Medical image acquisition support device, operating method and program for medical image acquisition support device, and medical image acquisition system

Abstract

The present invention provides a medical image acquisition support device, an operating method for the medical image acquisition support device, a program, and a medical image acquisition system that can determine whether or not there is eccentricity in the mounting state of an imaging device that acquires images of a subject. [Solution] The medical image acquisition support device acquires a first image of a subject placed on a bed by imaging the subject using an imaging device, detects the adjustment criteria specified for the bed from the first image, derives the difference between the imaging image criteria set in the first image and the adjustment criteria, and determines the eccentricity of the mounting state of the imaging device based on the difference.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a medical image imaging support device, an operation method of the medical image imaging support device, a program, and a medical image imaging system.

Background Art

[0002] In medical image imaging devices such as MRI devices and X-ray CT devices, an operator sets imaging conditions such as the patient's body position in advance, and then sets the patient on a bed in a shielded room and starts a scan to begin the examination. The operator represents a person who operates a medical image imaging device such as a technician. The patient is a person who is the subject of the examination and can be referred to as a subject, an examinee, an examination target person, etc.

[0003] Note that MRI is an abbreviation for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, the English notation for magnetic resonance imaging. CT is an abbreviation for Computed Tomography.

[0004] In a medical image imaging device in which a camera is disposed on the ceiling of a shielded room or the like, an imaged subject set on the bed can be imaged using the camera, and movement control of the bed in imaging a medical image based on the captured image of the subject can be performed.

[0005] Patent Document 1 describes an MRI device that images a patient's head using a camera attached to a head coil and monitors the movement of the patient's head. In the device described in this document, in the cross calibration between the MRI coordinates and the optical coordinate system applied to the camera, the difference between the current position and the reference position of the camera is derived.

[0006] Patent Document 2 describes a positioning method that enables repeated positioning of a patient in an image diagnosis device or a radiation treatment device. The method described in this document derives the deviation of the patient's position from the difference between the image of the patient at the first reference position and the image of the same patient captured by applying the same camera position, viewpoint, and camera axis in the same device. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2016-538957 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2003-319930 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] However, accidental contact with cameras mounted on the ceiling or other surfaces, as well as camera vibrations caused by earthquakes or other events, may cause the pre-adjusted camera mounting position to become eccentric. This eccentricity in the camera mounting position can lead to a decrease in the accuracy of the movement control of the examination table, which uses the captured images of the subject.

[0009] The apparatus described in Patent Document 1 derives the difference between the current position and the reference position of the camera in cross-calibration between the coordinate system of the MRI scanner and the coordinate system of the camera attached to the head coil, etc., but it does not solve the above-mentioned problem caused by the eccentricity of the mounting state of the camera attached to the head coil, etc.

[0010] The method described in Patent Document 2 reproduces the patient's position applied to the first image in subsequent images when acquiring medical images of the same patient using the same device, and does not solve the above-mentioned problem caused by eccentricity in the camera mounting state.

[0011] This disclosure is made in view of these circumstances and aims to provide a medical image acquisition support device, a method of operating the medical image acquisition support device, a program, and a medical image acquisition system that can determine whether or not there is eccentricity in the mounting state of an imaging device that acquires images of a subject. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] A medical image acquisition support device according to a first aspect of this disclosure comprises a processor and a memory in which a program to be executed by the processor is stored. The processor acquires a first image of a subject by imaging the subject placed on a bed using an imaging device, detects adjustment criteria defined for the bed from the first image, derives the difference between the image acquisition criteria set in the first image and the adjustment criteria, and determines the eccentricity of the mounting state of the imaging device based on the difference.

[0013] According to the medical image acquisition support device of the first embodiment, the eccentricity of the mounting state of the imaging device that acquires the image is determined based on the difference between the image acquisition standard set for the image of the subject and the adjustment standard detected from the image acquisition standard. This allows the presence or absence of eccentricity in the mounting state of the imaging device based on the determination result.

[0014] The difference between the image reference and the adjustment reference may be the difference between the position of the image reference and the position of the adjustment reference. The positions of the image reference and the adjustment reference may be expressed using coordinate values ​​in the image.

[0015] The difference between the image reference and the adjustment reference may be the difference between the orientation of the image reference and the orientation of the adjustment reference. The orientation of the image reference and the orientation of the adjustment reference may be expressed using the rotation angle within the plane of the image.

[0016] In the medical image acquisition support device according to the second embodiment, the processor may determine that the mounting state of the imaging device is eccentric when the difference exceeds the first range.

[0017] In the medical image acquisition support device according to the third embodiment, the processor may output a control signal that corrects the movement control of the bed based on the difference, in the medical image acquisition support device according to the first or second embodiment.

[0018] The medical image imaging support device according to the fourth aspect is the medical image imaging support device according to any one of the first to third aspects, and the processor may notify a warning when the difference exceeds the second range.

[0019] The medical image imaging support device according to the fifth aspect is the medical image imaging support device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, and the processor may detect a light localizer displayed on the hospital bed as an adjustment reference.

[0020] In the fifth aspect, the processor may detect the position of the light localizer in the first captured image as the position of the adjustment reference.

[0021] The medical image imaging support device according to the sixth aspect is the medical image imaging support device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, and the processor may detect an image marker represented on the hospital bed as an adjustment reference.

[0022] The medical image imaging support device according to the seventh aspect is the medical image imaging support device according to the sixth aspect, and the processor may detect the position of the image marker in the first captured image as the position of the adjustment reference.

[0023] The medical image imaging support device according to the eighth aspect is the medical image imaging support device according to the sixth aspect, and the processor may acquire the shape of the image marker represented on the hospital bed as the imaging image reference, detect the shape of the image marker in the first captured image as the adjustment reference, and derive the difference between the shape of the image marker represented on the hospital bed and the shape of the image marker in the first captured image.

[0024] The medical image imaging support device according to the ninth aspect is the medical image imaging support device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, and the processor may detect the structure of the hospital bed as an adjustment reference.

[0025] In the ninth aspect, the processor may detect the position of the structure of the hospital bed as the position of the adjustment reference.

[0026] In the medical image imaging support device according to the tenth aspect, in the medical image imaging support device according to any one of the first aspect to the ninth aspect, the processor may set, as an imaging image reference, an adjustment reference included in a second imaging image acquired using an imaging device in a prescribed attachment state.

[0027] A method of operating a medical image imaging support device according to the eleventh aspect of the present disclosure is a method of operating a medical image imaging support device in which a computer functioning as a medical image imaging support device acquires a first imaging image of a subject acquired by imaging the subject placed on a hospital bed using an imaging device, detects an adjustment reference defined for the hospital bed from the first imaging image, derives a difference between the imaging image reference set for the first imaging image and the adjustment reference, and determines an eccentricity of the attachment state of the imaging device based on the difference.

[0028] According to the method of operating a medical image imaging support device according to the eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, it is possible to obtain the same operational effects as the medical image imaging support device according to the first aspect. The constituent elements of the medical image imaging support device according to the second aspect to the tenth aspect can be applied as constituent elements of the method of operating a medical image imaging support device according to other aspects.

[0029] A program according to the twelfth aspect of the present disclosure causes a computer functioning as a medical image imaging support device to have a function of acquiring a first imaging image of a subject acquired by imaging the subject placed on a hospital bed using an imaging device, a function of detecting an adjustment reference defined for the hospital bed from the first imaging image, a function of deriving a difference between the imaging image reference set for the first imaging image and the adjustment reference, and a function of determining an eccentricity of the attachment state of the imaging device based on the difference.

[0030] According to the program according to the twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, it is possible to obtain the same operational effects as the medical image imaging support device according to the first aspect. The constituent elements of the medical image imaging support device according to the second aspect to the tenth aspect can be applied as constituent elements of a program according to other aspects.

[0031] A medical image acquisition system according to a thirteenth aspect of this disclosure comprises an imaging device that images a subject and generates imaging data of the subject, an image reconstruction unit that generates a reconstructed image based on the imaging data, a processor, and a memory that stores a program to be executed by the processor, wherein the processor uses the imaging device to acquire a first image of the subject obtained by imaging the subject placed on a bed, detects adjustment criteria defined for the bed from the first image, derives the difference between the imaging image criteria set in the first image and the adjustment criteria, and determines the eccentricity of the mounting state of the imaging device based on the difference.

[0032] According to the medical image acquisition system of the 13th aspect of this disclosure, it is possible to obtain the same effects and advantages as the medical image acquisition support device of the first aspect. The constituent elements of the medical image acquisition support device of the second to tenth aspects can be applied as constituent elements of the medical image acquisition system of the other aspects. [Effects of the Invention]

[0033] According to this disclosure, the eccentricity of the mounting state of the imaging device that acquires the captured image is determined based on the difference between the image acquisition standard set for the subject's captured image and the adjustment standard detected from the captured image. This allows for the determination of whether or not there is eccentricity in the mounting state of the imaging device based on the determination result. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0034] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a medical image acquisition system according to an embodiment of this system. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of the automatic image capture position movement control unit. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the electrical configuration of the operating unit. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the procedure for the automatic image capture position shift correction method. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a camera image. [Figure 6]Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the camera image when the camera is mounted eccentrically in the front, back, left, and right directions. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the camera image when the camera is mounted in a rotationally eccentric position. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a camera image illustrating a specific example of a camera image reference. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing the first specific example of the adjustment criteria. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing a second specific example of the adjustment criteria. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is an explanatory diagram of a modified image marker. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0035] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description and accompanying drawings, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, when multiple components are listed as examples in the following embodiments, it can be interpreted that at least one of the multiple components is included.

[0036] [Example configuration of a medical imaging system] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a medical image acquisition system according to an embodiment. The medical image acquisition system 10 is a system that acquires medical images used for the diagnosis of a subject 1 by detecting X-rays transmitted through the subject 1 and nuclear magnetic resonance signals generated from the subject 1.

[0037] The following is an example of a medical image acquisition system 10, specifically an X-ray CT system that acquires X-ray projection images of subject 1 at various projection angles and obtains tomographic images of subject 1.

[0038] The medical imaging system 10 shown in Figure 1 comprises a scan gantry unit 20, an operating unit 100, and a camera 120. The scan gantry unit 20 and the camera 120 are located in an imaging chamber enclosed with shielding material that blocks X-rays. The operating unit 100 is located in an operating room outside the imaging chamber.

[0039] The scan gantry unit 20 includes an X-ray source 22, a rotating plate 24, a collimator 26, an X-ray detector 28, a data acquisition unit 30, and a patient table 32. The scan gantry unit 20 also includes a rotating plate control unit 50, a patient table control unit 52, an X-ray control unit 54, and a high voltage generation unit 56.

[0040] The X-ray source 22 irradiates the subject 1, which is placed on the bed 32, with X-rays. An example of the X-ray source 22 is an X-ray tube device. The collimator 26 limits the irradiation range of the X-rays. The rotating plate 24 has an opening 25 into which the subject 1 placed on the bed 32 enters, and mounts the X-ray source 22 and the X-ray detector 28, and rotates the X-ray source 22 and the X-ray detector 28 around the subject 1.

[0041] The X-ray detector 28 is positioned opposite the X-ray source 22. The X-ray detector 28 is equipped with multiple detection elements that detect X-rays transmitted through the subject 1 and is a device that detects the spatial distribution of X-rays, functioning as a detection unit that detects signals obtained from the subject 1. The detection elements of the X-ray detector 28 are arranged in two dimensions: the rotation direction of the rotating plate 24 and the rotation axis direction. The data acquisition unit 30 collects the spatial distribution of X-rays detected by the X-ray detector 28 as digital data.

[0042] The rotating plate control unit 50 controls the rotation and tilt of the rotating plate 24. The bed control unit 52 controls the forward movement, backward movement, widthwise movement, and up and down movement of the bed 32. The high voltage generation unit 56 generates a high voltage applied to the X-ray source 22. The X-ray control unit 54 controls the output of the high voltage generation unit 56. The scan gantry unit 20 is an example of a component of an imaging unit that images a subject and generates imaging data of the subject according to this disclosure.

[0043] The operation unit 100 includes an input device 102, an image generation unit 104, a display 106, a storage device 108, a system control unit 110, and an automatic imaging position movement control unit 111.

[0044] The input device 102 is used to input examination data such as the name of the subject 1, the date and time of the examination, and imaging conditions. The input device 102 may include a keyboard and a pointing device such as a mouse.

[0045] The image generation unit 104 generates a tomographic image using the digital data collected via the data acquisition unit 30. The image generation unit 104 is an example of a component of an image reconstruction unit that generates a reconstructed image based on the imaging data of this disclosure.

[0046] The display 106 displays tomographic images generated using the image generation unit 104, and various information input using the input device 102. Examples of the display 106 include liquid crystal displays and organic EL displays. The input device 102 and the display 106 may be configured as a single unit using a touch panel display. EL is an abbreviation for electro-luminescence.

[0047] The storage device 108 stores digital data collected using the data acquisition unit 30, tomographic images generated using the image generation unit 104, programs executed by the system control unit 110, and data used by the programs. The storage device 108 may be an HDD or an SSD. HDD is an abbreviation for Hard Disk Drive, and SSD is an abbreviation for Solid State Drive.

[0048] The system control unit 110 reads programs corresponding to various functions of the medical image acquisition system 10 from the storage device 108, executes these programs, and implements these functions. Specifically, the system control unit 110 controls various processing units such as the rotating plate control unit 50, the patient bed control unit 52, and the X-ray control unit 54.

[0049] The system control unit 110 acquires various input information transmitted from the input device 102 and transmits control signals corresponding to the input information to each unit. The system control unit 110 also transmits a display signal to the display 106 that represents the information to be displayed on the display 106.

[0050] The system control unit 110 acquires camera images of the subject 1 placed on the bed 32, which are transmitted from the camera 120. The system control unit 110 transmits the camera images to the automatic imaging position movement control unit 111.

[0051] The automatic imaging position movement control unit 111 acquires a camera image and determines the position of the imaging area of ​​the subject 1 based on the camera image. The position of the imaging area of ​​the subject 1 may be determined by the coordinate values ​​in the camera image. Alternatively, the position of the imaging area of ​​the subject 1 may be determined by the coordinate values ​​in real space obtained by transforming the coordinate values ​​in the camera image. Note that the camera image is an example of an image of a subject as described in this disclosure.

[0052] The system control unit 110 sets the imaging center of the scan gantry unit 20 in the imaging space. For example, the imaging center in the imaging space may be determined by the coordinate values ​​in real space of the light localizer that illuminates the imaging space.

[0053] The automatic imaging position movement control unit 111 controls the automatic imaging position movement of the patient bed 32 via the patient bed control unit, moving the patient bed 32 to a position where the imaging area of ​​the subject 1 coincides with the imaging center of the imaging space. Coincidence may include a deviation within a specified range. Details of the automatic imaging position movement control unit 111 will be described later.

[0054] Camera 120 images the subject 1, which is placed on the bed 32, from above. The camera 120 may be positioned on the ceiling of the imaging room, or on the upper part of the scan gantry 20, etc. In this embodiment, the case in which camera 120 is positioned on the ceiling of the imaging room is given as an example. The positional relationship of camera 120 with the position of bed 32 is adjusted. The adjustment of the mounting state of camera 120 is performed during the initial adjustment when the medical image acquisition system 10 is started up. The adjustment of the mounting state of camera 120 may be performed as appropriate when an abnormality occurs, etc.

[0055] Camera images of the subject 1, placed on the bed 32, captured and acquired using camera 120, may be displayed on display 106. The operator in the control room can visually confirm the subject 1's condition by viewing the camera images. Camera images of the subject 1 may be used to control the movement of the bed 32 into the medical image acquisition space. Camera images of the subject 1 may be stored in storage device 108.

[0056] Based on the medical image acquisition conditions set via the input device 102, the high-voltage generation unit 56 generates a tube voltage to be applied to the X-ray source 22. The X-ray source 22, to which the tube voltage has been applied, irradiates the subject 1 with X-rays according to the imaging conditions.

[0057] The X-ray detector 28 detects the transmitted X-rays that have passed through the subject 1, which are irradiated from the X-ray source 22, using multiple detection elements to obtain the spatial distribution of the transmitted X-rays.

[0058] The rotation of the rotating plate 24 is controlled by the rotating plate control unit 50. That is, the rotating plate 24 rotates based on imaging conditions acquired via the input device 102, particularly the setting of the rotation speed.

[0059] The examination table 32 is controlled by the examination table control unit 52. Specifically, the examination table 32 moves relative to the rotating plate 24, moving the imaging area set for the subject 1 into the imaging field of view, which is the range in which transmitted X-rays can be detected.

[0060] During the rotation of the rotating plate 24, the irradiation of X-rays using the X-ray source 22 and the detection of X-rays using the X-ray detector 28 are repeated, and projection data, which is the X-ray projection image of the subject 1, is measured at various projection angles. The projection data is associated with a view representing each projection angle and the detection element number of the X-ray detector 28. The detection element number may include the channel number and column number.

[0061] The measured projection data is transmitted to the image generation unit 104. The image generation unit 104 performs back projection processing on multiple projection data to generate a tomographic image. The generated tomographic image may be displayed on the display 106 as a medical image, or it may be stored in the storage device 108.

[0062] [Example of configuration for automatic image capture position movement control unit] Figure 2 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of the automatic imaging position movement control unit. Prior to acquiring a medical image of the subject 1, the imaging position of the subject 1 for medical image acquisition is automatically set using the camera image of the subject 1 placed on the bed 32. The bed control unit 52 performs movement control of the bed 32 based on the information of the imaging position of the subject 1 for medical image acquisition.

[0063] The automatic imaging position movement control unit 111 includes a camera image acquisition unit 130, an imaging area setting unit 132, and an imaging area adjustment unit 134. The storage device 108 stores adjustment data used for adjusting the position of the imaging area. The adjustment data may be generated for each facility and for each operator. For example, the adjustment data may be a table associated with identification information for each facility, or a table associated with identification information for each operator.

[0064] The camera image acquisition unit 130 acquires camera images of the subject 1 acquired using the camera 120. The camera images may be still images or frame images that constitute a moving image. The camera image acquisition unit 130 may acquire camera images generated by the camera 120, or it may acquire imaging signals from the camera 120 and generate camera images from imaging signals. In other words, the term acquisition may include meanings such as information generation and information conversion.

[0065] The camera image acquisition unit 130 may acquire camera images via the system control unit 110 shown in Figure 1, or it may acquire camera images directly from the camera 120 as shown in Figure 2.

[0066] The imaging area setting unit 132 sets the imaging area of ​​the subject 1 for medical image acquisition based on the camera image acquired using the camera image acquisition unit 130. Specifically, the imaging area setting unit 132 sets the imaging area of ​​the subject 1 for medical image acquisition using the shape of the subject 1 extracted from the camera image and information on the examination area included in the imaging conditions.

[0067] For example, if the examination area is the chest, the imaging area is set based on the position of the chin and shoulders inferred from the shape of subject 1 in the camera image. The imaging area setting unit 132 may include a trained model that has learned the shape of the human body and the imaging position of medical images for each examination area.

[0068] The imaging area adjustment unit 134 adjusts the position of the imaging area set using the imaging area setting unit 132. Adjustment data stored in the storage device 108 is used to adjust the position of the imaging area. The imaging area adjustment unit 134 may read the adjustment data from the storage device 108 according to facility identification information and operator identification information, etc.

[0069] The automatic imaging position movement control unit 111 detects a deterioration in the accuracy of movement parameter calculation during automatic imaging position movement caused by eccentricity in the mounting state of the camera 120, and corrects the movement control of the imaging area of ​​the subject 1 toward the imaging center of the imaging space in the scan gantry unit 20 shown in Figure 1.

[0070] Eccentricity in the mounting state of camera 120 refers to the misalignment of the positional relationship between camera 120 and bed 32. This misalignment can include misalignment of bed 32 in the width direction, misalignment in the forward / backward direction, and misalignment in the rotational direction. Causes of eccentricity in the mounting state of camera 120 include contact of the camera 120 by the operator and the application of external forces to camera 120 due to earthquakes.

[0071] The automatic image capture position movement control unit 111 monitors the eccentricity of the camera mounting state based on the difference between a preset camera image reference and an adjustment reference visible in the camera image, and issues a warning according to the degree of eccentricity of the camera mounting state. The automatic image capture position movement control unit 111 also corrects the automatic image capture position movement according to the eccentricity of the camera mounting state.

[0072] The automatic imaging position movement control unit 111 is an example of a component of the medical image acquisition support device of this disclosure. The camera image reference is an example of the image acquisition reference of this disclosure.

[0073] The automatic image capture position movement control unit 111 includes a camera image reference setting unit 140, an adjustment reference detection unit 142, a difference confirmation unit 144, a movement correction unit 146, and a warning determination unit 148.

[0074] The camera image reference setting unit 140 sets the camera image reference. The camera image reference may include the light localizer, image markers, and the edge of the bed 32 in the camera image when the camera 120 is properly positioned and adjusted. The camera image reference may represent the position in the camera image using coordinate values ​​applied to the camera image.

[0075] For example, a light localizer may be projected onto a position within the imaging field of view of camera 120, and the light localizer in the camera image may be acquired as the camera image reference.

[0076] Here, "when camera 120 is properly positioned" means that the orientation of camera 120, including its position and orientation, is adjusted to fall within a specified error range relative to a predetermined orientation.

[0077] The camera image reference may be in a manner that is physically attached to the bed 32, such as by a sticker or tape affixed to the bed 32, or it may be in a manner that is optically displayed on the bed 32, such as by a ray of light irradiated onto the bed 32. The camera image when the camera 120 is properly positioned and adjusted is an example of the second captured image of this disclosure.

[0078] The adjustment criterion detection unit 142 performs image processing such as object detection on the camera image and detects adjustment criteria included in the camera image. The adjustment criteria may include a light localizer, image markers, and the edge of the bed 32 included in the camera image. The adjustment criteria may be physically attached to the bed 32, such as by a sticker or tape attached to the bed 32, or they may be optically displayed on the bed 32, such as by a ray of light shining on the bed 32.

[0079] For example, if a light localizer illuminating the bed 32 is set as the camera image reference, the light localizer included in the camera image is detected as the adjustment reference. The position of the adjustment reference may be expressed using coordinate values ​​applied to the camera image. The camera image used for detecting the adjustment reference is an example of the first captured image of this disclosure.

[0080] The difference confirmation unit 144 confirms the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference. The difference confirmation may include a method for deriving an index representing the difference. The derivation may include the calculation of an index value. Based on the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference, the difference confirmation unit 144 determines whether the mounting state of the camera 120 is eccentric. That is, if the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference exceeds a first range, the difference confirmation unit 144 determines that the mounting state of the camera 120 is eccentric. On the other hand, if the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference is within the first range, the difference confirmation unit 144 may determine that the mounting state of the camera 120 is in a normal state and is not eccentric. The first range may be defined based on imaging conditions of medical images such as the imaging area. Note that the eccentricity of the mounting state of the camera 120 is an example of the eccentricity of the mounting state of the imaging device in this disclosure.

[0081] The difference confirmation unit 144 may determine whether the mounting state of the camera 120 is eccentric or not based on the difference in position between the first direction and the second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The term "perpendicular" may include substantially perpendicular lines that intersect with a specified range of error relative to the orthogonality.

[0082] The difference confirmation unit 144 may determine whether the mounting state of the camera 120 is eccentric based on the difference in inclination with respect to the first direction or the second direction. For example, the first direction may be the forward or backward direction of the bed 32 in the camera image, and the second direction may be the width direction of the bed 32 in the camera image.

[0083] The movement correction unit 146 performs a correction calculation for automatic image capture position movement based on the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference. The movement correction unit 146 may include a process to convert the pixel position in the camera image to a position in real space, or a process to convert the number of pixels in the camera image to a distance in real space.

[0084] The movement correction unit 146 transmits the result of the correction calculation for automatic imaging position movement to the bed control unit 52. The bed control unit 52 corrects the automatic imaging position movement based on the result of the correction calculation for automatic imaging position movement. The result of the correction calculation for automatic imaging position movement is an example of a control signal that represents the correction of bed movement control based on the differences of this disclosure.

[0085] The warning determination unit 148 determines whether the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference is at a warning level. If the difference is at a warning level, the warning determination unit 148 issues a warning. Figure 2 illustrates an example of warning notification, showing the display of warning information on the display 106. The warning information displayed on the display 106 may be text information. The text information may include symbols and graphics. The warning may be expressed as a warning sound and other sound information such as voice. Note that the determination of whether the difference is at a warning level is an example of determining whether the difference exceeds the second scope of this disclosure.

[0086] [Example of hardware configuration for the electrical configuration of the control unit] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the electrical configuration of the operating unit. Various processes of the operating unit 100 can be implemented using any computer. Any computer may have a processor that executes programs to perform various processes of the operating unit 100.

[0087] Any computer may be a general-purpose computer such as a personal computer, or a computer designed for a specific purpose such as a server computer. Any computer may be a system such as a workstation, or other hardware elements capable of running programs such as a virtual machine.

[0088] The operation unit 100 may have at least some of its functions implemented using cloud computing. At least some of the functions of the operation unit 100 may be provided as SaaS. SaaS is an abbreviation for Software as a Service.

[0089] The operating unit 100 includes a processor 202, a main memory 204, an auxiliary storage 206, an input / output interface 208, and a bus 210.

[0090] The processor 202 is connected to the memory 204, storage 206, input / output interface 208, input device 102, and display 106 via the bus 210.

[0091] Memory 204 includes RAM. Memory 204 may also include ROM. Storage 206 may be, for example, a hard disk drive, a solid-state drive, or a combination of these. Storage 206 may also include external storage devices such as removable media.

[0092] RAM is an abbreviation for Random Access Memory, and ROM is an abbreviation for Read Only Memory. Hard disk drives can be referred to as HDDs, using the abbreviation for Hard Disk Drive. Solid state drives can be referred to as SSDs, using the abbreviation for Solid State Drive.

[0093] The memory 204 and storage 206, among other storage devices, store programs and data that enable the various functions of the operation unit 100. The processor 202 enables the various functions by executing the programs stored in the memory 204. The processor 202 comprehensively controls each part of the operation unit 100 and the various devices and units provided in the operation unit 100, and performs various processes.

[0094] The input / output interface 208 includes a communication interface that can connect to telecommunications lines such as a local area network, and a connection interface that can connect to external devices. Examples of connection interfaces that can connect to external devices include the Universal Serial Bus and HDMI (HDMI is a registered trademark). Note that HDMI is an abbreviation for High-Definition Multimedia Interface.

[0095] The processor 202 communicates with various devices of the operation unit 100 via the input / output interface 208 and transmits and receives various types of information.

[0096] Examples of input devices 102 include pointing devices such as keyboards and mice. Input devices 102 may include numeric keypads and various switch buttons. Input devices 102 may include voice input devices. Input devices 102 may be touch panel type input devices that are integrated with the display screen of display 106.

[0097] The display 106 may be a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or a projector. The display 106 may be an appropriate combination of liquid crystal displays, etc. The display 106 displays various information in addition to the image captured by the operation unit 100. The display 106 is used as part of the UI when receiving input from the input device 102. The display 106 is not limited to one, and a multi-display configuration with multiple display devices is also possible. Organic EL can be referred to as OEL, an abbreviation of organic electro-luminescence. UI is an abbreviation of User Interface.

[0098] In this embodiment, each process is performed on any computer. Furthermore, any computer may be fitted with a processor, a program, or a combination thereof to perform these processes. Any computer may be a general-purpose computer, a computer designed for a specific purpose, a workstation, or any other hardware element capable of running a program.

[0099] Processor 202 may be configured with one or more hardware components, and the type of hardware is not limited. The hardware of processor 202 may include a CPU, MPU, and programmable logic devices such as FPGAs. Processor 202 may also include dedicated circuits such as ASICs that perform specific processing. The hardware of processor 202 may include a GPU specialized for image processing, and an NPU specialized for AI processing.

[0100] The processor 202 functions as various processing units, which are units that perform various processes, and various processing means, which are means that perform various processes.

[0101] CPU is an abbreviation for Central Processing Unit, MPU is an abbreviation for Micro-Processing Unit, FPGA is an abbreviation for Field-Programmable Gate Array. Also, GPU is an abbreviation for Graphics Processing Unit, AI is an abbreviation for Artificial Intelligence, and NPU is an abbreviation for Neural Network Processing Unit.

[0102] The processor 202 may be configured by combining different types of hardware. The hardware of the processor 202 may include electrical circuits, which are combinations of electrical circuit elements such as semiconductor elements.

[0103] When multiple hardware components perform any one or more processes of the processor 202, each of the multiple hardware components may be located in a physically separate device from the others, or in the same device. The order in which the processes performed by the processor 202 are executed is not limited to the order disclosed herein and may be changed as appropriate. The hardware components are configured using electrical circuits and the like, which are combinations of circuit elements such as semiconductor elements.

[0104] Furthermore, this embodiment may be implemented using hardware, software, firmware, microcode, or a combination thereof. The software, firmware, and microcode are configured by applying a program. For example, the program may be a group of program modules, and the functions of the software, etc., may be implemented by applying a processor that performs each function.

[0105] The program may consist of program code and multiple code segments stored on one or more non-temporary computer-readable media, such as memory media and storage devices. The program may be divided and stored on multiple non-temporary computer-readable media located on devices that are physically separated from each other.

[0106] Program code, or code segment, may represent any combination of procedures, functions, subprograms, routines, subroutines, modules, software packages, classes, instructions, data structures, or program statements. Program code, or code segment, may be connected to other code segments or hardware circuits by sending or receiving information, data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents.

[0107] [Procedure for automatic image capture position shift correction] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating the procedure for the automatic image capture position shift correction method. The automatic image capture position shift correction method illustrated in Figure 4 is implemented by a computer, which functions as the operation unit 100 shown in Figure 2, executing a program.

[0108] In step S10, the camera image acquisition unit 130 acquires a camera image. The acquisition of the camera image may be performed in accordance with the operator's instructions input using the input device 102. In step S10, one camera image may be acquired, or multiple camera images may be acquired. The multiple camera images may be multiple still images, or multiple frame images included in a moving image.

[0109] In step S12, the camera image reference setting unit 140 sets the camera image reference. In step S12, a camera image reference that has been stored in advance may be read and set.

[0110] In step S14, the adjustment criterion detection unit 142 detects an adjustment criterion from the camera image acquired in step S10. In step S14, the adjustment criterion selected from among a plurality of candidate adjustment criterions may be detected. In step S14, the position of the adjustment criterion, expressed using the coordinate values ​​of the camera image, may be derived.

[0111] In step S16, the difference confirmation unit 144 confirms the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference, and determines whether the mounting state of the camera 120 is eccentric or not based on the difference. In step S16, it is possible to determine whether the mounting state of the camera 120 is eccentric or not based on the difference between the position of the camera image reference and the position of the adjustment reference.

[0112] In step S16, it is determined whether the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference exceeds a first range. If the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference exceeds a first range, it is determined that eccentricity has occurred in the mounting state of the camera 120.

[0113] In step S18, the movement correction unit 146 performs a correction calculation for the automatic imaging position movement. The movement correction unit 146 transmits the result of the correction calculation for the automatic imaging position movement to the bed control unit 52.

[0114] In step S20, the warning determination unit 148 determines whether the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference exceeds the warning level. If it is determined that the difference exceeds the warning level, the determination is Yes, and the process proceeds to step S22.

[0115] In step S22, the warning determination unit 148 issues a warning indicating that the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference exceeds the warning level. The warning issued in step S22 may prompt maintenance such as adjustment of the camera 120. Once the warning is issued in step S22, the process proceeds to step S24.

[0116] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S20 that the warning level has not been exceeded, the result is No, and the process proceeds to step S24. In step S24, the movement correction unit 146 performs correction of the automatic imaging position movement. That is, the movement correction unit 146 transmits the result of the automatic imaging position movement correction calculation calculated in step S18 to the bed control unit 52. The bed control unit 52 performs automatic imaging position movement control corrected using the result of the automatic imaging position movement correction calculation.

[0117] The automatic imaging position correction method may be performed each time a medical image is captured, or it may be performed at the start-up of the medical image acquisition system 10 each day it is operational. The automatic imaging position correction method may be performed when periodic maintenance is performed on the medical image acquisition system 10. The automatic imaging position correction method may be performed when an abnormality such as an emergency stop occurs in the medical image acquisition system 10. In addition, the automatic imaging position correction method may be performed in response to instructions from the operator. Note that the automatic imaging position correction method is just one example of how the medical image acquisition support device described herein operates.

[0118] [Specific examples of camera image standards and adjustment standards] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a camera image. Figure 5 schematically shows a portion of the camera image 300 when the camera 120 shown in Figure 1 is properly positioned and adjusted.

[0119] In Figure 5, DY- represents the forward direction of the bed 32 as it moves toward the medical image acquisition space, and DY+ represents the backward direction of the bed 32 as it moves backward away from the medical image acquisition space. Hereafter, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the forward and backward directions, both may be collectively referred to as the forward and backward directions. Also, DX represents the width direction of the bed 32. The same applies to Figures 6 to 11.

[0120] The camera image 300 shown in Figure 5 includes subject 1 lying supine with headfirst. The camera image 300 schematically illustrates the light localizer 302 illuminating the bed 32, and the imaging area 304 of subject 1 in medical image acquisition. In Figure 5, the heart is exemplified as the imaging area 304.

[0121] Automatic imaging position shifting is a function that moves the patient bed 32 so that the imaging area 304 of the subject 1 placed on the bed 32 moves to the imaging center defined in the imaging space of the medical image. The imaging center is determined as the intersection of the light localizers illuminating the imaging space.

[0122] Note that the two dashed lines in Figure 5 indicating the imaging area 304 are virtual lines that are not actually present in the camera image 300. Also, the dashed line with an arrow in Figure 5 is a virtual line that schematically represents the automatic imaging position shift assuming that the intersection 303 of the light localizer 302 shown in the figure is the imaging center of the medical image imaging space.

[0123] The imaging area setting unit 132 shown in Figure 2 acquires the position of the imaging area 304 in the camera image 300 shown in Figure 5. In Figure 5, the position of the imaging area 304 is exemplified by a representative position of the heart, which is the examination site. The representative position of the examination site may be a geometric representative position of the examination site, or an anatomical representative position of the examination site. An example of a geometric representative position is the center of gravity.

[0124] The camera image reference setting unit 140 may set the light localizer 302 included in the camera image 300 as the camera image reference. Figure 5 shows a light localizer 302 that includes a line segment 302A extending in the width direction of the bed 32 and a line segment 302B extending in the forward and backward direction of the bed 32.

[0125] The camera image reference setting unit 140 may set the position of the intersection point 303 of line segment 302A and line segment 302B as the camera image reference position. The position of the intersection point 303 in the camera image 300 may be expressed using coordinate values ​​applied to the camera image 300.

[0126] For example, the camera image reference position of the berth 32 in the width direction may be the coordinate value of the intersection 303 in the same direction. Similarly, the camera image reference position of the berth 32 in the forward and backward direction may be the coordinate value of the intersection 303 in the same direction.

[0127] The camera image reference setting unit 140 may set image markers not shown in Figure 5, and the edge of the bed 32, etc., as camera image references. The camera image reference setting unit 140 may store the set camera image references.

[0128] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the camera image when the camera is mounted eccentrically in the front, back, left, and right directions. In this figure, the light localizer 302, which is not included in the camera image 310 and is shown in Figure 5, is illustrated with a dashed line. The same applies to Figure 7.

[0129] Due to the eccentricity of the camera 120 shown in Figure 1 in the front-rear, left-right, and right directions, the imaging area 314 in the camera image 310 shown in Figure 6 is shifted to the right in the width direction of the bed 32 and also shifted backward relative to the bed 32, compared to the imaging area 304 in the camera image 300 shown in Figure 5.

[0130] Similarly, the light localizer 312 in the camera image 310 shown in Figure 6 is shifted to the right in the width direction of the bed 32 in Figure 6, and also shifted backward relative to the bed 32, compared to the light localizer 302 in the camera image 300 shown in Figure 5. The amount of widthwise shift of the bed 32 in the camera image 310 shown in Figure 6 is represented by the symbol dX1, and the amount of backward shift of the bed 32 is represented by the symbol dY1.

[0131] The camera image reference setting unit 140 shown in Figure 2 may set the light localizer 302 as the camera image reference in the camera image 310. The camera image reference setting unit 140 may set the coordinate values ​​of the intersection point 303 of the light localizer 302 as the position of the camera image reference in the camera image 310.

[0132] The adjustment reference detection unit 142 detects the light localizer 312 from the camera image 310 as an adjustment reference in the camera image 310. The adjustment reference detection unit 142 may obtain the coordinate values ​​of the intersection point 313 of the line segment 312A, which is included in the light localizer 312 and extends in the width direction of the bed 32, and the line segment 312B, which extends in the forward and backward direction of the bed 32.

[0133] The difference confirmation unit 144 confirms the difference between the light localizer 302 and the light localizer 312 as the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference. For example, as the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference in the width direction of the bed 32, the difference between the coordinate value of the intersection point 303 of the light localizer 302 and the coordinate value of the intersection point 313 of the light localizer 312 may be calculated.

[0134] Specifically, the difference confirmation unit 144 may calculate a shift amount dX1 as the difference between the coordinate value of the intersection point 303 of the light localizer 302 and the coordinate value of the intersection point 313 of the light localizer 312 in the width direction of the bed 32, and may also calculate a shift amount dY1 as the difference between the coordinate value of the intersection point 303 of the light localizer 302 and the coordinate value of the intersection point 313 of the light localizer 312 in the forward and backward direction of the bed 32.

[0135] The movement correction unit 146 performs correction calculations for automatic imaging position movement based on the difference between the light localizer 302 and the light localizer 312. For example, the movement correction unit 146 uses the widthwise shift amount dX1 of the bed 32 and the forward / backward shift amount dY1 of the bed 32 to calculate a correction value for the movement distance of the automatic imaging position movement derived from the position of the imaging area 314 of the camera image 310.

[0136] In the correction of automatic imaging position movement based on the camera image 310 shown in Figure 6, the automatic imaging position movement schematically shown in the same figure using dashed lines with arrows is corrected to the automatic imaging position movement schematically shown in Figure 5 using dashed lines with arrows.

[0137] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a camera image when the camera mounting state is rotationally eccentric. Due to the rotational eccentricity of the mounting state of the camera 120 shown in Figure 1, the subject 1 in the camera image 320 shown in Figure 7 is rotated relative to the subject 1 in the camera image 300 shown in Figure 5. Figure 7 illustrates an example in which the subject 1 in the camera image 320 is shifted to the right in the width direction of the bed 32 and rotated clockwise in the same figure.

[0138] Similarly, the light localizer 322 in the camera image 320 shown in Figure 7 is shifted to the right in the width direction of the bed 32 relative to the light localizer 302, and rotated clockwise in the same figure. The amount of shift in the width direction of the bed 32 is represented by the symbol dX2, and the amount of shift in the rotation direction is represented by the symbol dθ2. The amount of shift in the rotation direction is synonymous with the rotation angle. The symbols 322A and 322B are line segments included in the light localizer 322 and represent mutually orthogonal line segments. The symbol 323 represents the intersection of line segment 322A and line segment 322B.

[0139] When the light localizer 302 is set as the camera image reference and the light localizer 322 is detected as the adjustment reference, the difference confirmation unit 144 derives the difference between the light localizer 302 and the light localizer 322. Specifically, the difference confirmation unit 144 may calculate the widthwise shift amount dX2 and the rotational shift amount dθ2 of the bed 32.

[0140] The movement correction unit 146 performs correction calculations for automatic imaging position movement based on the difference between the light localizer 302 and the light localizer 322. For example, the movement correction unit 146 uses the widthwise shift amount dX2 and the rotational shift amount dθ2 of the bed 32 to calculate a correction value for the movement distance of the automatic imaging position movement calculated from the position of the imaging area 324 of the camera image 320.

[0141] In the correction of automatic imaging position movement based on the camera image 320 shown in Figure 7, the automatic imaging position movement schematically shown in the same figure using dashed lines with arrows is corrected to the automatic imaging position movement schematically shown in Figure 5 using dashed lines with arrows.

[0142] [Specific examples of camera image standards] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a camera image illustrating a specific example of a camera image reference. The figure shows a camera image 340 that includes the entire bed 32. The two mutually orthogonal dashed lines shown in the figure define the center of the camera image 340 and may be displayed in the camera image 340.

[0143] The camera image reference may be the light localizer 342, image marker 346, and structural elements of the bed 32 such as the edge 348 of the bed 32, which are illuminated on the bed 32 that have not entered the imaging space of the scan gantry unit 20.

[0144] The light localizer 342 shown in Figure 8 has an intersection point 343 in the width direction of the bed 32 that coincides with the center position of the bed 32 in the same direction, and also coincides with the center position of the camera image 340 in the same direction. The position of the intersection point 343 of the light localizer 342 in the forward and backward directions may be any position in the same direction, and it is preferable that it is a position that is a specified distance away from the imaging area 304 of the subject 1.

[0145] The image marker 346 shown in Figure 8 has a center position in the width direction of the bed 32 that coincides with the center position of the bed 32 in the same direction, and also coincides with the center position of the camera image 340 in the same direction. The position of the image marker 346 in the forward and backward directions may be any position, but it is preferable that it is at a specified distance from the imaging area 304 of the subject 1. Figure 8 shows an example in which the centroid position of the image marker 346 is applied as the position of the image marker 346.

[0146] The edge of the bed 32 to which the camera image reference applies may be the right edge of the bed 32 in the figure, or the left edge of the bed 32 in the figure, or it may be the leading edge in the forward direction, or it may be the leading edge in the backward direction. Note that the leading edge of the bed 32 in the forward direction is the upper edge in Figure 8, and the leading edge in the backward direction is the lower edge in the figure.

[0147] The camera image standard may be defined in the camera image 340 of the bed 32 on which subject 1 is not placed, or in the camera image 300 on which subject 1, as shown in Figure 5, is placed on the bed 32.

[0148] [Specific examples of adjustment criteria] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing the first specific example of the adjustment criteria. The figure shows a portion of the top surface 33 of the bed 32 on which the subject 1, as shown in Figure 5, is placed. Figure 9 also shows the camera image reference 350A in the width direction of the bed 32 and the camera image reference 350B in the forward and backward direction of the bed 32, using dashed lines. The same applies to Figure 10.

[0149] Figure 9 illustrates a light localizer 352 that illuminates the top plate 33 of the bed 32 as a first specific example of the adjustment criterion. The light localizer 352 shown in Figure 9 is shifted by a shift amount dY3 in the forward direction relative to the camera image criterion 350B in the forward and backward direction of the bed 32, and rotated by a shift amount dθ3 in the clockwise direction in Figure 9.

[0150] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing a second specific example of the adjustment criterion. In this figure, a triangular image marker 366 is exemplified as a second specific example of the adjustment criterion. The image marker 366 is shifted to the right by a shift amount dX4 in the width direction of the bed 32 relative to the camera image criterion 350A in the same direction.

[0151] Furthermore, the image marker 366 is shifted by a shift amount dY4 relative to the camera image reference 350B in the forward direction of the bed 32.

[0152] Figure 11 is an explanatory diagram of a modified image marker. The symbol DZ shown in the figure represents the vertically upward direction. Schematic diagram 400 shows the AR marker 404 in a camera image 402 captured using a properly mounted and properly adjusted camera 120. Schematic diagram 400 shows a properly mounted and properly adjusted camera 120 with the imaging optical axis OA1 pointing vertically downward.

[0153] Schematic Figure 410 illustrates the AR marker 414 in a camera image 412 captured using a camera 120 that is mounted eccentrically. Schematic Figure 410 also illustrates a camera 120 whose imaging optical axis OA2 is rotated by a rotational shift amount dθ5 relative to the vertical. AR is an abbreviation for Augmented Reality.

[0154] In the camera image 412, the AR marker 414 appears as a trapezoid instead of its original rectangular shape due to the eccentricity of the camera 120's mounting. The difference confirmation unit 144 shown in Figure 2 may use the difference in shape between the AR marker 404, which appears as a rectangle, and the AR marker 414, which appears as a trapezoid, as the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference.

[0155] Furthermore, the term "trapezoid" as used herein may refer to a substantial trapezoid where at least part or all of one of its sides is not straight, but rather curved, for example, but can still be recognized as a trapezoid overall.

[0156] The movement correction unit 146 may perform correction calculations for automatic image acquisition position movement based on the difference in shape between AR marker 404 and AR marker 414. Note that the shape of AR marker 404 is not limited to a rectangle, but can be any shape that causes deformation in the camera image due to the eccentricity of the mounting state of the camera 120.

[0157] [Effects of the Embodiment] The medical image acquisition system 10 and the automatic imaging position shift correction method according to this embodiment can achieve the following effects.

[0158] [1] A camera image reference is set for the camera images 310, etc., obtained by imaging the subject 1 placed on the bed 32 using a camera 120 positioned on the ceiling or elsewhere, and an adjustment reference is detected from the camera images 310, etc. Based on the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference, it is determined whether or not the mounting state of the camera 120 is eccentric. This allows the operator, etc., to understand the eccentricity of the mounting state of the camera 120.

[0159] [2] Based on the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference, a correction calculation is performed for the automatic imaging position movement control of the bed 32. As a result, the automatic imaging position movement of the bed 32 is corrected based on the result of the correction calculation, and the decrease in the accuracy of the automatic imaging position movement of the bed 32 is suppressed.

[0160] [3] The system determines whether the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference exceeds a warning level. If the difference exceeds a warning level, a warning is issued. This notifies the operator or other relevant parties that the camera 120 is mounted eccentrically.

[0161] [4] The camera image reference and adjustment reference are applied to the light localizer, image markers, and structure of the bed 32 that are illuminated on the bed 32. This allows for the setting of a camera image reference for the camera image 310, etc., and for the detection of adjustment references from the camera image 310, etc.

[0162] [5] The difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference is determined by the difference between the position of the camera image reference and the position of the adjustment reference. This makes it possible to determine the eccentricity of the mounting state of the camera 120 in the width direction of the bed 32 and in the forward and backward direction of the bed 32.

[0163] [6] The difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference is determined by the difference in the rotation direction in the camera image. This allows for the determination of the rotational eccentricity of the camera 120's mounting state.

[0164] [7] The difference between the camera image standard and the adjustment standard is determined by the difference between the shape of the camera image standard and the shape of the adjustment standard. Based on this difference, it is determined whether or not the mounting state of camera 120 is eccentric.

[0165] [Examples of application to programs and program products] The automatic imaging position shift correction method according to this embodiment may be configured such that a processor or a computer equipped with a processor is configured as a program or program product that realizes the function of each step.

[0166] For example, the program or program product may implement in a computer a function to acquire a camera image, a function to set a camera image reference for the camera image, a function to detect an adjustment reference from the camera image, and a function to determine whether or not the mounting state of the camera 120 is eccentric based on the difference between the adjustment reference and the camera image reference.

[0167] Furthermore, the program or program product may implement on a computer functions such as: a function to perform a correction calculation for the automatic imaging position movement of the bed 32 based on the difference in the adjustment criteria with respect to the camera image reference; a function to correct the automatic imaging position movement based on the result of the correction calculation; a function to determine whether the difference in the adjustment criteria with respect to the camera image reference is at a warning level; and a function to notify the warning.

[0168] A program or program product may be stored in a computer-readable medium, which is a tangible, non-temporary information storage medium, or may be provided through an information storage medium.

[0169] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the technical idea of ​​this disclosure. Furthermore, each of the first to fourth embodiments can be combined as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]

[0170] 1. Subject 10 Medical imaging systems 20 Scan Gunner Unit 22 X-ray source 24 Rotating Plates 25 Opening 26 Collimator 28 X-ray detectors 30 Data Acquisition Unit 32 berths 33 Top plate 50 Rotating Plate Control Unit 52 Bed Control Unit 54 X-ray Control Unit 56 High-voltage generation unit 100 Operating Units 102 Input device 104 Image generation unit 106 displays 108 Storage device 110 System Control Unit 111 Automatic Image Capture Position Movement Control Unit 120 Cameras 130 Camera image acquisition unit 132 Imaging area setting section 134 Imaging area adjustment unit 140 Camera Image Reference Setting Unit 142 Adjustment Reference Detection Unit 144 Difference confirmation part 146 Movement Correction Unit 148 Warning judgment section 202 processors 204 memory 206 storage 208 Input / Output Interfaces 210 Bus 300 camera images 302 Light Localizer 302A line segment 302B line segment 303 intersection 304 Imaging site 310 Camera Images 312 Light Localizer 312A line segment 312B Line segment 313 intersection 314 Imaging Sites 320 camera images 322 Light Localizer 322A Line segment 322B Line segment 323 intersection 324 imaging sites 340 camera images 342 Light Localizer 343 intersection 346 Image Markers 348 The edge of the bed 350A Camera Image Standard 350B Camera Image Standard 352 Light Localizer 366 Image Markers 400 Schematic diagram 402 Camera Images 404 AR marker 410 Schematic diagram 412 Camera Images 414 AR markers dX1 Shift amount dX2 shift amount dY1 shift amount dY3 Shift amount dθ2 angle dθ3 angle dθ5 angle OA1 imaging optical axis OA2 imaging optical axis Steps S10 to S24 of the automatic imaging position shift correction method

Claims

1. Processor and A memory in which a program to be executed by the aforementioned processor is stored, Equipped with, The aforementioned processor, Using an imaging device, a first image of the subject is obtained by imaging the subject placed on the bed. From the first captured image, the adjustment criteria specified for the bed are detected, The difference between the image acquisition reference set for the first image acquisition and the adjustment reference is derived. Based on the above difference, the eccentricity of the mounting state of the imaging device is determined. Medical image acquisition support device.

2. The processor determines that the mounting state of the imaging device is eccentric when the difference exceeds a first range. A medical image acquisition support device according to claim 1.

3. The processor outputs a control signal to correct the movement control of the bed based on the difference. A medical image acquisition support device according to claim 1.

4. The processor issues a warning if the difference exceeds the second range. A medical image acquisition support device according to claim 1.

5. The processor detects the light localizer displayed on the bed as the adjustment criterion. A medical image acquisition support device according to claim 1.

6. The processor detects an image marker represented on the bed as the adjustment criterion. A medical image acquisition support device according to claim 1.

7. The processor detects the position of the image marker in the first captured image as the adjustment reference position. The medical image acquisition support device according to claim 6.

8. The aforementioned processor, As the aforementioned image reference, the shape of the image marker represented on the bed is obtained, As the adjustment criterion, the shape of the image marker in the first captured image is detected, The difference between the shape of the image marker represented on the bed and the shape of the image marker in the first captured image is derived. The medical image acquisition support device according to claim 6.

9. The processor detects the structure of the bed as the adjustment criterion. A medical image acquisition support device according to claim 1.

10. The processor sets the adjustment criterion included in the second image acquired using the imaging device in a specified mounting state as the image reference. A medical image acquisition support device according to claim 1.

11. A computer that functions as a medical image acquisition support device, Using an imaging device, a first image of the subject is obtained by imaging the subject placed on the bed. From the first captured image, the adjustment criteria specified for the bed are detected, The difference between the image acquisition reference set for the first image acquisition and the adjustment reference is derived. Based on the above difference, the eccentricity of the mounting state of the imaging device is determined. How to operate a medical image acquisition support device.

12. A computer that functions as a medical image acquisition support device, A function that uses an imaging device to image a subject placed on a bed and acquire a first image of the subject. A function to detect the adjustment criteria defined for the bed from the first captured image, A function for deriving the difference between the image acquisition reference set for the first image acquisition image and the adjustment reference, and Based on the aforementioned difference, a function is implemented to determine the eccentricity of the mounting state of the imaging device. program.

13. An imaging device that images a subject and generates imaging data of the subject, An image reconstruction unit that generates a reconstructed image based on the aforementioned imaging data, Processor and A memory in which a program to be executed by the aforementioned processor is stored, Equipped with, The aforementioned processor, Using the imaging device, a first image of the subject is obtained by imaging the subject placed on the bed. From the first captured image, the adjustment criteria specified for the bed are detected, The difference between the image acquisition reference set for the first image acquisition and the adjustment reference is derived. Based on the above difference, the eccentricity of the mounting state of the imaging device is determined. Medical imaging system.

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