Imaging support device, method and program, and radiography apparatus

Abstract

In a radiography support device, method, and program for a radiographic imaging apparatus, the aim is to facilitate the alignment of the angle between the radiation source and the radiation detector. [Solution] The system comprises a display and a processor. The processor acquires distance information representing the shooting distance from the radiation source to the subject, acquires an optical image from the radiation source to the subject, derives a differential distance image in which the display mode of each pixel differs according to the difference between the shooting distance and the target distance, and displays the differential distance image superimposed on the optical image on the display.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a photographing support device, method, and program, and a radiation imaging device.

Background Art

[0002] When using a mobile radiation imaging device (round-trip vehicle) to take a radiation image of a patient using a radiation detector at the destination of the round-trip visit, it is necessary to align the radiation source and the radiation detector. Specifically, the SID (Source to Image receptor Distance), which is the distance between the radiation source and the radiation detector, is made to match the target distance, the center of the radiation emitted from the radiation source and the imaging center of the subject are made to match, and the distance, relative position, and relative angle between the radiation source and the radiation detector are adjusted so that the optical axis of the radiation intersects the radiation detector perpendicularly. For this reason, a method of assisting the alignment has been proposed by displaying information necessary for alignment, such as the SID, the angle of the radiation source, and the angle of the radiation detector, on the display of the radiation imaging device (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Note that the angles of the radiation source and the radiation detector are angles around two axes such as the pitch angle and the roll angle.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, when it is necessary to position the examiner at an angle to the examination table, the two axes used to adjust the angle of the radiation source and the two axes used to adjust the angle of the radiation detector will no longer coincide. In this case, simply displaying the angle does not make it easy to confirm whether the angles of the radiation source and the radiation detector are aligned.

[0005] This disclosure is made in view of the above circumstances and aims to facilitate the alignment of the angle between the radiation source and the radiation detector. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The imaging support device described herein is an imaging support device for a radiographic imaging apparatus equipped with a radiation source that emits radiation, The display and Equipped with a processor, The aforementioned processor, Distance information representing the shooting distance in the direction of the subject is obtained from the aforementioned radiation source. An optical image is obtained from the radiation source in the direction of the subject. A difference distance image is derived in which the display mode of each pixel differs depending on the difference between the shooting distance and the target distance. The difference distance image is superimposed on the optical image and displayed on the display.

[0007] In the imaging support device according to this disclosure, the display mode may be at least one of color, density, and pattern.

[0008] In the imaging support device according to this disclosure, the display may be attached to the radiation source unit having the radiation source.

[0009] In the imaging support device according to this disclosure, the processor may derive the difference distance image within a predetermined range of a first distance based on the target distance.

[0010] In the imaging support device according to this disclosure, the processor may derive a differential distance image in which the display mode of the distance corresponding to the target distance differs from the display mode of other distances.

[0011] In the imaging support device according to this disclosure, the processor may set the target distance according to the imaging menu specified by the user.

[0012] In the imaging support device according to this disclosure, the processor may further display the target distance on the display and make the display mode of the target distance display area match the display mode of the representative value of the difference in the difference distance image.

[0013] In the imaging support device according to this disclosure, the processor may detect a plane in the optical image based on the imaging distance and derive the difference distance image on the plane.

[0014] In the imaging support device according to this disclosure, the processor may detect the subject area from the optical image and derive the difference distance image in the area other than the subject area.

[0015] In the imaging support device according to this disclosure, the processor may extract the region of the radiation detector that detects radiation transmitted through the subject from the optical image and derive the difference distance image in the region of the radiation detector.

[0016] The imaging support method described herein is an imaging support method for a radiographic apparatus equipped with a radiation source that emits radiation, Computers Distance information representing the shooting distance in the direction of the subject is obtained from the aforementioned radiation source. An optical image is obtained from the radiation source in the direction of the subject. A difference distance image is derived in which the display mode of each pixel differs depending on the difference between the shooting distance and the target distance. Superimpose the differential distance image on the optical image and display it on a display.

[0017] The imaging support program according to the present disclosure is an imaging support program for a radiation imaging apparatus including a radiation source that emits radiation, a procedure for acquiring distance information representing the imaging distance in the direction of a subject from the radiation source, a procedure for acquiring an optical image in the direction of the subject from the radiation source, a procedure for deriving a differential distance image in which the display mode of each pixel differs according to the difference from the target distance of the imaging distance, and a procedure for causing a computer to superimpose the differential distance image on the optical image and display it on a display.

[0018] Note that the technology of the present disclosure may be applied to a program product.

[0019] The radiation imaging apparatus according to the present disclosure includes a radiation source and a sensor that acquires distance information representing the imaging distance in the direction of a subject from the radiation source, an optical camera that acquires an optical image in the direction of the subject from the radiation source, and the imaging support apparatus according to the present disclosure.

[0020] In the radiation imaging apparatus according to the present disclosure, it may further include a travelable main body and a foldable arm that connects the main body and the radiation source.

[0021] In the radiation imaging apparatus according to the present disclosure, information representing perspective corresponding to the display mode in the differential distance image may be given to the radiation source, the arm, and the main body.

[0022] In the radiation imaging apparatus according to the present disclosure, the display mode is color, and colors representing the perspective of the distance may be given to the radiation source, the arm, and the main body. [Effects of the Invention]

[0023] According to this disclosure, the angle between the radiation source and the radiation detector can be easily aligned. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0024] [Figure 1] External perspective view of a radiography apparatus to which the imaging support device according to this embodiment is applied. [Figure 2] A diagram showing the state of the radiography apparatus when in use according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] Diagram showing the detailed configuration of the radiation source unit. [Figure 4] This figure shows the hardware configuration of the computer used to execute the processing of the imaging support device according to this embodiment. [Figure 5] Functional configuration diagram of the imaging support device according to this embodiment [Figure 6] A diagram to explain plane detection. [Figure 7] Diagram showing the display screen on the display. [Figure 8] This diagram shows the radiation source unit tilted to the right of the subject on the bed. [Figure 9] This diagram shows the radiation source unit tilted to the left of the subject on the bed. [Figure 10] Diagram showing the display screen on the display. [Figure 11] This diagram shows the radiation source unit tilted towards the head of the subject lying on the bed. [Figure 12] Diagram showing the display screen on the display. [Figure 13] This diagram shows the radiation source unit tilted towards the feet of the subject on the bed. [Figure 14] Diagram showing the display screen on the display. [Figure 15] Diagram showing the display screen on the display. [Figure 16] Flowchart showing the process performed in this embodiment [Figure 17] This diagram shows the arm of the radiography apparatus extended diagonally relative to the patient's bed. [Figure 18] Diagram illustrating the detection of a radiation detector's region. [Figure 19] Diagram showing the display screen on the display. [Figure 20] A diagram showing a radiography apparatus with components color-coded according to distance. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0025] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 is an external perspective view of a radiography apparatus to which the imaging support device according to this embodiment is applied, and Figure 2 is a diagram showing the state of the radiography apparatus to which the imaging support device according to this embodiment is applied when in use. The radiography apparatus 1 to which the imaging support device according to this embodiment is applied is a mobile radiography apparatus and has legs 2 that can travel on the apparatus mounting surface, a main body 3 held on the legs 2, an arm 4 connected to the main body 3, and a radiation source unit 5 attached to the tip of the arm 4.

[0026] The leg section 2 has four legs 11 and wheel sections 12 attached to the underside of the tip of each leg 11. The wheel sections 12 are equipped with stoppers (not shown) to prevent the wheels from rotating unintentionally.

[0027] The main unit 3 houses a computer 10 and battery, etc., for controlling the radiography apparatus 1 within the housing 3A. The computer 10 incorporates the radiography support device according to this embodiment. A handle 13 for pushing and pulling the radiography apparatus is attached to the upper end of the housing 3A. An operation panel 14 is also attached to the upper part of the housing 3A.

[0028] The control panel 14 employs a touch panel system integrated with the display, receiving operator instructions such as setting imaging conditions and starting imaging, and inputting these instructions into the radiography device 1. Imaging menus that can be set include chest radiography, limb radiography, and upper body radiography.

[0029] The arm 4 consists of a foldable first member 15 and a second member 16. The first member 15 is connected to the main body 3 so as to be rotatable in the vertical direction. The first member 15 and the second member 16 are connected so as to be rotatable relative to each other.

[0030] The radiation source unit 5 is attached to the tip of the second member 16 of the arm 4 by a mounting member 17. The mounting member 17 supports the radiation source unit 5 so that it can swing freely. The mounting member 17 is also rotatably mounted around the long axis of the second member 16.

[0031] When using the radiography apparatus 1, for example, as shown in Figure 2, the upper body of the subject H is raised on the bed 30, and a radiation detector 31 is inserted between the raised portion of the bed 30 and the subject H to generate a radiographic image by detecting the radiation that has passed through the subject H. The operator moves the radiography apparatus 1 close to the bed 30, unfolds the folded arm 4, and moves and aligns the radiation source unit 5 so that radiation is irradiated perpendicularly to the radiation detector 31 according to the set SID. The alignment of the radiation source unit 5 will be described later.

[0032] The radiation detector 31 is a cassette-type detector configured to acquire a radiation image of the subject H by detecting radiation. Furthermore, the radiation detector 31 is a wireless type detector and transmits the radiation image acquired by radiation irradiation to the computer 10 wirelessly.

[0033] Figure 3 shows a detailed configuration of the radiation source unit. As shown in Figure 3, the radiation source unit 5 has a tube housing 18 for housing a radiation tube such as an X-ray tube, and a collimator 19 that is rotatably mounted on the tube housing 18 around the optical axis of the radiation. A radiation emission window 20, an optical camera 21, a stereo camera 22, and two handles 23 and 24 are attached to the radiation emission surface of the collimator 19. A display 25 is attached to the side of the collimator 19. In Figure 3, the handle 23 is shown by a dashed line to illustrate the configuration of the collimator 19. Alternatively, the display 25 may be attached to the side or back of the tube housing 18 instead of the collimator 19.

[0034] The collimator 19 sets the radiation field by changing the size of the output window 20. The radiation field is set according to instructions from the control panel 14. A visible light source, the field lamp, is installed inside the output window 20 of the collimator 19. By turning on the field lamp, visible light is irradiated onto the subject, and the range of visible light irradiation changes according to the size of the output window 20. This allows the operator to confirm the radiation field on the subject H. Furthermore, the collimator 19 is rotatably mounted on the tube housing 18. Therefore, the radiation field on the subject H can be rotated around the optical axis of the radiation.

[0035] The optical camera 21 acquires an optical image G1 in the direction from which radiation is emitted from the radiation source unit 5. The optical image G1 is a moving image at a predetermined frame rate, representing objects on the side from which radiation is irradiated from the radiation source unit 5 using RGB color pixels. The acquired optical image G1 is displayed on the display 25 as described later. The optical camera 21 is designed to acquire a color optical image G1, but it may also acquire a monochrome optical image G1.

[0036] The stereo camera 22 has two cameras 22A and 22B and acquires a shooting distance image G2 by measuring the distance using the principle of triangulation. The shooting distance image G2 is also a moving image with a predetermined frame rate. In the shooting distance image G2, each pixel represents the shooting distance in the direction from the light source unit 5 to the subject. Instead of the stereo camera 22, a TOF (Time-of-Flight) camera that measures the distance by the time it takes for light to return may be used. The shooting distance image may also be derived using a LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) sensor. The stereo camera 22, TOF camera, and LiDAR sensor are examples of sensors that acquire distance information representing the shooting distance in this disclosure. The shooting distance image G2 is an example of distance information representing the shooting distance in this disclosure. Note that the distance information is not limited to an image format and may be the numerical value itself that represents the shooting distance.

[0037] Handles 23 and 24 are used by the operator to grasp them and change the position and angle of the radiation source unit 5. Here, assuming the x, y, and z axes are set as shown in Figure 3, the collimator 19 is mounted to the tube housing 18 so as to be rotatable around the z axis. Therefore, the X-ray irradiation field can be rotated. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the radiation source unit 5 is mounted so as to be rotatable around the long axis of the second member 16 and is swingably attached to the second member 16 by the mounting member 17. Therefore, it is possible to adjust the angles around the x and y axes shown in Figure 3.

[0038] The optical image G1 captured by the optical camera 21 is displayed on the display 25. The display on the display 25 will be described later.

[0039] Next, a computer for executing the processing of the imaging support device according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 4 is a diagram showing the hardware configuration of the computer for executing the processing of the imaging support device. As shown in Figure 4, the computer 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 41, non-volatile storage 43, and memory 46 as a temporary storage area. The computer 10 also includes an operation panel 14, a network I / F (Interface) 47 connected to a network (not shown), and wired and wireless I / F 45 for connecting the optical camera 21, stereo camera 22, and display 25 to the computer 10. The CPU 41, storage 43, operation panel 14, I / F 45, memory 46, and network I / F 47 are connected to a bus 48. Note that the CPU 41 is an example of a processor in this disclosure.

[0040] The computer 10 processes the display of the radiation image acquired by the radiation detector 31 and transmits it to external devices, but a detailed explanation of these processes is omitted here. The computer 10 also incorporates the imaging support device according to this embodiment. Therefore, in the following description, the imaging support device according to this embodiment will also be referred to as 10.

[0041] The storage 43 is implemented by an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), flash memory, etc. The storage 43, as a storage medium, stores the shooting support program 42. The CPU 41 reads the shooting support program 42 from the storage 43, expands it into memory 46, and executes the expanded shooting support program 42.

[0042] Next, the functional configuration of the imaging support device according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 5 is a diagram showing the functional configuration of the imaging support device according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, the imaging support device 10 includes an image acquisition unit 51, an output unit 52, and a display control unit 53. When the CPU 41 executes the imaging support program 42, the CPU 41 functions as the image acquisition unit 51, the output unit 52, and the display control unit 53.

[0043] The image acquisition unit 51 acquires the optical image G1 acquired by the optical camera 21 and the shooting distance image G2 acquired by the stereo camera 22.

[0044] The output unit 52 outputs a differential distance image in which the display mode of each pixel differs depending on the difference between the shooting distance and the target distance. Here, the target distance is the SID, which is the distance between the radiation source unit 5 and the radiation detector 31. The SID may be set numerically by the operator from the control panel 14, or it may be set automatically according to the shooting menu pre-registered in the radiography device 1. For example, an SID of 100 cm is registered for portable chest radiography, 180 cm for standing chest radiography, 100 cm for limb radiography, and 120 cm for hip joint radiography. In this case, when the operator specifies the shooting menu from the control panel 14, an appropriate SID corresponding to the shooting menu is set as the target distance.

[0045] The derivation unit 52 derives the difference between the target distance and the shooting distance represented by each pixel of the shooting distance image G2. Then, it derives a difference distance image Gs in which each pixel has a display mode corresponding to the difference. In this embodiment, the derivation unit 52 derives a difference distance image Gs in which each pixel has a color corresponding to the difference. In this embodiment, if the difference from the target distance is ±5 cm, it is considered to match the target distance, and the derivation unit 52 derives a difference distance image Gs in which the color of the pixel that matches the target distance is distinguished from the color of the other pixels. For example, light yellow can be used as the color that matches the target distance. In this case, light yellow is the color that indicates that the shooting distance matches the target distance.

[0046] In this embodiment, the difference is derived by subtracting the shooting distance from the target distance. Therefore, if the difference is a positive value, the object at that shooting distance is closer to the radiation source unit 5 than the target distance. On the other hand, if the difference is a negative value, the object at that shooting distance is further from the radiation source unit 5 than the target distance.

[0047] Furthermore, the derivation unit 52 sets the color of the difference distance image Gs to a cool color when the difference from the target distance is greater than 5 cm, that is, when the shooting distance is closer to the radiation source unit 5 than the target distance. For example, when the distance from the target distance is greater than 5 cm but 10 cm or less, greater than 10 cm but 15 cm or less, and greater than 15 cm but 20 cm or less, the derivation unit 52 sets the color of the difference distance image Gs to a progressively bluer color.

[0048] Furthermore, the derivation unit 52 sets the color of the difference distance image Gs to a warm color when the difference from the target distance is less than -5 cm, that is, when the shooting distance is further from the radiation source unit 5 than the target distance. For example, when the difference from the target distance is less than -5 cm and less than or equal to -10 cm, when it is less than -10 cm and less than or equal to -15 cm, and when it is less than -15 cm and less than or equal to -20 cm, the derivation unit 52 sets the color of the difference distance image Gs to a progressively redder color.

[0049] The derivation unit 52 may derive the difference distance image Gs only within a predetermined range of distances based on the target distance. For example, the difference distance image Gs may be derived only within a range of ±25 cm based on the target distance. ±25 cm is an example of the first distance in this disclosure.

[0050] Furthermore, the derivation unit 52 may detect a plane in the captured distance image G2 and derive the difference distance image Gs only in the detected plane. Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the detection of a plane. As shown in Figure 6, for distances within a certain field of view from the stereo camera 22 to the vicinity of the subject H on the bed 30, the surface of the bed 30 is flat and has a certain area, so the shooting distances of multiple pixels are within a predetermined range, and the group of pixels whose shooting distances are within the predetermined range (shown as black circles in Figure 6) has an area of ​​a certain size or larger. On the other hand, since the surface of the subject H is curved, the shooting distances of multiple pixels representing the surface of the subject H (shown as × marks in Figure 6) will exceed the predetermined range. The predetermined range can be, for example, ±2 cm.

[0051] Therefore, the derivation unit 52 determines that a group of pixels in the shooting distance image G2 constitutes a plane if the shooting distances of multiple pixels are within a predetermined range and the group of pixels within the predetermined range has an area greater than or equal to a certain amount. The derivation unit 52 may also derive a difference distance image Gs only for the determined plane. Since a plane is determined when a group of pixels within a predetermined range has an area greater than or equal to a certain amount, it is possible to prevent detecting a small object with a flat surface near the bed 30 as a plane.

[0052] Furthermore, the derivation unit 52 may detect the subject H in the optical image G1 and derive a difference distance image Gs in the region of the optical image G1 other than the subject H. For example, the detection of the region of subject H in the optical image G1 can be done by using a trained model that has been machine-learned to detect the subject region.

[0053] Furthermore, the derivation unit 52 may derive the difference distance image Gs only in the determined plane in the region other than the subject H in the optical image G1. In this embodiment, the derivation unit 52 derives the difference distance image Gs only in the determined plane in the region other than the subject H in the optical image G1.

[0054] The display control unit 53 superimposes the difference distance image Gs derived by the derivation unit 52 onto the optical image G1 and displays it on the display 25. Figure 7 shows the display screen shown on the display 25. As shown in Figure 7, the display screen 60 has an information area 61 that displays information about the subject H, an image area 62 that displays the image, a condition area 63 that displays shooting conditions such as SID, and a color bar 64 that indicates the color of the difference distance.

[0055] Information area 61 displays the subject H's name, patient number, date of birth, and gender. Image area 62 displays superimposed image G3, which is an optical image G1 with a difference distance image Gs superimposed on it. Condition area 63 displays the tube voltage (e.g., 80kV), mAs value (e.g., 0.50mAs), and SID (100cm). Color bar 64 consists of colored patches representing distances corresponding to the difference in the difference distance image Gs, arranged in order of distance. In Figure 7, for explanatory purposes, the different colors are indicated by the different patterns within the patches of color bar 64. In color bar 64, the words "far" and "near" are added to make it easier to understand whether the displayed color is far or near the target distance.

[0056] Here, as shown in Figure 8, when the radiation source unit 5 is tilted to the right of the subject H on the bed 30, the right side of the subject H becomes farther from the radiation source unit 5, and the left side of the subject H becomes closer to the radiation source unit 5. For this reason, as shown in Figure 7, in the superimposed image G3, a warm color is displayed on the bed 30 to the right of the subject H to indicate that it is further than the target distance (i.e., the difference is a negative value), and a cool color is displayed on the bed 30 to the left of the subject H to indicate that it is closer than the target distance (i.e., the difference is a positive value).

[0057] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9, when the radiation source unit 5 is tilted to the left of the subject H on the bed 30, the left side of the subject H becomes farther from the radiation source unit 5, and the right side of the subject H becomes closer to the radiation source unit 5. For this reason, as shown in Figure 10, in the superimposed image G3, a warm color is displayed on the left side of the bed 30 of the subject H to indicate that it is further than the target distance (i.e., the difference is a negative value), and a cool color is displayed on the right side of the bed 30 of the subject H to indicate that it is closer than the target distance (i.e., the difference is a positive value).

[0058] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 11, when the radiation source unit 5 is tilted towards the head of the subject H on the bed 30, the head of the subject H becomes farther from the radiation source unit 5, and the leg of the subject H becomes closer to the radiation source unit 5. For this reason, as shown in Figure 12, in the superimposed image G3, a warm color is displayed on the bed 30 on the head side of the subject H to indicate that it is further than the target distance (i.e., the difference is a negative value), and a cool color is displayed on the bed 30 on the leg side of the subject H to indicate that it is closer than the target distance (i.e., the difference is a positive value).

[0059] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13, when the radiation source unit 5 is tilted toward the foot side of the subject H on the bed 30, the foot side of the subject H becomes farther from the radiation source unit 5, and the head side of the subject H becomes closer to the radiation source unit 5. For this reason, as shown in Figure 14, in the superimposed image G3, a warm color is displayed on the bed 30 on the foot side of the subject H to indicate that it is further than the target distance (i.e., the difference is a negative value), and a cool color is displayed on the bed 30 on the head side of the subject H to indicate that it is closer than the target distance (i.e., the difference is a positive value).

[0060] In the examples shown in Figures 7, 10, 12, and 14, the superimposed image G3 includes a portion where the difference is the target distance relative to the SID, which is the target distance. Therefore, the superimposed image G3 includes an area where a color is displayed that represents a difference of ±5 cm between the shooting distance and the target distance. On the other hand, in the state shown in Figure 8, if the radiation source unit 5 is located closer to or further away from the entire bed 30 than the SID, the superimposed image G3 may not display a color that represents a difference of ±5 cm between the shooting distance and the target distance. In this case, the background color of the area in the condition area 63 where the SID is displayed (referred to as the SID area) may be changed according to the difference value in the difference distance image Gs. For example, as shown in Figure 15, if the average difference value in the difference distance image Gs is 80 cm, the color may be changed to represent a distance that is 20 cm close to the target value of 100 cm. Alternatively, instead of changing the color of the SID area, the color of the numerical value of the SID displayed in the SID area may be changed, or the color of the border of the SID area may be changed.

[0061] Next, the processing performed in this embodiment will be described. Figure 16 is a flowchart showing the processing performed in this embodiment. First, the image acquisition unit 51 acquires the optical image G1 acquired by the optical camera 21 and the shooting distance image G2 acquired by the stereo camera 22 (step ST1). The derivation unit 52 derives the difference from the target distance for each pixel of the shooting distance image G2, thereby deriving difference distance images Gs, which have different colors according to the difference from the target distance (step ST2). The display control unit 53 displays the superimposed image G3, obtained by superimposing the difference distance images Gs on the optical image G1, on the display 25 (step ST3), and returns to step ST1.

[0062] In this embodiment, a differential distance image Gs, each with a different color depending on the difference from the target distance, is derived, and the differential distance image Gs is superimposed on the optical image G1 and displayed on the display 25. Therefore, the operator can adjust the position of the radiation source unit 5 and its angle relative to the bed 30 while viewing the superimposed image G3 displayed on the display 25, thereby aligning the radiation source unit 5 based on the difference in color.

[0063] Here, the radiation source unit 5 is mounted so as to be rotatable and swingable around the long axis of the second member 16 of the arm 4 (around the z-axis shown in Figure 3). For this reason, as shown in Figure 17, when there is no space around the bed 30 and the arm 4 of the radiography apparatus 1 needs to be extended diagonally relative to the bed 30, it is difficult to determine whether the radiation source unit 5 is positioned to face the subject H simply by displaying the angle of the radiation source unit 5 on the control panel 14.

[0064] In this embodiment, the operator can intuitively align the radiation source unit 5 based on the color differences in the superimposed image G3 displayed on the display 25. Therefore, the alignment operation of the radiation source unit 5 can be easily performed.

[0065] After alignment, the operator uses the control panel 14 to turn on the irradiation field lamp and direct visible light representing the irradiation field towards the subject H. After adjusting the irradiation field, the operator issues a shooting command from the control panel 14, which takes a picture of the subject H and acquires a radiographic image.

[0066] In the above embodiment, the derivation unit 52 detects a plane in the captured distance image G2 and derives the difference distance image Gs only in the detected plane, but it is not limited to this. The difference distance image Gs may be derived for the entire area of ​​the captured distance image G2.

[0067] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the difference distance image Gs is derived within a predetermined range based on the target distance, but it is not limited to this. The difference distance image Gs may be derived for all distances.

[0068] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the region of the radiation detector 31 included in the optical image G1 may be detected, and the difference distance image Gs may be derived only in the region of the radiation detector 31. In this case, the detection of the region of the radiation detector 31 may be performed using a detection model constructed by performing machine learning using images of multiple radiation detectors 31 as training data. This makes it possible to detect the region of the radiation detector 70 included in the optical image G1, as shown in Figure 18. In this case, as shown in Figure 19, the difference distance image Gs may be derived only in the region of the radiation detector 70 and superimposed on the optical image G1 and displayed on the display 25.

[0069] Furthermore, although the above embodiment always displays the color bar 64 on the display 25, the system is not limited to this. The display screen may be configured to switch between displaying and hiding the color bar 64 so that it can be referenced only when necessary. Alternatively, instead of displaying the color bar 64, the components of the radiography apparatus 1 may be colored according to distance, as shown in Figure 20. For example, the upper part of the main body 3 may be colored light yellow, the colors may be progressively bluer as you move from the upper part of the main body 3 towards the arm 4 and the radiation source unit 5, and the colors may be progressively redder as you move from the upper part of the main body 3 towards the lower part and then towards the leg 2.

[0070] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the difference from the target distance is represented by the difference in color in the color bar 64, but this is not the only way. The difference from the target distance may also be represented by the difference in the density of the same color. For example, if the difference from the target distance is positive, the density may be made relatively lighter, and if the difference is negative, the density may be made relatively stronger. In this case, the same color includes monochrome.

[0071] Furthermore, the difference from the target distance may be represented not only by differences in color and density, but also by differences in pattern. Additionally, two or more of the following may be combined to represent the difference from the target distance: color, density, and density.

[0072] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the radiation source unit 5 includes the optical camera 21 and the stereo camera 22 as separate components, but it is not limited to this. A camera in which the optical camera and the stereo camera are built into a single housing may also be used.

[0073] In this embodiment, each process is executed on any computer. Furthermore, any computer may execute these processes using a processor as hardware, a program as software, or a combination thereof. In that case, the processor is configured to work in cooperation with the program to execute the various processes in this embodiment, and can function as a unit or means in this embodiment. Also, the execution order of the processes by the processor is not limited to the order described and may be changed as appropriate. Any computer may be a general-purpose computer, a computer designed for a specific purpose, a workstation, or any other system capable of executing each process.

[0074] A processor may consist of one or more hardware components, and the type of hardware is not limited. For example, a processor may consist of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a programmable logic device such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), a dedicated circuit for executing a specific process such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a GPU (Graphic Processing Unit), or an NPU (Neural Processing Unit). Furthermore, the type of hardware may be a combination of different types of hardware. When multiple hardware components are configured to execute one or more processes of a given processor, these components may reside in physically separate devices or in the same device. Also, in any embodiment, the order of each process performed by the processor is not limited to the order described above and may be changed as appropriate. Hardware is composed of electrical circuits (circuitry) that combine circuit elements such as semiconductor elements.

[0075] Furthermore, the program may be firmware or software such as microcode. Alternatively, the program may be, for example, a set of program modules, each function of which may be implemented by a processor configured to perform its respective function. The program may be program code or multiple code segments stored on one or more non-temporary computer-readable media (e.g., storage media or other storage). The program may be divided and stored on multiple non-temporary computer-readable media located in physically separate devices. Program code or code segments may represent any combination of procedures, functions, subprograms, routines, subroutines, modules, software packages, classes, or instructions, data structures, or program statements. Program code or code segments may be connected to other code segments or hardware circuits by sending and receiving information, data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents.

[0076] Furthermore, although the above embodiment describes a configuration in which the shooting support program 42 is pre-stored (installed) in the storage 43, the invention is not limited to this configuration. The shooting support program 42 may be provided in the form of a recording medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc Read Only Memory), or USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. Alternatively, the shooting support program 42 may be provided in the form of a download from an external device via a network.

[0077] The technology disclosed herein extends to all program products. Program products include all forms of products for providing programs. For example, program products include programs provided via networks such as the Internet, and non-temporary computer-readable recording media such as CD-ROMs, DVDs, and USB memory sticks on which programs are stored.

[0078] The following are additional notes to this disclosure. (Additional note 1) A radiography support device for a radiography apparatus equipped with a radiation source that emits radiation, The display and Equipped with a processor, The aforementioned processor, Distance information representing the shooting distance in the direction of the subject is obtained from the aforementioned radiation source. An optical image is obtained from the radiation source in the direction of the subject. A difference distance image is derived in which the display mode of each pixel differs depending on the difference between the shooting distance and the target distance. A shooting support device that superimposes the difference distance image onto the optical image and displays it on the display. (Additional note 2) The photographic support device according to Appendix 1, wherein the display mode is at least one of color, density, and pattern. (Additional note 3) The imaging support device according to Appendix 1 or 2, wherein the display is attached to the radiation source unit having the radiation source. (Additional note 4) The imaging support device according to any one of the appendices 1 to 3, wherein the processor derives the difference distance image within a predetermined range of a first distance based on the target distance. (Additional note 5) The imaging support device according to any one of the appendices 1 to 4, wherein the processor derives a differential distance image in which the display mode of the distance corresponding to the target distance is different from the display mode of other distances. (Additional note 6) The aforementioned processor is a shooting support device according to any one of the appendices 1 to 5, which sets the target distance according to the shooting menu specified by the user. (Additional note 7) The imaging support device according to any one of the appendices 1 to 6, wherein the processor further displays the target distance on the display, and the display mode of the display area of ​​the target distance matches the display mode of the representative value of the difference in the difference distance image. (Additional note 8) The imaging support device according to any one of the appendices 1 to 7, wherein the processor detects a plane in the optical image based on the shooting distance and derives the difference distance image in the plane. (Additional note 9) The imaging support device according to any one of the appendices 1 to 8, wherein the processor detects a subject area from the optical image and derives the difference distance image in areas other than the subject area. (Additional note 10) The imaging support device according to any one of the appendices 1 to 9, wherein the processor extracts the region of a radiation detector that detects radiation transmitted through the subject from the optical image and derives the difference distance image in the region of the radiation detector. (Additional note 11) A method for assisting imaging in a radiographic imaging apparatus equipped with a radiation source that emits radiation, Computers Distance information representing the shooting distance in the direction of the subject is obtained from the aforementioned radiation source. An optical image is obtained from the radiation source in the direction of the subject. A difference distance image is derived in which the display mode of each pixel differs depending on the difference between the shooting distance and the target distance. A shooting support method that superimposes the difference distance image onto the optical image and displays it on a display. (Additional note 12) A radiography support program for a radiography apparatus equipped with a radiation source that emits radiation, A procedure for obtaining distance information representing the shooting distance in the direction of the subject from the aforementioned radiation source, A procedure for acquiring an optical image in the direction of the subject from the radiation source, A procedure for deriving a difference distance image in which the display mode of each pixel differs depending on the difference between the shooting distance and the target distance, A shooting support program that causes a computer to perform the procedure of superimposing the difference distance image onto the optical image and displaying it on a display. (Additional note 13) Radiation source and A sensor that acquires distance information representing the shooting distance in the direction of the subject from the radiation source, An optical camera that acquires an optical image in the direction of the subject from the radiation source, A radiography apparatus equipped with a radiography support device as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 10. (Additional note 14) A mobile unit, The radiography apparatus according to Appendix 13, further comprising a foldable arm connecting the main body and the radiation source. (Additional note 15) The radiography apparatus according to appendix 13 or 14, wherein information representing distance according to the display mode in the differential distance image is provided to the radiation source, the arm, and the main body. (Additional note 16) The aforementioned display method is color, The radiography apparatus according to Appendix 15, wherein the radiation source, the arm, and the main body are assigned colors to represent the proximity of the distance. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0079] 1. Radiography equipment 2 legs 3 Main unit 3A enclosure 4 Arms 5. Source Unit 10 Computers 11 legs 12 Wheel section 13 Handle 14. Control Panel 15. First Member 16. Second Member 17 Mounting components 18. Tube housing 19. Collimator 20 Ejection window 21 Optical Camera 22 Stereo Cameras 22A, 22B Camera 23, 24 Handle 25 displays 30 berths 31. Radiation detector 41 CPU 42. Filming Support Program 43 Storage 46 memory 45 I / F 47 Network Interface 48 bus 51 Image acquisition unit 52 Derivation part 53 Display Control Unit 60 display screen 61 Information area 62 Image Area 63 Condition area 64 Color Bars 70 Radiation detector area G1 Optical Image G2 shooting distance image G3 superimposed image Gs difference distance image H Subject

Claims

1. A radiography support device for a radiography apparatus equipped with a radiation source that emits radiation, The display and Equipped with a processor, The aforementioned processor, Distance information representing the shooting distance in the direction of the subject is obtained from the aforementioned radiation source. An optical image is obtained from the radiation source in the direction of the subject. A difference distance image is derived in which the display mode of each pixel differs depending on the difference between the shooting distance and the target distance. A shooting support device that superimposes the difference distance image onto the optical image and displays it on the display.

2. The photographic support device according to claim 1, wherein the display mode is at least one of color, density, and pattern.

3. The imaging support device according to claim 1, wherein the display is attached to the radiation source unit having the radiation source.

4. The imaging support device according to claim 1, wherein the processor derives the difference distance image within a predetermined range of a first distance based on the target distance.

5. The shooting support device according to claim 1, wherein the processor derives a differential distance image in which the display mode of the distance corresponding to the target distance is different from the display mode of other distances.

6. The shooting support device according to claim 1, wherein the processor sets the target distance according to the shooting menu specified by the user.

7. The shooting support device according to claim 1, wherein the processor further displays the target distance on the display, and the display mode of the display area of ​​the target distance matches the display mode of the representative value of the difference in the difference distance image.

8. The imaging support device according to claim 1, wherein the processor detects a plane in the optical image based on the shooting distance and derives the difference distance image in the plane.

9. The imaging support device according to claim 1, wherein the processor detects a subject area from the optical image and derives the difference distance image in areas other than the subject area.

10. The imaging support device according to claim 1, wherein the processor extracts from the optical image the region of a radiation detector that detects radiation transmitted through the subject, and derives the difference distance image in the region of the radiation detector.

11. A method for assisting imaging in a radiographic imaging apparatus equipped with a radiation source that emits radiation, Computers Distance information representing the shooting distance in the direction of the subject is obtained from the aforementioned radiation source. An optical image is obtained from the radiation source in the direction of the subject. A difference distance image is derived in which the display mode of each pixel differs depending on the difference between the shooting distance and the target distance. A shooting support method that superimposes the difference distance image onto the optical image and displays it on a display.

12. A radiography support program for a radiography apparatus equipped with a radiation source that emits radiation, A procedure for obtaining distance information representing the shooting distance in the direction of the subject from the aforementioned radiation source, A procedure for acquiring an optical image in the direction of the subject from the radiation source, A procedure for deriving a difference distance image in which the display mode of each pixel differs depending on the difference between the shooting distance and the target distance, A shooting support program that causes a computer to perform the procedure of superimposing the difference distance image onto the optical image and displaying it on a display.

13. Radiation source and A sensor that acquires distance information representing the shooting distance in the direction of the subject from the radiation source, An optical camera that acquires an optical image in the direction of the subject from the radiation source, A radiography apparatus comprising the imaging support device described in claim 1.

14. A mobile unit, The radiography apparatus according to claim 13, further comprising a foldable arm connecting the main body and the radiation source.

15. The radiography apparatus according to claim 14, wherein information representing distance according to the display mode in the differential distance image is provided to the radiation source, the arm, and the main body.

16. The aforementioned display method is color, The radiography apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the radiation source, the arm, and the main body are provided with colors that represent the proximity of the imaging distance.

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