-hospital LAN, via a wireless access point (AP) 20 installed in the hospital. LAN is an abbreviation for Local Area Network. The main body 1 can transmit and receive data to and from external devices, such as a RIS 30, a PACS 40, and an analysis device 50, via the communication network N. RIS is an abbreviation for Radiology Information Systems. PACS is an abbreviation for Picture Archiving and Communication System.

[0015] The dynamic imaging system 10 irradiates the subject H with radiation from the radiation source 2 while the FPD 3 is positioned opposite the radiation source 2 across the subject H, thereby capturing still images or dynamic images of the subject H. In this embodiment, dynamic imaging refers to repeatedly irradiating the subject H with pulsed radiation such as X-rays at predetermined time intervals in response to a single imaging operation, thereby obtaining a series of images of the subject H. Repeated irradiation of pulsed radiation at predetermined time intervals is called pulse irradiation. Dynamic imaging refers to continuously irradiating the subject H with a low dose rate without interruption in response to a single imaging operation, thereby obtaining a series of images of the subject H. Continuous irradiation of radiation without interruption is called continuous irradiation. A series of images obtained by dynamic imaging is called a dynamic image. Each of the images constituting a dynamic image may be referred to as a frame. Dynamic imaging includes video imaging, but does not include capturing still images while displaying the video. Dynamic imaging includes video, but does not include images obtained by capturing still images while displaying the video.

[0016] The RIS 30 issues and stores examination order information, and transmits the issued examination order information to the main body 1 of the dynamic image capturing system 10 via the communication network N.

[0017] The PACS 40 stores and manages medical images generated by modalities such as the dynamic imaging system 10 in association with accompanying information for the medical images. The accompanying information includes patient information, examination information, etc. The medical images include still images and dynamic images.

[0018] The analysis device 50 analyzes medical images generated by a modality such as the dynamic imaging system 10, and outputs the analysis results.

[0019] [Block configuration example for main unit 1] 2 is a block diagram of the main body 1 according to the first embodiment. The main body 1 includes a computer and functions as a console or an imaging control device. The main body 1 includes a control unit 101, an operation unit 102, a display unit 103, a storage unit 104, a communication unit 105, a drive unit 106, a battery 107, a connector 108, and a charging unit 109. The control unit 101, the operation unit 102, the display unit 103, the storage unit 104, the communication unit 105, the drive unit 106, the battery 107, the connector 108, and the charging unit 109 are connected by wiring such as a bus 110.

[0020] The control unit 101 has a processor such as a CPU and a memory such as a RAM. CPU is an abbreviation for Central Processing Unit. RAM is an abbreviation for Random Access Memory. In response to input from the operation unit 102, the CPU of the control unit 101 reads out a system program and various processing programs stored in the storage unit 104, expands them in the RAM, and executes various processes according to the expanded programs.

[0021] In this embodiment, the control unit 101 can execute an intermittent imaging mode as one of the imaging modes. The intermittent imaging mode is an imaging mode in which dynamic images, etc., are captured multiple times based on a specified imaging period and imaging suspension period between the start and end of one imaging session. The start of imaging refers to the timing when both the FPD 3 and the radiation source 2 become ready for an intermittent imaging order and X-ray irradiation is permitted. The end of imaging refers to the timing when the corresponding intermittent imaging order ends and dynamic imaging, etc. for that order becomes impossible. The imaging period refers to the period from the start of imaging to the end of imaging. The imaging suspension period refers to the period during which imaging, such as dynamic imaging, is not performed while the intermittent imaging mode is being executed. Specifically, in the intermittent imaging mode, the control unit 101 prioritizes the display of a display image for a chronologically subsequent intermittent imaging session over the display of a display image for a specific intermittent imaging session. For example, when a new intermittent imaging session is started, the control unit 101 controls the interruption of frame acquisition for the previous intermittent imaging session while acquiring frames for the new intermittent imaging session.

[0022] The operation unit 102 has at least one of a plurality of buttons, a touch panel, a touchpad, a trackball, etc. The operation unit 102 accepts a predetermined operation performed by a finger, a touch pen, etc., and outputs the operation to the control unit 101 as operation information. The operation unit 102 may function as a selection unit that selects whether to prioritize display of an image from the next intermittent radiography over display of an image from the previous intermittent radiography. In this case, the user may select a priority button or the like displayed on the screen of the display unit 103 by operating the operation unit 102. The operation unit 102 includes an exposure switch 102a. The exposure switch 102a is a switch that the user uses to instruct radiation irradiation from the radiation source 2. In this embodiment, the user includes a medical professional such as a doctor or a radiologist.

[0023] The display unit 103 is configured with a monitor such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. EL is an abbreviation for Electro Luminescence. The display unit 103 displays dynamic images and the like on a screen in accordance with instructions of a display signal input from the control unit 101. The display unit 103 may function as a notification unit that notifies the user that a display delay has occurred when a frame cannot be displayed within a predetermined time from the specified display timing of the frame to be displayed. For example, the display unit 103 notifies the user that a display delay has occurred when the difference between the time when the FPD 3 generates a frame and the time when the display unit 103 displays an image is not within a predetermined time.

[0024] The storage unit 104 is configured with a nonvolatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk, or the like. The storage unit 104 stores various programs executed by the control unit 101, parameters required for executing processes by the programs, data such as processing results, and the like. The storage unit 104 is provided with an examination order information storage unit 104a, etc. The examination order information storage unit 104a stores examination order information acquired from the RIS 30. The examination order information includes patient information and examination information. The patient information includes the patient ID, name, gender, age, hospital room (ward), etc. of the patient to be examined. The examination information includes the examination ID, examination date, and the imaging order for each imaging performed during the examination. The imaging order includes the imaging region, imaging direction, imaging category, etc. The imaging category includes still image imaging and dynamic imaging such as intermittent imaging mode. The storage unit 104 also has a temporary storage area (not shown) for temporarily storing medical images transferred from the FPD 3. Furthermore, the storage unit 104 is provided with an image storage area (not shown) for storing medical images transferred from the FPD 3 for a certain period of time in association with accompanying information.

[0025] The communication unit 105 includes a first communication unit 105a and a second communication unit 105b. The first communication unit 105a transmits and receives data via wired or wireless communication with the FPD 3. The second communication unit 105b transmits and receives data with external devices such as the RIS 30 and PACS 40 connected to the communication network N via the wireless access point 20.

[0026] The driving unit 106 is a circuit that drives the tube of the radiation source 2. The driving unit 106 and the radiation source 2 are connected via a cable.

[0027] The battery 107 supplies power to each part of the main body 1 and the radiation source 2. The battery 107 can be charged externally via an AC cable 111.

[0028] The connector 108 is provided inside the storage section 120 and electrically connects to the FPD 3 stored in the storage section 120 .

[0029] The charging unit 109 charges the FPD 3 connected via the connector 108 with power supplied from the battery 107 under the control of the control unit 101 .

[0030] The radiation source 2 is driven by the driving unit 106 to irradiate the subject H with radiation such as X-rays. In the case of dynamic imaging, the radiation source 2 irradiates the subject H with pulsed radiation repeatedly at predetermined time intervals, for example.

[0031] The FPD 3 is a portable radiation detector compatible with both still and dynamic imaging. The FPD 3 includes, for example, radiation detection elements arranged two-dimensionally on a glass substrate. The radiation detection elements are composed of semiconductor image sensors such as photodiodes. The radiation detection elements detect radiation emitted from the radiation source 2 and transmitted through at least the subject H according to its intensity, convert the detected radiation into an electrical signal, and store the signal. A switching unit such as a TFT is connected to each radiation detection element. TFT stands for Thin Film Transistor. The switching unit acquires image data by controlling the storage and readout of the electrical signal. The FPD 3 may be an indirect conversion type that converts radiation into an electrical signal using a photoelectric conversion element via a scintillator, or a direct conversion type that directly converts radiation into an electrical signal. In this embodiment, the FPD 3 is described as a so-called self-detecting FPD. That is, the FPD 3 has an automatic detection mode function that automatically detects radiation irradiation. When performing dynamic imaging, upon detecting the start of radiation irradiation, the FPD 3 performs imaging at a set frame rate. The frames obtained by imaging are sequentially transferred by a communication unit (not shown) to the main body 1. The FPD 3 is not limited to the self-detection type.

[0032] The imaging may be performed using a synchronous method. In synchronous imaging, the controller 101 controls radiation irradiation at a frame rate set in accordance with a specific timing signal, and the FPD 3 also acquires frames at the frame rate set in accordance with the specific timing signal. The following methods may be used as a synchronization method for obtaining the specific timing signal. When the FPD 3 is connected to the main body 1 via a wired connection, the FPD 3 may synchronize its own timing information with timing information generated by the controller 101. The FPD 3 may also be controlled to maintain synchronization with the controller 101 even after the connection with the main body 1 is terminated. That is, the controller 101 and the FPD 3 are synchronized when connected via a wired connection, and when connected wirelessly, they operate independently by continuously generating synchronization pulses. The FPD 3 may perform time synchronization communication with the controller 101 via LAN communication called IEEE 1588 to correct the time difference between them, thereby achieving synchronization. The controller 101 may transmit synchronization signals to the radiation source 2 and the FPD 3, respectively, to achieve synchronization between the radiation source 2 and the FPD 3. Alternatively, the control unit 101 may synchronize the radiation source 2 and the FPD 3 by transmitting a synchronization signal to each of the radiation source 2 and the FPD 3. When multiple synchronization methods are available, the method may be switchable to a method with higher synchronization accuracy. Note that a radiation control device (not shown) separate from the control unit 101 of the main body 1 may control the irradiation of radiation.

[0033] [Regarding normal dynamic shooting mode and intermittent shooting mode] In conventional dynamic radiography, pulse irradiation from the radiation source 2 is performed continuously from the start to the end of radiography to obtain a series of dynamic images consisting of multiple frames. However, in radiography outside of the radiography room, from the perspective of risk management, the total dose that can be irradiated from the start to the end of radiography is limited, and long-term pulse irradiation is not possible. Therefore, for example, when using dynamic radiography to check the state of a catheter insertion procedure or the internal condition immediately after the administration of a contrast agent, images cannot be obtained at the required timing because long-term radiography is not possible.

[0034] Therefore, the dynamic image capturing system 10 can execute a normal mode and an intermittent shooting mode as dynamic shooting operation modes. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing pulse irradiation in the conventional normal mode. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing pulse irradiation in the intermittent shooting mode according to the first embodiment.

[0035] The normal mode is a mode in which dynamic radiography similar to conventional radiography is performed. That is, in the normal mode, as shown in FIG. 3, pulse irradiation from the radiation source 2 is performed continuously from the start to the end of one radiography session. In the normal mode, one dynamic image composed of a series of multiple frames is obtained. The intermittent radiography mode, as shown in FIG. 4, is a mode in which dynamic radiography in which pulse irradiation from the radiation source 2 is performed continuously is performed intermittently multiple times from the start to the end of one radiography session based on the specified radiography time and radiography suspension time. In the intermittent radiography mode, multiple dynamic images composed of a series of multiple frames are obtained. Each dynamic radiography session in the intermittent radiography mode is called an intermittent radiography session.

[0036] In this embodiment, in the normal mode, the radiation source 2 continues pulse irradiation from the start to the end of imaging. In the intermittent imaging mode, the radiation source 2 performs pulse irradiation during a designated imaging period from the start to the end of imaging, and stops pulse irradiation during designated imaging suspension periods, and waits with the anode rotating.

[0037] In normal mode, the FPD 3 starts accumulating and reading out charges corresponding to the radiation when it detects radiation irradiation after being notified that imaging has started. When radiation is no longer detected for a predetermined time or longer, the FPD 3 recognizes that imaging has ended and stops accumulating and reading out charges. In intermittent imaging mode, the FPD 3 starts accumulating and reading out charges corresponding to the radiation when it detects radiation irradiation after being notified that imaging has started. Thereafter, even if radiation is not detected for a predetermined time or longer, the FPD 3 recognizes that imaging is in progress and continues accumulating and reading out charges corresponding to the detection of radiation until it is notified that imaging has ended, and continues accumulating and reading out charges corresponding to the detection of radiation.

[0038] [Example of operation of the control unit 101 of the main body 1] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the control unit 101 of the main body 1 when the intermittent shooting mode according to the first embodiment is executed. The control unit 101 executes a program stored in the storage unit 104 to realize each process such as the control steps shown in FIG.

[0039] The user selects an examination to be performed, including dynamic imaging, from an examination order list screen (not shown) by operating the operation unit 102. The control unit 101 of the main body 1 causes the display unit 103 to display an imaging screen 130 corresponding to the selected examination.

[0040] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the imaging screen 130 displayed on the display unit 103 according to the first embodiment. The imaging screen 130 includes an imaging order list 13a, an image display field 13b, an examination end button 13c, an output button 13d, and a rejected image button 13e. The imaging order list 13a is a list of imaging order information included in the examination order information of the selected examination. The imaging order information includes the imaging region, imaging direction, imaging category such as dynamic imaging, etc. The image display field 13b is a field for displaying images captured in an intermittent imaging mode, etc. The examination end button 13c is a button for instructing to end the examination. The output button 13d is a button for instructing to output the captured images to at least one external device such as the PACS 40 and the analysis device 50. The rejected image button 13e is a button for instructing to discard the captured images without outputting them.

[0041] The user selects intermittent radiography order information from the radiography order list 13a on the radiography screen 130 by operating the operation unit 102. The control unit 101 of the main body 1 acquires the intermittent radiography order information selected by the user (step S1). The control unit 101 causes the radiation source 2 and the FPD 3 to prepare for radiography. For example, the control unit 101 sets radiation irradiation conditions in the driving unit 106 according to the selected intermittent radiography order information, and causes the driving unit 106 to start the radiation source 2 and place it in a standby state. The control unit 101 transmits image reading conditions according to the selected intermittent radiography order information to the FPD 3 via the first communication unit 105a, and causes the FPD 3 to perform radiography preparations such as resetting. After the resetting process is completed, the FPD 3 transitions to the automatic detection mode.

[0042] The control unit 101 determines whether the exposure switch 102a has been turned on by the user (step S2). If the control unit 101 determines that the exposure switch 102a has been turned on by the user, the process proceeds to step S3. On the other hand, if the control unit 101 determines that the exposure switch 102a has not been turned on, the control unit 101 continues to check the status of the exposure switch 102a, etc.

[0043] When the user turns on the exposure switch 102a, the control unit 101 executes the intermittent photography mode and starts the nth intermittent photography (step S3). Specifically, the control unit 101 controls the driving unit 106 based on the frame rate specified in the radiation exposure conditions to cause the radiation source 2 to emit pulses. When the FPD 3 detects radiation emitted from the radiation source, it repeats the process of acquiring frames at accumulation times and readout times according to the frame rate specified in the image reading conditions. The FPD 3 adds, for example, a frame number indicating the shooting order and an intermittent photography identification number to each acquired frame and transmits them to the main unit 1 via wireless communication.

[0044] The control unit 101 sequentially acquires a plurality of frames transmitted by wireless communication from the FPD 3. The control unit 101 generates an image for display from the acquired plurality of frames and outputs the generated image to the display unit 103. The display unit 103 displays the image output by the control unit 101 on the imaging screen 130 (step S4). The image displayed on the imaging screen 130 is a dynamic image composed of images of a plurality of frames.

[0045] The control unit 101 determines whether the intermittent shooting mode has ended (step S5). For example, the control unit 101 may determine that the intermittent shooting mode has ended when the number of captured frames reaches a preset upper limit frame number or when a preset shooting time has elapsed. The control unit 101 may also determine that the intermittent shooting mode has ended when the user presses an end button displayed on the shooting screen 130 to end the intermittent shooting mode.

[0046] If it is determined that the intermittent photography mode has not ended, the control unit 101 proceeds to step S10. The control unit 101 determines whether or not the user has turned off the exposure switch 102a during execution of the intermittent photography mode (step S10). When the user wishes to end the n-th intermittent photography that began in step S3, the user turns off the exposure switch 102a.

[0047] If the control unit 101 determines that the user has not turned off the exposure switch 102a, the control unit 101 proceeds to step S4. In this case, the nth intermittent imaging is being performed. Therefore, the control unit 101 acquires frames transmitted from the FPD 3 and displays images of the acquired frames on the imaging screen 130 of the display unit 103.

[0048] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S10 that the exposure switch 102a has been turned off by the user, the control unit 101 proceeds to step S11. Next, the control unit 101 determines whether or not the intermittent photography mode has ended (step S11). This is because when the exposure switch 102a is turned off in step S10, the number of captured frames may reach the upper limit number of frames or the preset photography time may have elapsed.

[0049] If the control unit 101 determines that the intermittent photography mode has not ended, the process proceeds to step S12. In this case, the intermittent photography is suspended. Next, the control unit 101 determines whether the exposure switch 102a has been turned on by the user (step S12). To perform the next intermittent photography, the user turns on the exposure switch 102a again. If the control unit 101 determines that the exposure switch 102a has not been turned on, the process proceeds to step S15.

[0050] If there are any frames that have not yet been acquired among the frames captured by FPD 3 during the nth intermittent shooting period executed in step S3, the control unit 101 continues acquisition during the suspension period of intermittent shooting (step S15). This is because transmission of all frames from FPD 3 to main body 1 has not been completed during the nth intermittent shooting period due to a communication delay. After acquiring any unacquired frames during the suspension period of intermittent shooting, the control unit 101 returns to step S11 and determines whether the intermittent shooting mode has ended, etc.

[0051] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S12 that the exposure switch 102a has been turned on by the user, the control unit 101 proceeds to step S13. The user turns on the exposure switch 102a when performing the next (n+1)th intermittent imaging.

[0052] When starting the next intermittent photographing, the control unit 101 determines whether or not a frame from the previous intermittent photographing in chronological order is being acquired (step S13). That is, at the start of the next intermittent photographing, the control unit 101 determines whether or not a frame transmitted from the FPD 3 is being received by the first communication unit 105a. If the control unit 101 determines that a frame photographed in the previous intermittent photographing is being acquired, the process proceeds to step S14.

[0053] The control unit 101 stops acquiring frames captured in the previous intermittent shooting (step S14). Specifically, if the first communication unit 105a is receiving frames transmitted from the FPD 3, the control unit 101 controls the first communication unit 105a to stop receiving the frames. In this case, the control unit 101 may discard the data of the frames that have been partially acquired, or may hold the data so that acquisition can be continued the next time. The control unit 101 may once acquire all of the frames transmitted from the FPD 3 using the first communication unit 105a, and then discard the frames. Furthermore, the control unit 101 may send an instruction to the FPD 3 at the start of the next intermittent shooting to cause the FPD 3 to stop transmitting frames captured in the previous intermittent shooting. After canceling the acquisition of frames captured in the previous intermittent shooting, the control unit 101 proceeds to step S3.

[0054] On the other hand, if the control unit 101 determines in step S13 that frames captured in the previous chronological intermittent shooting are not currently being acquired, the process also proceeds to step S3. In this case, the first communication unit 105a of the main body 1 has received all frames captured in the previous intermittent shooting from the FPD 3 at the start of the next intermittent shooting.

[0055] When the user turns on the exposure switch 102a, the control unit 101 performs the next new intermittent radiography (step S3). The control unit 101 generates an image for display based on the multiple frames transmitted from the FPD 3 in the next intermittent radiography, and outputs the generated image to the display unit 103. The display unit 103 displays the image output from the control unit 101 on the radiography screen 130 (step S4).

[0056] Next, if the control unit 101 determines that the intermittent shooting mode has ended (step S5), the control unit 101 proceeds to step S6. Similarly, if the control unit 101 determines in step S11 that the intermittent shooting mode has ended, the control unit 101 also proceeds to step S6. In these cases, the final intermittent shooting of the multiple intermittent shootings set in the intermittent shooting mode has ended. At the end of the final intermittent shooting, the control unit 101 acquires any frames that have not yet been acquired from the multiple frames in the final intermittent shooting (step S6).

[0057] The control unit 101 generates a display image from the acquired frames and outputs the generated images to the display unit 103. The display unit 103 displays a dynamic image made up of the images output by the control unit 101 on the shooting screen 130 (step S7).

[0058] The control unit 101 adds the additional information to the dynamic image made up of a plurality of frames acquired by each intermittent photographing, and stores the dynamic image with the additional information added in the image storage area of ​​the storage unit 104 (step S8).

[0059] The control unit 101 transmits the generated dynamic image to at least one of the PACS 40 and the analysis device 50 via the second communication unit 105b (step S9). Through this series of processes, the intermittent imaging mode is implemented.

[0060] The following processing can also be added to the flowchart showing the series of steps in the intermittent shooting mode described above in FIG. 5. The control unit 101 of the main body 1 preferably performs at least one of offset correction, gain correction, defect correction, afterimage correction, gradation correction, etc. before displaying a frame on the display unit 103. When performing offset correction, the control unit 101 may acquire an offset correction image (dark image) during the first intermittent shooting, and perform correction using the same offset correction image throughout the shooting period. This can simplify and speed up internal processing during offset correction. The control unit 101 may acquire an offset correction image for each intermittent shooting in the intermittent shooting mode.

[0061] The control unit 101 may change the correction processing, gradation processing, etc. between the image for display and the image for recording. In this case, the control unit 101 may make the pixel pitch of the image for display larger than that of the image for recording. This makes it possible to reduce the data size of the image for display, thereby improving the display speed.

[0062] Frame information indicating which dynamic imaging session a frame image is in in the intermittent imaging mode, or which frame in which dynamic imaging session it is, may be added to the image by overlay. Instead of adding the frame information to the image by overlay, it may be added to the image's supplementary information, header information, etc. Information that identifies which intermittent imaging session a frame belongs to may be added to the image data. This enables cueing or split display in units of intermittent imaging during display. Frames may also be added with information indicating the start time of the corresponding intermittent imaging session in order to calculate the delay time for frame display. In imaging in which multiple FPDs 3 are used simultaneously to capture images and the frames are combined to obtain a long image, the displayed image may be generated using frames that correspond to the same irradiation timing.

[0063] [Intermittent shooting mode flow] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the flow of intermittent shooting by the FPD 3, frame acquisition by the control unit 101 of the main body 1, and image display by the display unit 103 of the main body 1 when executing the intermittent shooting mode according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, the display method of displaying all frame images acquired by the main body 1 during each intermittent shooting shown in FIG. 7 is referred to as the first display mode. Also, in FIG. 7, the number of frames captured in the intermittent shooting mode is explained using a small number of frames for convenience, in order to make the invention easier to understand. Also, the time of each phase shown in FIG. 7 is an example, and is not limited to the time described in FIG. 7.

[0064] First, a patient is accepted at a terminal installed in a radiology department or the like. Examination information including patient order information is sent from the RIS or the like to the main unit 1. When a user selects an intermittent radiography order on the radiography screen 130, the control unit 101 of the main unit 1 sets radiography conditions for the radiation source 2, FPD 3, etc. based on the selected intermittent radiography order. A user such as a radiologist guides the patient to a predetermined positioning according to the region to be radiographed.

[0065] When the user turns on the exposure switch 102a, the control unit 101 performs the first intermittent radiography. The first intermittent radiography is performed to check the positioning of the patient. Therefore, one frame of a still image is captured in the first intermittent radiography. The radiation source 2 irradiates the subject H with radiation based on specified irradiation conditions. When the FPD 3 detects the radiation irradiated from the radiation source 2, it acquires a frame F1 for positioning confirmation based on specified reading conditions. The FPD 3 transmits the acquired frame F1 to the main body 1 via wireless communication. Note that the first intermittent radiography for checking the positioning can be omitted.

[0066] The control unit 101 of the main body 1 acquires a frame F1 during the first intermittent photographing period. The control unit 101 generates an image G1 of the acquired frame F1 and outputs the generated image G1 to the display unit 103. The display unit 103 displays the positioning confirmation image G1 output by the control unit 101 on the photographing screen 130. The user determines whether the patient's positioning is correct while checking the image G1 on the photographing screen 130.

[0067] If the patient positioning is correct, the user turns on the exposure switch 102a to perform the second intermittent radiography after a certain radiography interruption period. The certain radiography interruption period is the period from when the exposure switch 102a is turned off at the end of the first intermittent radiography to when the exposure switch 102a is turned on at an arbitrary timing at the start of the second intermittent radiography. The control unit 101 performs the second intermittent radiography in response to the turning on of the exposure switch 102a. The second intermittent radiography is a radiography for obtaining dynamic images for diagnosis. The radiation source 2 irradiates the subject H with radiation based on irradiation conditions such as a specified frame rate. The FPD 3 detects the radiation irradiated from the radiation source 2 and sequentially acquires diagnostic frames F2 to F5 based on specified reading conditions. The FPD 3 transmits the acquired frames F2 to F5 to the main unit 1 via wireless communication.

[0068] The first communication unit 105a of the main body 1 receives frames F2 and the like from the FPD 3 via wireless communication. However, due to a delay in wireless communication, the first communication unit 105a is unable to receive all of frames F2 to F5 acquired during the second intermittent photographing period during the second intermittent photographing period. Therefore, the control unit 101 of the main body 1 acquires frames F2 and F3 from the FPD 3 during the second intermittent photographing period. Furthermore, during the photographing suspension period after the end of the second intermittent photographing period, the control unit 101 acquires frame F4, which was not acquired during the second intermittent photographing period, from the FPD 3.

[0069] The control unit 101 generates images G2 to G4 for display from the acquired frames F2 to F4 and outputs the generated images G2 to G4 to the display unit 103. The display unit 103 displays the images G2 to G4 output by the control unit 101 on the imaging screen 130. The images G2 to G4 constitute dynamic images for diagnosis and include information such as continuous movement in the imaging region of the subject. The user diagnoses the imaging region of the patient while checking the images G2 to G4 on the imaging screen 130. The user may also determine whether there are any imaging defects in the images G2 to G4.

[0070] After the user has finished checking images G2 to G4, he or she waits a certain period of time before turning on the exposure switch 102a to perform the third intermittent imaging. The certain period of time is the period from when the exposure switch 102a is turned off at the end of the second intermittent imaging to when the exposure switch 102a is turned on at an indefinite timing at the start of the third intermittent imaging. The control unit 101 performs the third intermittent imaging in response to the turning on of the exposure switch 102a. The third intermittent imaging is an imaging operation for acquiring dynamic images for diagnosis. The radiation source 2 irradiates the subject H with radiation based on irradiation conditions such as a specified frame rate. The FPD 3 detects the radiation irradiated from the radiation source 2 and sequentially acquires diagnostic frames F6 to F9 based on specified reading conditions. The FPD 3 transmits the acquired frames F6 to F9 to the main unit 1 via wireless communication.

[0071] In this embodiment, at the start of the third intermittent photographing, the remaining frame F5 acquired during the second intermittent photographing period is being transmitted from the FPD 3 to the main body 1. That is, at the start of the third intermittent photographing, the control unit 101 of the main body 1 is acquiring frame F5 acquired during the previous second intermittent photographing period. In this case, at the start of the third intermittent photographing, the control unit 101 stops acquiring frame F5 during the second intermittent photographing period and prioritizes acquiring new frames F6 and the like during the third intermittent photographing period. Specifically, the control unit 101 acquires frames F6 and F7 from the FPD 3 during the second intermittent photographing period. Furthermore, during the photographing interruption period after the end of the second intermittent photographing period, the control unit 101 acquires frames F8 and F9, which were not acquired during the third intermittent photographing period, from the FPD 3.

[0072] The control unit 101 generates images G6 to G9 for display of the acquired frames F6 to F9, and outputs the generated images G6 to G9 to the display unit 103. The display unit 103 displays the images G6 to G9 output by the control unit 101 in order on the imaging screen 130. The images G6 to G9 constitute dynamic images for diagnosis, and include information such as continuous movement in the imaging region of the subject. The user diagnoses the imaging region of the patient while checking the images G6 to G9 on the imaging screen 130. The user may also determine whether there are any imaging defects in the images G6 to G9.

[0073] (First Modification) In the above example, the first display mode is used to display images of all frames acquired by the main body 1 during each intermittent shooting, but the display method is not limited to this. For example, only the image of the first frame of all frames acquired by the main body 1 during each intermittent shooting may be displayed on the display unit 103. In the first modified example, the display method of displaying only the image of the first frame of frames during each intermittent shooting is called the second display mode.

[0074] Fig. 8 is a diagram showing the flow of intermittent shooting by the FPD 3, frame acquisition by the control unit 101 of the main body 1, and image display by the display unit 103 of the main body 1 when executing the intermittent shooting mode according to the first modified example. Note that in Fig. 8, the number of frames captured in the intermittent shooting mode is explained using a small number of frames for convenience in order to make the invention easier to understand. Also, the time of each phase shown in Fig. 8 is an example, and is not limited to the time described in Fig. 8.

[0075] If the patient's positioning is deemed appropriate in the first intermittent radiography, the second intermittent radiography is performed. The FPD3 acquires frames F2 to F5 in sequence during the second intermittent radiography period. The control unit 101 of the main body 1 acquires frames F2 and F3 in sequence from the FPD3 during the second intermittent radiography period. Furthermore, during the radiography suspension period following the second intermittent radiography period, the control unit 101 acquires frame F4 from the FPD3, which was not acquired during the second intermittent radiography period due to a communication delay. In this case, the control unit 101 generates only image G2 of the first frame F2 of frames F2 to F4 acquired from the FPD3, and outputs the generated image G2 to the display unit 103. The display unit 103 displays image G2 output from the control unit 101 on the radiography screen 130.

[0076] When image G2 is confirmed in the second intermittent photographing, the third intermittent photographing is performed. At the start of the third intermittent photographing, the control unit 101 of the main body 1 is currently acquiring frame F5 from the FPD 3, which was not acquired during the second intermittent photographing period due to a communication delay. In this case, at the start of the third intermittent photographing, the control unit 101 cancels the acquisition of frame F5, which was acquired during the previous second intermittent photographing, and prioritizes the acquisition of frame F6 and the like in the third intermittent photographing.

[0077] During the third intermittent photographing period, FPD3 acquires frames F6 to F9 in sequence. During the third intermittent photographing period, control unit 101 of main body 1 acquires frames F6 and F7 in sequence from FPD3. Furthermore, during the period after the third intermittent photographing period ends, control unit 101 of main body 1 acquires frames F8 and F9 in sequence from FPD3 that were not acquired during the second intermittent photographing period due to a communication delay. In this case, control unit 101 generates only image G6 of the first frame F6 of frames F6 to F9 acquired from FPD3, and outputs generated image G6 to display unit 103. Display unit 103 displays image G6 output by control unit 101 on photographing screen 130.

[0078] In the first modification, the specific frame to be displayed with the highest priority is the first frame. However, the specific frame may be another frame. For example, the specific frame may be the Nth frame, where N is a natural number. Furthermore, if the total number of frames is less than N, the specific frame may be the final frame. Here, N is a natural number. The other specific frame may be a frame including a region of interest or a frame having a signal value equal to or greater than a predetermined value. Whether the signal value of a frame is equal to or greater than a predetermined value may be determined, for example, using the average, median, mode, or histogram analysis of the signal values ​​of the frame. Furthermore, whether the signal value of a frame is equal to or greater than a predetermined value may be determined based on the difference from the final frame of the previous intermittent shooting. Furthermore, in the first modification, frames other than the first frame of each intermittent shooting to be displayed by the main unit 1 are acquired. However, frames other than the first frame to be displayed may not be acquired.

[0079] (Second Modification) The method of displaying images on the display unit 103 of the main body 1 may be other than the first display mode and the second display mode described above. In a second modified example, of all the frames acquired by the main body 1 during each intermittent shooting, for example, only images of half of the frames may be displayed on the display unit 103. In other words, the main body 1 acquires frames at a frame rate lower than the shooting frame rate of the FPD 3 and displays images of the acquired frames. In the second modified example, the display method of displaying images at a frame rate lower than the shooting frame rate is called a third display mode.

[0080] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing the flow of intermittent shooting by the FPD 3, frame acquisition by the control unit 101 of the main body 1, and image display by the display unit 103 of the main body 1 when executing the intermittent shooting mode according to the second modified example. Note that in Fig. 9, the number of frames captured in the intermittent shooting mode is explained using a small number of frames for convenience in order to make the invention easier to understand. Also, the time of each phase shown in Fig. 9 is an example, and is not limited to the time described in Fig. 9.

[0081] If the patient positioning is determined to be correct in the first intermittent radiography, a second intermittent radiography is performed. The FPD3 sequentially acquires frames F2 to F5 during the second intermittent radiography period. The control unit 101 of the main body 1 sequentially acquires frames F2 and F4 during the second intermittent radiography period at a frame rate that is half the radiography frame rate. Furthermore, during the radiography suspension period after the second intermittent radiography period, the control unit 101 acquires frame F3 from the FPD3, which was not acquired during the second intermittent radiography period due to a communication delay. The control unit 101 generates an image G2 of frames F2 and F4 from the frames F2 to F4 acquired from the FPD3. The display unit 103 displays images G2 and G4 generated by the control unit 101 on the radiography screen 130.

[0082] When image G2 is confirmed in the second intermittent shooting, the third intermittent shooting is performed. At the start of the third intermittent shooting, the control unit 101 of the main unit 1 is currently acquiring frame F5, which was not acquired during the second intermittent shooting period due to a communication delay. In this case, at the start of the third intermittent shooting, the control unit 101 stops acquiring frame F5 in the second intermittent shooting and prioritizes acquiring frames F6 and the like in the third intermittent shooting.

[0083] During the third intermittent photographing period, the FPD3 sequentially acquires frames F6 to F9. During the second intermittent photographing period, the control unit 101 of the main body 1 sequentially acquires frames F6 and F8 at a frame rate that is half the photographing frame rate. Furthermore, during the period after the third intermittent photographing period ends, the control unit 101 of the main body sequentially acquires frames F7 and F9 from the FPD3 that could not be acquired during the second intermittent photographing period due to a communication delay. Furthermore, during the photographing suspension period after the second intermittent photographing period, the control unit 101 acquires frame F8 from the FPD3 that could not be acquired during the second intermittent photographing period due to a communication delay. Of the frames F6 to F9 acquired from the FPD3, the control unit 101 generates only images G6 and G8 of frames F6 and F8. The display unit 103 displays images G6 and G8 generated by the control unit 101 on the photographing screen 130.

[0084] According to the present embodiment, the first modification, and the second modification, if frames from the previous intermittent imaging session are being acquired when a new intermittent imaging session begins, the control unit 101 of the main unit 1 suspends the acquisition of frames from the previous intermittent imaging session while prioritizing the acquisition of frames from the new intermittent imaging session. This allows the display of images from the new intermittent imaging session to be prioritized over the display of images from the previous intermittent imaging session, thereby providing the user with images at the required timing. As a result, the user can reliably check the subject's condition during the new intermittent imaging session, such as the progress of a catheter insertion procedure or changes in the internal state of the subject immediately after the administration of a contrast agent, in real time. Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the acquisition of frames from the previous intermittent imaging session is suspended, thereby ensuring communication bandwidth and reducing the load caused by frame acquisition.

[0085] Second Embodiment When a series of frames captured intermittently by the FPD 3 are transmitted to the main body 1 via wireless communication, the user cannot determine whether the image on the display unit 103 is being displayed in real time or with a delay. Therefore, even when a display delay occurs, the user may not notice the display delay. Therefore, in the second embodiment, when a display delay or the like occurs, the user is notified that a display delay has occurred, that the communication standard or the like does not satisfy the imaging conditions, and the like. Below, components that are substantially the same as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and common descriptions are omitted or simplified.

[0086] [Regarding the first notification means] First, a first notification means for notifying a user of a display delay in accordance with the difference between the generation time and display time of a frame will be described. The control unit 101 of the main body 1 calculates the generation time of a frame based on the frame number attached to the frame acquired from the FPD 3 and the intermittent radiography start time of that frame. The intermittent radiography start time may be acquired, for example, from the control unit 101 or from a radiation control device (not shown). When the control unit 101 displays an image of the acquired frame on the radiography screen 130, it determines whether the difference between the display time and generation time of the frame is within a predetermined time.

[0087] If the difference is within a predetermined time, the control unit 101 determines that the display delay is within an acceptable range. In this case, the control unit 101 displays a normal image without notifying the user that a display delay is occurring. On the other hand, if the difference exceeds a predetermined time, the control unit 101 determines that the display delay is outside the acceptable range. In this case, the control unit 101 displays a normal image and notifies the user that a display delay is occurring. For example, the control unit 101 may delete an image in which a display delay is occurring among dynamic images obtained by intermittent shooting, or may hide an image in which a display delay is occurring. The control unit 101 may change the image quality of an image in which a display delay is occurring among dynamic images obtained by intermittent shooting to low image quality and display it, or may blur an image in which a delay is occurring. The control unit 101 may additionally display information such as a delay mark on an image in which a display delay is occurring. Furthermore, the control unit 101 may display on the shooting screen 130 whether or not there is a display delay based on the calculated difference, or may display the calculated difference on the shooting screen 130. The control unit 101 may notify the user of the presence or absence of a display delay by means of voice, warning sound, vibration, or the like.

[0088] [Regarding the second notification means] Next, a second notification means for notifying the user of a display delay according to the frame acquisition speed, etc., will be described. The control unit 101 of the main body 1 calculates the frame generation time based on the frame number attached to the frame acquired from the FPD 3 and the intermittent radiography start time of that frame. The intermittent radiography start time may be acquired, for example, from the control unit 101 or from a radiation control device (not shown). The control unit 101 calculates the frame acquisition speed based on the transfer time from the frame generation time on the FPD 3 to the frame acquisition on the main body 1 and the frame data size.

[0089] If the acquisition speed of frames displayed on the shooting screen 130 is less than the reference speed, the control unit 101 notifies the user that the acquisition speed does not meet the reference speed. Specifically, if the calculated acquisition speed is less than the reference speed, the control unit 101 determines that the shooting conditions are not met. If the calculated acquisition speed is less than the reference speed, the control unit 101 may display the current communication speed and the expected communication speed on the shooting screen 130. Furthermore, the control unit 101 may determine that the shooting conditions are not met if, for example, the link speed of Wi-Fi (registered trademark), i.e., the communication standard, is less than a specified value. If the communication standard is less than the specified value, the control unit 101 may display the current communication standard and the expected communication standard on the shooting screen 130. Note that the warning display that the acquisition speed is less than the reference speed and the warning display that the communication standard is less than the reference value may be displayed before or during execution of the intermittent shooting mode.

[0090] Furthermore, if the communication environment does not satisfy the conditions, the control unit 101 may change the communication conditions. Changing the communication conditions while the intermittent shooting mode is in progress may result in poor communication, so it is preferable to change the communication conditions before the intermittent shooting mode is in progress. Specifically, if the wireless received signal strength indicator (RSSI) is low, the control unit 101 may lower the maximum data rate to suppress retries. If there is a lot of communication noise, the control unit 101 may change the wireless channel.

[0091] [Examples of displays of the first and second notification means] Next, specific examples of the first notification means and the second notification means will be described separately for before the intermittent shooting mode is executed and during the intermittent shooting mode is executed.

[0092] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of various information displayed on the shooting screen 130 of the display unit 103 before the intermittent shooting mode according to the second embodiment is executed. The image display field 13b of the shooting screen 130 displays first warning information Ia to notify the user that the communication environment, such as the wireless signal strength, does not satisfy the shooting conditions. The first warning information Ia is, for example, an exclamation mark. The first warning information Ia may be displayed when the image acquisition speed is lower than a specified value. The image acquisition speed can be calculated by performing dummy frame communication between the FPD 3 and the main body 1 before the intermittent shooting mode is started. The first warning information Ia may also be displayed when the communication standard used for image acquisition is lower than a specified value. The communication standard used for image acquisition can be acquired from the target network interface, for example, via an API from an OS or driver.

[0093] The image display field 13b of the photographing screen 130 displays second warning information Ib to notify the user of the deviation level from the expected value of the communication environment. The second warning information Ib is, for example, an icon that displays the level of radio wave strength using the number of bars. Specifically, when the radio wave strength is good, three bars are displayed, and when the radio wave strength is poor, one bar is displayed. The second warning information Ib may be displayed when the communication speed for image acquisition is below a specified value.

[0094] Image display field 13b of shooting screen 130 displays remaining shooting time information Ic, which indicates the time available for shooting in intermittent shooting mode. The remaining shooting time information Ic uses a minimum value that takes into consideration at least one of the following information: a specified value, the remaining charge of battery 107, and the time for which synchronization can be maintained if shooting is synchronous. For example, if the remaining shooting time is 10 seconds, the value "00:10" is displayed in image display field 13b as remaining shooting time information Ic.

[0095] The selected display mode information Id is displayed in an area adjacent to the image display field 13b on the shooting screen 130. The display mode is, for example, any one of the first display mode, second display mode, and third display mode described above. For example, when the first display mode is selected as the display method for the intermittent shooting mode, the characters "Display Mode 1" are displayed in an area adjacent to the image display field 13b as the display mode information Id. The display position of the display mode information Id is not limited to the area adjacent to the image display field 13b, and may be, for example, the image display field 13b.

[0096] 11 is a diagram showing an example of various information displayed on the shooting screen 130 of the display unit 103 while the intermittent shooting mode according to the second embodiment is being executed. The image display field 13b of the shooting screen 130 displays third warning information Ie to notify the user that the difference between the image display time and the image generation time is equal to or greater than a specified value. In other words, the third warning information Ie notifies the user that a delay in image display is occurring. The third warning information Ie is, for example, an exclamation mark. The third warning information Ie may also be displayed when the communication speed at the time of image acquisition is less than a specified value.

[0097] The image display field 13b of the shooting screen 130 displays fourth warning information If to notify the user that the difference between the image display time and the image generation time is equal to or greater than a specified value. The fourth warning information If is an icon that displays the difference between the image display time and the image generation time as a level using the number of bars. For example, if the difference representing the display delay is large, one bar is displayed. If the difference representing the display delay is small, three bars are displayed. The fourth warning information If may be displayed if the communication speed at the time of image acquisition is less than a specified value.

[0098] The image display field 13b of the shooting screen 130 displays time information Ig, which indicates the elapsed shooting time in the intermittent shooting mode or the remaining shooting time in the intermittent shooting mode. The remaining shooting time is calculated taking into account at least one of the following information: the remaining charge of the battery 107, and the time that synchronization can be maintained if shooting is synchronous. The elapsed shooting time includes the total shooting time in all intermittent shooting modes and the elapsed time of the current intermittent shooting. The total shooting time and the elapsed shooting time may be displayed differently. For example, the image display field 13b displays the number "01:10" as the total shooting time, and a bar indicating the percentage of the elapsed time relative to the intermittent shooting time is displayed as the elapsed time of the current intermittent shooting. Specifically, a linear or circular progress bar is displayed with the upper limit of the corresponding intermittent shooting time set to 100%. In this case, the elapsed time or remaining time of the current intermittent shooting may be displayed alongside the progress bar. For example, if intermittent shooting is being performed for 8 seconds, the number "8 seconds" is displayed inside the bar.

[0099] Previous image information Ih, which indicates images captured in past intermittent shooting in intermittent shooting mode using an index, is displayed in the image display field 13b of the shooting screen 130. The previous image information Ih is an image that represents multiple images captured in past intermittent shooting, and is made up of one or more images.

[0100] The image display field 13b of the shooting screen 130 displays count information Ii indicating which intermittent shooting has been performed among the multiple intermittent shootings that make up the intermittent shooting mode. For example, if the third intermittent shooting is currently being performed, "No. 3" is displayed as the count information Ii in the image display field 13b of the shooting screen 130. Furthermore, if an upper limit is set for the number of intermittent shootings, the number of shots and the upper limit may be displayed side by side on the shooting screen 130. For example, if the upper limit for intermittent shooting is five and the third shot is currently being performed, "3 / 5" is displayed in the image display field 13b of the shooting screen 130.

[0101] During a shooting interruption period in intermittent shooting mode, preparation information Ij indicating the state of shooting preparation for the next intermittent shooting and the waiting time for the next intermittent shooting is displayed in an area adjacent to the image display field 13b on the shooting screen 130. For example, when the next intermittent shooting is in preparation for shooting, an icon indicating that shooting preparation is in progress and the time remaining until shooting preparation for the next intermittent shooting is complete are displayed in an area adjacent to the image display field 13b as the preparation information Ij. The display position of the preparation information Ij is not limited to the area adjacent to the image display field 13b, and may be, for example, the image display field 13b.

[0102] According to the second embodiment, when an image display delay or the like occurs or when the communication standard does not satisfy the imaging conditions, various information such as first warning information Ia is displayed on the imaging screen 130. This allows the user to recognize the X-ray irradiation, image display delay relative to the frame generation time, etc. by visually checking the various information displayed on the imaging screen 130 before or during execution of the intermittent imaging mode. Furthermore, by checking the warning regarding the communication standard, the user can realize that the communication environment at the imaging location does not satisfy the imaging conditions or that an abnormality has occurred in the communication standard.

[0103] 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 will naturally fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure, provided that they are within the scope of the technical ideas described in the claims of those skilled in the art. [Explanation of symbols]

[0104] 1 Main unit (radiography control device) 101 Control section 102 Operation section (selection section) 103 Display unit (notification unit) H Subject

Claims

1. A radiography control device that outputs a display image generated based on a series of multiple frames obtained by capturing a moving image of a subject using radiation, a control unit that prioritizes display of the display image of a second moving image captured after the first moving image capture over display of the display image of a first moving image capture, in the multiple moving image captures that are intermittently performed from the start to the end of one shooting, Radiography control device.

2. the control unit controls, when the second moving image shooting is started, to output a display image of the second moving image shooting to a display unit. The radiography control device according to claim 1 .

3. the control unit is capable of executing a display mode in which a specific frame of the plurality of frames captured in the moving image is displayed. The radiography control device according to claim 1 .

4. the specific frame is the first frame; The radiography control device according to claim 3 .

5. the specific frames are frames that are composed at a rate lower than the frame rate of the video. The radiography control device according to claim 3 .

6. The specific frame is the Nth frame or the final frame if the total number of frames is less than N (N is a natural number). The radiography control device according to claim 3 .

7. The specific frame has a signal value equal to or greater than a predetermined value. The radiography control device according to claim 3 .

8. the particular frame includes a region of interest; The radiography control device according to claim 3 .

9. the control unit stops acquiring frames of the first moving image capture when the second moving image capture is started. The radiography control device according to claim 1 .

10. after the second moving image shooting is completed, the control unit acquires frames that have not yet been acquired from among the plurality of frames of the second moving image shooting; The radiography control device according to claim 1 .

11. a selection unit for selecting whether to prioritize display of the display image of the second moving image taken over display of the display image of the first moving image taken; The radiography control device according to claim 1 .

12. a notification unit that notifies a user that a display delay has occurred when a frame to be displayed among the plurality of frames cannot be displayed within a predetermined time from a specified display timing; The radiography control device according to claim 3 .

13. the control unit changes the image quality of the image of the frame in which a display delay occurs to a lower image quality or hides the image. The radiography control device according to claim 12.

14. 1. A radiography control method in a radiography control device that outputs a display image generated based on a series of multiple frames obtained by capturing a moving image of a subject using radiation, comprising: a control step of giving priority to displaying the display image of a second moving image taken after the first moving image taken over displaying the display image of a first moving image taken, in the plurality of moving image taken intermittently from the start to the end of one moving image taken, Radiography control methods.

15. a computer included in a radiography control device that outputs a display image generated based on a series of multiple frames obtained by capturing a moving image of a subject using radiation; a control unit that prioritizes display of the display image of a second moving image captured after the first moving image capture over display of the display image of a first moving image capture, in the plurality of moving image captures that are intermittently performed between the start and end of one shooting; A program to function as a

Images