Radiography support system, radiography support method, and program

Abstract

To allow for easy positioning of the subject in the appropriate shooting location. [Solution] The radiography support system 100 is a radiography support system that assists the positioning of the imaging area in the subject H with respect to a radiography apparatus (radiation irradiation device 1 and radiation detection device 2), and comprises an acquisition unit (control unit 41) that acquires image information (image data of the optical image) based on an optical image obtained by photographing the imaging area with an optical camera 45, a generation unit (control unit 41) that uses a trained classifier (trained model 421) to take the image information acquired by the acquisition unit as input and generates first target position information relating to the target position of the imaging area, and an output unit (control unit 41) that outputs the first target position information generated by the generation unit, the first target position information including information corresponding to the size of the imaging area.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a radiation imaging support system, a radiation imaging support method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in the medical field, diagnosis has been performed based on radiation images obtained by radiation imaging. In order not to fail in radiation imaging, it is important to appropriately position (locate) a patient (subject). Therefore, techniques for assisting in positioning a patient in radiation imaging have been disclosed.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a technique for assisting in positioning in current radiation imaging using an image of the same imaging site of a patient that was imaged in the past.

[0004] Also, Patent Document 2 describes the following technique. Using the current spatial information of the imaging site of an actual patient imaged by an optical camera, a virtual scene (initial target position) of a virtual patient at a correct position or a correct pose stored in advance is registered to generate a matching target position. Then, an optical image of the actual patient obtained by the optical camera and the matching target position of the virtual patient are displayed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] ​However, the invention described in Patent Document 1 has the problem that it cannot be used for patients undergoing radiography for the first time because it requires images taken of the same patient in the past. Furthermore, in the invention described in Patent Document 2, the target position is based solely on a virtual scene of a virtual patient. Therefore, if the size of the target position does not match the size of a real patient, or if the size of the target position is larger than the size of a real patient, a gap will occur at the target position. Conversely, if the opposite is true, the target position will be covered by the real patient. In other words, it may not be possible to easily position the device in the appropriate location.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a radiography support system, a radiography support method, and a program that can easily position a subject at an appropriate shooting position. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the above problems, the radiography support system described in claim 1 is: A radiography support system that assists in positioning the imaging area on a subject with respect to a radiography apparatus, An acquisition unit that acquires image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera, A generation unit that uses a trained classifier as input to the image information acquired by the acquisition unit and generates first target position information relating to the target position of the imaged area, An output unit that outputs the first target position information generated by the generation unit, Equipped with, The aforementioned first target position information includes information corresponding to the size of the area being photographed.

[0009] The radiography support system according to claim 2 is A radiography support system that assists in positioning the imaging area on a subject with respect to a radiography apparatus, An acquisition unit that acquires image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera, A generation unit generates first target position information regarding the target position of the shooting area based on first reference position information regarding the shooting position of the shooting area and the image information acquired by the acquisition unit, An output unit that outputs the first target position information generated by the generation unit, Equipped with, The aforementioned first target position information includes information corresponding to the size of the area being photographed.

[0010] The invention described in claim 3 relates to the radiography support system described in claim 1 or 2, The aforementioned first target position information includes information regarding the outer shape of the area being photographed.

[0011] The invention described in claim 4 relates to the radiography support system described in claim 1 or 2, The aforementioned first target position information is based on the shooting direction of the optical camera.

[0012] The invention described in claim 5 is a radiography support system according to claim 1 or 2, The output unit outputs the optical image including the radiation detection device provided by the radiography apparatus, and outputs the first target position information such that it is located on at least a portion of the radiation detection device in the optical image.

[0013] The invention described in claim 6 relates to the radiography support system described in claim 1 or 2, The output unit outputs the first target location information and the first current location information relating to the location of the imaged area included in the image information in a form that allows for identification.

[0014] The invention described in claim 7 is a radiography support system described in claim 6, The system includes a determination unit that determines that the first target location information and the first current location information match when the difference between the first target location information and the first current location information is within a predetermined first threshold. The predetermined first threshold is set for each imaging site.

[0015] The invention according to claim 8 is the radiation imaging support system according to claim 6, wherein a determination unit that determines that the first target position information and the first current position information match when the difference between the first target position information and the first current position information is within a predetermined first threshold; when the determination unit determines that the first target position information and the first current position information match, the output unit outputs in a form that can identify the match.

[0016] The radiation imaging support method according to claim 9 is a radiation imaging support method for assisting in positioning a imaging site on a subject with respect to a radiation imaging device, comprising: an acquisition step of acquiring image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the imaging site with an optical camera; a generation step of generating first target position information regarding a target position of the imaging site by inputting the image information acquired in the acquisition step using a learned discriminator; an output step of outputting the first target position information generated in the generation step; and the first target position information includes information corresponding to the size of the imaging site.

[0017] The radiation imaging support method according to claim 10 is a radiation imaging support method for assisting in positioning a imaging site on a subject with respect to a radiation imaging device, comprising: an acquisition step of acquiring image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the imaging site with an optical camera; a generation step of generating first target position information regarding a target position of the imaging site based on first reference position information regarding a imaging position of the imaging site and the image information acquired in the acquisition step; an output step of outputting the first target position information generated in the generation step; and The aforementioned first target position information includes information corresponding to the size of the area being photographed.

[0018] The program described in claim 11 is A computer for a radiography support system that assists in positioning the imaging area on the subject is provided for the radiography apparatus. An acquisition unit that acquires image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera. A generation unit that uses a trained classifier as input to the image information acquired by the acquisition unit and generates first target position information relating to the target position of the imaged area, An output unit that outputs the first target position information generated by the generation unit, To make it function as, The aforementioned first target position information includes information corresponding to the size of the area being photographed.

[0019] The program described in claim 12 is A computer for a radiography support system that assists in positioning the imaging area on the subject is provided for the radiography apparatus. An acquisition unit that acquires image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera. A generation unit generates first target position information regarding the target position of the shooting area based on first reference position information regarding the shooting position of the shooting area and the image information acquired by the acquisition unit. An output unit that outputs the first target position information generated by the generation unit, To make it function as, The aforementioned first target position information includes information corresponding to the size of the area being photographed.

[0020] The radiography support system according to claim 13 is: A radiography support system that assists in positioning the imaging area on a subject with respect to a radiography apparatus, An acquisition unit that acquires image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera, A generation unit that uses a trained classifier as input to the image information acquired by the acquisition unit and generates second target position information relating to the target position of the related part corresponding to the image acquisition area, An output unit that outputs the second target position information generated by the generation unit, It is equipped with.

[0021] The radiography support system according to claim 14 is A radiography support system that assists in positioning the imaging area on a subject with respect to a radiography apparatus, An acquisition unit that acquires image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera, A generation unit generates second reference position information relating to the position of a related part corresponding to the shooting position of the shooting part, and second target position information relating to the target position of the related part corresponding to the shooting part, based on the image information acquired by the acquisition unit. An output unit that outputs the second target position information generated by the generation unit, It is equipped with.

[0022] The invention described in claim 15 relates to the radiography support system described in claims 13 or 14, The second target position information includes information corresponding to the size of the related area corresponding to the imaging area.

[0023] The invention described in claim 16 relates to the radiography support system described in claims 13 or 14, The second target position information includes information regarding the outline of the related area corresponding to the imaging area.

[0024] The invention described in claim 17 relates to the radiography support system described in claims 13 or 14, The output unit outputs the second target position information and the second current position information relating to the position of the related part corresponding to the imaged part included in the image information in a form that allows for identification.

[0025] The invention described in claim 18 is a radiography support system described in claim 17, The system includes a determination unit that determines that the second target location information and the second current location information match when the difference between the second target location information and the second current location information is within a predetermined second threshold. The predetermined second threshold is set for each related area corresponding to the imaging area.

[0026] The invention described in claim 19 is a radiography support system described in claim 18, The determination unit determines that the first target position information and the first current position information match if the difference between the first target position information relating to the target position of the imaging area and the first current position information relating to the position of the imaging area included in the image information is within a predetermined first threshold, and determines whether the second target position information and the second current position information match.

[0027] The radiography support method described in claim 20 is: A radiography support method for assisting the positioning of imaging areas on a subject with respect to a radiography apparatus, An acquisition step of acquiring image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera, A generation step that uses a trained classifier to take the image information acquired in the acquisition step as input and generates second target position information relating to the target position of the related part corresponding to the imaged part, An output step which outputs the second target position information generated by the generation step, It holds.

[0028] The radiography support method described in claim 21 is: A radiography support method for assisting the positioning of imaging areas on a subject with respect to a radiography apparatus, An acquisition step of acquiring image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera, A generation step that generates second reference position information relating to the position of a related part corresponding to the shooting position of the shooting part, and second target position information relating to the target position of the related part corresponding to the shooting part, based on the image information acquired in the acquisition step, An output step which outputs the second target position information generated by the generation step, It holds.

[0029] The program described in claim 22 is A computer for a radiography support system that assists in positioning the imaging area on the subject is provided for the radiography apparatus. An acquisition unit that acquires image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera. A generation unit that uses a trained classifier as input to the image information acquired by the acquisition unit and generates second target position information relating to the target position of the related part corresponding to the image acquisition area, An output unit that outputs the second target position information generated by the generation unit, To make it function as such.

[0030] The program described in claim 23 is A computer for a radiography support system that assists in positioning the imaging area on the subject is provided for the radiography apparatus. An acquisition unit that acquires image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera. A generation unit generates second reference position information relating to the position of a related part corresponding to the shooting position of the shooting part, and second target position information relating to the target position of the related part corresponding to the shooting part, based on the image information acquired by the acquisition unit. An output unit that outputs the second target position information generated by the generation unit, To make it function as such. [Effects of the Invention]

[0031] According to the present invention, the subject can be easily positioned at an appropriate shooting location. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0032] [Figure 1] This figure shows the overall configuration of the radiography support system in the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the console in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the imaging support device. [Figure 4] This is a flowchart showing the flow of the image capture support process in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of displaying the outline of the current location of the area being photographed overlaid on an optical image. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of displaying the outline of the current position of the area being photographed and the outline of the target position of the area being photographed overlaid on an optical image. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of displaying information in a way that allows for identification that the target location information and the current location information match. [Figure 8] This figure shows the overall configuration of the radiography support system in the second embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart showing the flow of the image capture support process in the second embodiment. [Figure 10] This figure shows the overall configuration of the radiography support system in the third embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a flowchart showing the flow of the image capture support process in the third embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a flowchart showing the flow of the image capture support process in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 13] This is a flowchart showing the flow of the image capture support process in the fifth embodiment. [Figure 14] This is a flowchart showing the flow of the image capture support process in the sixth embodiment. [Figure 15] This is a flowchart showing the flow of the image capture support process in the seventh embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0033] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. However, the scope of the invention is not limited to the illustrated examples.

[0034] <First Embodiment> [Configuration of the radiography support system 100] First, the configuration of the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the radiography support system 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] As shown in Figure 1, the radiography support system 100 is comprised of a radiation irradiation device 1, a radiation detection device 2, a console 3, and a radiography support device 4. Console 3 is configured to be connected to radiation detection device 2 in a way that allows for data transmission and reception. Furthermore, the radiation irradiation device 1 and the radiation detection device 2 are radiography devices.

[0036] The radiation irradiation device 1 comprises a radiation source 11, an irradiation control device 12, and an irradiation switch 13. The radiation source 11 is positioned opposite the radiation detection device 2, with the subject H (the person being tested) in between, and irradiates the subject H with radiation (X-rays). The irradiation control device 12 has an operating unit that receives input such as radiation irradiation conditions. When the irradiation switch 13 is pressed by the operator of the radiation irradiation device 1, the irradiation control device 12 irradiates with radiation from the radiation source 11 based on the input radiation irradiation conditions.

[0037] The radiation detection device 2 detects radiation emitted from the radiation source 11 and transmitted through the subject H, and captures a radiation image. The radiation detection device 2 is configured to include a detector holding unit 22, a radiation detector P, and the like.

[0038] The radiation detector P consists of components such as an FPD (Flat Panel Detector). The radiation detector P has, for example, a glass substrate and detects radiation (X-rays) irradiated from the radiation irradiation device 1 and transmitted through at least the subject H at predetermined positions on the substrate, according to its intensity. The radiation detector P has multiple detection elements (pixels) arranged in a matrix that convert the detected radiation into electrical signals and store them. Each pixel is equipped with a switching unit such as a TFT (Thin Film Transistor). The radiation detector P controls the switching unit of each pixel based on the image reading conditions input from the console 3, switching the reading of the electrical signal accumulated in each pixel, and acquires image data by reading the electrical signal accumulated in each pixel. The radiation detector P then outputs the acquired image data to console 3.

[0039] Console 3 outputs image reading conditions to the radiation detector P and controls the radiation image reading operation by the radiation detector P.

[0040] As shown in Figure 2, console 3 comprises a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, an operation unit 33, a display unit 34, and a communication unit 35, and each unit is connected by a bus 36.

[0041] The control unit 31 consists of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The CPU of the control unit 31 reads system programs and various processing programs stored in the memory unit 32 in response to operations on the operation unit 33, loads them into the RAM, and centrally controls the operation of each part of the console 3 according to the loaded programs.

[0042] The storage unit 32 is composed of non-volatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk, or the like. The storage unit 32 stores data such as various programs executed by the control unit 31, parameters necessary for processing by the programs, or processing results. The various programs are stored in the form of readable program code, and the control unit 31 sequentially executes operations according to the program code. Furthermore, the memory unit 32 stores the radiographic images acquired by radiography, associating them with patient information (patient ID, patient name, etc.) and examination information (examination date, imaging conditions, etc.).

[0043] The operation unit 33 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 operations to the control unit 31. The operation unit 33 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.

[0044] The display unit 34 consists of monitors such as LCDs (Liquid Crystal Displays) and CRTs (Cathode Ray Tubes), and displays input instructions and data from the operation unit 33 according to the instructions of the display signals input from the control unit 31.

[0045] The communication unit 35 has an interface for transmitting and receiving data with the radiation detection device 2, etc. The communication between the console 3 and the radiation detection device 2 may be via wired or wireless communication. Furthermore, the communication unit 35 is connected to the external system 5 via a network, allowing for the exchange of order information and other data.

[0046] The imaging support device 4 is a device that assists the radiography apparatus in positioning the imaging area on the subject H.

[0047] As shown in Figure 3, the shooting support device 4 comprises a control unit 41, a storage unit 42, an operation unit 43, a display unit 44, and an optical camera 45, and each unit is connected by a bus 46.

[0048] The control unit 41 is composed of a CPU, RAM, and the like. The CPU of the control unit 41 reads the system program and various processing programs stored in the memory unit 42, expands them into RAM, and centrally controls the operation of each part of the imaging support device 4 according to the expanded programs.

[0049] The memory unit 42 is composed of non-volatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk, or the like. The storage unit 42 stores data such as various programs executed by the control unit 41, parameters necessary for processing by those programs, or processing results. The various programs are stored in the form of readable program code, and the control unit 41 sequentially executes operations according to the program code.

[0050] Furthermore, the memory unit 42 stores a first threshold value (predetermined first threshold value) for each imaging area, which is used in the imaging support processing described later to determine whether the first target location information and the first current location information match, based on the difference between the first target location information and the first current location information. For example, the first threshold value is set to a relatively small value when the imaging area is a small area such as a finger, while it is set to a relatively large value when the imaging area is a large area such as a knee.

[0051] Furthermore, the memory unit 42 stores the learned model 421 used in the image capture support processing. The trained model 421 was created by machine learning (deep learning) using image data of optical images captured by the optical camera 45, and first target position information (ground truth label) for each imaging area corresponding to the image data. This first target position information is information about the target position that is appropriate for radiography of the imaging area in subject H. Then, when the trained model 421 receives image data of an optical image, it performs inference and generates imaging area information indicating the area captured in the optical image, imaging area region information indicating the region of the imaging area, and first target position information of the imaging area. The trained model 421 may be an AI (Artificial Intelligence) having a deeply trained neural network. Furthermore, the trained model 421 may also be machine-trained using information from an external device configured to communicate with the imaging support device 4. This information from the external device may include, for example, patient information and medical information from HIS / RIS, optical image data of the entire patient or imaging room using an optical camera different from the optical camera 45, viewpoint information of the imaging technician during imaging such as an eye tracker, and examination information such as electrocardiograms and oxygen saturation used at the same time.

[0052] The operation unit 43 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 operations to the control unit 41. The operation unit 43 may also be equipped with a touch panel on the display screen of the display unit 44, in which case it outputs instruction signals input via the touch panel to the control unit 41.

[0053] The display unit 44 is composed of a monitor such as an LCD or CRT, and displays data and other information according to the instructions of the display signals input from the control unit 41. In this embodiment, the display unit 44 is positioned so that it can be seen by the operator of the radiography apparatus (radiography technician, etc.) and the subject H.

[0054] The optical camera 45 is composed of, for example, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) camera, a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor Device) camera, or an infrared camera, and captures optical images. In this embodiment, the optical camera 45 acquires an optical image of the region that includes the region irradiated by radiation from the radiation source 11 (basically, the region irradiated by radiation or a slightly larger region). The optical camera 45 is installed, for example, near the radiation source 11 of the radiation irradiation device 1. The optical camera 45's orientation (shooting direction) can be changed. The optical camera 45 captures an optical image in accordance with instructions from the control unit 41 and transmits the captured optical image to the control unit 41. The shooting support device 4 may also be equipped with multiple optical cameras 45.

[0055] External system 5 is an external information system that works in conjunction with console 3, and in this embodiment, for example, is a radiology information system (RIS).

[0056] [Operation of the radiography support system 100] Next, the operation of the radiography support system 100 will be described. Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the imaging support process performed by the imaging support device 4. The imaging support process is performed before radiography by the cooperation of the control unit 41 and the program stored in the storage unit 42.

[0057] First, the control unit 41 causes the optical camera 45 to photograph the area to be photographed of the subject H and acquires optical image data (image information based on the optical image) (step A1). In other words, the control unit 41 acquires image information based on the optical image obtained by photographing the area to be photographed of the subject with the optical camera 45. Here, the control unit 41 functions as an acquisition unit. Step A1 is the acquisition process. For example, the operator positions the subject H and instructs the optical camera 45 to take a picture using the operation unit 43. The control unit 41 causes the optical camera 45 to take a picture in response to the shooting instruction from the operation unit 43. The optical camera 45 then takes an optical image in a preset shooting direction and transmits it to the control unit 41. As a result, the control unit 41 can acquire an optical image of an area that includes the area irradiated by radiation from the radiation source 11, for example, the area irradiated by radiation from the radiation source 11 or an area slightly larger than that.

[0058] Next, the control unit 41 displays the optical image acquired in step A1 on the display unit 44 (step A2).

[0059] Next, the control unit 41 recognizes the shooting area of ​​the subject and the shooting area region based on the image data of the optical image acquired in step A1 (step A3). Specifically, the control unit 41 inputs the image data of the optical image acquired in step A1 to the trained model 421. The control unit 41 then acquires the imaging area information of the subject H and the imaging area region information as the output of the trained model 421.

[0060] Next, the control unit 41 overlays the outline of the imaging area acquired in step A3 onto the optical image displayed in step A2 as the outline of the current position of the imaging area (step A4). The outline of the current position of the imaging area indicates the size of the imaging area. Here, "outer frame" refers to the contour of the area of ​​the subject H being photographed. However, the control unit 41 may display only a portion of the contour of the area being photographed, as long as the shape and size of the outer frame are recognizable. For example, if the area being photographed is a foot, the control unit 41 displays the inner and outer contours of the foot. Figure 5 shows an example in which the outline 441a of the current position of the imaging area is superimposed on the optical image 441.

[0061] Next, the control unit 41 acquires first target position information corresponding to the imaging area information acquired in step A3 as the output of the trained model 421. Then, the control unit 41 corrects the first target position information based on the outline of the current position of the imaging area and the shooting direction of the optical camera 45 to generate first target position information corresponding to the size of the imaging area (step A5). In other words, the control unit 41 uses the trained model 421 (trained classifier) ​​as input, takes image information based on the optical image acquired by the acquisition unit as input, and generates first target position information regarding the target position of the imaging area. Here, the control unit 41 functions as a generation unit. The first target position information also includes information corresponding to the size of the imaging area (information corresponding to the outline of the current position of the imaging area). Furthermore, the first target position information is based on the shooting direction of the optical camera 45. Step A5 is the generation process.

[0062] Next, the control unit 41 displays the first target position information corresponding to the size of the imaging area generated in step A5, superimposed on the optical image displayed in step A2 as the outline of the target position of the imaging area (step A6). In other words, the control unit 41 outputs the first target position information generated by the generation unit. Here, the control unit 41 functions as an output unit. Step A6 is the output process. Figure 6 shows an example in which the outline 441a of the current position of the imaging area and the outline 441b of the target position of the imaging area are superimposed on the optical image 441.

[0063] Furthermore, when the control unit 41 displays the outline 441b of the target position of the imaging area, it displays it so that the outline 441b of the target position of the imaging area is located on at least a portion of the radiation detector P, as shown in Figure 6. In other words, the control unit 41 outputs an optical image including the radiation detector P of the radiation detection device 2 that is equipped with the radiography apparatus, and outputs it so that the first target position information is located on at least a portion of the radiation detector P of the radiation detection device 2 in the optical image.

[0064] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, the control unit 41 displays the outline 441a of the current position of the imaging area and the outline 441b of the target position of the imaging area in different colors. In other words, the control unit 41 outputs the outline 441b of the target position of the imaging area (first target position information) and the outline 441a of the current position of the imaging area (first current position information regarding the position of the imaging area included in the image information) in a distinguishable form. Note that the distinguishable form is not limited to differences in color, but may also include differences in the type or thickness of the outline lines, blinking of the outline lines, the addition of symbols or characters, etc.

[0065] Next, the control unit 41 determines whether the outline of the current position of the imaging area displayed in step A4 matches the outline of the target position of the imaging area displayed in step A6 (step A7). Specifically, the control unit 41 obtains a first threshold corresponding to the imaging area information acquired in step A3 from the storage unit 42. The control unit 41 then determines that the outline of the current position of the imaging area and the outline of the target position of the imaging area match if the difference between the outline of the current position of the imaging area and the outline of the target position of the imaging area is within the first threshold. In other words, the control unit 41 determines that the first target position information and the first current position information match if the difference between the first target position information and the first current position information is within a predetermined first threshold. Here, the control unit 41 functions as a determination unit.

[0066] If the outline of the current position of the area being photographed matches the outline of the target position of the area being photographed (Step A7; YES), the control unit 41 displays the match in a form that makes it identifiable (Step A8) and terminates the process. In other words, the control unit 41 outputs the match in a form that makes it identifiable when the determination unit determines that the first target position information and the first current position information match. Figure 7 shows an example of displaying in a way that makes it possible to identify that the outline of the current position of the imaging area matches the outline of the target position of the imaging area. In the example shown in Figure 7, when the outline 441a of the current position of the area to be photographed matches (overlaps) the outline 441b of the target position of the area to be photographed, the control unit 41 erases the outline 441a of the current position of the area to be photographed and displays only the outline 441b of the target position of the area to be photographed. In this case, the control unit 41 may display the outline 441b of the target position of the area to be photographed after the match in a different color from the outline 441b of the target position of the area to be photographed before the match and the outline 441a of the current position of the area to be photographed. This allows the operator and subject H to recognize that the current position of the imaging site matches the appropriate position (target position) for radiography. When the operator recognizes that the current position of the area to be scanned matches the appropriate position for radiography, the radiography device starts radiography.

[0067] On the other hand, if the outline of the current position of the imaging area does not match the outline of the target position of the imaging area (step A7; NO), the control unit 41 returns to step A1. Then, the control unit 41 repeats steps A1 to A7 until they match. The operator and subject H move the shooting area so that the outline 441a of the current position of the shooting area displayed on the display unit 44 coincides with the outline 441b of the target position of the shooting area.

[0068] <Second Embodiment> Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The following will primarily describe the differences from the first embodiment.

[0069] Figure 8 shows the configuration of the radiography support system 100 according to the second embodiment. As shown in Figure 8, in the second embodiment, the console 3 is configured to be connected to the radiation detection device 2 and the imaging support device 4 so as to be able to send and receive data.

[0070] Furthermore, the memory unit 42 in the second embodiment stores template images for each imaging area. Furthermore, the memory unit 42 stores first reference position information that indicates a reference position for the radiography position for each imaging area.

[0071] Figure 9 shows a flowchart of the image capture support process in the second embodiment. First, the control unit 41 obtains order information transmitted from the external system 5 to the console 3 from the console 3 (step B1). The order information includes patient information, imaging conditions, examination items, and request information. The imaging conditions include information on the patient's posture during imaging, irradiation direction, imaging area (e.g., chest, legs, etc.), tube voltage and current, irradiation time, patient's physique, and whether or not a grid is used. The imaging area also includes imaging directions such as frontal, lateral, and oblique views.

[0072] Next, the control unit 41 performs steps B2 and B3, which are the same as steps A1 and A2 described above.

[0073] Next, the control unit 41 obtains information about the subject's shooting area from the order information acquired in step B1. The control unit 41 then retrieves a template image corresponding to the imaging area information obtained from the order information from the storage unit 42. Then, the control unit 41 performs template matching using the template image to recognize (acquire) the imaging area in the image data of the optical image acquired in step B2 (step B4).

[0074] Next, the control unit 41 performs step B5, which is the same as step A4 of the image acquisition support processing described above.

[0075] Next, the control unit 41 obtains first reference position information corresponding to the imaging area information acquired in step B4 from the storage unit 42. Then, the control unit 41 corrects the first reference position information based on the outline of the current position of the area to be photographed and the shooting direction of the optical camera 45 to generate first target position information corresponding to the size of the area to be photographed (step B6). In other words, the control unit 41 generates first target position information relating to the target position of the area to be photographed based on the first reference position information relating to the shooting position of the area to be photographed and the image information acquired by the acquisition unit. Here, the control unit 41 functions as a generation unit. The first target position information also includes information corresponding to the size of the area to be photographed (information corresponding to the outline of the area to be photographed). The first target position information is also based on the shooting direction of the optical camera 45. Step B6 is the generation process.

[0076] Next, the control unit 41 displays the first target position information corresponding to the size of the imaging area generated in step B6, superimposed on the optical image displayed in step B3 as the outline of the target position of the imaging area (step B7). In other words, the control unit 41 outputs the first target position information generated by the generation unit. Here, the control unit 41 functions as an output unit. Step B7 is the output process.

[0077] Next, the control unit 41 performs steps B8 and B9, which are the same as steps A7 and A8 described above. After step B9, the control unit 41 transmits to the console 3 that the current position of the imaging site has coincided with a position suitable for radiography (step B10), and terminates this process. When Console 3 receives confirmation from the imaging support device 4 that the current position of the imaging site matches the appropriate position for radiography, it initiates radiography based on the operator's instructions.

[0078] In step B10, the control unit 41 may transmit display data to the console 3 in a manner that allows identification that the outline of the current position of the imaging area matches the outline of the target position of the imaging area. Upon receiving the display data, the console 3 displays the information on the display unit 34 based on the display data.

[0079] On the other hand, if the outline of the current position of the imaging area does not match the outline of the target position of the imaging area (step B8; NO), the control unit 41 returns to step B2. Then, the control unit 41 repeats steps B2 to B8 until they match. The operator and subject H move the shooting area so that the outline 441a of the current position of the shooting area displayed on the display unit 44 coincides with the outline 441b of the target position of the shooting area.

[0080] <Third Embodiment> Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The following will primarily describe the differences from the first and second embodiments.

[0081] Figure 10 shows the configuration of the radiography support system 100 according to the third embodiment. As shown in Figure 10, in the third embodiment, the imaging support device 4 is connected to the radiation irradiation device 1 in a manner that enables data transmission and reception.

[0082] Figure 11 shows a flowchart of the image capture support process in the third embodiment. First, the control unit 41 performs steps C1 to C8, which are the same as steps A1 to A8 of the first embodiment's image acquisition support processing. After step C8, the control unit 41 transmits to the radiation irradiation device 1 that the current position of the imaging site has coincided with a position suitable for radiography (step C9), and terminates this process. When the radiation irradiation device 1 receives confirmation from the imaging support device 4 that the current position of the imaging site matches the appropriate position for radiography, it starts radiography based on the operator's instructions.

[0083] If the radiation irradiation device 1 is equipped with a display unit, the control unit 41 may, in step C9, transmit display data to the radiation irradiation device 1 in a manner that allows for the identification that the outline of the current position of the imaging area matches the outline of the target position of the imaging area. Upon receiving the display data, the radiation irradiation device 1 displays the information on its display unit based on the display data.

[0084] On the other hand, if the outline of the current position of the imaging area does not match the outline of the target position of the imaging area (step C7; NO), the control unit 41 transmits information to the radiation irradiation device 1 to adjust the tube angle and irradiation field based on the difference between the outline of the current position of the imaging area and the outline of the target position of the imaging area (step C10), and returns this process to step C1. The control unit 41 then repeats steps C1 to C7 and C10 until they match. When the radiation irradiation device 1 receives information from the imaging support device 4 for adjusting the tube angle and irradiation field, it changes the tube angle and irradiation field at the radiation source 11 based on that information, through the control of the irradiation control device 12. In this case, the operator and subject H may not move the area being photographed, but rather adjust the tube angle and illumination field to align the outline of the current position of the area being photographed with the outline of the target position of the area being photographed.

[0085] <Fourth Embodiment> Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The following will mainly describe the differences from the first embodiment.

[0086] The configuration of the radiography support system 100 in the fourth embodiment is the same as in Figure 1.

[0087] Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, when image data of an optical image is input to the trained model 421, it outputs the confidence level of the information to be output, along with the shooting area information, the shooting area region information of the shooting area, and the first target position information of the shooting area. Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, the storage unit 42 stores template images for each imaging area. The control unit 41 then calculates the similarity when performing template matching using these template images.

[0088] Figure 12 shows a flowchart of the image capture support process in the fourth embodiment. First, the control unit 41 performs steps D1 and D2, which are the same as steps A1 and A2 of the first embodiment's image acquisition support processing.

[0089] Next, the control unit 41 inputs the image data of the optical image acquired in step D1 to the trained model 421. Then, the control unit 41 acquires the imaging area information of the subject H as the output of the trained model 421 (step D3).

[0090] Next, the control unit 41 sets the imaging area information so that the confidence level as the output of the trained model 421 and the similarity when performing template matching using the template image corresponding to the imaging area information acquired in step D3 are maximized (step D4).

[0091] In step D4, the control unit 41 may set the imaging area information in the following manner. Specifically, the control unit 41 obtains imaging area information (first imaging area information) and confidence level as the output of the trained model 421. The control unit 41 also obtains imaging area information (second imaging area information) and similarity level by performing template matching using the template image corresponding to the imaging area information obtained in step D3. The control unit 41 then compares the confidence level and the similarity level and sets the one with higher accuracy between the first imaging area information and the second imaging area information as the imaging area information.

[0092] Next, the control unit 41 performs steps D5 to D9, which are the same as steps A4 to A8 of the first embodiment's image capture support processing.

[0093] <Fifth Embodiment> Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The following will primarily describe the differences from the second embodiment.

[0094] The configuration of the radiography support system 100 in the fifth embodiment is the same as in Figure 2.

[0095] Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment, the trained model 421, similar to the fourth embodiment, outputs the confidence level of the information to be output along with the shooting area information, the shooting area region information of the shooting area, and the first target position information of the shooting area when optical image data is input. Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment, the storage unit 42 stores template images for each imaging area, similar to the fourth embodiment. The control unit 41 then calculates the similarity when performing template matching using these template images.

[0096] Figure 13 shows a flowchart of the image capture support process in the fifth embodiment. First, the control unit 41 performs steps E1 to E3, which are the same as steps B1 to B3 of the second embodiment's image acquisition support processing.

[0097] Next, the control unit 41 obtains information on the subject's shooting area from the order information acquired in step E1 (step E4).

[0098] Next, the control unit 41 inputs the image data of the optical image acquired in step E2 into the trained model 421. The control unit 41 then sets the imaging area information so that the confidence level as the output of the trained model 421 and the similarity when performing template matching using the template image corresponding to the imaging area information acquired in step E4 are maximized (step E5).

[0099] Next, the control unit 41 performs steps E6 to E11, which are the same as steps B5 to B10 of the second embodiment's image capture support processing.

[0100] If the imaging area information obtained in step E4 is insufficient (for example, if information on the imaging direction is not included), the control unit 41 may input the optical image data into the trained model 421 and obtain imaging area information as an output.

[0101] <Sixth Embodiment> Next, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The following will primarily describe the differences from the first embodiment.

[0102] The configuration of the radiography support system 100 in the sixth embodiment is the same as in Figure 1.

[0103] The storage unit 42 of the sixth embodiment stores a second threshold value (a predetermined second threshold value) for each relevant part, which is used in the shooting support processing of the sixth embodiment described later to determine whether the second target location information and the second current location information match, based on the difference between the second target location information and the second current location information. Here, "related area" refers to an area different from the imaging area, which, when positioned at a specific location, can be positioned appropriately within the irradiation range of the radiation irradiation device 1. For example, if the area being scanned is the inside of the left knee, related areas include the right leg (the opposite leg) and the pelvis (the part that controls the direction of the left leg). Since these related areas are specified for each imaging procedure, multiple related areas may be specified depending on the imaging procedure. The second threshold is set to a relatively small value when the affected area is a small part such as a finger, and to a relatively large value when the affected area is a large part such as a knee. Furthermore, a second threshold may be set for each imaging procedure.

[0104] The trained model 421 of the sixth embodiment was trained using machine learning (deep learning) with image data of optical images captured by the optical camera 45, first target position information (ground truth label) for each shooting area corresponding to the image data, and second target position information (ground truth label) for each related area corresponding to the shooting area. The second target position information is information regarding a target position that is appropriate for radiographic imaging of the related area corresponding to the imaging site in subject H. Then, when the trained model 421 of the sixth embodiment receives image data of an optical image, it performs inference and generates imaging area information indicating the imaging area captured in the optical image, imaging area region information indicating the region of the imaging area, first target position information of the imaging area, related area information indicating a related area, related area region information indicating the region of the related area, and second target position information of the related area.

[0105] Figure 14 shows a flowchart of the image capture support process in the sixth embodiment. First, the control unit 41 performs steps F1 and F2, which are the same as steps A1 and A2 of the first embodiment's image acquisition support processing.

[0106] Next, the control unit 41 recognizes the shooting area, shooting area region, related area, and related area region of the subject based on the image data of the optical image acquired in step F1. Specifically, the control unit 41 inputs the image data of the optical image acquired in step F1 to the trained model 421. Then, the control unit 41 acquires the imaging area information, imaging area region information, related area information, and related area region information of the subject H as the output of the trained model 421 (step F3).

[0107] Next, the control unit 41 overlays the outline of the imaging area acquired in step F3 as the outline of the current position of the imaging area, and the outline of the related area as the outline of the current position of the related area, onto the optical image displayed in step F2 (step F4). The outline of the current position of the related area indicates the size of the related area. Here, the outline of the current position of the related part is the second current position information relating to the position of the related part that corresponds to the image area included in the image information. In step F4, the control unit 41 may display the second current location information (outline of the current location of the related part) together with the first current location information (outline of the current location of the imaging part), or it may not display the first current location information and may only display the second current location information.

[0108] Next, the control unit 41 generates first target position information, similar to step A5 of the shooting support processing in the first embodiment. Then, the control unit 41 acquires second target position information corresponding to the related part information acquired in step F3 as the output of the trained model 421. Then, the control unit 41 corrects the second target position information based on the outline of the current position of the related part and the shooting direction of the optical camera 45 to generate second target position information corresponding to the size of the related part (step F5). In other words, the control unit 41 uses the trained model 421 (trained classifier) ​​as input, takes image information based on the optical image acquired by the acquisition unit as input, and generates second target position information regarding the target position of the related part corresponding to the shooting area. Here, the control unit 41 functions as a generation unit. The second target position information also includes information corresponding to the size of the related part corresponding to the shooting area (information corresponding to the outline of the current position of the related part). Step F5 is the generation process.

[0109] Next, the control unit 41 displays the first target position information corresponding to the size of the imaging area generated in step F5, superimposed on the optical image displayed in step F2 as the outline of the target position of the imaging area. Then, the control unit 41 displays the second target position information corresponding to the size of the related area generated in step F5, superimposed on the optical image displayed in step F2 as the outline of the target position of the related area (step F6). In other words, the control unit 41 outputs the second target position information generated by the generation unit. Here, the control unit 41 functions as an output unit. Step F6 is the output process. In step F6, the control unit 41 may display the second target position information (outline of the target position of the related part) together with the first target position information (outline of the target position of the imaging part), or it may not display the first target position information and may only display the second target position information. Furthermore, in steps F4 and F6, the control unit 41 may not display the first current position information and the first target position information, but may only display the second current position information and the second target position information.

[0110] Furthermore, in steps F4 and F6, it is preferable to display the first current location information, the first target location information, the second current location information, and the second target location information in different ways, such as the color, line type, and shape of the outlines of each information, so that the operator and the subject H can easily identify each piece of information. Furthermore, if multiple pieces of related part information indicating related parts corresponding to the imaging area are acquired in step F3, the control unit 41 displays the second current position information and the second target position information corresponding to each piece of related part information in a different manner, such as by the color, line type, and shape of the outline of each, in order to make them easy to distinguish.

[0111] Next, the control unit 41 determines whether the outline of the current position of the area to be photographed (first current position information) displayed in step F4 matches the outline of the target position of the area to be photographed (first target position information) displayed in step F6, similar to step A7 of the first embodiment. Then, the control unit 41 determines whether the outline of the current position of the related part displayed in step F4 (second current position information) matches the outline of the target position of the related part displayed in step F6 (second target position information) (step F7). Specifically, the control unit 41 obtains a second threshold corresponding to the related part information acquired in step F3 from the storage unit 42. The control unit 41 then determines that the outline of the current position of the related part and the outline of the target position of the related part match if the difference between the outline of the current position of the related part and the outline of the target position of the related part is within the second threshold. In other words, the control unit 41 determines that the second target position information and the second current position information match if the difference between the second target position information and the second current position information is within a predetermined second threshold. Here, the control unit 41 functions as a determination unit.

[0112] In steps F4 and F6, if the first current location information and the first target location information are not displayed, and only the second current location information and the second target location information are displayed, the control unit 41 may perform the following processing in step F7. This processing involves not determining whether the first current location information and the first target location information match, but only determining whether the second current location information and the second target location information match.

[0113] However, the first target position information and the second target position information are interrelated. Therefore, even if the second current position information matches the second target position information, the first current position information must match the first target position information in order to achieve the optimal shooting posture. Accordingly, in step F7, it is preferable that the control unit 41 determines whether the first current position information and the first target position information match, and also determines whether the second current position information and the second target position information match.

[0114] If the outline of the current position of the imaging area matches the outline of the target position of the imaging area, and the outline of the current position of the related area matches the outline of the target position of the related area (Step F7; YES), the control unit 41 displays the matching in an identifiable manner (Step F8) and terminates this process. This allows the operator and subject H to recognize that the current position of the imaging site matches the appropriate position (target position) for radiography. When the operator recognizes that the current position of the area to be scanned matches the appropriate position for radiography, the radiography device starts radiography. In step F7, if the control unit 41 does not determine whether the first current location information and the first target location information match, but only whether the second current location information and the second target location information match, the control unit 41 may perform the following process. This process is as follows: If the outline of the current location of the related part matches the outline of the target location of the related part (step F7; YES), the control unit 41 displays the match in an identifiable form (step F8) and terminates this process.

[0115] On the other hand, if the outline of the current position of the imaging area does not match the outline of the target position of the imaging area, or if the outline of the current position of the related area does not match the outline of the target position of the related area (step F7; NO), the control unit 41 returns to step F1. Then, the control unit 41 repeats steps F1 to F7 until they match. If, in step F7, the control unit 41 does not determine whether the first current position information and the first target position information match, but only whether the second current position information and the second target position information match, the control unit 41 may perform the following process. This process is that, if the outline of the current position of the related part does not match the outline of the target position of the related part (step F7; NO), the control unit 41 returns to step F1.

[0116] The operator and subject H move the shooting area and the related area so that the outline of the current position of the shooting area displayed on the display unit 44 coincides with the outline of the target position of the shooting area, and the outline of the current position of the related area coincides with the outline of the target position of the related area.

[0117] <Seventh Embodiment> Next, a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described. The following will mainly describe the differences from the second embodiment.

[0118] The configuration of the radiography support system 100 in the seventh embodiment is the same as in Figure 8.

[0119] In the seventh embodiment, the memory unit 42 stores related area information indicating related areas corresponding to the imaging area. Furthermore, the memory unit 42 stores template images for each imaging area, and template images for each related area corresponding to the imaging area. Furthermore, the memory unit 42 stores first reference position information and second reference position information relating to the position of related parts corresponding to the shooting position of the shooting area. Furthermore, the memory unit 42 stores a second threshold value (a predetermined second threshold value) for each related part, similar to the sixth embodiment.

[0120] Figure 15 shows a flowchart of the image capture support process in the seventh embodiment. First, the control unit 41 performs steps G1 to G3, which are the same as steps B1 to B3 of the second embodiment's image acquisition support processing.

[0121] Next, the control unit 41 obtains information about the area of ​​the subject being photographed from the order information acquired in step G1. The control unit 41 then obtains related area information from the memory unit 42 based on the imaging area. The control unit 41 may also obtain related area information based on imaging conditions, etc., included in the order information obtained in step G1. For example, if the imaging condition is a lateral view of the knee joint, the related area is "pelvis + non-examined side (foot)". The control unit 41 then retrieves a template image corresponding to the imaging area information obtained from the order information from the storage unit 42. The control unit 41 then performs template matching using a template image corresponding to the imaging area information, thereby recognizing (acquiring) the imaging area region in the image data of the optical image acquired in step G2. The control unit 41 then retrieves a template image from the storage unit 42 that corresponds to the relevant part information obtained from the storage unit 42. Then, the control unit 41 performs template matching using a template image corresponding to the related part information, thereby recognizing (acquiring) the related part region in the image data of the optical image acquired in step G2 (step G4).

[0122] Next, the control unit 41 performs step G5, which is the same as step F4 of the imaging support process in the sixth embodiment.

[0123] Next, the control unit 41 generates first target position information corresponding to the size of the area to be photographed, similar to step B6 of the imaging support process in the second embodiment. Then, the control unit 41 obtains second reference position information from the storage unit 42 that corresponds to the related part information acquired in step G4. Then, the control unit 41 corrects the second reference position information based on the outline of the current position of the related part and the shooting direction of the optical camera 45 to generate second target position information corresponding to the size of the related part (step G6). In other words, the control unit 41 generates second target position information relating to the target position of the related part corresponding to the shooting position of the shooting part, based on the second reference position information relating to the position of the related part corresponding to the shooting position of the shooting part, and the image information acquired by the acquisition unit. Here, the control unit 41 functions as a generation unit. Furthermore, the second target position information includes information corresponding to the size of the related part corresponding to the shooting part (information corresponding to the outline of the related part corresponding to the shooting part). Step G6 is the generation process.

[0124] Next, the control unit 41 performs steps G7 to G9, which are the same as steps F6 to F8 of the imaging support process in the sixth embodiment. Next, the control unit 41 performs step G10, which is the same as step B10 of the imaging support process in the second embodiment.

[0125] The descriptions in the above embodiments are merely preferred examples of the present invention and are not limited thereto. For example, the radiography support system 100 may, as an external system 5, instead of the RIS, include an inspection device that acquires electrocardiograms, oxygen saturation, etc., or an eye tracker worn by the operator (radiography technician, etc.) to detect the operator's gaze. In this case, the control unit 41, in the imaging support processing, takes into account the information output from the inspection device and eye tracker, etc., and acquires imaging area information, imaging area region information, related area information, and related area region information. For example, if the radiography support system 100 is equipped with an eye tracker, an experienced operator can identify the relevant area of ​​focus (what movement would be best) in order to position the subject in the appropriate imaging position. Specifically, if a heatmap can be obtained as information output from the eye tracker, the control unit 41 acquires relevant part information based on the time the operator's gaze is fixed on a specific area. Furthermore, if a gaze plot can be obtained as information output from the eye tracker, the control unit 41 acquires multiple pieces of related part information based on the operator's gaze movement and the order of movement.

[0126] Furthermore, the control unit 41 may acquire related body part information based on the information output from the eye tracker, and correct the first current position information and / or first target position information based on the related body part information to take into account the balance between the related body part and the imaging body part.

[0127] Furthermore, in the shooting support processing of the sixth and seventh embodiments described above, the control unit 41 may not display the second current position information and the second target position information if it is unable to obtain the related part information and the related part region information. In this case, it may also determine whether the first current position information and the first target position information match, without determining whether the second current position information and the second target position information match.

[0128] 〔effect〕 According to the embodiments described above, the radiography support system 100 of the present invention is a radiography support system that assists a radiography apparatus (radiation irradiation apparatus 1 and radiation detection apparatus 2) in positioning a target area on a subject H, and comprises: an acquisition unit (control unit 41) that acquires image information (image data of the optical image) based on an optical image obtained by photographing the target area with an optical camera 45; a generation unit (control unit 41) that uses a trained classifier (trained model 421) to take the image information acquired by the acquisition unit as input and generates first target position information relating to the target position of the target area; and an output unit (control unit 41) that outputs the first target position information generated by the generation unit, wherein the first target position information includes information corresponding to the size of the target area. Therefore, the operator of the radiography equipment (radiography technician, etc.) and the subject H can move the imaging area of ​​the subject while recognizing the primary target position information corresponding to the size of the imaging area. As a result, the imaging position of the subject can be easily positioned to the appropriate imaging position.

[0129] Furthermore, the radiography support system 100 is a radiography support system that assists the positioning of the imaging area in the subject H with respect to the radiography apparatus (radiation irradiation device 1 and radiation detection device 2), and comprises an acquisition unit (control unit 41) that acquires image information (image data of the optical image) based on an optical image obtained by photographing the imaging area with an optical camera 45, a generation unit (control unit 41) that generates first reference position information regarding the imaging position of the imaging area and first target position information regarding the target position of the imaging area based on the image information acquired by the acquisition unit, and an output unit (control unit 41) that outputs the first target position information generated by the generation unit, the first target position information including information corresponding to the size of the imaging area. Therefore, the operator of the radiography equipment (radiography technician, etc.) and the subject H can move the imaging area of ​​the subject while recognizing the primary target position information corresponding to the size of the imaging area. As a result, the imaging position of the subject can be easily positioned to the appropriate imaging position.

[0130] Furthermore, in the radiography support system 100, the first target position information includes information regarding the outline of the area to be photographed. Therefore, the operator of the radiography equipment (radiography technician, etc.) and the subject H can recognize the outline of the target position of the imaging area. As a result, the imaging position of the subject can be easily positioned to the appropriate imaging location.

[0131] Furthermore, in the radiography support system 100, the first target position information is based on the shooting direction of the optical camera 45. Therefore, more accurate first target position information can be generated based on the shooting direction of the optical camera 45.

[0132] Furthermore, in the radiography support system 100, the output unit outputs an optical image including the radiation detection device 2 provided by the radiography apparatus, and outputs the first target position information such that it is located on at least a portion of the radiation detection device 2 in the optical image. Therefore, the imaging position of the subject can be positioned at an appropriate location on the radiation detector P of the radiation detection device 2.

[0133] Furthermore, in the radiography support system 100, the output unit outputs the first target position information and the first current position information relating to the position of the imaging area included in the image information in a form that can be identified. Therefore, the operator of the radiography equipment (radiography technician, etc.) and the subject H can easily recognize the difference between the target position of the imaging area and the current position of the imaging area.

[0134] Furthermore, the radiography support system 100 includes a determination unit (control unit 41) that determines that the first target location information and the first current location information match when the difference between them is within a predetermined first threshold, and the predetermined first threshold is set for each imaging area. Therefore, for example, the first threshold can be set to a relatively small value when the area being scanned is a small part such as a finger, and to a relatively large value when the area being scanned is a large part such as a knee, thus setting a threshold appropriate to the area being scanned.

[0135] Furthermore, the radiography support system 100 includes a determination unit (control unit 41) that determines that the first target location information and the first current location information match when the difference between them is within a predetermined first threshold, and the output unit outputs the information in a format that allows identification of the match when the determination unit determines that the first target location information and the first current location information match. Therefore, the operator of the radiography equipment (radiography technician, etc.) and the subject H can easily recognize that the current position of the imaging site coincides with the appropriate position (target position) for radiography.

[0136] Furthermore, the radiography support system 100 is a radiography support system that assists the positioning of the imaging area in the subject H with respect to the radiography apparatus (radiation irradiation device 1 and radiation detection device 2), and comprises an acquisition unit (control unit 41) that acquires image information (image data of the optical image) based on an optical image obtained by photographing the imaging area with an optical camera 45, a generation unit (control unit 41) that uses a trained classifier (trained model 421) to take the image information acquired by the acquisition unit as input and generates second target position information regarding the target position of the related area corresponding to the imaging area, and an output unit (control unit 41) that outputs the second target position information generated by the generation unit. Therefore, the operator of the radiography equipment (radiography technician, etc.) and the subject H can move the related parts of the subject while recognizing the second target position information regarding the target position of the related parts corresponding to the imaging area. As a result, the imaging position of the subject can be easily positioned to the appropriate imaging position.

[0137] Furthermore, the radiography support system 100 is a radiography support system that assists the positioning of the imaging area in the subject H with respect to the radiography apparatus (radiation irradiation apparatus 1 and radiation detection apparatus 2), and comprises an acquisition unit (control unit 41) that acquires image information (image data of the optical image) based on an optical image obtained by photographing the imaging area with an optical camera 45, a generation unit (control unit 41) that generates second reference position information regarding the position of a related area corresponding to the imaging position of the imaging area, and second target position information regarding the target position of a related area corresponding to the imaging area based on the image information acquired by the acquisition unit, and an output unit (control unit 41) that outputs the second target position information generated by the generation unit. Therefore, the operator of the radiography equipment (radiography technician, etc.) and the subject H can move the related parts of the subject while recognizing the second target position information regarding the target position of the related parts corresponding to the imaging area. As a result, the imaging position of the subject can be easily positioned to the appropriate imaging position.

[0138] Furthermore, in the radiography support system 100, the second target position information includes information corresponding to the size of the related area corresponding to the imaging area. Therefore, the operator of the radiography equipment (radiographer, etc.) and the subject H can move the relevant parts of the subject while recognizing the second target position information corresponding to the size of the relevant parts. As a result, the imaging position of the subject can be easily positioned to the appropriate imaging position.

[0139] Furthermore, in the radiography support system 100, the second target position information includes information about the outline of the related area corresponding to the imaging site. Therefore, the operator of the radiography equipment (radiographer, etc.) and the subject H can recognize the outline of the target location of the relevant area. As a result, the subject's imaging position can be easily positioned to the appropriate imaging location.

[0140] Furthermore, in the radiography support system 100, the output unit outputs the second target position information and the second current position information relating to the position of the related part corresponding to the imaging area included in the image information in a form that can be identified. Therefore, the operator of the radiography equipment (radiography technician, etc.) and the subject H can easily recognize the difference between the target position of the relevant body part and the current position of the relevant body part.

[0141] Furthermore, the radiography support system 100 includes a determination unit that determines that the second target location information and the second current location information match when the difference between them is within a predetermined second threshold, and the predetermined second threshold is set for each related part corresponding to the imaging area. Therefore, for example, if the related area is a small area such as a finger, the second threshold can be set to a relatively small value, and if the related area is a large area such as a knee, the second threshold can be set to a relatively large value, thus setting a threshold appropriate to the related area.

[0142] Furthermore, in the radiography support system 100, the determination unit determines that the first target position information and the first current position information match if the difference between the first target position information regarding the target position of the imaging area and the first current position information regarding the position of the imaging area included in the image information is within a predetermined first threshold, and determines whether the second target position information and the second current position information match. Therefore, by determining that the first target location information matches the first current location information, and that the second target location information matches the second current location information, the subject's shooting position can be positioned to a more accurate shooting location.

[0143] Although the first to seventh embodiments have been described above, the descriptions in the above embodiments are merely preferred examples of the present invention and are not limited thereto.

[0144] For example, in the above embodiment, the control unit 41 of the imaging support device 4 functions as an acquisition unit, generation unit, output unit, and determination unit, but it is not limited to this. The control unit 31 of the console 3, or a control unit of an external device (e.g., a cloud computer) configured to communicate with the radiography support system 100, may also function as an acquisition unit, generation unit, output unit, and determination unit.

[0145] Furthermore, while the above description discloses examples using hard disks, semiconductor non-volatile memory, etc., as computer-readable media for the program according to the present invention, the invention is not limited to these examples. Other computer-readable media include portable recording media such as CD-ROMs. Carrier waves can also be used as a medium for providing data for the program according to the present invention via a communication line.

[0146] Furthermore, the detailed configuration and operation of each device constituting the radiography support system can also be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0147] 100 Radiography Support System 1 Radiation irradiation device 11 Radiation source 12. Irradiation control device 13. Irradiation switch 2. Radiation detection device 22 Detector holding section P radiation detector 3 Console 31 Control Unit 32 Storage section 33 Operation section 34 Display section 35 Communications Department 36 bus 4. Imaging support device 41 Control Unit (Acquisition Unit, Generation Unit, Output Unit, Determination Unit) 42 Storage section 421 Pre-trained models 43 Operation section 44 Display section 45 Optical Cameras 5. External Systems H Subject

Claims

1. A radiography support system that assists in positioning the imaging area on a subject with respect to a radiography apparatus, An acquisition unit that acquires image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera, A generation unit that uses a trained classifier as input to the image information acquired by the acquisition unit and generates first target position information relating to the target position of the imaged area, An output unit that outputs the first target position information generated by the generation unit, Equipped with, The first target position information includes a radiography support system that includes information corresponding to the size of the area being photographed.

2. A radiography support system that assists in positioning the imaging area on a subject with respect to a radiography apparatus, An acquisition unit that acquires image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera, A generation unit generates first target position information regarding the target position of the shooting area based on first reference position information regarding the shooting position of the shooting area and the image information acquired by the acquisition unit, An output unit that outputs the first target position information generated by the generation unit, Equipped with, The first target position information includes a radiography support system that includes information corresponding to the size of the area being photographed.

3. The radiography support system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first target position information includes information relating to the outer contour of the imaging area.

4. The first target position information is based on the shooting direction of the optical camera, according to the radiography support system according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The radiography support system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the output unit outputs the optical image including the radiation detection device provided by the radiography apparatus, and outputs the first target position information such that it is located on at least a portion of the radiation detection device in the optical image.

6. The radiography support system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the output unit outputs the first target position information and the first current position information relating to the position of the imaging area included in the image information in a form that allows for identification.

7. The system includes a determination unit that determines that the first target location information and the first current location information match when the difference between the first target location information and the first current location information is within a predetermined first threshold. The radiography support system according to claim 6, wherein the predetermined first threshold is set for each imaging site.

8. The system includes a determination unit that determines that the first target location information and the first current location information match when the difference between the first target location information and the first current location information is within a predetermined first threshold. The radiation imaging support system according to claim 6, wherein the output unit outputs in a form that allows identification of the match when the determination unit determines that the first target position information and the first current position information match.

9. A radiography support method for assisting the positioning of imaging areas on a subject with respect to a radiography apparatus, An acquisition step of acquiring image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera, A generation step that uses a trained classifier to take the image information acquired in the acquisition step as input and generates first target position information relating to the target position of the imaged area, An output step which outputs the first target position information generated by the generation step, It has, The first target position information includes information corresponding to the size of the imaging area, and is a radiography support method.

10. A radiography support method for assisting the positioning of imaging areas on a subject with respect to a radiography apparatus, An acquisition step of acquiring image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera, A generation step that generates first reference position information regarding the shooting position of the shooting area and first target position information regarding the target position of the shooting area based on the image information acquired in the acquisition step, An output step which outputs the first target position information generated by the generation step, It has, The first target position information includes information corresponding to the size of the imaging area, and is a radiography support method.

11. A computer for a radiography support system that assists in positioning the imaging area on the subject is provided for the radiography apparatus. An acquisition unit that acquires image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera. A generation unit that uses a trained classifier as input to the image information acquired by the acquisition unit and generates first target position information relating to the target position of the imaged area, An output unit that outputs the first target position information generated by the generation unit, To make it function as, The first target location information is a program that includes information corresponding to the size of the area being photographed.

12. A computer for a radiography support system that assists in positioning the imaging area on the subject is provided for the radiography apparatus. An acquisition unit that acquires image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera. A generation unit generates first target position information regarding the target position of the shooting area based on first reference position information regarding the shooting position of the shooting area and the image information acquired by the acquisition unit. An output unit that outputs the first target position information generated by the generation unit, To make it function as, The first target location information is a program that includes information corresponding to the size of the area being photographed.

13. A radiography support system that assists in positioning the imaging area on a subject with respect to a radiography apparatus, An acquisition unit that acquires image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera, A generation unit that uses a trained classifier as input to the image information acquired by the acquisition unit and generates second target position information relating to the target position of the related part corresponding to the image acquisition area, An output unit that outputs the second target position information generated by the generation unit, A radiography support system equipped with the following features.

14. A radiography support system that assists in positioning the imaging area on a subject with respect to a radiography apparatus, An acquisition unit that acquires image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera, A generation unit generates second reference position information relating to the position of a related part corresponding to the shooting position of the shooting part, and second target position information relating to the target position of the related part corresponding to the shooting part, based on the image information acquired by the acquisition unit. An output unit that outputs the second target position information generated by the generation unit, A radiography support system equipped with the following features.

15. The radiography support system according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the second target position information includes information corresponding to the size of a related part corresponding to the imaging area.

16. The radiography support system according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the second target position information includes information regarding the outer shape of a related part corresponding to the imaging area.

17. The radiography support system according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the output unit outputs the second target position information and second current position information relating to the position of a related part corresponding to the imaging part included in the image information in a form that can be identified.

18. The system includes a determination unit that determines that the second target location information and the second current location information match when the difference between the second target location information and the second current location information is within a predetermined second threshold. The radiography support system according to claim 17, wherein the predetermined second threshold is set for each related part corresponding to the imaging area.

19. The radiation imaging support system according to claim 18, wherein the determination unit determines that the first target position information and the first current position information match when the difference between the first target position information relating to the target position of the imaging area and the first current position information relating to the position of the imaging area included in the image information is within a predetermined first threshold, and determines whether the second target position information and the second current position information match.

20. A radiography support method for assisting the positioning of imaging areas on a subject with respect to a radiography apparatus, An acquisition step of acquiring image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera, A generation step that uses a trained classifier to take the image information acquired in the acquisition step as input and generates second target position information relating to the target position of the related part corresponding to the imaged part, An output step which outputs the second target position information generated by the generation step, A radiography support method having the following features.

21. A radiography support method for assisting the positioning of imaging areas on a subject with respect to a radiography apparatus, An acquisition step of acquiring image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera, A generation step that generates second reference position information relating to the position of a related part corresponding to the shooting position of the shooting part, and second target position information relating to the target position of the related part corresponding to the shooting part, based on the image information acquired in the acquisition step, An output step which outputs the second target position information generated by the generation step, A radiography support method having the following features.

22. A computer for a radiography support system that assists in positioning the imaging area on the subject is provided for the radiography apparatus. An acquisition unit that acquires image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera. A generation unit that uses a trained classifier as input to the image information acquired by the acquisition unit and generates second target position information relating to the target position of the related part corresponding to the image acquisition area, An output unit that outputs the second target position information generated by the generation unit, A program that makes it function as such.

23. A computer for a radiography support system that assists in positioning the imaging area on the subject is provided for the radiography apparatus. An acquisition unit that acquires image information based on an optical image obtained by photographing the aforementioned shooting area with an optical camera. A generation unit generates second reference position information relating to the position of a related part corresponding to the shooting position of the shooting part, and second target position information relating to the target position of the related part corresponding to the shooting part, based on the image information acquired by the acquisition unit. An output unit that outputs the second target position information generated by the generation unit, A program that makes it function as such.

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