Transmission device, radiography system, and transmission control device

Abstract

The present invention provides a transmission device, a radiography system, and a transmission control device that can prevent users from mistaking the end of the first exposure for the end of the second exposure. [Solution] The transmission device comprises a transmission unit that transmits the operating status of the radiography system to the user, and a control unit that controls the state of the transmission unit. When the radiography system performs imaging to generate an exposure image by including a first exposure and a second exposure, the control unit controls the state of the transmission unit between the first and second exposures to be the same as at least one of the states of the transmission unit during the first exposure and the state of the transmission unit during the second exposure. The first exposure is performed prior to the second exposure, and the imaging conditions for the first exposure and the imaging conditions for the second exposure are different.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a transmission device, a radiation imaging system, and a transmission control device.

Background Art

[0002] In a radiation imaging system, when taking a radiation image, there are those that perform multiple exposures including a first exposure and a second exposure, such as those having an automatic exposure control function that performs a main exposure and a pre-exposure performed before the main exposure. For example, in the automatic exposure control function, a pre-exposure is performed at a dose lower than the main exposure, and based on the obtained pre-exposure image and the attached information (e.g., irradiation time in the pre-exposure) associated with the pre-exposure image, imaging conditions such as the dose when performing the main exposure are determined.

[0003] In such a radiation imaging system, there is a known configuration for transmitting the imaging state to the user so that the photographer and the patient (user) can recognize the state during and after the exposure image is taken. Generally, during imaging, a light indicating the imaging state is lit, and after imaging is completed, the light is turned off, or a buzzer sound is emitted during imaging and not emitted after imaging is completed.

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which guidance to the patient is displayed when a first-stage switch is pressed, and end guidance is displayed when irradiation is completed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] Incidentally, in a configuration with an automatic exposure control function that performs pre-exposure and main exposure, if the transfer time of the pre-exposure image and the image analysis time for the first exposure (pre-exposure) are long, the derivation of the shooting conditions for the second exposure (main exposure) will also be delayed, and the overall shooting time will be longer. As a result, the user will become aware of the transmission and non-transmission of the shooting status between the first and second exposures.

[0007] Patients may mistake the end of the first exposure for the end of the second exposure and move their bodies before the second exposure, potentially leading to failed imaging due to patient movement. Similarly, the imaging operator may mistake the end of the first exposure for the end of the second exposure and interrupt the imaging, potentially resulting in failed imaging.

[0008] In the configuration described in Patent Document 1, the completion notification is displayed between the first and second exposures, so the above problem cannot be solved.

[0009] The object of the present invention is to provide a transmission device, a radiography system, and a transmission control device that can prevent users from mistaking the end of the first exposure for the end of the second exposure. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] The transmission device according to the present invention is A communication unit that informs the user of the operating status of the radiography system, A control unit that controls the state of the transmission unit, Equipped with, When the radiography system captures an exposure image by an exposure including a first exposure and a second exposure, the control unit controls the state of the transmission unit between the first exposure and the second exposure to be in a state based on the state at the time the exposure image was captured.

[0011] The radiography system according to the present invention is A radiation irradiation device that emits radiation, A radiation imaging device that generates image data of an exposure image by receiving the aforementioned radiation, The above transmission device and, It is equipped with.

[0012] The transmission control device according to the present invention is A transmission control device that controls a transmission unit that transmits the operating status of a radiography system to a user, A determination unit that determines the state of the transmission unit, A control unit controls the transmission unit so that it reaches the state determined by the determination unit, Equipped with, In the radiography system, when an exposure image is captured by an exposure including a first exposure and a second exposure, the determination unit sets the state based on the state at the time the exposure image was captured between the first exposure and the second exposure as the state of the transmission unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent users from mistaking the end of the first exposure for the end of the second exposure. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a radiography system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing the specific configuration of a radiography device. [Figure 3] A block diagram showing the German configuration of the console. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of the state of the transmission unit for each operating state of the radiography system. [Figure 5] This diagram shows the state of the transmission unit for each operating state of a conventional radiography system. [Figure 6] This figure shows another example of the state of the transmission unit for each operating state of the radiography system. [Figure 7] This figure shows another example of the state of the transmission unit for each operating state of the radiography system. [Figure 8] It is a block diagram showing the specific configuration of the console according to the modification example. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing another example of the state of the transmission unit for each operating state of the radiation imaging system. [Figure 10] It is a block diagram showing the specific configuration of the radiation imaging apparatus according to the modification example. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing an example of the state of the transmission unit related to the radiation imaging apparatus for each operating state of the radiation imaging system. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing another example of the state of the transmission unit related to the console for each operating state of the radiation imaging system.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail based on the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a radiation imaging system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 1, the radiation imaging system 100 according to the present embodiment includes a radiation irradiation device 1, a radiation imaging device 2, and a console 3. Further, the radiation imaging system 100 can be connected to a radiation department information system (Radiology Information System: RIS) or an image storage and communication system (Picture Archiving and Communication System: PACS) not shown.

[0017] The radiation irradiation device 1 is communicably connected to the console 3 by wire or wirelessly. Further, the radiation irradiation device 1 includes a generator 11, an exposure switch 12, and a radiation source 13.

[0018] The generator 11 is configured to be able to apply a voltage corresponding to preset radiation exposure conditions (tube voltage, tube current, irradiation time, tube current-time product (mAs value), etc.) to the radiation source 13 based on the operation of the exposure switch 12.

[0019] The radiation source 13 (tube) has a rotating anode and a filament (not shown). When a voltage is applied from the generator 11, the filament irradiates the rotating anode with an electron beam corresponding to the applied voltage, and the rotating anode generates radiation X (X-rays, etc.) in a dose corresponding to the intensity of the electron beam.

[0020] Although Figure 1 illustrates a configuration in which the generator 11, exposure switch 12, and radiation source 13 are separate, these may be integrated into a single unit. Also, although Figure 1 illustrates a configuration in which the exposure switch 12 is connected to the generator 11, the exposure switch 12 may be provided in another device. Furthermore, the radiation irradiation device 1 may be installed in the imaging room, or it may be configured to be mobile by being incorporated into a mobile medical unit or the like.

[0021] The radiography apparatus 2 is connected to the console 3 via wired or wireless communication. The radiography apparatus 2 is also configured to generate image data of an exposed subject by receiving radiation X from the radiation irradiation device 1 through the subject.

[0022] As shown in Figure 2, the radiography apparatus 2 is configured to include an imaging control unit 21, a radiation detection unit 22, a reading unit 23, a communication unit 24, a storage unit 25, and a bus 26 connecting each unit.

[0023] The imaging control unit 21 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. Based on receiving control signals from external devices such as the console 3, the CPU of the imaging control unit 21 reads various programs stored in the memory unit 25, expands them into the RAM, executes various processes according to the expanded programs, and centrally controls the operation of each part of the radiography apparatus 2.

[0024] The radiation detection unit 22 is composed of a substrate in which pixels equipped with radiation detection elements and switching elements that generate an electric charge corresponding to the dose when they receive radiation X are arranged in a two-dimensional (matrix) manner.

[0025] The reading unit 23 is configured to read out the amount of charge emitted from each pixel as a signal value and generate image data from multiple signal values.

[0026] The communication unit 24 is configured to receive various control signals and data from external devices, and to transmit various control signals and generated image data to external devices.

[0027] The storage unit 25 is composed of non-volatile semiconductor memory or a hard disk, and stores various programs executed by the image capture control unit 21, as well as parameters necessary for processing by those programs. The storage unit 25 is also capable of storing image data generated by the read unit 23 and various data processed by the image capture control unit 21.

[0028] In the radiation imaging apparatus 2 configured in this way, when the imaging control unit 21 is exposed to radiation with each switch element of the radiation detection unit 22 turned off, it accumulates a charge in each pixel corresponding to the dose of radiation. When the imaging control unit 21 turns on each switch element and the charge is released from each pixel, the reading unit 23 converts each charge amount into a signal value and reads it out as image data.

[0029] Furthermore, the radiography apparatus 2 may incorporate a scintillator or the like, converting the irradiated radiation X into light of other wavelengths such as visible light using the scintillator, and generating an electric charge corresponding to the converted light, or it may generate an electric charge directly from radiation X without the need for a scintillator or the like. In addition, the radiography apparatus 2 may be a dedicated unit integrated with the imaging table, or it may be a portable unit.

[0030] As shown in Figure 1, the console 3 consists of a PC, a mobile terminal, or a dedicated device, and is connected to the radiation irradiation device 1 and the radiography device 2 via wired or wireless communication. The console 3 can set the shooting conditions and target area of ​​the radiation irradiation device 1 and the radiography device 2 based on shooting orders from external devices (such as RIS) or user operations. The console 3 corresponds to the "transmission device" of the present invention.

[0031] As shown in Figure 3, the console 3 is configured to include a control unit 31, a communication unit 32, a storage unit 33, a display unit 34, an operation unit 35, an illumination unit 36, a voice generation unit 37, and a bus 38 that connects each of these units.

[0032] The control unit 31 is composed of a CPU, RAM, etc. The CPU of the control unit 31 reads various programs stored in the memory unit 33 in response to the operation of the operation unit 35, loads them into RAM, executes various processes according to the loaded programs, and centrally controls the operation of each part of the console 3.

[0033] The communication unit 32 is equipped with a LAN adapter, modem, TA (Terminal Adapter), etc., and controls the transmission and reception of data between the unit and each device connected to the communication network.

[0034] The memory unit 33 is composed of non-volatile semiconductor memory or a hard disk, and stores various programs executed by the control unit 31, as well as parameters necessary for processing by those programs. The memory unit 33 is also capable of storing image data received from the radiography device 2 and image data processed by the control unit 31, linked to associated information.

[0035] The display unit 34 is composed of monitors such as LCDs (Liquid Crystal Displays) and CRTs (Cathode Ray Tubes), and displays input instructions and data from the operation unit 35 according to the instructions of the display signals input from the control unit 31.

[0036] The operation unit 35 is configured with a keyboard equipped with cursor keys, number input keys, and various function keys, and a pointing device such as a mouse, and outputs instruction signals input by key operations on the keyboard or mouse to the control unit 31. The operation unit 35 may also be equipped with a touch panel on the display screen of the display unit 34, in which case it outputs instruction signals input via the touch panel to the control unit 31.

[0037] The illumination unit 36 ​​is an illumination device (e.g., a lamp) for communicating the operating status of the radiography system 100 to the user. Specifically, under the control of the control unit 31, the illumination unit 36 ​​lights up when the radiography system 100 is taking images and turns off when the radiography system 100 is not taking images. In other words, the illumination unit 36 ​​communicates the operating status of the radiography system 100 to the user in a way that affects the user's vision. The illumination unit 36 ​​corresponds to the "communication unit" of the present invention.

[0038] The sound generation unit 37 is a sound generating device (for example, an alarm generating device such as a buzzer) for communicating the operating status of the radiography system 100 to the user. Specifically, under the control of the control unit 31, the sound generation unit 37 outputs sound when the radiography system 100 is taking images, and does not output sound when the radiography system 100 is not taking images. In other words, the sound generation unit 37 communicates the operating status of the radiography system 100 to the user in a way that acts on the user's hearing. The sound generation unit 37 corresponds to the "communication unit" of the present invention.

[0039] Next, the control of the radiography system 100 by the control unit 31 will be described. The control unit 31 performs automatic exposure control to determine the imaging conditions for the main exposure (second exposure) based on the pre-exposure image obtained by the pre-exposure (first exposure) and the associated information linked to the pre-exposure image. The pre-exposure is performed before the main exposure and at a lower dose than the main exposure.

[0040] The control unit 31 determines the state of the illumination unit 36 ​​and the sound generation unit 37 between the time when an exposure image is being captured and when it is not, and controls the illumination unit 36 ​​and the sound generation unit 37 to reach the determined state. The control unit 31 corresponds to the "transmission control device" and "determination unit" of the present invention. Figure 4 is a diagram showing the state of the transmission unit for each operating state of the radiography system.

[0041] As shown in Figure 4, the control unit 31 controls the state of the illumination unit 36 ​​and the sound generation unit 37 to be different during and outside of exposure. Specifically, the control unit 31 controls the illumination unit 36 ​​to light up and the sound generation unit 37 to output sound when capturing pre-exposure images during pre-exposure and when capturing main exposure images during main exposure. Furthermore, the control unit 31 turns off the illumination unit 36 ​​and prevents the sound generation unit 37 from outputting sound before the start of capturing pre-exposure images during pre-exposure and after the end of capturing main exposure images during main exposure.

[0042] The control unit 31 then controls the state of the illumination unit 36 ​​and the sound generation unit 37 in the radiography system 100 between the main exposure and the pre-exposure to match the state at the time of the exposure. Specifically, the control unit 31 turns on the illumination unit 36 ​​and outputs sound from the sound generation unit 37 from the end of the pre-exposure image capture until the start of the main exposure image capture. In other words, the control unit 31 maintains the state of the illumination unit 36 ​​and the sound generation unit 37 in the same state as at the time of the exposure image capture between the pre-exposure and the main exposure.

[0043] By doing so, it is possible to prevent users such as patients and radiographers from mistakenly believing that the period between the completion of pre-exposure image acquisition and the start of main exposure image acquisition is the end of imaging in the radiography system 100.

[0044] For example, as in the conventional configuration, as shown in Figure 5, the illumination unit 36 ​​is turned off and the sound output from the sound generation unit 37 is stopped between the main exposure and the pre-exposure, similar to the case after the main exposure image has been captured. In this case, if the time between the end of the pre-exposure image capture and the start of the main exposure image capture is sufficiently short (for example, several hundred milliseconds), the time during which the illumination unit 36 ​​is off and the time during which the sound output from the sound generation unit 37 is not emitted will also be sufficiently short. Therefore, the user will not be aware that the illumination unit 36 ​​is off or that the sound output from the sound generation unit 37 is not being emitted.

[0045] However, if the transfer time of the pre-exposure images and the analysis time of the pre-exposure images increase, the derivation of the shooting conditions for the main exposure will be delayed, and consequently, the time from the end of shooting the pre-exposure images to the start of shooting the main exposure images will increase. As a result, the user will become aware that the illumination unit 36 ​​is off and that no sound is being output from the sound generation unit 37.

[0046] This means that patients may mistake the completion of pre-exposure image acquisition for the completion of main exposure image acquisition, causing them to move before the main exposure image is taken, potentially leading to image failure due to body movement.

[0047] Furthermore, photographers may mistakenly believe that the completion of shooting the pre-exposure images is the end of shooting the main exposure images, leading to premature interruption of the exposure image shooting and ultimately resulting in a failed shot.

[0048] In contrast, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 4, the state of the illumination unit 36 ​​and the sound generation unit 37 in the radiography system 100 is controlled to be in a state based on the state at the time of shooting, between the main exposure and the pre-exposure. As a result, it is possible to suppress the user from mistakenly believing that the period from the end of shooting the pre-exposure image to the start of shooting the main exposure image is the end of shooting in the radiography system 100, and consequently, the frequency of shooting failures in the radiography system 100 can be reduced.

[0049] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a composite exposure image may be generated by combining a pre-exposure image and a main exposure image. That is, the above shooting conditions may be shooting conditions for combining a pre-exposure image obtained by pre-exposure (first exposure) and a main exposure image obtained by main exposure (second exposure).

[0050] In this case, by suppressing the user's misunderstanding (changes in patient movement), it is possible to reduce the change in the geometric arrangement of the subject between the pre-exposure image and the main exposure image. Therefore, the above control is effective even for configurations that do not combine the pre-exposure image and the main exposure image, but it is particularly effective for configurations that combine the pre-exposure image and the main exposure image, as it enables more accurate image synthesis.

[0051] In the above embodiment, both the illumination unit 36 ​​and the sound generation unit 37 were controlled to be in a state based on the state at the time of shooting between pre-exposure and main exposure, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the control unit 31 may control at least one of the illumination unit 36 ​​and the sound generation unit 37 to be in a state based on the state at the time of shooting.

[0052] For example, as shown in Figure 6, the control unit 31 may turn off the illumination unit 36 ​​and output sound from the sound generation unit 37 between the main exposure and the pre-exposure. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 7, the control unit 31 may turn on the illumination unit 36 ​​and not output sound from the sound generation unit 37 between the main exposure and the pre-exposure.

[0053] In some cases, the radiographer may be aware of the imaging conditions in the radiography system 100, such as the fact that pre-exposure and main exposure are separated. In this case, if the transmission unit is kept in the same state from the start of pre-exposure image acquisition to the end of main exposure image acquisition, as shown in the control shown in Figure 4, the radiographer may not be able to distinguish whether they are in the process of acquiring a pre-exposure image or a main exposure, or whether they are in a non-acquiring period between pre-exposure and main exposure.

[0054] However, by implementing the control shown in Figure 6 or Figure 7, a radiographer who is aware of the imaging conditions in the radiography system 100 can easily distinguish between the time when pre-exposure images or main exposure images are being captured and the time when imaging is not taking place between main exposure and pre-exposure.

[0055] Furthermore, the control unit 31 may set the lighting pattern of the illumination unit 36 ​​to be different from the lighting pattern during the main exposure and pre-exposure between the main exposure and pre-exposure. Also, the control unit 31 may set the buzzer sound of the sound generation unit 37 to be different from the buzzer sound during the main exposure and pre-exposure between the main exposure and pre-exposure.

[0056] For example, the lighting pattern in the lighting unit may include lighting patterns that differ in light color and brightness, or lighting patterns that include multiple flashing states with different flashing patterns in the lighting unit.

[0057] Furthermore, the sound pattern in the sound generation unit may include, for example, multiple buzzer sounds or buzzer sounds with different pitches and volumes.

[0058] This also makes it easy for the photographer to distinguish between the time they are taking pre-exposure or main exposure images and the time between the main exposure and the pre-exposure.

[0059] Furthermore, although the above embodiment exemplifies a lighting unit 36 ​​and a sound generation unit 37 as transmission units, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, as shown in Figure 8, the console 3 may have a first lighting unit 36A, a second lighting unit 36B, and a sound generation unit 37 as transmission units.

[0060] In this case, as shown in Figure 9, the control unit 31 controls the first illumination unit 36A and the second illumination unit 36B to light up and the sound generation unit 37 to output sound when capturing pre-exposure images in pre-exposure and when capturing main exposure images in main exposure. Furthermore, the control unit 31 turns off the first illumination unit 36A and the second illumination unit 36B and prevents the sound generation unit 37 from outputting sound before the start of capturing pre-exposure images in pre-exposure and after the end of capturing main exposure images in main exposure.

[0061] The control unit 31 then controls one or more of the first illumination unit 36A, the second illumination unit 36B, and the sound generation unit 37 in the radiography system 100 between the main exposure and the pre-exposure to a state based on the state at the time of exposure image acquisition. In other words, the control unit 31 controls one or more transmission units (first transmission unit) between the main exposure and the pre-exposure to a state based on the state at the time of exposure image acquisition.

[0062] Here, the control unit 31 may set the second transmission unit, other than the first transmission unit which is set to a state based on the state at the time of exposure image acquisition (the state of the first transmission unit), to a state different from the state based on the time of acquisition (the state of the first transmission unit) between the main exposure and pre-exposure in the radiography system 100. For example, the control unit 31 may turn on either the first illumination unit 36A or the second illumination unit 36B and turn off the other between the main exposure and pre-exposure. Figure 9 shows an example in which the first illumination unit 36A is turned on and the second illumination unit 36B is turned off.

[0063] As a result, the photographer recognizes that the capture of the main exposure image is not yet complete when the first illumination unit 36A is lit between the pre-exposure and the main exposure, and recognizes that exposure is not taking place when the second illumination unit 36B is turned off. Consequently, the photographer can easily distinguish between the time when a pre-exposure image or the main exposure is being captured and the time when no images are being captured between the main exposure and the pre-exposure.

[0064] The control unit 31 may also perform control to turn on the first illumination unit 36A and the second illumination unit 36B, and to output sound to the sound generation unit 37, between the pre-exposure and the main exposure.

[0065] Alternatively, instead of a lighting unit, the display unit 34 of the console 3 may display a mark indicating the status of the device, such as "exposure in progress." Alternatively, the lighting unit may be a lamp provided on the console 3 or a lamp provided on the radiation irradiation device 1. Additionally, the sound generation unit may be a buzzer or the like provided on the radiation irradiation device 1.

[0066] Furthermore, the lamps (transmission units) provided in the radiation irradiation device 1 include, for example, the lamps on the hand switch used by the user to operate the radiation irradiation device 1 (radiography system 100). With regard to the hand switch, the radiographer (user) tends to interpret that pressing and releasing the hand switch is directly related to the indicator light on the lamp. Therefore, it is preferable to set the state of the hand switch lamp to the state at the time of exposure image acquisition between the main exposure and pre-exposure. This can prevent the radiographer from reflexively releasing the hand switch, thereby reducing the frequency of failed images.

[0067] Furthermore, the control unit 31 can select from a plurality of transmission patterns, which are combinations of states between pre-exposure and main exposure in two or more transmission units, and one transmission pattern selected from the plurality of transmission patterns may be used as the state for two or more transmission units. For example, the control unit 31 may select one transmission pattern based on at least one of user information and information about the equipment related to the radiography system 100.

[0068] For example, some radiographers are very familiar with the 100 radiography system, while others only use it occasionally. In other words, the level of skill and familiarity with the system among radiographers can vary.

[0069] Furthermore, some radiography systems 100 require users to log in to use them. Since such radiography systems 100 have information on the currently using radiographer, the control unit 31 may appropriately switch the status of the transmission unit based on each radiographer or the radiographer's attribute group (skill level, department, frequency of radiography, etc.).

[0070] Furthermore, in some hospitals where the radiography system 100 is installed, less experienced radiographers may frequently use specific imaging rooms or imaging equipment within those rooms. Also, in some hospitals, less experienced radiographers may be assigned to ward rounds. In such cases, the control unit 31 may appropriately switch the state of the transmission unit according to the attributes of the equipment being used.

[0071] For example, if the photographer's skill level is relatively low or the device is used by an inexperienced photographer, the control unit 31 selects a transmission pattern corresponding to the state shown in Figure 4. On the other hand, if the photographer's skill level is relatively high or the device is used by an experienced photographer, the control unit 31 selects a transmission pattern corresponding to the state shown in Figures 6 and 7.

[0072] Furthermore, the display unit 34 or the operation unit 35 may be provided with a function to select user information or device information.

[0073] By doing so, for radiographers (users) who are familiar with the imaging process and the behavior of the equipment, a communication pattern that more accurately conveys the operating status of the radiography system can be used, thereby making it easier for users to understand the operating status and reducing the frequency of imaging failures. Furthermore, for radiographers who are not familiar with the imaging process and the behavior of the equipment, a simpler communication pattern can be used, thereby preventing the radiographer from mistakenly believing that the period from the end of pre-exposure image acquisition to the start of main exposure image acquisition is the end of imaging in the radiography system 100, and thus reducing the frequency of imaging failures.

[0074] Furthermore, in radiography systems, some devices temporarily open the exposure switch 12 between pre-exposure and main exposure, while others do not open the exposure switch 12 between pre-exposure and main exposure.

[0075] For example, in the case of a device that temporarily opens the exposure switch 12 between pre-exposure and main exposure, the photographer intentionally opens the exposure switch 12, so changing the state of the transmission unit in response to this operation may be easier for the photographer to understand. In this case, the control unit 31 may, for example, in the configuration shown in Figure 8, select a transmission pattern related to the state shown in Figure 9 to make the states of the first illumination unit 36A and the second illumination unit 36B different.

[0076] Furthermore, in the case of a device where the exposure switch 12 is not opened between pre-exposure and main exposure, the photographer does not intentionally operate the exposure switch 12 between pre-exposure and main exposure. Therefore, it is considered easier for the photographer if the state of the transmission unit does not change between pre-exposure and main exposure.

[0077] In this case, the control unit 31 may, for example, in the configuration shown in Figure 3, select a transmission pattern relating to the state shown in Figure 4, so that the state of the transmission unit does not change from the start of capturing the pre-exposure image to the end of capturing the main exposure image.

[0078] In this way, by using communication patterns according to the operations required of the photographer, the photographer (user) can intuitively grasp the status of the radiography system 100, thereby improving the photographer's ease of use.

[0079] Furthermore, the system may be configured to either open the exposure switch 12 between pre-exposure and main exposure, or to not open the exposure switch 12 between pre-exposure and main exposure. The control unit 31 may then switch the state of the transmission unit based on this configuration. This allows for the absorption of differences depending on the type and operating state of the device, and enables a common system to support multiple devices.

[0080] Furthermore, although the transmission unit was provided on the console in the above embodiment, the present invention is not limited thereto, and may be provided on the radiography apparatus 2, for example, as shown in Figure 10. The radiography apparatus 2 shown in Figure 10 corresponds to the "transmission device" of the present invention.

[0081] In this configuration, the radiography apparatus 2 includes, in addition to the configuration shown in Figure 2, an illumination unit 27 and a sound generation unit 28. The illumination unit 27 and the sound generation unit 28, under the control of the imaging control unit 21, primarily communicate the operating status of the radiography system to the patient.

[0082] Such a configuration is applicable, for example, to a radiography system in which the imaging room, where the radiation irradiation device 1 and the radiography device 2 are located, is separated from the control room where the console 3 is located.

[0083] As shown in Figure 11, the imaging control unit 21, based on control signals from the console 3, turns on the illumination unit 27 and outputs sound to the sound generation unit 28 between the main exposure and the pre-exposure. This prevents the patient from mistakenly believing that the end of pre-exposure image acquisition is the end of main exposure image acquisition.

[0084] Furthermore, the voice generation unit 28 may output sounds that provide voice guidance to the patient, rather than a buzzer sound. For example, the voice generation unit 28 may output the voice "Please inhale and hold your breath" when preparing for the acquisition of a pre-exposure image. Then, when the acquisition of the pre-exposure image begins, the voice generation unit 28 may output the voice "Please stop breathing." Furthermore, when the acquisition of the main exposure image is completed, the voice generation unit 28 may output the voice "Please relax." In this way, the patient can be accurately informed that an exposure image is being taken. Alternatively, a display unit may be used as a communication unit to display text similar to the voice guidance described above. In such a configuration, the voice generation unit 28 of the radiography apparatus 2 may be integrated into the radiography apparatus 2, or it may be configured as a speaker connected to the radiography apparatus 2 by wire or wireless and placed in a location where the sound can easily reach the patient. This allows the radiographer to communicate instructions to the patient via the speaker, making it easier for the patient to perform the actions necessary for the acquisition. Similarly, the display unit may also consist of a display that is connected to the radiography device 2 by wire or wireless means and communicates with it, and can be placed in a location that is easily visible to the patient. This makes it easier for the patient to perform the actions necessary for imaging by checking the display.

[0085] Furthermore, the speakers and displays mentioned above may be connected to the console by wire or wirelessly, or to the radiation irradiation device by wire or wirelessly.

[0086] Furthermore, the lighting unit and sound generation unit of the console 3 in the radiography system to which this radiography device 2 is applied primarily function as communication units that convey the operating status of the radiography system to the radiographer.

[0087] For example, as shown in Figure 12, if the console 3 has a configuration that includes a first illumination unit 36A and a second illumination unit 36B, the control unit 31 may turn on the first illumination unit 36A, turn off the second illumination unit 36B, and not output sound to the sound generation unit 37 between the main exposure and the pre-exposure.

[0088] By doing so, the photographer can recognize both that the series of pre-exposure and main exposure images are being continuously captured by the illumination of the first illumination unit 36A, and that during the series of images, exposure is actually taking place. As a result, it becomes easier to understand the operating status of the radiography system, and the frequency of imaging failures can be reduced.

[0089] Furthermore, by making the lighting pattern of the console-side lighting unit and the sound pattern of the sound generation unit different during exposure and non-exposure periods when capturing exposure images, the photographer can accurately grasp these periods. In other words, the control unit 31 makes the state of the transmission unit different during exposure and non-exposure periods when capturing exposure images.

[0090] For example, in the example shown in Figure 12, during the non-exposure period when preparing to capture the pre-exposure and main exposure images, the second illumination unit 36B is off and the sound generation unit 37 does not output sound. Also, during the period when the pre-exposure and main exposure images are being captured (exposure), the second illumination unit 36B is on and the sound generation unit 37 does not output sound. Furthermore, the first illumination unit 36A is on during both the non-exposure period when preparing to capture the pre-exposure and main exposure images and during the exposure period when the pre-exposure and main exposure images are being captured.

[0091] This allows the photographer to accurately recognize the periods of exposure and non-exposure during the acquisition of exposure images. As a result, the frequency of imaging failures in the radiography system caused by the photographer misinterpreting these periods can be reduced.

[0092] Furthermore, by providing both an illumination unit and a sound generation unit as the transmission section of the radiography system, it is possible to create a radiography system that can accommodate both patients with visual impairments and patients with hearing impairments.

[0093] Furthermore, for patients with only visual impairment, the radiography system only needs to have a sound generator and does not need to have a lighting unit. Similarly, for patients with only hearing impairment, the radiography system only needs to have a lighting unit and does not need to have a sound generator.

[0094] Furthermore, if a patient has both hearing and visual impairments, they may not be able to recognize the illumination or the sound from the sound-generating unit. Therefore, a device that acts on the user's sense of touch may be used as a communication device.

[0095] Examples of such devices include devices with a vibration function that can be grasped by the patient (for example, mobile devices such as cell phones and smartphones, or watch-type electronic devices).

[0096] For example, the above-mentioned device communicates with console 3, and between the start of pre-exposure image acquisition and the end of main exposure image acquisition, console 3 outputs a command to the device to vibrate, causing the device to vibrate. Then, before the start of pre-exposure image acquisition and after the end of main exposure image acquisition, console 3 outputs a command to stop the vibration of the device.

[0097] By doing so, users with visual and hearing impairments can recognize the operating status of the radiography system, and consequently, the frequency of radiography failures can be reduced.

[0098] Furthermore, the system may be configured to select a communication unit appropriate for the patient based on the patient's information. In this case, for example, the display unit 34 or the operation unit 35 of the console 3 may be provided with a function to select patient information. Alternatively, the console 3 may be configured to automatically select patient information based on patient information obtained from, for example, a RIS (Information System for Medical Devices).

[0099] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the same transmission pattern (the pattern in which the illumination unit 36 ​​lights up, and the pattern in which the sound generation unit 37 outputs sound) was used for both pre-exposure and main exposure, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, different transmission patterns may be used for pre-exposure and main exposure. In this case, the same transmission pattern as that of either pre-exposure or main exposure may be used between the two. In this way, the photographer can know whether they are in the pre-exposure or main exposure stage. Since the main exposure dose is higher than the pre-exposure dose, stopping the main exposure midway and retaking the image is undesirable because it increases the patient's total radiation exposure. By knowing whether they are in the pre-exposure or main exposure stage, the photographer can consider the trade-off between the likelihood of image failure (e.g., the magnitude of body movement) and the total radiation exposure from retaking the image, and decide whether or not to interrupt the image, which in turn leads to a reduction in the patient's radiation exposure.

[0100] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the transmission control device was the control unit of a console installed in the radiography system, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the transmission control device may be an external device installed in a location different from the radiography system. In this case, the transmission control device outputs the determined state of the transmission unit to the radiography system, for example, by wireless communication.

[0101] Furthermore, although the above embodiment had an automatic exposure control function for the radiography system 100, the present invention is not limited thereto, and any control function may be provided as long as the system is configured to capture an exposure image by exposure including a first exposure and a second exposure.

[0102] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the state of the transmission unit was controlled to be the same as the state at the time of exposure image capture, with one or more transmission units being set to the same state as the state at the time of exposure image capture. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the state of one or more transmission units does not have to be the same as the state at the time of exposure image capture, as long as the user does not misinterpret the state of the transmission unit.

[0103] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the control unit in the transmission device was configured integrally with the storage unit, display unit, and operation unit, etc., but the present invention is not limited to this, and may be configured separately from the storage unit, display unit, and operation unit, etc. For example, the control unit may be provided in the radiation irradiation device. In other words, if the transmission unit is provided in the radiation irradiation device, then the transmission unit and the control unit will be provided in the radiation irradiation device. Alternatively, the control unit may be provided in the radiography device. In this case, if the transmission unit is provided in the radiation irradiation device, then the transmission unit and the control unit will not be provided in the console. In other words, the transmission unit will be provided in the radiation irradiation device, and the control unit will be provided in the radiography device.

[0104] Furthermore, although the above embodiment involved a configuration in which one pre-exposure followed by one main exposure, the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration in which one pre-exposure followed by multiple main exposures is also possible. In this case, the control unit 31 performs automatic exposure control to determine the shooting conditions for multiple main exposures based on the pre-exposure image obtained by the pre-exposure and the associated information linked to the pre-exposure image.

[0105] Furthermore, the above embodiments are merely examples of how the present invention may be implemented, and the technical scope of the present invention should not be limited by them. In other words, the present invention can be implemented in various ways without departing from its gist or its main features. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0106] 1 Radiation irradiation device 2. Radiography equipment 3 Console 11 Generator 12 Exposure switch 13 Radiation source 21. Image capture control unit 22 Radiation detection unit 23 Reading part 24 Communications Department 25 Memory section 31 Control Unit 32 Communications Department 33 Storage section 34 Display section 35 Control section 36 Lighting Section 37. Voice generation unit 100 radiography systems

Claims

1. A communication unit that informs the user of the operating status of the radiography system, A control unit that controls the state of the transmission unit, Equipped with, In the radiography system, when an exposure image is captured by an exposure including a first exposure and a second exposure, the control unit controls the state of the transmission unit between the first exposure and the second exposure to be the state at the time the exposure image was captured. Transmission device.

2. The aforementioned transmission unit is provided in two or more parts. The control unit controls one or more transmission units to a state based on the state at the time of capturing the exposure image, between the first exposure and the second exposure. The transmission device according to claim 1.

3. The control unit, between the first exposure and the second exposure, sets the second transmission unit, other than the first transmission unit which is in a state based on the state at the time of capturing the exposure image, to a state different from that of the first transmission unit. The transmission device according to claim 2.

4. The control unit can select a plurality of transmission patterns, which are combinations of states between the first exposure and the second exposure in two or more transmission units, and sets one selected transmission pattern from the plurality of transmission patterns to the state of the two or more transmission units. The transmission device according to claim 2 or claim 3.

5. The control unit selects one transmission pattern based on at least one of the user information and the information of the equipment related to the radiography system. The transmission device according to claim 4.

6. The transmission unit includes a device that acts on at least one of the user's senses: sight, hearing, and touch. A transmission device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The control unit, between the first exposure and the second exposure, sets the state of the transmission unit to the same state as when the exposure image was captured. A transmission device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The control unit causes the state of the transmission unit to differ between exposure and non-exposure. A transmission device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The control unit determines the shooting conditions for the second exposure based on the pre-exposure image obtained by the first exposure, which is performed before the second exposure, and information related to the pre-exposure image. A transmission device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The aforementioned shooting conditions are for combining the pre-exposure image obtained by the first exposure and the main exposure image obtained by the second exposure. The transmission device according to claim 9.

11. A radiation irradiation device that emits radiation, A radiation imaging device that generates image data of an exposure image by receiving the aforementioned radiation, A transmission device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, A radiography system equipped with [specific features / equipment].

12. The transmission unit and the control unit are provided in the radiation irradiation device. The radiography system according to claim 11.

13. The transmission unit is provided in the radiation irradiation device, The control unit is provided in the radiography apparatus, The radiography system according to claim 11.

14. The transmission unit is a lamp on a hand switch used by the user to operate the radiography system. A radiography system according to any one of claims 11 to 13.

15. A transmission control device that controls a transmission unit that transmits the operating status of a radiography system to a user, A determination unit that determines the state of the transmission unit, A control unit controls the transmission unit so that it reaches the state determined by the determination unit, Equipped with, The determination unit, in the radiography system, when an exposure image is taken by an exposure including a first exposure and a second exposure, sets the state based on the time the exposure image was taken between the first exposure and the second exposure as the state of the transmission unit. Transmission control device.

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