X-ray CT device

Abstract

In an X-ray CT scanner where the stand cantilever-supports the scanner, the pole is supported. [Solution] The X-ray CT apparatus according to the embodiment comprises a scanner unit, a stand unit, a first fixing device, and a support frame. The scanner unit has an imaging system. The stand unit cantilever-supports the scanner unit so that it can tilt around a tilt axis. The first fixing device is used to fix the floor-side tip of the subject holder. The support frame has a second fixing device, one end of which is connected to the stand unit and the other end of which is used to fix the ceiling-side tip of the subject holder.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] There is an X-ray CT (Computed Tomography) apparatus capable of imaging (scanning) a subject (patient) in a standing position. Some such X-ray CT apparatuses can only image the subject in a standing position, while others can image the subject in both a standing position and a lying position. When imaging is performed with the subject in a standing position, a pole (subject holder, stereoscopic imaging assist tool) is used to suppress the body movement of the subject. The pole suppresses the body movement of the subject by being gripped by the subject or leaned on by the subject.

[0003] For example, the tip of such a pole on the floor side is fixed by a fixture attached to the floor surface, and the tip of the pole on the ceiling side is fixed by a structure hung on two stands that support both sides of the gantry device (scanner). Thereby, the pole is fixed to the gantry device.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Patent Document 4

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] One of the problems that the embodiments disclosed herein and in the drawings aim to solve is supporting a pole (subject holder, stereoscopic imaging aid) in an X-ray CT apparatus in which the stand cantilever-supports the scanner. However, the problems that the embodiments disclosed herein and in the drawings aim to solve are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described later can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The X-ray CT apparatus according to this embodiment comprises a scanner unit, a stand unit, a first fixing device, and a support frame. The scanner unit has an imaging system. The stand unit cantilever-supports the scanner unit so that it can tilt around a tilt axis. The first fixing device is used to fix the floor-side end of the subject holder. The support frame has a second fixing device, one end of which is connected to the stand unit and the other end of which is used to fix the ceiling-side end of the subject holder. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of an X-ray CT apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2A] Figure 2A is a perspective view of an example of a mounting device and stand according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2B] Figure 2B is a top view of an example of a mounting device and stand according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2C] Figure 2C is a front view of an example of a mounting device and stand according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2D] Figure 2D is a right side view of an example of a mounting device and stand according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3A] Figure 3A is a front view of an example of a mounting device and stand according to Modification 1 of the First Embodiment. [Figure 3B] Figure 3B is a right side view of an example of a mounting device and stand according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 4]Figure 4 is a front view of an example of a mounting device and stand according to a modified example 2 of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a mounting device and stand according to Modification 3 of the First Embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of the configuration of a pole support structure according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7A] Figure 7A is a diagram illustrating a first example of mounting a pole support structure according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7B] Figure 7B is a diagram illustrating a second example of the installation of the pole support structure according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7C] Figure 7C is a diagram illustrating a third example of the installation of the pole support structure according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7D] Figure 7D is a diagram illustrating a fourth example of the installation of the pole support structure according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7E] Figure 7E is a diagram illustrating a fifth example of mounting the pole support structure according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7F] Figure 7F is a diagram illustrating a sixth example of the installation of the pole support structure according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7G] Figure 7G is a diagram illustrating a seventh example of mounting the pole support structure according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7H] Figure 7H is a diagram illustrating an eighth example of mounting the pole support structure according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 illustrates four examples of the attachment of the second fastener to the pole support structure according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of the configuration of a pole support structure according to the third embodiment. [Figure 10]FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining four examples of attachment of a fixing member to an intermediate member of a pole support structure according to the third embodiment.

Embodiments for Carrying out the Invention

[0008] Hereinafter, an X-ray CT apparatus according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, parts denoted by the same reference numerals perform the same operations, and duplicate descriptions will be omitted as appropriate. Further, the embodiments can be combined with other embodiments, modifications, or prior art as long as there is no contradiction in the processing content. Similarly, the modifications can be combined with the embodiments, other modifications, or prior art as long as there is no contradiction in the processing content.

[0009] (First Embodiment) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. The X-ray CT apparatus 1 is an apparatus capable of performing imaging (scanning) in both the standing position and the lying position of the subject P. As shown in FIG. 1, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 includes a gantry device 100, a bed device 30, and a console device 40. The gantry device 100 includes a scanner 10 and a stand 20. In the example of FIG. 1, the illustration of a pole support structure 50 (see FIG. 2A) for supporting a pole and a first fixture 51 (see FIG. 2C) is omitted, but the X-ray CT apparatus 1 also includes the pole support structure 50 and the first fixture 51.

[0010] Here, in FIG. 1, the rotation axis of the rotation frame 13 in the non-tilt state or the longitudinal direction of the top plate 33 of the bed device 30 is taken as the Z-axis direction. Also, the axial direction orthogonal to the Z-axis direction and horizontal with respect to the floor surface is taken as the X-axis direction. Further, the axial direction orthogonal to the Z-axis direction and the X-axis direction and perpendicular to the floor surface is taken as the Y-axis direction. Note that FIG. 1 depicts the scanner 10 from multiple directions for the purpose of explanation, but in reality, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 has one scanner 10.

[0011] The scanner 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 DAS (Data Acquisition System) 18. The X-ray tube 11, X-ray detector 12, rotating frame 13, X-ray high-voltage device 14, control device 15, wedge 16, collimator 17, and DAS 18 constitute the imaging system. In other words, the scanner 10 has an imaging system. The scanner 10 is, for example, an example of a scanner unit. The scanner 10 is also called a gantry. The scanner 10 has an opening (bore) into which a subject P is inserted. The scanner 10 is supported by a stand 20. The scanner 10 is covered by a housing. The interior of the scanner 10 is the space inside the housing.

[0012] The X-ray tube 11 is a vacuum tube having a cathode (filament) that generates thermionic electrons and an anode (target) that generates X-rays upon collision with thermionic electrons. The X-ray tube 11 generates X-rays to irradiate the subject P by irradiating thermionic electrons from the cathode to the anode when a high voltage is applied from the X-ray high-voltage device 14. For example, there is a rotating anode type X-ray tube 11 that generates X-rays by irradiating a rotating anode with thermionic electrons.

[0013] The X-ray detector 12 detects X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 11 that have passed through the subject P, and outputs a signal corresponding to the detected X-ray dose to the DAS 18. The X-ray detector 12 has, for example, multiple arrays of detection elements arranged in the channel direction (channel direction) along a single arc centered on the focal point of the X-ray tube 11. The X-ray detector 12 has, for example, a structure in which multiple arrays of detection elements, each arranged in the channel direction, are arranged in the row direction (slice direction, row direction).

[0014] For example, the X-ray detector 12 is an indirect conversion type detector having a grid, a scintillator array, and a photosensor array. The scintillator array has multiple scintillators. The scintillators have scintillator crystals that output light in a quantity of photons corresponding to the amount of incident X-rays. The grid is arranged on the X-ray incident 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 has the function of converting the amount of light from the scintillators into an electrical signal, and has a photosensor such as a photodiode. The X-ray detector 12 may also be a direct conversion type detector having semiconductor elements that convert incident X-rays into electrical signals.

[0015] The rotating frame 13 is an annular frame that supports the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 opposite each other and rotates the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 by the control device 15. In other words, as the rotating frame 13 rotates, the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 rotate around a predetermined axis of rotation. For example, the rotating frame 13 is a casting made of aluminum. In addition to the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12, the rotating frame 13 can also support an X-ray high-voltage device 14, a wedge 16, a collimator 17, a DAS 18, etc. Furthermore, the rotating frame 13 can also support various other components not shown in Figure 1. Various components supported by the rotating frame 13 will be described later. The rotating frame 13 is also referred to as a rotating base or a rotating body. In the scanner 10, the rotating frame 13 and the part that rotates with the rotating frame 13 are also referred to as the rotating part.

[0016] The X-ray high-voltage device 14 includes an electrical circuit such as a transformer and a rectifier, a high-voltage generator that generates a high voltage to be applied to the X-ray tube 11, and an X-ray control device that controls the output voltage according to the X-rays generated by the X-ray tube 11. The high-voltage generator may be of the transformer type or the inverter type. The X-ray high-voltage device 14 may be mounted on the rotating frame 13 or on a fixed frame (not shown).

[0017] The control device 15 includes a processing circuit with a CPU (Central Processing Unit), etc., and a drive mechanism such as a motor and actuator. The control device 15 receives input signals from the input interface 43, which will be described later, and controls the operation of the scanner 10 and the bed device 30. For example, the control device 15 controls the rotation of the rotating frame 13, the operation of the bed device 30 and the top plate 33, etc. For example, the control device 15 may be provided on the scanner 10 or on the console device 40.

[0018] The wedge 16 is a filter used to adjust the amount of X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 11. Specifically, the wedge 16 is a filter that transmits and attenuates the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 11 so that the distribution of X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 11 to the subject P becomes a predetermined distribution. For example, the wedge 16 is a wedge filter or a bow-tie filter, which is a filter made of aluminum or the like processed to have a predetermined target angle and thickness.

[0019] The collimator 17 is a lead plate or the like used to narrow the irradiation range of X-rays that have passed through the wedge 16, and a slit is formed by combining multiple lead plates or the like. The collimator 17 is sometimes called an X-ray diaphragm. In Figure 1, the wedge 16 is shown to be placed between the X-ray tube 11 and the collimator 17, but the collimator 17 may also be placed between the X-ray tube 11 and the wedge 16. In this case, the wedge 16 transmits and attenuates the X-rays that are irradiated from the X-ray tube 11 and whose irradiation range has been limited by the collimator 17.

[0020] The DAS18 collects X-ray signals detected by each detection element of the X-ray detector 12. For example, the DAS18 has an amplifier that amplifies the electrical signals output from each detection element and an A / D converter that converts the electrical signals into digital signals, thereby generating detection data.

[0021] The detection data generated by DAS18 is transmitted via optical communication from a transmitter having a light-emitting diode (LED) on the rotating frame 13 to a receiver having a photodiode located on the non-rotating part of the scanner 10 (e.g., a fixed frame, which is not shown in Figure 1), and then transferred to the console device 40. Here, the non-rotating part is, for example, a fixed frame that rotatably supports the rotating frame 13. Note that the method of transmitting data from the rotating frame 13 to the non-rotating part of the scanner 10 is not limited to optical communication; any non-contact data transmission method or a contact-type data transmission method may be used.

[0022] The patient bed apparatus 30 is a device for placing and moving the subject P to be photographed, and comprises a base 31, a patient bed drive device 32, a top plate 33, and a support frame 34. The base 31 is a housing that supports the support frame 34 so that it can move in the vertical direction. The patient bed drive device 32 is a drive mechanism that moves the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed in the direction of the long axis of the top plate 33, and includes a motor and actuator, etc. The top plate 33, which is provided on the upper surface of the support frame 34, is a plate on which the subject P is placed. In addition to moving the top plate 33, the patient bed drive device 32 may also move the support frame 34 in the direction of the long axis of the top plate 33.

[0023] The console device 40 includes a memory 41, a display 42, an input interface 43, and a processing circuit 44. Although the console device 40 is described separately from the scanner 10, the scanner 10 may include the console device 40 or some of the components of the console device 40.

[0024] Memory 41 can be implemented using, for example, semiconductor memory elements such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or flash memory, a hard disk, or an optical disc. Memory 41 stores, for example, projection data or CT image data. It can also store, for example, programs for circuits included in the X-ray CT scanner 1 to perform various functions. Memory 41 may also be implemented using a group of servers (cloud) connected to the X-ray CT scanner 1 via a network.

[0025] The display 42 displays various types of information. For example, the display 42 may display various images generated by the processing circuit 44, or it may display a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for receiving various operations from operators such as radiological technologists. For example, the display 42 may be an LCD display or a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display. The display 42 may be a desktop type, or it may be composed of the console device 40 main unit and a tablet terminal that can communicate wirelessly with it. Also, the display 42 is just one example of a display unit.

[0026] 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. For example, the input interface 43 receives input operations from the operator such as scan conditions, reconstruction conditions when reconstructing CT image data, and image processing conditions when generating post-processed images from CT image data. The input interface 43 also receives instructions from the operator to operate the stand 20. For example, the input interface 43 receives instructions to rotate the scanner 10 to a predetermined rotation angle in the tilt angle direction. The input interface 43 also receives instructions to move the scanner 10 in the vertical direction. The input interface 43 also receives instructions to move the stand 20 itself in the horizontal direction.

[0027] For example, the input interface 43 can be implemented by a mouse, keyboard, trackball, switch, button, joystick, touchpad for input operations by touching the operating surface, touchscreen with an integrated display screen and touchpad, non-contact input circuit using an optical sensor, audio input circuit, etc. The input interface 43 may also be provided on the scanner 10. Furthermore, the input interface 43 may consist of the console device 40 main unit and a tablet terminal or the like that can communicate wirelessly. Moreover, the input interface 43 is not limited to those equipped with physical operating components such as a mouse or keyboard. For example, an electrical signal processing circuit that receives electrical signals corresponding to input operations from an external input device provided separately from the console device 40 and outputs these electrical signals to a processing circuit 44 is also included as an example of the input interface 43.

[0028] The processing circuit 44 controls the operation of the entire X-ray CT apparatus 1. The processing circuit 44 has, for example, a control function 441, a preprocessing function 442, a reconstruction processing function 443, and an image processing function 444. In this embodiment, each processing function performed by the control function 441, preprocessing function 442, reconstruction processing function 443, and image processing function 444 is stored in memory 41 in the form of a program that can be executed by a computer. The processing circuit 44 is a processor that realizes the functions corresponding to each program by reading the program from memory 41 and executing it. In other words, the processing circuit 44 in the state in which each program has been read has the functions shown in the processing circuit 44 of Figure 1.

[0029] In Figure 1, the control function 441, preprocessing function 442, reconstruction processing function 443, and image processing function 444 are described as being implemented by a single processor. However, the processing circuit 44 may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, with each processor executing a program to implement the functions. Also, in Figure 1, a single memory circuit such as memory 41 is described as storing programs corresponding to each processing function. However, multiple memory circuits may be distributed and arranged, and the processing circuit 44 may be configured to read the corresponding programs from individual memory circuits.

[0030] In the above explanation, the term "processor" refers to circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphical Processing Unit), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), or a programmable logic device (e.g., a Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD), a Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD), and a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)). The processor functions by reading and executing a program stored in memory 41. Alternatively, instead of storing the program in memory 41, the processor may be configured to directly incorporate the program into its circuitry. In this case, the processor functions by reading and executing the program incorporated into the circuitry.

[0031] The control function 441 controls various processes based on input operations received from the operator via the input interface 43 or the operation panel 22. Specifically, the control function 441 controls the CT scan performed by the scanner 10 based on scan conditions entered into the input interface 43 or the operation panel 22. For example, the control function 441 controls the data collection process of the scanner 10 by controlling the operation of the X-ray high-voltage device 14, the X-ray detector 12, the control device 15, the DAS 18, and the patient table drive device 32. The control function 441 also controls the display 42 to display various image data stored in the memory 41. Furthermore, the control function 441 controls the operation of the stand 20 based on input operations received from the operator via the input interface 43 or the operation panel 22. The control function 441 also rotates the scanner 10 in the tilt direction by controlling the operation of the stand 20. Furthermore, the control function 441 moves the scanner 10 in the vertical direction by controlling the operation of the stand 20. Furthermore, the control function 441 moves the stand 20 itself horizontally. Note that the control function 441 is an example of a control unit.

[0032] The preprocessing function 442 generates projection data by applying preprocessing such as logarithmic transformation, offset correction, inter-channel sensitivity correction, and beam hardening correction to the detection data output from the DAS18. Note that the preprocessing function 442 is an example of a preprocessing unit.

[0033] The reconstruction processing function 443 generates CT image data by performing reconstruction processing on the projection data generated by the preprocessing function 442, using methods such as filtered back projection and iterative reconstruction. The reconstruction processing function 443 stores the reconstructed CT image data in the memory 41. Note that the reconstruction processing function 443 is an example of a reconstruction processing unit.

[0034] The image processing function 444 converts the CT image data generated by the reconstruction processing function 443 into image data such as tomographic images of arbitrary cross-sections or 3D images obtained through rendering, based on input operations received from the operator via the input interface 43, using known methods. The image processing function 444 stores the converted image data in the memory 41. Note that the image processing function 444 is an example of an image processing unit.

[0035] The stand 20 is fixed to the floor of the examination room where the scanner 10 is installed. The stand 20 and the scanner 10 are connected by a connecting part 21. The connecting part 21 supports the opening in the scanner 10 into which the subject P is inserted, so that it can rotate in the tilt angle direction. In this way, the stand 20 cantilever-supports the scanner 10. The connecting part 21 is an example of a rotation axis. The tilt angle direction is a rotation direction around a central axis that is parallel or approximately parallel to the floor surface. For example, the tilt angle direction is a rotation direction around a central axis that is parallel or approximately parallel to the Z-axis. The connecting part 21 is also a rotation axis that rotatably supports the scanner 10. The stand 20 has a rotation mechanism that rotates the connecting part 21 in the tilt angle direction and supports the connecting part 21 so that it can rotate. That is, the stand 20 can rotate the connecting part 21 about a central axis in a direction approximately parallel to the floor surface. As described above, the stand 20 supports the scanner 10 so that it can tilt around the tilt axis. Stand 20 is, for example, an example of a stand section.

[0036] The stand 20 may also be movable horizontally. For example, the stand 20 is fixed to the floor surface via a base (not shown). The base, for example, has a linear support structure extending horizontally (for example, in a direction parallel to the X-axis) and is fixed to the floor surface by bolts or the like. The base is also provided with a horizontal movement device (not shown) so as to be movable horizontally (for example, in a direction parallel to the X-axis). The stand 20 is mounted on the horizontal movement device in an upright position. The horizontal movement device moves the stand 20 horizontally based on control by the control function 441. As a result, the scanner 10 moves horizontally together with the stand 20.

[0037] When the X-ray CT scanner 1 is scanning a subject P in a supine position, the stand 20 rotates the scanner 10 in the tilt direction until the opening into which the subject P is inserted is perpendicular or nearly perpendicular to the floor. That is, the stand 20 rotates the scanner 10 until the rotation angle in the tilt direction is 90 degrees. The rotation angle in the tilt direction is, for example, 0 degrees when the opening of the scanner 10 is horizontal to the floor. Also, the rotation angle in the tilt direction is, for example, 90 degrees when the opening of the scanner 10 is perpendicular to the floor. The X-ray CT scanner 1 then scans a specified area of ​​the subject P in a supine position by moving at least one of the tabletop 33 on which the subject P is mounted and the scanner 10 in the horizontal direction.

[0038] Furthermore, when the X-ray CT scanner 1 is scanning a subject P in an upright position, the stand 20 rotates the scanner 10 in the tilt direction until the opening into which the subject P is inserted is horizontal or nearly horizontal to the floor. That is, the stand 20 rotates the scanner 10 until its tilt angle becomes 0 degrees. The X-ray CT scanner 1 then moves the scanner 10 vertically to scan a specified area of ​​the upright subject P.

[0039] The control panel 22 receives various input operations from the operator, converts the received input operations into electrical signals, and outputs them to the processing circuit 44. For example, the operator performs an input operation by touching the control surface of the control panel 22. The control panel 22 receives scan conditions from the operator. The control panel 22 also receives instructions from the operator to operate the stand 20. For example, the control panel 22 receives instructions to rotate the scanner 10 to a predetermined rotation angle in the tilt angle direction. The control panel 22 also receives instructions to move the scanner 10 in the vertical direction. The control panel 22 also receives instructions to move the stand 20 itself in the horizontal direction.

[0040] Next, with reference to Figures 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, we will describe the case in which a pole is used when the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment is scanned while the subject P is in a standing position. Figure 2A is a perspective view of an example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2B is a top view of an example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2C is a front view of an example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2D is a right side view of an example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to the first embodiment. The side of the stand 20 on which the operation panel 22 is located is considered the front. The side of the stand 20 opposite to the side on which the operation panel 22 is located is considered the rear.

[0041] Figure 2A shows a case where a user (operator) 101, such as a radiological technologist, operates the control panel 22, and the scanner 10 performs a scan with the subject P in a standing position. The pole 90 is a rod-shaped member. The pole 90 is provided so as to extend vertically and pass through the opening of the scanner 10. Before the scanner 10 performs the scan, the subject P moves under the scanner 10 from the front side and then moves to directly below the opening of the scanner 10. The subject P then brings their back into contact with the pole 90. This suppresses the movement of the subject P. With the movement of the subject P suppressed, the stand 20 moves the scanner 10 vertically, and the scanner 10 scans a designated area of ​​the subject P in a standing position, thereby performing a scan with the subject P in a standing position. The pole 90 is, for example, an example of a subject holder and an example of a stereoscopic imaging aid.

[0042] The ceiling-side end of the pole 90, which is used to suppress the body movement of the subject P, is fixed by the pole support structure 50. The floor-side end of the pole 90 is fixed by the first fixing device 51, as shown in Figures 2C and 2D.

[0043] The operator can attach the first fixing device 51 to the floor surface, and can also remove the first fixing device 51 from the floor surface once it is attached. The first fixing device 51 is attached to the floor surface at a position corresponding to the position of the floor-side tip of the pole 90. The operator can then attach the floor-side tip of the pole 90 to the first fixing device 51. The operator can also remove the floor-side tip of the pole 90 that is attached to the first fixing device 51 from the first fixing device 51. By attaching the floor-side tip of the pole 90 to the first fixing device 51, the first fixing device 51 secures the floor-side tip of the pole 90.

[0044] The pole support structure 50 is a member for fixing the ceiling-side end of the pole 90. As shown in Figures 2A to 2D, the stand 20 has a roughly rectangular shape, and one end 50a of the pole support structure 50 is attached to the upper surface of the stand 20, which has this shape. In this way, the pole support structure 50 is cantilevered by the stand 20. As shown in Figure 2B, in a top view, the shape of one end 50a of the pole support structure 50 is the same rectangular shape as the upper surface of the stand 20. Also, in a top view, the size of one end 50a of the pole support structure 50 is the same as or approximately the same as the size of the upper surface of the stand 20. The entire surface of one end 50a of the pole support structure 50 is attached to the entire upper surface of the stand 20. This makes it possible to make the rigidity and strength of the pole support structure 50 relatively high. The height of the upper surface of the stand 20 is higher than the upper limit of the ceiling height to which the scanner 10 can move. Also, the entire length of the pole support structure 50 from one end 50a to the other end 50b extends horizontally. Therefore, even if the scanner 10 moves to the upper limit on the ceiling side, the pole support structure 50 can be prevented from coming into contact with the scanner 10.

[0045] The pole support structure 50 is equipped with a second fastener 52. For example, as shown in Figure 2C, the second fastener 52 is attached to the other end 50b of the pole support structure 50. As shown in Figure 2B, the other end 50b of the pole support structure 50 is located above the opening of the scanner 10. Also, as shown in Figure 2B, in a top view, the shape of the other end 50b of the pole support structure 50 is the same circular shape as the opening of the scanner 10. Also, in a top view, the size of the other end 50b of the pole support structure 50 is smaller than the size of the opening of the scanner 10. Also, in a top view, the other end 50b of the pole support structure 50 is formed so that it fits within the opening of the scanner 10.

[0046] As shown in Figure 2B, one end 50a and the other end 50b of the pole support structure 50 are connected via two intermediate members 50c and 50d of the pole support structure 50. The intermediate members 50c and 50d are rectangular in shape when viewed from above. As shown in Figure 2B, the intermediate member 50c is formed to extend from the front side of one end 50a of the pole support structure 50, which is on the scanner 10 side, to the other end 50b of the pole support structure 50, when viewed from above. The intermediate member 50d is also formed to extend from the rear side of one end 50a of the pole support structure 50, which is on the scanner 10 side, to the other end 50b of the pole support structure 50, when viewed from above, as shown in Figure 2B.

[0047] The operator can attach the second fixing device 52 to the other end 50b of the pole support structure 50 (specifically, the floor-side (floor surface side) surface 50e of the other end 50b of the pole support structure 50 (see Figure 2C)). The operator can also remove the second fixing device 52 from the other end 50b of the pole support structure 50. The second fixing device 52 is attached to the floor-side surface 50e of the pole support structure 50, corresponding to the position of the ceiling-side tip of the pole 90. The operator can then attach the ceiling-side tip of the pole 90 to the second fixing device 52. The operator can also remove the ceiling-side tip of the pole 90 from the second fixing device 52. By attaching the ceiling-side tip of the pole 90 to the second fixing device 52, the second fixing device 52 secures the ceiling-side tip of the pole 90.

[0048] Thus, one end 50a of the pole support structure 50 is connected to the stand 20, and the other end 50b has a second fastener 52 that secures the ceiling-side tip of the pole 90. The pole support structure 50 is, for example, an example of a support frame.

[0049] The pole 90 is fixed to the scanner 10 by the first fixing device 51 which secures the floor-side end of the pole 90, and the second fixing device 52 which secures the ceiling-side end of the pole 90. Therefore, the pole can be supported in an X-ray CT apparatus 1 in which the stand 20 cantilever-supports the scanner 10.

[0050] The X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment has been described above. According to the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment, as described above, the stand 20 can support the pole in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 in which the scanner 10 is cantilevered.

[0051] (Modification 1 of the first embodiment) Next, an X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment will be described. In the description of Modification 1, the configurations that differ from those in the first embodiment will be mainly described, and the description of configurations that are the same as those in the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0052] Figure 3A is a front view of an example of a scanner 10 and stand 20 according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment. Figure 3B is a right side view of an example of a scanner 10 and stand 20 according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment. The X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to Modification 1 differs from the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment in that it has two ribs 55. As shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the two ribs 55 are positioned so that they do not come into contact with the scanner 10, regardless of how the scanner 10 moves.

[0053] Here, when the X-ray CT scanner 1 is performing a scan with the subject P in an upright position, it is desirable that the scanner 10 be able to be moved to the highest possible position from the viewpoint of the imaging range. On the other hand, there are also constraints on the ceiling height, so the pole support structure 50 is a relatively thin member in the vertical direction. For this reason, it is desirable to increase the strength and rigidity of the pole support structure 50. In modification 1, the strength and rigidity of the pole support structure 50 can be increased by the rib 55 described below.

[0054] For example, as shown in Figure 3A, in a front view, a portion of the scanner 10 is rounded, so the space enclosed by a portion of the scanner 10, the stand 20, and the pole support structure 50 is larger than a predetermined size. In the modified example 1, a rib 55 is provided in that space. Because the size of the space is larger than a predetermined size, it is possible to make the rib 55 relatively large. Also, for example, as shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the rib 55 is a triangular prism having two bases and three sides. Each of the two bases of the rib 55 has the shape of a right triangle. That is, a right angle is formed by two of the three sides of the rib 55, 55a and 55b. As shown in Figure 3A, one of the two sides 55a and 55b that form the right angle of the rib 55 is attached to the ceiling side of the scanner 10 side of the stand 20. As a result, the floor side of the pole support structure 50 abuts against the other side 55b of the two sides that form the right angle of the rib 55. As a result, the pole support structure 50 is supported by the ribs 55. These ribs 55 are provided on the front and rear sides, as shown in Figure 3B. This allows the ribs 55 to support the front and rear ends of the pole support structure 50, thereby increasing the overall rigidity and strength of the pole support structure 50 and the ribs 55. The side surface 55b may be attached to the floor side of the pole support structure 50.

[0055] (Modification 2 of the first embodiment) Next, an X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to a modified example 2 of the first embodiment will be described. In the description of the modified example 2, the configurations that differ from those in the first embodiment will be mainly described, and the description of configurations that are the same as those in the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0056] Figure 4 is a front view of an example of a scanner 10 and stand 20 according to Modification 2 of the first embodiment. The X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to Modification 2 differs from the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a third fixing device 56.

[0057] The third fastener 56 has, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and as shown in Figure 4, the upper surface of the third fastener 56 is attached to the ceiling. For example, the upper surface of the third fastener 56 is attached to a location on the ceiling above the other end 50b of the pole support structure 50, within the entire area of ​​the ceiling. The third fastener 56 may be attached to the ceiling by fixing it to the ceiling with fasteners such as screws (not shown), for example. Alternatively, the third fastener 56 may be attached to the ceiling by bonding it to the ceiling with an adhesive.

[0058] Furthermore, the lower surface of the third fastener 56 is attached to the ceiling-side surface 50f of the other end 50b of the pole support structure 50. For example, the third fastener 56 may be attached to the pole support structure 50 by fixing it to the pole support structure 50 with fasteners such as screws (not shown). Alternatively, the third fastener 56 may be attached to the pole support structure 50 by bonding it to the pole support structure 50 with an adhesive.

[0059] In this way, the third fixing device 56 fixes the other end 50b of the pole support structure 50 to the ceiling. The third fixing device 56 also suspends and supports the other end 50b of the pole support structure 50 from the ceiling. This increases the vertical rigidity of the pole support structure 50.

[0060] (Modification 3 of the first embodiment) Next, an X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to Modification 3 of the First Embodiment will be described. In the description of Modification 3, the configurations that differ from those in the First Embodiment will be mainly described, and the description of configurations that are the same as those in the First Embodiment may be omitted.

[0061] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a scanner 10 and stand 20 according to Modification 3 of the first embodiment. The upper part of Figure 5 is a top view of the example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to Modification 3. The lower part of Figure 5 is a right side view of the example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to Modification 3. The X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to Modification 3 differs from the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a pole support structure 60 instead of a pole support structure 50. The pole support structure 60 is, for example, an example of a support frame.

[0062] In Modification 3, when the X-ray CT scanner 1 is scanning a subject P in a standing position, the subject P enters the X-ray CT scanner 1 from the side of the stand 20 where the control panel 22 is located (i.e., the front side) and moves to the underside of the scanner 10's opening. At this time, the control function 441 controls the movement of the stand 20 to rotate the scanner 10 in the tilt angle direction so that the front side of the scanner 10 is away from the floor and the back side of the scanner 10 is closer to the floor. In other words, the scanner 10 tilts around the tilt axis so that the part of the scanner 10 on the side into which the subject P enters is away from the floor and the part on the opposite side is closer to the floor. This makes it easier for the subject P to move to the underside of the scanner 10's opening.

[0063] In the third modification, the pole support structure 60 is configured as described below so that the scanner 10 does not come into contact with the pole support structure 60 when the scanner 10 is rotated as described above.

[0064] The pole support structure 60 is a component for fixing the ceiling-side end of the pole 90. As shown in Figure 5, one end 60a of the pole support structure 60 is attached to the upper surface of the stand 20. That is, the pole support structure 60 is cantilevered by the stand 20. As shown in Figure 5, in a top view, the shape of one end 60a of the pole support structure 60 is rectangular. Also, in a top view, the size of one end 60a of the pole support structure 60 is smaller than the size of the upper surface of the stand 20. One end 60a of the pole support structure 60 is attached to the rear side of the upper surface of the stand 20.

[0065] Furthermore, one end 60a and the other end 50b of the pole support structure 60 are connected via an intermediate member 60c of the pole support structure 60. The shape of the intermediate member 60c is rectangular when viewed from above. As shown in Figure 5, the intermediate member 60c is formed to extend from the portion of one end 60a of the pole support structure 50 on the scanner 10 side to the other end 50b of the pole support structure 60. The configuration of the other end 50b of the pole support structure 60 is the same as the configuration of the other end 50b of the pole support structure 50 according to the first embodiment.

[0066] As described above, in the modified example 3, the pole support structure 60 is provided in a direction that avoids the direction in which the subject P enters. For example, one end 60a of the pole support structure 60 is attached to the upper surface of the stand 20 on the side where the scanner 10 rotates in the tilt angle direction and moves downward. That is, one end 60a of the pole support structure 60 is attached to the upper surface of the stand 20 on the side where the scanner 10 tilts and moves closer to the floor. This makes it possible to suppress contact between the scanner 10 and the pole support structure 60.

[0067] (Second embodiment) Next, an X-ray CT apparatus according to the second embodiment will be described. In describing the second embodiment, the description will mainly focus on configurations that differ from those in the first embodiment, and may omit the description of configurations that are similar to those in the first embodiment.

[0068] Figure 6 shows an example of the configuration of the pole support structure 70 according to the second embodiment. The X-ray CT apparatus according to the second embodiment differs from the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a pole support structure 70 instead of a pole support structure 50. The pole support structure 70 is, for example, an example of a support frame.

[0069] Here, due to the layout of the examination room, the stand 20 may be positioned on the right or left side relative to the direction in which the subject P enters, and the position of the pole 90 may differ in each case. Also, the position of the pole 90 may differ depending on the orientation of the subject P during scanning. Therefore, as described below, the pole support structure 70 is configured to allow the ceiling-side tip of the pole 90 to be fixed at a number of predetermined positions.

[0070] In the X-ray CT apparatus according to the second embodiment, similar to the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to Modification 3 of the first embodiment, when the subject P is in a standing position during scanning, the scanner 10 tilts around the tilt axis such that the part of the scanner 10 on the side into which the subject P enters is lifted away from the floor, and the part on the opposite side of the side into which the subject P enters is brought closer to the floor.

[0071] Furthermore, the pole support structure 70 is configured in the same way as the pole support structure 60 according to Modification 3, so that the scanner 10 and the pole support structure 70 do not come into contact when the scanner 10 is rotated as described above.

[0072] The pole support structure 70 is a component for fixing the ceiling-side end of the pole 90. One end 70a of the pole support structure 70 is attached to the upper surface of the stand 20. That is, the pole support structure 70 is cantilevered by the stand 20. In a top view, the shape of one end 70a of the pole support structure 70 is rectangular. Also in a top view, the size of one end 70a of the pole support structure 70 is smaller than the size of the upper surface of the stand 20. One end 70a of the pole support structure 70 is attached to the front or rear side of the upper surface of the stand 20 so that the scanner 10 and the pole support structure 70 do not come into contact when the scanner 10 is rotated as described above.

[0073] As shown in Figure 6, in the second embodiment, the second fastener 52 can be attached to both sides (the first surface 70e and the second surface 70f) of the other end 70b of the pole support structure 70. The other end 70b of the pole support structure 70 is located above the opening of the scanner 10. Also, in a top view, the shape of the other end 70b of the pole support structure 70 is the same circular shape as the opening of the scanner 10 (see Figure 2B). Also, in a top view, the size of the other end 70b of the pole support structure 70 is smaller than the size of the opening of the scanner 10. Also, in a top view, the other end 70b of the pole support structure 70 is formed so that it fits within the opening of the scanner 10.

[0074] As shown in Figure 6, one end 70a and the other end 70b of the pole support structure 70 are connected via an intermediate member 70c of the pole support structure 70. The intermediate members 50c and 50d have a rectangular shape when viewed from above. As shown in Figure 6, the intermediate member 70c is formed to extend from one end 70a to the other end 70b of the pole support structure 70.

[0075] The operator can attach the second fastener 52 to the first surface 70e and the second surface 70f of the other end 70b of the pole support structure 70. The operator can also remove the second fastener 52, which is attached to the first surface 70e and the second surface 70f of the other end 70b of the pole support structure 70, from the other end 50b of the pole support structure 50.

[0076] To illustrate with a specific example, the operator can attach the second fixing device 52 to one or more of the five regions (regions 73a, 73b, 73c, 73d, 73e) of the first surface 70e. The operator can also attach the second fixing device 52 to one or more of the five regions (the region opposite region 73a, the region opposite region 73b, the region opposite region 73c, the region opposite region 73d, and the region opposite region 73e) of the second surface 70f. In the following explanation, the region opposite region 73a will be referred to as "region 73a5". Similarly, the region opposite region 73b will be referred to as "region 73b5", the region opposite region 73c as "region 73c5", the region opposite region 73d as "region 73d5", and the region opposite region 73e as "region 73e5".

[0077] For example, the operator attaches the second fastener 52 to region 73a by engaging each of the multiple screws 73a2, with the second fastener 52 inserted through them, into each of the multiple screw holes 73a1 formed in region 73a. Similarly, the operator attaches the second fastener 52 to region 73b by engaging each of the multiple screws 73b2, with the second fastener 52 inserted through them, into each of the multiple screw holes 73b1 formed in region 73b. The operator also attaches the second fastener 52 to region 73c by engaging each of the multiple screws 73c2, with the second fastener 52 inserted through them, into each of the multiple screw holes 73c1 formed in region 73c. Furthermore, the operator attaches the second fastener 52 to region 73d by engaging each of the multiple screws (not shown) with the second fastener 52 inserted into each of the multiple screw holes 73d1 formed in region 73d. Similarly, the operator attaches the second fastener 52 to region 73e by engaging each of the multiple screws (not shown) with the second fastener 52 inserted into each of the multiple screw holes 73e1 formed in region 73e. The example in Figure 6 shows the case where the second fastener 52 is attached to three regions 73a, 73b, and 73c.

[0078] Furthermore, the screw holes 73a1, 73b1, 73c1, 73d1, and 73e1 are formed to penetrate the other end 70b of the pole support structure 70 from the first surface 70e to the second surface 70f. Therefore, the operator can attach the second fixing device 52 to each of the areas 73a5, 73b5, 73c5, 73d5, and 73e5 in the same manner.

[0079] Next, with reference to Figures 7A to 7H, various mounting examples of the pole support structure 70 will be described. Figure 7A is a diagram illustrating a first example of mounting the pole support structure 70 according to the second embodiment. The upper part of Figure 7A is a top view of an example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to the second embodiment. The lower part of Figure 7A is a right side view of an example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to the second embodiment. In the first example of Figure 7A, with the second surface 70f facing the floor (downward), one end 70a of the pole support structure 70 is attached to the rear side of the upper surface of the stand 20. Also, in the first example of Figure 7A, a second fixing device 52 is attached to area 73b5. The ceiling end of the pole 90 is attached to this second fixing device 52.

[0080] Figure 7B is a diagram illustrating a second example of the installation of the pole support structure 70 according to the second embodiment. The upper part of Figure 7B is a top view of an example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to the second embodiment. The lower part of Figure 7B is a right side view of an example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to the second embodiment. In the second example of Figure 7B, with the first surface 70e facing the floor, one end 70a of the pole support structure 70 is attached to the rear side of the upper surface of the stand 20. Also in the second example of Figure 7B, a second fixing device 52 is attached to area 73b. The ceiling end of the pole 90 is attached to this second fixing device 52.

[0081] Figure 7C is a diagram illustrating a third example of the mounting of the pole support structure 70 according to the second embodiment. The upper part of Figure 7C is a top view of an example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to the second embodiment. The lower part of Figure 7C is a right side view of an example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to the second embodiment. In the third example of Figure 7C, with the second surface 70f facing the floor, one end 70a of the pole support structure 70 is attached to the rear side of the upper surface of the stand 20. Also in the third example of Figure 7C, a second fixing device 52 is attached to area 73e5. The ceiling-side end of the pole 90 is attached to this second fixing device 52.

[0082] Figure 7D is a diagram illustrating a fourth example of the mounting of the pole support structure 70 according to the second embodiment. The upper part of Figure 7D is a top view of an example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to the second embodiment. The lower part of Figure 7D is a right side view of an example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to the second embodiment. In the fourth example of Figure 7D, with the first surface 70e facing the floor, one end 70a of the pole support structure 70 is attached to the rear side of the upper surface of the stand 20. Also in the fourth example of Figure 7D, a second fixing device 52 is attached to area 73e. The ceiling-side end of the pole 90 is attached to this second fixing device 52.

[0083] Figure 7E is a diagram illustrating a fifth example of the mounting of the pole support structure 70 according to the second embodiment. The upper part of Figure 7E is a top view of an example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to the second embodiment. The lower part of Figure 7E is a right side view of an example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to the second embodiment. In the fifth example of Figure 7E, with the second surface 70f facing the floor, one end 70a of the pole support structure 70 is attached to the rear side of the upper surface of the stand 20. Also in the fifth example of Figure 7E, a second fixing device 52 is attached to each of the two regions 73a5 and 73c5. The ceiling end of the pole 90b is attached to the second fixing device 52 attached to region 73a5. The ceiling end of the pole 90a is attached to the second fixing device 52 attached to region 73c5. Although the two poles 90 are labeled "pole 90a" and "pole 90b" to distinguish them, poles 90a and 90b are identical to pole 90. Also, in Figure 7E, for the sake of explanation, poles 90a and 90b are shown in different positions in the front-to-back direction in a right-side view, but in reality, poles 90a and 90b are located in the same position in the front-to-back direction in a right-side view.

[0084] Figure 7F is a diagram illustrating a sixth example of the installation of the pole support structure 70 according to the second embodiment. The upper part of Figure 7F is a top view of an example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to the second embodiment. The lower part of Figure 7F is a right side view of an example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to the second embodiment. In the sixth example of Figure 7F, with the first surface 70e facing the floor, one end 70a of the pole support structure 70 is attached to the rear side of the upper surface of the stand 20. In the sixth example of Figure 7F, a second fixing device 52 is attached to each of the two regions 73a and 73c. ​​The ceiling end of the pole 90d is attached to the second fixing device 52 attached to region 73a. The ceiling end of the pole 90c is attached to the second fixing device 52 attached to region 73c. ​​Note that although the two poles 90 are labeled "pole 90c" and "pole 90d" to distinguish them, pole 90c and pole 90d are the same as pole 90. Furthermore, in Figure 7F, for the sake of explanation, poles 90c and 90d are shown in different positions in the front-to-back direction in a right-side view; however, in reality, poles 90c and 90d are located in the same position in the front-to-back direction in a right-side view.

[0085] Figure 7G is a diagram illustrating a seventh example of mounting the pole support structure 70 according to the second embodiment. The upper part of Figure 7G is a top view of an example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to the second embodiment. The lower part of Figure 7G is a right side view of an example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to the second embodiment. In the seventh example of Figure 7G, with the second surface 70f facing the floor, one end 70a of the pole support structure 70 is attached to the rear side of the upper surface of the stand 20. Also in the seventh example of Figure 7G, a second fixing device 52 is attached to each of the two regions 73a5 and 73d5. The ceiling end of the pole 90e is attached to the second fixing device 52 attached to region 73a5. The ceiling end of the pole 90f is attached to the second fixing device 52 attached to region 73d5. Please note that although the two poles 90 are labeled "pole 90e" and "pole 90f" to distinguish them, pole 90e and pole 90f are identical to pole 90.

[0086] Figure 7H is a diagram illustrating an eighth example of mounting the pole support structure 70 according to the second embodiment. The upper part of Figure 7H is a top view of an example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to the second embodiment. The lower part of Figure 7H is a right side view of an example of the scanner 10 and stand 20 according to the second embodiment. In the eighth example of Figure 7H, with the first surface 70e facing the floor, one end 70a of the pole support structure 70 is attached to the rear side of the upper surface of the stand 20. Also in the eighth example of Figure 7H, a second fixing device 52 is attached to each of the two regions 73a and 73d. The ceiling end of the pole 90h is attached to the second fixing device 52 attached to region 73a. Also, the ceiling end of the pole 90g is attached to the second fixing device 52 attached to region 73d. Please note that although we have used the labels "Pole 90g" and "Pole 90h" to distinguish between the two Pole 90 models, Pole 90g and Pole 90h are identical to Pole 90.

[0087] Figure 8 illustrates four examples of attaching the second fixing device 52 to the pole support structure 70 according to the second embodiment. In Figure 8, "Stand placement: Right" indicates the case where the stand 20 is positioned to the right of the scanner 10 when viewed from the front. Similarly, "Stand placement: Left" indicates the case where the stand 20 is positioned to the left of the scanner 10 when viewed from the front. Furthermore, "Subject orientation: Front" indicates the case where the subject P is facing forward during scanning. Furthermore, "Subject orientation: Left" indicates the case where the subject P is facing left during scanning when viewed from the front. Furthermore, "Subject orientation: Right" indicates the case where the subject P is facing right during scanning when viewed from the front.

[0088] As shown in Figure 8, in the case of "stand placement: right, subject facing: front," the second fixing device 52 is attached to each of the three areas 73a, 73b, and 73c. ​​This makes it possible to fix the ceiling-side tip of the pole 90 in both the second example in Figure 7B and the sixth example in Figure 7F.

[0089] Furthermore, in the case of "stand placement: right, subject facing: left," a second fixing device 52 is attached to each of the three regions 73a, 73d, and 73e. This makes it possible to fix the ceiling-side tip of the pole 90 in both the fourth example in Figure 7D and the eighth example in Figure 7H.

[0090] Furthermore, in the case of "stand placement: left, subject facing: front," a second fixing device 52 is attached to each of the three regions 73a5, 73b5, and 73c5. This makes it possible to fix the ceiling-side tip of the pole 90 in both the first example in Figure 7A and the fifth example in Figure 7E.

[0091] Furthermore, in the case of "stand placement: left, subject facing: right," a second fixing device 52 is attached to each of the three regions 73a5, 73d5, and 73e5. This makes it possible to fix the ceiling-side tip of the pole 90 in both the third example in Figure 7C and the seventh example in Figure 7G.

[0092] In the X-ray CT apparatus according to the second embodiment, as described above, the other end 70b of the pole support structure 70 is configured such that the second fixing device 52 can be attached to both sides of the other end 70b of the pole support structure 70. With the side of the other end 70b of the pole support structure 70 to which the second fixing device 52 is attached facing the floor, one end 70a of the pole support structure 70 is attached to the upper surface of the stand 20 on the side where the scanner 10 tilts and approaches the floor. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus according to the second embodiment can fix the ceiling-side tip of the pole 90 at a plurality of predetermined positions while suppressing contact between the scanner 10 and the pole support structure 70.

[0093] (Third embodiment) Next, an X-ray CT apparatus according to the third embodiment will be described. In describing the third embodiment, the description will mainly focus on configurations that differ from those in the first embodiment, and may omit the description of configurations that are similar to those in the first embodiment.

[0094] Figure 9 shows an example of the configuration of the pole support structure 80 according to the third embodiment. The X-ray CT apparatus according to the third embodiment differs from the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a pole support structure 80 instead of a pole support structure 50. The pole support structure 80 is, for example, an example of a support frame.

[0095] In the third embodiment of the X-ray CT apparatus, similar to the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to Modification 3 of the first embodiment, when the subject P is in a standing position during the scan, the scanner 10 tilts around the tilt axis such that the part of the scanner 10 on the side into which the subject P enters is lifted away from the floor, and the part on the opposite side of the side into which the subject P enters is closer to the floor.

[0096] As described above, the pole support structure 80 is configured in the same way as the pole support structure 60 according to Modification 3, so that the scanner 10 and the pole support structure 70 do not come into contact when the scanner 10 is rotated. However, as described below, the pole support structure 80 is configured so that the ceiling-side tip of the pole 90 can be fixed at a number of predetermined positions.

[0097] The pole support structure 80 is a component for fixing the ceiling-side end of the pole 90. One end 70a of the pole support structure 80 is attached to the upper surface of the stand 20. That is, the pole support structure 80 is cantilevered by the stand 20. In a top view, the shape of one end 80a of the pole support structure 80 is rectangular. Also in a top view, the size of one end 80a of the pole support structure 80 is smaller than the size of the upper surface of the stand 20. One end 80a of the pole support structure 80 is attached to the front or rear side of the upper surface of the stand 20 so that the scanner 10 and the pole support structure 70 do not come into contact when the scanner 10 is rotated as described above.

[0098] One end of the intermediate member 80c of the pole support structure 80 is connected to one end 80a of the pole support structure 80. The other end of the intermediate member 80c of the pole support structure 80 has a mounting surface 80c1 that is shaped to conform to the side surface of the fixing member 80b, which is a disc-shaped member of the pole support structure 80. The fixing member 80b can be attached to the mounting surface 80c1.

[0099] As shown in Figure 9, in the third embodiment, the second fixing device 52 can be attached to both sides of the fixing member 80b (the first surface 80f and the second surface 80g). For example, in a top view, the fixing member 80b is circular in shape, and the second fixing device 52 can be attached at 120-degree intervals in the rotational direction around an axis that passes perpendicularly through the center 80d of the circle to the first surface 80f and the second surface 80g. In this case, the operator can attach up to three second fixing devices 52 to the first surface 80f. The operator can also attach up to three second fixing devices 52 to the second surface 80g. It is sufficient that at least one second fixing device 52 can be attached to each of the two surfaces of the fixing member 80b. Furthermore, the operator can remove the second fastener 52, which is attached to the first surface 80f and the second surface 80g of the fixing member 80b, from the first surface 80f and the second surface 80g of the fixing member 80b.

[0100] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9, the fixing member 80b has multiple weight-reducing sections 80e while maintaining a certain level of rigidity and strength. This makes it possible to reduce the weight of the fixing member 80b.

[0101] Furthermore, two (or more) mounting parts 82d and 83d are provided on the side surface of the fixing member 80b. When the second fixing device 52 is attached to the first surface 80f of the fixing member 80b, the operator attaches the mounting part 82d or mounting part 83d to the mounting surface 80c1 with the first surface 80f facing the floor. Also, when the second fixing device 52 is attached to the second surface 80g of the fixing member 80b, the operator attaches the mounting part 82d or mounting part 83d to the mounting surface 80c1 with the second surface 80g facing the floor.

[0102] The mounting surface 80c1 has holes through which each of the three screws 81a, 81b, and 81c can be inserted. The mounting portion 82d is also provided with three screw holes 82a, 82b, and 82c. For example, the fixing member 80b, which is a disc-shaped member, has three screw holes 82a, 82b, and 82c on its side surface. The mounting portion 83d is also provided with three screw holes 83a, 83b, and 83c. For example, the fixing member 80b has three screw holes 83a, 83b, and 83c on its side surface.

[0103] The operator attaches the mounting portion 82d to the mounting surface 80c1 by engaging the screws 81a, 81b, and 81c, with the mounting surface 80c1 inserted through them, into the screw holes 82a, 82b, and 82c, respectively. The operator also attaches the mounting portion 83d to the mounting surface 80c1 by engaging the screws 81a, 81b, and 81c, with the mounting surface 80c1 inserted through them, into the screw holes 83a, 83b, and 83c, respectively. In this way, the operator attaches the fixing member 80b to the intermediate member 80c. The operator may also attach the mounting portion 82d or mounting portion 83d to the mounting surface 80c1 using adhesive.

[0104] Here, in a top view, the angle formed by the line segment connecting the center 80d of the circle to the screw hole 82a and the line segment connecting the center 80d of the circle to the screw hole 82b is 30 degrees. Also, in a top view, the angle formed by the line segment connecting the center 80d of the circle to the screw hole 82b and the line segment connecting the center 80d of the circle to the screw hole 82c is also 30 degrees. Also, in a top view, the angle formed by the line segment connecting the center 80d of the circle to the screw hole 83a and the line segment connecting the center 80d of the circle to the screw hole 83b is also 30 degrees. Also, in a top view, the angle formed by the line segment connecting the center 80d of the circle to the screw hole 83b and the line segment connecting the center 80d of the circle to the screw hole 83c is also 30 degrees. Furthermore, in a top view, the angle formed by the line segment connecting the center 80d of the circle and the screw hole 82a, and the line segment connecting the center 80d of the circle and the screw hole 83c, is also 30 degrees. Therefore, as shown in Figure 9, in a top view, the angle formed by the line segment connecting the center 80d of the circle and the screw hole 82b, and the line segment connecting the center 80d of the circle and the screw hole 83b, is 90 degrees.

[0105] When the fixing member 80b is attached to the intermediate member 80c, the fixing member 80b corresponds to the other end of the pole support structure 80. In this state, the fixing member 80b is located above the opening of the scanner 10. Also, in a top view, the outer circumference of the fixing member 80b is smaller than the size of the opening of the scanner 10. Also, in a top view, the fixing member 80b is formed so that it fits within the opening of the scanner 10.

[0106] Figure 10 illustrates four examples of attaching the fixing member 80b to the intermediate member 80c of the pole support structure 80 according to the third embodiment. In Figure 10, "Stand arrangement: right", "Stand arrangement: left", "Subject orientation: front", "Subject orientation: left", and "Subject orientation: right" are the same as those described in the second embodiment with reference to Figure 8.

[0107] In the example shown in Figure 10, regardless of whether the stand is positioned to the right and the subject is facing forward, or if the stand is positioned to the right and the subject is facing left, or if the stand is positioned to the left and the subject is facing forward, the second fixing device 52 is attached to three locations on either the first surface 80f or the second surface 80g.

[0108] As shown in Figure 10, when the stand is positioned to the right and the subject is facing forward, the second fixing device 52 is attached to three locations on the first surface 80f. In this case, the mounting part 82d is attached to the intermediate member 80c. This makes it possible to fix the ceiling-side tip of the pole 90 in either the second example in Figure 7B or the sixth example in Figure 7F, as described in the second embodiment.

[0109] Furthermore, in the case of "stand placement: right, subject facing: left," the second fixing device 52 is attached to three locations on the first surface 80f. In this case, the mounting part 83d is attached to the intermediate member 80c. This makes it possible to fix the ceiling-side tip of the pole 90 in either the fourth example in Figure 7D or the eighth example in Figure 7H described in the second embodiment.

[0110] Furthermore, in the case of "stand placement: left, subject facing: front," the second fixing device 52 is attached to three locations on the second surface 80g. In this case, the mounting part 82d is attached to the intermediate member 80c. This makes it possible to fix the ceiling-side tip of the pole 90 in either the first example in Figure 7A or the fifth example in Figure 7E, as described in the second embodiment.

[0111] Furthermore, in the case of "stand placement: left, subject facing: right," the second fixing device 52 is attached to three locations on the second surface 80g. In this case, the mounting part 83d is attached to the intermediate member 80c. This makes it possible to fix the ceiling-side tip of the pole 90 in either the third example in Figure 7C or the seventh example in Figure 7G described in the second embodiment.

[0112] In the X-ray CT apparatus according to the third embodiment, as described above, the pole support structure 80 includes an intermediate member 80c connected to one end 80a of the pole support structure 80. The fixing member 80b, which corresponds to the other end of the pole support structure 80, is configured such that the second fixing device 52 can be attached to both sides of the fixing member 80b. The fixing member 80b is attached to the intermediate member 80c with the side to which the second fixing device 52 is attached facing the floor. With the side to which the second fixing device 52 is attached facing the floor, one end 80a of the pole support structure 80 is attached to the upper surface of the stand 20 on the side where the scanner 10 tilts and approaches the floor. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus according to the third embodiment can fix the ceiling-side tip of the pole 90 at a plurality of predetermined positions while suppressing contact between the scanner 10 and the pole support structure 80.

[0113] Furthermore, the fixing member 80b has a weight-reducing portion 80e. This makes it possible to reduce the weight of the fixing member 80b, as described above.

[0114] According to at least one embodiment or modification described above, the stand 20 can support the pole 90 in an X-ray CT apparatus in which the scanner 10 is cantilevered.

[0115] 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 carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made 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]

[0116] 1 X-ray CT device 10 Scanners 20 stands 51 First fastener 52 Second fastener 50, 60, 70, 80 Pole support structure 100 mounting device

Claims

1. A scanner unit with an imaging system, A stand that supports the scanner unit so that it can be tilted around a tilt axis, A first fixing device to which the floor-side end of the subject holder is fixed, A support frame having one end connected to the stand and the other end having a second fixing device that secures the ceiling-side tip of the subject holder. An X-ray CT scanner equipped with [a specific feature].

2. The height of the top surface of the stand is higher than the upper limit of the ceiling height from which the scanner unit can move. One end of the support frame is attached to the upper surface of the stand portion. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1.

3. A rib provided in a position that does not come into contact with the scanner unit, which supports the support frame. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising the following:

4. A third fixing device that suspends and supports the other end of the support frame from the ceiling. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising the following:

5. The scanner unit is tilted around the tilt axis such that the part of the scanner unit into which the subject enters is lifted away from the floor surface, and the part opposite to the part into which the subject enters is closer to the floor surface. One end of the support frame is attached to the upper surface of the stand on the side where the scanner unit tilts and approaches the floor. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1.

6. The other end of the support frame is configured such that the second fastener can be attached to both sides of that other end. With the other end of the support frame facing the floor, the side to which the second fixing device is attached is attached to the upper surface of the stand on the side where the scanner unit tilts closer to the floor. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 5.

7. The support frame includes an intermediate member connected to one end, The other end is attached to the intermediate member with the side of the other end to which the second fastener is attached facing the floor surface. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 5.

8. The other end has a weight-reducing portion. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 7.

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