X-ray CT apparatus, X-ray CT system, and control method

Abstract

The shooting mode setting or the status of the device should be easily understood. [Solution] The X-ray CT apparatus according to this embodiment includes a scanner unit, a stand unit, a display unit, and a display control unit. The scanner unit has an imaging system. The stand unit has a tilt mechanism that tilts the scanner unit around a tilt axis. The display unit displays setting information regarding the tilt state of the scanner unit relative to the stand unit. The display control unit controls the display mode of the setting information based on the tilt state of the scanner unit used in the imaging mode performed on the subject.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] A standing X-ray CT (Computed Tomography) apparatus capable of imaging a subject in a standing position can perform imaging in both the standing or sitting position of the subject and the lying position where the subject is lying on a bed by tilting the scanner unit by 90 degrees. For both imaging in the standing position and imaging in the sitting position, the angle of the scanner unit is 90 degrees (the opening of the scanner unit is in the vertical direction). Therefore, when a user such as a technician sets the imaging mode, it may be difficult to tell from the appearance of the standing X-ray CT apparatus which mode, the standing position imaging mode or the sitting position imaging mode, is set.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to be able to easily grasp the setting of the imaging mode or the state of the apparatus. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problems. The problems corresponding to the respective effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described later can also be regarded as other problems.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The X-ray CT apparatus according to this embodiment includes a scanner unit, a stand unit, a display unit, and a display control unit. The scanner unit has an imaging system. The stand unit has a tilt mechanism that tilts the scanner unit around a tilt axis. The display unit displays setting information regarding the tilt state of the scanner unit relative to the stand unit. The display control unit controls the display mode of the setting information based on the tilt state of the scanner unit used in the imaging mode performed on the subject. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of an X-ray CT apparatus according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a conceptual diagram showing the state of the scanner unit in the standing shooting mode according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram showing the state of the scanner unit in the seated imaging mode according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a conceptual diagram showing the state of the scanner unit in the supine imaging mode according to this embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing a first operation example of the X-ray CT apparatus according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing a second example of operation of the X-ray CT apparatus according to this embodiment. [Figure 7A] Figure 7A shows an example of how the setting information is displayed in standing shooting mode. [Figure 7B] Figure 7B shows an example of how the setting information is displayed in standing shooting mode. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of how the settings information is displayed in seated imaging mode. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of the display of setting information when in supine position imaging mode. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an example of how error information is displayed according to this embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] Hereinafter, embodiments of the X-ray CT apparatus, X-ray CT system, and control method will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, parts with the same reference numerals perform similar operations, and redundant explanations will be omitted as appropriate. Hereinafter, one embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0008] Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example configuration of an X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 has a scanner unit 10, a patient table 30, and a console 40. Although multiple scanner units 10 are shown in Figure 1 for illustrative purposes, in reality, there may be one or multiple units. The scanner unit 10 is a scanning device configured for X-ray CT imaging of a subject P. The patient table 30 is a transport device for placing the subject P to be X-ray CT imaging and for positioning the subject P. The console 40 is a computer that controls the scanner unit 10. For example, the scanner unit 10 and the patient table 30 are installed in the CT examination room, and the console 40 is installed in a control room adjacent to the CT examination room. The scanner unit 10, the patient table 30, and the console 40 are connected to each other by wired or wireless connections so that they can communicate with each other. Note that the console 40 does not necessarily have to be installed in the control room. For example, the console 40 may be installed in the same room as the scanner unit 10 and the patient table 30. Alternatively, the console 40 may be incorporated into the scanner unit 10.

[0009] As shown in Figure 1, the scanner unit 10 includes an X-ray tube 11, an X-ray detector 12, a rotating frame 13, an X-ray high-voltage device 14, a control device 15, a wedge 16, a collimator 17, and a data acquisition system (DAS) 18.

[0010] The X-ray tube 11 irradiates the subject P with X-rays. Specifically, the X-ray tube 11 includes a cathode that generates thermionic electrons, an anode that receives thermionic electrons flying from the cathode and generates X-rays, and a vacuum tube that holds the cathode and anode. The X-ray tube 11 is connected to the X-ray high-voltage device 14 via a high-voltage cable. A tube voltage is applied between the cathode and anode by the X-ray high-voltage device 14. The application of the tube voltage causes thermionic electrons to fly from the cathode to the anode. A tube current flows as thermionic electrons fly from the cathode to the anode. X-rays are generated when thermionic electrons collide with the anode.

[0011] The X-ray detector 12 detects X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 11 and passed through the subject P, and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the detected X-ray dose to the DAS 18. The X-ray detector 12 has a structure in which multiple rows of X-ray detection elements, each row of X-ray detection elements arranged in the channel direction, are arranged in the slice direction (column direction). The X-ray detector 12 is an indirect conversion type detector having, for example, a grid, a scintillator array, and a photosensor array. The scintillator array has multiple scintillators. The scintillators output light with an amount of light corresponding to the incident X-ray dose. The grid is positioned on the X-ray incident surface side of the scintillator array and has an X-ray shielding plate that absorbs scattered X-rays. The grid is sometimes called a collimator (one-dimensional collimator or two-dimensional collimator). The photosensor array converts the amount of light from the scintillators into an electrical signal. For example, a photodiode is used as the photosensor.

[0012] The X-ray detector 12 may also be a photon counting type detector. In a photon-counting type detector, the scintillator converts incident X-rays into a number of photons corresponding to the intensity of the incident X-rays. The photosensor array has the function of amplifying the light received from the scintillator and converting it into an electrical signal, generating an output signal (energy signal) with a pulse height corresponding to the energy of the incident X-rays.

[0013] Furthermore, the X-ray detector 12 may be a direct conversion type detector having a semiconductor element that converts incident X-rays into an electrical signal.

[0014] The rotating frame 13 is an annular frame that supports the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 so as to be rotatable around the rotation axis (Z-axis). Specifically, the rotating frame 13 supports the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 so as to face each other. In addition to the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12, the rotating frame 13 further supports the X-ray high voltage device 14 and the DAS 18. The rotating frame 13 is supported by a fixed frame (not shown) so as to be rotatable around the rotation axis. The rotation mechanism includes, for example, a motor that generates a rotational driving force and a bearing that transmits the rotational driving force to the rotating frame 13 to rotate it. The motor is provided on the fixed frame, and the bearing is physically connected to the rotating frame 13 and the motor. The rotating frame 13 rotates according to the rotational force of the motor, and thereby the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 rotate around the rotation axis. The rotating frame 13 is an example of a rotating part.

[0015] The X-ray high voltage device 14 has a high voltage generator and an X-ray control device. The high voltage generator has electric circuits such as a transformer and a rectifier, and generates a high voltage applied to the X-ray tube 11 and a filament current supplied to the X-ray tube 11. The X-ray control device controls the output voltage according to the X-rays irradiated by the X-ray tube 11. The high voltage generator may be of a transformer type or an inverter type. The X-ray high voltage device 14 may be provided on the rotating frame 13 in the scanner unit 10 or may be provided on a fixed frame (not shown) in the scanner unit 10.

[0016] The wedge 16 adjusts the dose of X-rays irradiated to the subject P. Specifically, the wedge 16 attenuates the X-rays so that the dose of the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 11 to the subject P has a predetermined distribution. For example, as the wedge 16, a metal plate such as aluminum, such as a wedge filter or a bow-tie filter, is used.

[0017] The collimator 17 limits the irradiation range of the X-rays that have passed through the wedge 16. The collimator 17 slidably supports a plurality of lead plates that shield X-rays and adjusts the form of the slit formed by the plurality of lead plates. Note that the collimator 17 may also be called an X-ray aperture.

[0018] The DAS 18 reads out an electrical signal corresponding to the dose of X-rays detected by the X-ray detector 12 from the X-ray detector 12. The DAS 18 amplifies the read electrical signal and collects detection data having a digital value corresponding to the dose of X-rays over the view period by integrating the electrical signal over the view period. The detection data is also called projection data. The DAS 18 is realized, for example, by an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) equipped with circuit elements capable of generating projection data. The projection data is transmitted to the console 40 via a non-contact data transmission device or the like.

[0019] A non-contact or contact communication circuit is provided in each of the rotating frame 13 and the fixed frame, and communication is performed between the unit supported by the rotating frame 13 and the fixed frame or an external device of the scanner unit 10 by the communication circuit. For example, when optical communication is adopted as the non-contact communication method, the detection data generated by the DAS 18 is transmitted from a transmitter having a light emitting diode (LED) provided in the rotating frame 13 to a receiver having a photodiode provided in the fixed frame of the scanner unit 10 by optical communication, and further transferred from the fixed frame to the console 40 by the transmitter. In addition to this, as the communication method, in addition to non-contact data transmission such as capacitive coupling or radio wave methods, a contact type data transmission method using a slip ring and an electrode brush may also be adopted.

[0020] The control device 15 controls the X-ray high-voltage device 14 and DAS 18 to perform X-ray CT imaging according to the imaging control function 442 of the processing circuit 44 of the console 40. The control device 15 has a processing circuit having a Central Processing Unit (CPU) or Micro Processing Unit (MPU), etc., and a drive mechanism such as a motor and actuator. The processing circuit has a processor such as a CPU and memory such as Read Only Memory (ROM) or Random Access Memory (RAM) as hardware resources. The control device 15 performs various functions using the processor that executes the program loaded into memory. Note that the various functions are not limited to being realized by a single processing circuit. Multiple independent processors may be combined to form a processing circuit, and each processor may execute a program to realize each function. Furthermore, the control device 15 may be realized by an ASIC or a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). Furthermore, the control device 15 may be implemented using other complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs) or simple programmable logic devices (SPLDs).

[0021] The control device 15 has the function of controlling the operation of the scanner unit 10 and the bed 30 by receiving input signals from an input interface 43 (described later) attached to the console 40 or the scanner unit 10, or by control signals from the processing circuit 44. For example, the control device 15 receives input signals and controls the rotation of the rotating frame 13, the tilt of the scanner unit 10, and the operation of the bed 30 and the top plate 33. The control of tilting the scanner unit 10 can be achieved by the control device 15 rotating the rotating frame 13 around an axis parallel to the X-axis direction based on the tilt angle information input by the input interface attached to the scanner unit 10. The control device 15 may be provided on the scanner unit 10 or on the console 40. The tilt angle of the scanner unit 10 can be set, for example, as a tilt angle in the range of 0 to 90 degrees between the center line of the opening and the perpendicular line to the floor.

[0022] The examination bed 30 comprises a base 31, a support frame 32, a top plate 33, and an examination bed drive device 34. The base 31 is installed on the floor. The base 31 is a housing that supports the support frame 32 so that it can move vertically (in the Y-axis direction) relative to the floor. The support frame 32 is a frame provided on the upper part of the base 31. The support frame 32 supports the top plate 33 so that it can slide along the axis of rotation (Z-axis). The top plate 33 is a flexible plate on which the subject P is placed.

[0023] The bed drive unit 34 is housed within the casing of the bed 30. The bed drive unit 34 is a motor or actuator that generates power to move the support frame 32 on which the subject P is placed and the top plate 33. The bed drive unit 34 operates according to control by the processing circuit 44 and the console 40, etc.

[0024] The console 40 includes a memory 41, a display 42, an input interface 43, and a processing circuit 44. Data communication between the memory 41, the display 42, the input interface 43, and the processing circuit 44 is performed via a bus (BUS). Although the console 40 is described separately from the scanner unit 10, the scanner unit 10 may include the console 40 or some of its components.

[0025] Memory 41 is a storage device such as a Hard Disk Drive (HDD), Solid State Drive (SSD), or integrated circuit storage device that stores various types of information. Memory 41 may also be a portable storage medium other than an HDD or SSD, such as a Compact Disc (CD), Digital Versatile Disc (DVD), Blu-ray® Disc (BD), or flash memory. Memory 41 may also be a drive device that reads and writes various types of information to and from semiconductor memory elements such as flash memory or RAM. Furthermore, the storage area of ​​Memory 41 may be located within the X-ray CT apparatus 1 or in an external storage device connected via a network.

[0026] The display 42 displays various types of information. Various types of displays can be used as the display 42 as appropriate. For example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a cathode ray tube (CRT) display, an organic electroluminescent display (OLED), or a plasma display can be used as the display 42. The display 42 may be installed anywhere in the control room. The display 42 may also be installed in the scanner unit 10. The display 42 may be a desktop type, or it may consist of a tablet terminal or the like that can communicate wirelessly with the console 40. One or more projectors may be used as the display 42.

[0027] The input interface 43 receives various input operations from the operator, converts the received input operations into electrical signals, and outputs them to the processing circuit 44. The input interface 43 can, for example, be a mouse, keyboard, trackball, switch, button, joystick, touchpad, or touch panel display, as appropriate. In this embodiment, the input interface 43 is not limited to those equipped with physical operating components such as a mouse, keyboard, trackball, switch, button, joystick, touchpad, or touch panel display. For example, an electrical signal processing circuit that receives electrical signals corresponding to input operations from an external input device separate from the device and outputs these electrical signals to the processing circuit 44 is also included as an example of the input interface 43. Furthermore, the input interface 43 may be provided in the scanner unit 10. Also, the input interface 43 may consist of a tablet terminal or the like that can communicate wirelessly with the console 40 main unit.

[0028] The processing circuit 44 controls the operation of the entire X-ray CT apparatus 1 in accordance with the electrical signals of input operations output from the input interface 43. The processing circuit 44 generates image data based on the electrical signals output from the X-ray detector 12. For example, the processing circuit 44 has a processor such as a CPU, MPU, or GPU and memory such as ROM or RAM as hardware resources. The processing circuit 44 executes system control functions 441, imaging control functions 442, scanner unit control functions 443, image generation functions 444, acquisition functions 445, target determination functions 446, angle determination functions 447, and display control functions 448 using a processor that executes programs loaded into memory.

[0029] Furthermore, each function is not limited to being implemented by a single processing circuit. It is also acceptable to combine multiple independent processors to form a processing circuit, with each processor executing a program to realize each function.

[0030] In the system control function 441, the processing circuit 44 controls each part of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the deployed control program. In addition, in the system control function 441, the processing circuit 44 controls the drive of the patient table 30 via the control device 15.

[0031] In the imaging control function 442, the processing circuit 44 controls the X-ray high-voltage device 14, the control device 15, and the DAS 18 according to the imaging conditions to perform X-ray CT imaging.

[0032] In the scanner unit control function 443, the processing circuit 44 controls the lifting mechanism and the tilt mechanism to move the scanner unit 10 according to the shooting mode. The shooting mode is assumed to be one of the following: a shooting mode for photographing a subject P in a standing position (standing shooting mode), a shooting mode for photographing a subject P in a sitting position (sitting shooting mode), or a shooting mode for photographing a subject P in a lying position (lying shooting mode).

[0033] In the image generation function 444, the processing circuit 44 generates a CT image by performing a reconstruction process on projection data relating to the subject P. Reconstruction methods include filtered back projection and iterative reconstruction. Alternatively, a reconstruction process incorporating denoising using machine learning may be used. The processing circuit 44 converts the CT image into a cross-sectional image of an arbitrary cross-section or a rendered image of an arbitrary viewpoint direction. This conversion is performed based on input operations received from the operator via the input interface 43. For example, the processing circuit 44 generates a rendered image of an arbitrary viewpoint direction by applying 3D image processing such as volume rendering, surface volume rendering, pixel value projection, MPR (Multi-Planer Reconstruction) processing, or CPR (Curved MPR) processing to the reconstructed image data.

[0034] In the acquisition function 445, the processing circuit 44 acquires at least one of the inspection order and the imaging protocol. In addition, in the acquisition function 445, the processing circuit 44 acquires angle information of the scanner unit 10 that has been tilted by the tilt mechanism.

[0035] In the target determination function 446, the processing circuit 44 determines the imaging mode of the subject in the next imaging by referring to at least one of the inspection order and the imaging protocol. In addition, in the target determination function 446, the processing circuit 44 determines whether the subject P is inside the opening of the scanner unit 10 based on the output information of a sensor or camera. The sensor is, for example, a pressure sensor placed on the bottom plate. Based on the pressure value, which is the output information of the pressure sensor, it can be determined that the subject P is inside the opening of the scanner unit 10 if the pressure value is above a threshold. The camera is, for example, a camera mounted on the ceiling or wall. Based on the image information, which is the output information of the camera, it can be determined that the subject P is inside the opening of the scanner unit 10 by, for example, image recognition processing.

[0036] In the angle determination function 447, the processing circuit 44 determines whether the angle based on the angle information of the scanner unit 10 by the tilt mechanism is the angle used in the shooting mode.

[0037] In the display control function 448, the processing circuit 44 displays setting information regarding the tilt state of the scanner unit 10 relative to the stand unit (described later) based on the tilt state of the scanner unit 10 used in the imaging mode performed on the subject P, on a display unit such as the display 42, and controls the display manner of said setting information. In addition, in the display control function 448, the processing circuit 44 displays setting information regarding the auxiliary device used to support the subject P in the imaging mode performed on the subject P, on a display unit such as the display 42, and controls the display manner of said setting information. Furthermore, in the display control function 448, the processing circuit 44 displays the generated CT image and rendering image on, for example, the display 42.

[0038] Although console 40 has been described as a single console that performs multiple functions, it is also acceptable for multiple functions to be performed by separate consoles. The processing circuit 44 is not limited to being included in console 40; it may also be included in an integrated server that performs processing on projection data acquired by multiple medical imaging devices in a unified manner. Post-processing may be performed on either console 40 or an external workstation. Furthermore, processing may be performed simultaneously on both console 40 and the workstation.

[0039] The X-ray CT scanner 1 can be of various types, including third-generation CT and fourth-generation CT, and any type can be applied to this embodiment. Here, the third-generation CT is a Rotate / Rotate-Type in which the X-ray tube and detector rotate together around the subject. The fourth-generation CT is a Stationary / Rotate-Type in which a large number of X-ray detection elements are fixed in a ring-shaped array, and only the X-ray tube rotates around the subject.

[0040] Although not shown in the diagram, the X-ray CT scanner 1 may also be equipped with a communication interface. The communication interface is an interface that connects the X-ray CT scanner 1 to a workstation, PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System), HIS (Hospital Information System), RIS (Radiology Information System), etc., via a LAN (Local Area Network) or the like. The communication interface sends and receives various types of information between the connected workstation, PACS, HIS, and RIS.

[0041] Next, the tilt state of the scanner unit 10 for each shooting mode according to this embodiment will be explained with reference to the conceptual diagrams in Figures 2 to 4. Figure 2 is a conceptual diagram showing the state of the scanner unit 10 in standing imaging mode. In this embodiment, an X-ray CT scanner that can perform both supine and standing imaging is assumed. That is, in standing imaging mode, the scanner unit 10 is fixed at a tilt angle so that the opening OP faces vertically and is connected to a stand unit 20 that is upright in the vertical direction. The scanner unit 10 and the stand unit 20 are connected via a tilt mechanism and a lifting mechanism. The tilt mechanism is a mechanism that rotates the scanner unit 10. For example, a general rotation mechanism such as gears or a conveyor can be used. The lifting mechanism is a mechanism that moves the scanner unit 10 up and down along the vertical direction. For example, a general linear motion mechanism such as a rack and pinion mechanism can be used. The subject P is positioned upright inside the opening OP, and the subject P is imaged as the scanner unit 10 moves up and down by the lifting mechanism. Pressure sensors and weight sensors may be embedded in the bottom plate 21 so that the load below the scanner unit 10 can be measured.

[0042] Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram showing the state of the scanner unit 10 in seated imaging mode. In this embodiment, seated imaging mode includes cases where the subject is seated in a chair and cases where the subject is seated in a wheelchair. Similar to the standing imaging mode, the opening OP of the scanner unit 10 faces vertically. The subject P is positioned inside the opening OP while seated in a wheelchair or chair, and the subject P is photographed as the scanner unit 10 moves up and down by the lifting mechanism.

[0043] Next, Figure 4 is a conceptual diagram showing the state of the scanner unit 10 in supine imaging mode. Figure 4 shows that the scanner unit 10 is rotated 90 degrees from the orientation of the standing imaging mode, so that the opening OP faces horizontally. The subject P is in a supine position on the top plate 33, and the subject P is photographed when the top plate 33 moves so that it enters the opening OP. In other words, the axis of the subject's body is approximately perpendicular to that of the standing imaging mode and the supine imaging mode.

[0044] Furthermore, the scanner unit 10 may be movable in the horizontal direction. For example, the stand unit 20 itself has a drive mechanism that drives the scanner unit 10 along the longitudinal direction of the bed 30, and the scanner unit 10 moves horizontally together with the stand unit 20. In addition, although an example with one stand unit 20 is shown, another stand unit 20 may be placed opposite the scanner unit 10, so that two stand units 20 are arranged.

[0045] Next, a first example of operation of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 5. In step SA1, the processing circuit 44 uses the target determination function 446 to determine, for example, which shooting mode is being used by referring to the inspection order.

[0046] In step SA2, the processing circuit 44, using the acquisition function 445, refers to the inspection order and acquires setting information including scanner information relating to the state of the scanner unit 10, including its position and tilt angle, and auxiliary device information relating to the auxiliary device that supports the subject P.

[0047] For example, in seated imaging mode, the opening of the scanner unit 10 is directed vertically, and a chair or wheelchair is prepared. Since the necessary state of the scanner unit 10 and assistive devices are determined for each imaging mode, the setting information should be determined according to the imaging mode. Specifically, for example, a correspondence table between imaging mode, scanner information, and assistive device information can be prepared, and the processing circuit 44 can use the acquisition function 445 to extract the scanner information and assistive device information corresponding to the imaging mode determined in step SA1 as setting information. Alternatively, the imaging mode and setting information may be included as an inspection order.

[0048] In step SA3, the display control function 448 causes the processing circuit 44 to display setting information on the display, for example, based on a predetermined display pattern for each shooting mode. The predetermined display pattern for each shooting mode is, for example, distinguishing the modes by using a blue background for standing shooting mode, a pink background for sitting shooting mode, and a yellow background for lying shooting mode. However, this is not limited to these examples; any display pattern that allows the user to understand the type of shooting mode at a glance is acceptable, such as changing the display font, changing the display position (layout), or changing the display icon for each shooting mode. It is also possible to display the shooting mode (lying down, standing, or sitting) as text, i.e., character information, on the display. For example, in the case of lying down shooting mode, text such as "lying down shooting" or "lying down shooting in progress" is displayed on the display. Of course, if the user can easily understand the shooting mode, the above-mentioned display patterns and character information can be combined.

[0049] Furthermore, the display control function 448 causes the processing circuit 44 to highlight the scanner unit 10 and necessary auxiliary equipment used in the shooting mode on the schematic diagram, based on the scanner information and auxiliary equipment information included in the setting information. Examples of highlighting include thick lines, blinking, and coloring, but are not limited to these; any method that allows the user to perceive that the information has been highlighted is acceptable. The display control function 448 also allows the processing circuit 44 to highlight the tiltable direction and movable direction of the scanner unit 10. Conversely, if the bed 30 and auxiliary equipment are not needed in the shooting mode, a display method that is less conspicuous than the highlighting and the normal display before highlighting may be used, such as displaying them in a light color, graying them out, increasing their transparency, or displaying them with dashed lines. Furthermore, if the bed 30 and auxiliary equipment are not used in the shooting mode, they may be hidden. Note that "less conspicuous display method" refers to a display method that is less emphasized to the user compared to the case of highlighting, and can also be rephrased as non-highlighting, including the case of setting them to be hidden. When highlighting and non-highlighting are used together, the non-highlighting should not be more conspicuous than the highlighting, and preferably less conspicuous than the normal display. Similarly, when normal display and non-highlighting are used together, the non-highlighting should not be more conspicuous than the normal display, and may be hidden entirely. This allows users to easily understand the necessary configuration for a given shooting mode by highlighting the units and accessories required for that mode while de-highlighting those that are not needed.

[0050] Furthermore, the processing circuit 44, using the target determination function 446, determines the shooting mode to be performed in the next shooting by referring to at least one of the examination order and the shooting protocol. The display control function 448 may, based on the examination order, cause the processing circuit 44 to take a picture of the subject P in the current shooting mode displayed in step SA3 above, and then display setting information for the next shooting mode. In this case, the shooting may be completed in the current shooting mode and the assistive devices and the bed 30 may be set to non-highlighted display, while the assistive devices and the bed 30 to be used in the next shooting mode may be highlighted.

[0051] Furthermore, the display control function 448 may cause the processing circuit 44 to display messages to the user about the assistive devices needed for the next shooting mode, or conversely, about the assistive devices that are not needed for the next shooting mode. For example, when switching from standing shooting mode to sitting shooting mode, a chair may be needed, so a message such as "Let's prepare a chair" may be displayed. Also, when switching from sitting shooting mode using a chair to supine shooting mode, a chair is not needed in supine shooting mode, so a message such as "Let's remove the chair" may be displayed.

[0052] Next, a second operation example of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 6. The second operation example differs from the first operation example in that it grasps and displays the status of the scanner unit 10 and the installation status of the auxiliary equipment in real time. Steps SA1 and SA2 are the same as in Figure 5.

[0053] In step SB1, the angle determination function 447 causes the processing circuit 44 to determine, based on the scanner information, whether the tilt angle of the scanner unit 10 is an angle used in the shooting mode determined in step SA1. For example, in the standing shooting mode, if a tilt angle of, say, 15 degrees occurs even though the inspection order is set to zero, it should be determined that this is not an angle used in that standing shooting mode. If the tilt angle is an angle used in the shooting mode, the process proceeds to step SB2; if the tilt angle is not an angle used in the shooting mode, the process proceeds to step SB3.

[0054] In step SB2, the display control function 448 causes the processing circuit 44 to display setting information based on a predetermined display pattern for each shooting mode, highlighting the scanner unit 10. For example, in a schematic diagram of the X-ray CT apparatus and auxiliary equipment, the outline can be displayed with a thick line.

[0055] In step SB3, since shooting is not possible, the display control function 448 causes the processing circuit 44 to set the scanner unit 10 to the non-emphasized display as described above. Then, the process returns to step SB1 and is repeated until the settings are complete and the device is ready for shooting in shooting mode.

[0056] In step SB4, the processing circuit 44 uses the target determination function 446 to determine whether the necessary assistive devices are installed in the determined shooting mode. For example, the presence of assistive devices near the opening of the scanner unit 10 can be determined by image analysis of the video captured by a camera installed in the examination room. Alternatively, a pressure sensor can be installed, and if the value of the pressure sensor is above a threshold and below the average weight of a person, it can be determined that assistive devices are present. Specifically, in the standing shooting mode, it is necessary to determine whether a pole to assist the subject P in standing is installed vertically within the opening of the scanner unit 10, or in the seated shooting mode, whether a chair is installed below the opening of the scanner unit 10. If the necessary assistive devices are installed, proceed to step SB5; otherwise, proceed to step SB6.

[0057] In step SB5, the display control function 448 causes the processing circuit 44 to display setting information based on a predetermined display pattern for each imaging mode, highlighting the installed auxiliary equipment. For example, in a schematic diagram of the X-ray CT apparatus and auxiliary equipment, the outlines can be displayed with thick lines.

[0058] In step SB6, since shooting is not possible, the processing circuit 44, via the display control function 448, sets the installed auxiliary device to a non-highlighted display as described above. Then, the process returns to step SB4 and is repeated until the settings are complete and shooting is possible in shooting mode.

[0059] For the sake of explanation, the angle setting of the scanner unit 10 and the setting of the auxiliary device have been described as separate processing blocks, but they may be processed in real time at the same time. In other words, the processing from step SB1 to step SB3 and the processing from step SB4 to step SB6 may be executed in parallel.

[0060] Next, an example of how setting information is displayed in the standing shooting mode using the display control function 448 will be explained with reference to Figures 7A and 7B. The display screen 60 shown in Figures 7A and 7B shows a schematic diagram area 61 representing the X-ray CT apparatus 1, a scanner information area 62, and an operation panel area 63. The schematic diagram area 61 displays the scanner unit 10, the stand unit 20, and the patient table 30, and it is assumed that auxiliary device information is also illustrated on the schematic diagram area 61. For example, in standing imaging mode, it is assumed that a pole to assist the subject P in standing position extends vertically from the bottom plate within the opening. Therefore, if a pole is necessary, the pole may be illustrated in the schematic diagram area 61 as auxiliary device information.

[0061] The scanner information area 62 displays the position and tilt angle values ​​of the scanner unit 10. The operation panel area 63 is a panel that indicates the direction of movement for the stand unit 20 if the scanner unit 10, bed 30, and stand unit 20 are movable. For example, the panel displays the direction of vertical movement and tilt of the scanner unit 10, and the direction of movement of the bed 30. The system control function 441 and scanner unit control function 443 may be controlled to move the selected scanner unit 10, stand unit 20, and bed 30 by selecting this panel.

[0062] As shown in Figure 7A, the display control function 448 allows the processing circuit 44 to highlight the components required for standing imaging mode and display components not required for standing imaging mode faintly, based on the inspection order, etc. For example, the scanner unit 10 and the stand unit 20, which have their apertures facing vertically, may be displayed with thick lines, and the bed 30, which is not used in standing imaging mode, may be displayed faintly with thin lines or dashed lines, thus being set to non-highlighted display. Alternatively, the bed 30, which is not used in standing imaging mode, may be hidden. This allows the user to easily understand the components required for standing imaging mode.

[0063] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 7B, the processing circuit 44 may refer to scanner information via the display control function 448 and display only the directions in which the scanner unit 10, stand unit 20, and bed 30 can move. For example, in Figure 7B, arrows 64 are displayed up and down to indicate that the scanner unit 10 can move vertically up and down. If the scanner unit 10 has already moved to the top of its vertically movable range, only the downward arrow 64 needs to be displayed. In this case, the processing circuit 44 may highlight the operation panel area 63 corresponding to the movable direction and not highlight, i.e., gray out, lightly display, or even hide, the operation panel area 63 corresponding to the direction in which movement is not possible. Specifically, if the scanner unit 10 can only move vertically downward, the operation panel indicating vertical upward movement may be grayed out.

[0064] Next, an example of how setting information is displayed in the seated imaging mode using the display control function 448 will be explained with reference to Figure 8. Similar to Figures 7A and 7B, Figure 8 shows a schematic diagram area 61, a scanner information area 62, and an operation panel area 63 on the display screen 60. The information displayed in the scanner information area 62 and the operation panel area 63, as well as the control methods, are the same as in the standing shooting mode.

[0065] The display control function 448 allows the processing circuit 44 to highlight the components necessary for seated imaging mode and not highlight components unnecessary for seated imaging mode, based on the inspection order, etc. For example, the scanner unit 10 with its opening oriented vertically, the stand unit 20, and the wheelchair 71 used in seated imaging mode may be displayed with thick lines as assistive device information, while the bed 30, which is not used in standing imaging mode, may be displayed with thin or dashed lines. Alternatively, the bed 30, which is not used in standing imaging mode, may be hidden. This allows the user to easily understand the components necessary for seated imaging mode. In particular, although the orientation of the opening of the scanner unit 10 is the same as in standing imaging mode, the display of the wheelchair 71 allows the user to easily understand that it is seated imaging mode.

[0066] Furthermore, the display control function 448 allows the processing circuit 44 to analyze, for example, the image captured by the camera, and if the wheelchair 71 is not placed below the scanner unit 10, it may display the wheelchair 71 with a grayed-out or dashed line, and if the wheelchair 71 is placed below the scanner unit 10, it may highlight the wheelchair 71 with a solid line. This allows the user to understand that assistive devices such as a wheelchair or chair are needed in seated shooting mode, and to understand that assistive devices have not yet been prepared if the display is grayed out or with a dashed line.

[0067] In addition, as with the standing shooting mode, the processing circuit 44 may refer to scanner information using the display control function 448 and display only the directions in which the scanner unit 10 and stand unit 20 can move.

[0068] Next, an example of how setting information is displayed in the supine position imaging mode using the display control function 448 will be explained with reference to Figure 9. In Figure 9, similar to the standing and sitting imaging modes, the display screen 60 shows a schematic diagram area 61, a scanner information area 62, and an operation panel area 63. The information displayed in the scanner information area 62 and the operation panel area 63, as well as the control methods, are the same as in the standing imaging mode, except that information about the bed 30 is added.

[0069] The display control function 448 allows the processing circuit 44 to highlight the components required in supine imaging mode and display components that are not required in seated imaging mode faintly, based on the examination order, etc. In supine imaging mode, the scanner unit 10 with its opening facing horizontally, the stand unit 20, and the bed 30 are displayed with thick lines in a darker color. The display control function 448 also allows the processing circuit 44 to refer to scanner information and display only the directions in which the scanner unit 10, stand unit 20, and bed 30 can be moved.

[0070] Furthermore, when switching from standing or sitting shooting mode to supine shooting mode, or vice versa, the scanner unit 10 needs to be tilted 90 degrees. Depending on the user's manual operation, it is conceivable that the scanner unit may stop operating without the aperture tilting to the vertical or horizontal direction, while a tilt angle remains. Therefore, the angle determination function 447 allows the processing circuit 44 to determine, based on the angle information of the scanner unit 10, whether or not the angle is the angle used in the shooting mode. The display control function 448 allows the processing circuit 44 to determine that the angle based on the angle information is not the angle used in the shooting mode, and may display error information indicating that the scanner unit 10 is not set to the predetermined angle.

[0071] An example of how error information is displayed according to this embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 10. The display control function 448 causes the processing circuit 44 to display error information 91 on the display screen 60. The error information can be any information that allows the user to understand the status of the scanner unit 10 and the installation status of the auxiliary device, such as the error message, an explanation that the scanner unit 10 is not set to a predetermined angle, or information about the tilt state other than the angle used in the determined shooting mode.

[0072] Figure 10 assumes a scenario where imaging is to be performed in standing position mode, where the aperture of the scanner unit 10 rotates vertically up to 90 degrees, and the tilt angle is not zero degrees (0°), but rather, for example, there is a tilt angle of 5 degrees.

[0073] The processing circuit 44 may display error information 91, such as "The scanner unit is tilted! Please drive it to a tilt angle of 0°", using the display control function 448. Furthermore, in the schematic diagram area 61, a schematic diagram of the scanner unit 10 in a state different from the angle of the scanner unit 10 used in shooting mode may be displayed. In other words, the scanner unit 10 may be exaggerated to appear as having a greater tilt angle than its actual tilt angle. For example, although the actual tilt angle is 5 degrees, the scanner unit 10 may be displayed with a tilt angle of 45 degrees. In this way, a schematic diagram of the scanner unit 10 in a state with a tilt angle larger than the actual tilt angle indicated by the angle information may be displayed. This makes it easy for the user to understand that the aperture orientation of the scanner unit 10 required in shooting mode has not been prepared.

[0074] Furthermore, in any of the modes—lying down, standing, and sitting—the processing circuit 44, via the display control function 448, may notify the user that the tilt angle of the scanner unit 10 is correct and not misaligned if the tilt angle based on the angle information matches the tilt angle of the scanner unit 10 used in the shooting mode. For example, the processing circuit 44, via the display control function 448, may indicate the schematic area 61 with a specific background color. Alternatively, it may display text such as "○○ shooting mode, no tilt angle" or notify the user by voice. This explicitly informs the user that the angle of the scanner unit 10 in the shooting mode is correct.

[0075] In the above example, the display 42 and processing circuit 44 are shown mounted on the console 40 of the X-ray CT apparatus. However, the process according to this embodiment may be realized by an X-ray CT system in which the display device such as the display and the processing circuit 44 according to this embodiment are mounted on a portable device such as a smartphone, tablet terminal, or notebook PC, and are configured to communicate remotely with the X-ray CT apparatus 1 having a scanner unit 10 and a stand unit 20. Alternatively, the display unit and the processing circuit 44, including the display control function 448, may be configured separately, for example, by displaying setting information on a suspended monitor in the examination room and allowing the information to be operated with a tablet terminal.

[0076] According to the embodiment described above, for a scanner unit supported by a stand having a tilt mechanism that tilts the scanner unit around a tilt axis, the processing circuit, using a display control function, controls the display manner of setting information regarding the tilt state of the scanner unit and the auxiliary device that supports the subject, based on the tilt state of the scanner unit and the auxiliary device that supports the subject, which are used in the shooting mode performed on the subject. In particular, since the units and auxiliary devices required differ for the standing shooting mode, sitting shooting mode, and supine shooting mode, information regarding the position and tilt angle of the scanner unit and the auxiliary device required for each shooting mode is highlighted, while units and auxiliary devices that are not required for that shooting mode are set to not be highlighted. This allows users to easily understand the necessary configuration for each shooting mode. In other words, they can easily understand the settings for the shooting mode or the status of the device, thereby improving their workflow.

[0077] In the above description, the term "processor" refers to circuits such as CPUs, GPUs, or Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), programmable logic devices (e.g., Simple Programmable Logic Devices (SPLDs), Complex Programmable Logic Devices (CPLDs), and Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs)). The processor implements its functions by reading and executing programs stored in memory circuits. Alternatively, instead of storing programs in memory circuits, the processor may be configured to directly incorporate programs into its circuits. In this case, the processor implements its functions by reading and executing programs incorporated into the circuits. Furthermore, instead of executing a program, the processor may implement functions corresponding to the program through a combination of logic circuits. In this embodiment, each processor is not limited to being configured as a single circuit; multiple independent circuits may be combined to form a single processor and implement its functions. Moreover, multiple components may be integrated into a single processor to implement its functions.

[0078] While several embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations of embodiments are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0079] 1 X-ray CT device 10 Scanner section 11 X-ray tube 12 X-ray detectors 13 rotation frames 14 X-ray high-voltage equipment 15 Control device 16 Wedge 17 Collimator 18. Data Acquisition System (DAS) 20 Stand Section 21 Bottom plate 30 berths 31 base 32 Support Frame 33 Top plate 34 Bed drive mechanism 40 Console 41 memory 42 displays 43 Input Interfaces 44 Processing Circuits 60 display screen 61 Schematic diagram area 62 Scanner Information Area 63 Control Panel Area 64 Arrows 71 Wheelchair 91 Error Information 441 System control function 442 Shooting control function 443 Scanner Unit Control Function 444 Image generation function 445 Acquisition function 446 Target Determination Function 447 Angle detection function 448 Display control function OP opening

Claims

1. A scanner unit with an imaging system, A stand unit having a tilt mechanism that tilts the scanner unit around a tilt axis, A display unit that displays setting information regarding the tilt state of the scanner unit relative to the stand unit, A display control unit controls the display mode of the setting information based on the tilt state of the scanner unit used in the shooting mode performed on the subject, An X-ray CT scanner equipped with the following features.

2. The setting information displayed by the display unit further includes information regarding the auxiliary device that supports the subject, The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit further controls the display manner of the setting information based on the auxiliary tool used in the imaging mode performed on the subject.

3. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit highlights the tilt state of the scanner unit according to the type of shooting mode.

4. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit highlights the tiltable direction or the movable direction of the scanner unit.

5. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit changes the background color of the setting information according to the shooting mode.

6. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the aforementioned imaging mode is one of the standing imaging mode, the sitting imaging mode, and the supine imaging mode.

7. The system further comprises a determination unit that determines the shooting mode to be performed in the next shooting, by referring to at least one of the inspection order and the shooting protocol. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit displays the setting information of the shooting mode to be performed in the next shooting, determined by the determination unit, after the current shooting is completed.

8. An acquisition unit that acquires angle information regarding the tilt angle of the scanner unit, The system further comprises a determination unit that determines whether the tilt angle based on the angle information is the tilt angle used in the shooting mode, The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit displays error information relating to the scanner unit when it is determined that the tilt angle is not the tilt angle used in the shooting mode.

9. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the display control unit displays a schematic diagram of the scanner unit in a state where the tilt angle is larger than the actual tilt angle indicated by the angle information as the error information.

10. An acquisition unit that acquires angle information regarding the tilt angle of the scanner unit, The system further comprises a determination unit that determines whether the tilt angle based on the angle information is the tilt angle used in the shooting mode, The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit notifies the user that the tilt angle of the scanner unit is correctly set when the tilt angle based on the angle information is the tilt angle used in the shooting mode.

11. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a determination unit that determines whether or not the subject is present in the scanner unit based on the output of a pressure sensor or a camera.

12. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the display control unit, when the determination unit determines that the subject is present in the scanner unit, highlights a schematic diagram of the subject present in the scanner unit.

13. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the display control unit, when the determination unit determines that the subject is not present in the scanner unit, displays or erases a schematic diagram of the subject with a dashed line or grayed out.

14. An X-ray CT apparatus including a scanner unit having an imaging system and a stand unit having a tilt mechanism for tilting the scanner unit around a tilt axis, A display unit that displays setting information regarding the tilt state of the scanner unit relative to the stand unit, A display control unit controls the display mode of the setting information based on the tilt state of the scanner unit used in the shooting mode performed on the subject, An X-ray CT system equipped with the following features.

15. A control method for an X-ray CT apparatus including a scanner unit having an imaging system and a stand unit having a tilt mechanism for tilting the scanner unit around a tilt axis, A control method for controlling the display mode of setting information related to the tilt state of the scanner unit relative to the stand unit, based on the tilt state of the scanner unit relative to the stand unit used in the shooting mode performed on a subject.

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