X-ray computed tomography apparatus and control method

Abstract

To reduce a time required for data transfer while maintaining image quality.SOLUTION: An X-ray computer tomography apparatus according to the embodiment includes an X-ray detection unit, an acquisition unit, and a determination unit. In the X-ray detection unit, multiple detection elements are arranged at least in a channel direction. The acquisition unit acquires an estimated count number of X-rays incident on the X-ray detection unit for each of the multiple detection elements. The determination unit determines the number of bits at the time of transmission of detection data that indicates the count number of each of the multiple detection elements on the basis of the estimated count number.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to an X-ray computed tomography apparatus and a control method. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, photon-counting X-ray computed tomography (CT) devices collect four-dimensional data in the row direction, channel direction, time direction, and energy region (bin) of the X-ray detector. Therefore, in photon-counting X-ray CT, the amount of data transmission is large and it takes a long time to transfer data, compared with integral-type X-ray CT, which collects three-dimensional data excluding energy bins.

[0003] In such a situation, the amount of data can be reduced by compressing the data. Furthermore, lossy compression can achieve a higher compression rate than lossless compression. However, when the compression rate is increased in lossy compression, the difference between the data before compression and the data restored after compression increases, and the image quality of the image generated using the restored data decreases. For this reason, it has been difficult to reduce the amount of data transmission while maintaining image quality. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2015-181627 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] One of the problems that the embodiments disclosed in this specification are intended to solve is to reduce the time required for data transfer while maintaining image quality. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to an embodiment includes an X-ray detection unit, an acquisition unit, and a determination unit. The X-ray detection unit has a plurality of detection elements arranged at least in a channel direction. The acquisition unit acquires an estimated count number of X-rays incident on the X-ray detection unit for each of the plurality of detection elements. The determination unit determines the number of bits at the time of transmission of detection data indicating the count number of each of the plurality of detection elements based on the estimated count number. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray computed tomography (CT) apparatus according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration related to data transfer in the X-ray CT apparatus according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a reduction in the amount of data transfer in the X-ray CT apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a bit number optimization process executed in the X-ray CT apparatus according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of data transmission processing executed in the X-ray CT apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration regarding data transfer of the X-ray CT apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the compression process according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the compression process according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the compression process according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] Hereinafter, an X-ray computed tomography (CT) apparatus and a control method according to each embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having the same or substantially the same functions as those described above with reference to the previous drawings are given the same reference numerals and will be described repeatedly only when necessary. Even when the same parts are shown, the dimensions and ratios of each part may be different depending on the drawing.

[0009] There are various types of X-ray computed tomography apparatus (CT apparatus), such as third-generation CT and fourth-generation CT, and any of these types can be applied to each embodiment. Here, the third-generation CT is a rotate / rotate-type in which the X-ray tube and the detector rotate around the subject as a unit. The fourth-generation CT is a stationary / rotate-type in which a large number of X-ray detection elements arrayed in a ring shape are fixed, and only the X-ray tube rotates around the subject.

[0010] Moreover, the X-ray CT device described in the following embodiments is a device capable of performing photon-counting CT. That is, the X-ray CT device described in the following embodiments is a device capable of reconstructing X-ray CT image data by counting X-rays that have passed through a subject using a photon-counting X-ray detector (photon-counting detector). Moreover, in the following embodiments, the scan (hereinafter also referred to as "imaging") performed by the X-ray CT device means a conventional scan or a helical scan.

[0011] 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray computed tomography (CT) apparatus 1 according to an embodiment. The X-ray CT apparatus 1 irradiates an object P with X-rays from an X-ray tube 11 and detects the irradiated X-rays with an X-ray detector 12. The X-ray CT apparatus 1 generates a CT image of the object P based on an output from the X-ray detector 12.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 1, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 includes a gantry 10, a bed 30, and a console 40. For convenience of explanation, a plurality of gantry 10 are depicted in FIG. 1. The gantry 10 is a scanning apparatus having a configuration for performing X-ray CT imaging of a subject P. The bed 30 is a transport device for placing the subject P to be subjected to X-ray CT imaging and positioning the subject P. The console 40 is a computer for controlling the gantry 10. For example, the gantry 10 and the bed 30 are installed in a CT examination room, and the console 40 is installed in a control room adjacent to the CT examination room. The gantry 10, the bed 30, and the console 40 are connected to each other by wire or wirelessly so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0013] The console 40 does not necessarily have to be installed in a control room. For example, the console 40 may be installed in the same room as the gantry 10 and the bed 30. Also, the console 40 may be incorporated in the gantry 10.

[0014] In this embodiment, the rotation axis of the rotating frame 13 in the non-tilted state or the longitudinal direction of the top plate 33 of the bed 30 is defined as the Z-axis direction, the axial direction that is perpendicular to the Z-axis direction and horizontal to the floor surface is defined as the X-axis direction, and the axial direction that is perpendicular to the Z-axis direction and perpendicular to the floor surface is defined as the Y-axis direction.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 1, the gantry 10 has an X-ray tube 11, an X-ray detector 12, a rotating frame 13, an X-ray high voltage device 14, a control device 15, a wedge 16, a collimator 17, and a data acquisition circuit (Data Acquisition System: DAS) 18.

[0016] The X-ray tube 11 is a vacuum tube having a cathode (filament) that generates thermoelectrons and an anode (target) that generates X-rays upon impact of the thermoelectrons. The X-ray tube 11 irradiates the subject P with X-rays by irradiating thermoelectrons from the cathode to the anode using a high voltage supplied from an X-ray high voltage device 14. Here, the X-ray tube 11 is an example of an X-ray generating unit.

[0017] It should be noted that the hardware for generating X-rays is not limited to the X-ray tube 11. For example, instead of the X-ray tube 11, X-rays may be generated using a fifth generation system. The fifth generation system includes a focus coil for focusing the electron beam generated from the electron gun, a deflection coil for electromagnetic deflection, and a target ring that surrounds half of the subject P and generates X-rays when the deflected electron beam collides with the target ring.

[0018] The X-ray detector 12 is a photon counting detector, and outputs a signal capable of measuring the energy value of an X-ray photon every time an X-ray photon is incident. The X-ray photon is, for example, an X-ray photon irradiated from the X-ray tube 11 and transmitted through the subject P. The X-ray detector 12 has a plurality of detection elements that output one pulse of an electric signal (analog signal) every time an X-ray photon is incident. By counting the number of electric signals (pulses), it is possible to count the number of X-ray photons (count number) incident on each detection element. In addition, by performing arithmetic processing on this signal, it is possible to measure the energy value of the X-ray photon that caused the output of the signal. For example, the X-ray detector 12 is an area detector in which detection elements are arranged in N rows in the channel direction (X-axis direction in FIG. 1) and M rows in the row direction (Z-axis direction, slice direction in FIG. 1).

[0019] The detection element is composed of, for example, a scintillator and an optical sensor such as a photomultiplier tube. In this case, the X-ray detector 12 is an indirect conversion type detector that converts incident X-ray photons into scintillator light by a scintillator and converts the scintillator light into an electric signal by an optical sensor such as a photomultiplier tube. The detection element is, for example, a semiconductor detection element such as CdTe (cadmium telluride) or CdZnTe (cadmium zinc telluride) with electrodes disposed thereon. In this case, the X-ray detector 12 is a direct conversion type detector that directly converts incident X-ray photons into an electric signal.

[0020] The X-ray detector 12 has a plurality of the above-mentioned detection elements and a processor such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) that is connected to the detection elements and counts the X-ray photons detected by the detection elements. The processor counts the number of X-ray photons incident on the detection elements by discriminating the individual charges output by the detection elements. The processor also measures the energy of the counted X-ray photons by performing arithmetic processing based on the magnitude of each charge. Furthermore, the processor outputs the counting result of the X-ray photons to the DAS 18 as digital data. Here, the X-ray detector 12 is an example of an X-ray detection unit.

[0021] The rotating frame 13 is an annular frame that supports the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 facing each other and rotates the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 by a control device 15 described later. An image field of view (FOV) is set in an opening 19 of the rotating frame 13. For example, the rotating frame 13 is a casting made of aluminum. Note that the rotating frame 13 can further support an X-ray high voltage device 14, a wedge 16, a collimator 17, a DAS 18, and the like in addition to the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12. The rotating frame 13 can also further support various components not shown in FIG. 1.

[0022] The X-ray high voltage device 14 has a high voltage generator and an X-ray control device. The high voltage generator has electric circuits such as a transformer and a rectifier, and generates a high voltage to be applied to the X-ray tube 11 and a filament current to be supplied to the X-ray tube 11. The X-ray control device controls the output voltage according to the X-rays irradiated by the X-ray tube 11. The high voltage generator may be of a transformer type or an inverter type. The X-ray high voltage device 14 may be provided on the rotating frame 13 in the gantry 10, or may be provided on a fixed frame (not shown) in the gantry 10. The fixed frame is a frame that rotatably supports the rotating frame 13.

[0023] The control device 15 includes a driving mechanism such as a motor and an actuator, and a processing circuit having a processor, memory, etc. for controlling the driving mechanism. The control device 15 receives an input signal from the input interface 43 or an input interface provided on the gantry 10, and controls the operation of the gantry 10 and the bed 30. For example, the control device 15 receives an input signal and controls the rotation of the rotating frame 13, the tilt of the gantry 10, and the operation of the bed 30. The control of tilting the gantry 10 is realized by the control device 15 rotating the rotating frame 13 around an axis parallel to the X-axis direction based on inclination angle (tilt angle) information inputted by an input interface attached to the gantry 10. The control device 15 may be provided on the gantry 10 or on the console 40.

[0024] The wedge 16 is a filter for adjusting 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 X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 11 to the subject P have a predetermined distribution. For example, the wedge 16 is a wedge filter or a bow-tie filter, and is formed by processing aluminum or the like to have a predetermined target angle and a predetermined thickness.

[0025] The collimator 17 limits the irradiation range of the X-rays that have passed through the wedge 16. The collimator 17 slidably supports multiple lead plates that block X-rays, and adjusts the shape of the slits formed by the multiple lead plates. The collimator 17 is sometimes called an X-ray aperture.

[0026] The DAS 18 generates detection data based on the counting results input from the X-ray detector 12. The detection data is, for example, a sinogram. The sinogram is data in which the results of the counting process of X-rays incident on each detection element at each position (hereinafter also referred to as view angle) of the X-ray tube 11 are arranged. The sinogram is data in which the results of the counting process are arranged in a two-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system with the view direction and the channel direction as axes. The DAS 18 generates a sinogram, for example, in units of rows in the slice direction of the X-ray detector 12. Here, the result of the counting process is data in which the number of X-ray photons is assigned to each energy region (bin). For example, the DAS 18 counts photons (X-ray photons) originating from X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 11 and transmitted through the subject P, and discriminates the energy of the counted X-ray photons to obtain the result of the counting process. The DAS 18 transfers the generated detection data to the console 40. The DAS 18 is realized, for example, by a processor.

[0027] The detection data generated by the DAS 18 is transmitted by optical communication from a transmitter having a light emitting diode (LED) provided on the rotating frame 13 to a receiver having a photodiode provided on a non-rotating part of the gantry 10 (e.g., a fixed frame; not shown in FIG. 1), and then transferred to the console 40. The method of transmitting data from the rotating frame 13 to the non-rotating part of the gantry 10 is not limited to optical communication, and any non-contact data transmission method may be adopted, or a contact data transmission method may also be adopted.

[0028] In this embodiment, an X-ray CT device 1 equipped with a photon counting type X-ray detector 12 is described as an example, but the technology according to this embodiment can also be realized as an X-ray CT device 1 equipped with an integral type X-ray detector 12.

[0029] The bed 30 is a device for placing and moving the subject P to be scanned, and includes a base 31, a bed drive device 32, a top plate 33, and a support frame 34. The base 31 is a housing for supporting the support frame 34 so as to be movable in the vertical direction. The bed drive device 32 is a drive mechanism for moving the top plate 33, on which the subject P is placed, in the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the top plate 33, and includes a motor, an actuator, and the like. The top plate 33 is a plate on which the subject P is placed. The top plate 33 is provided on the upper surface of the support frame 34. The top plate 33 can protrude from the bed 30 toward the gantry 10 so that the whole body of the subject P can be imaged. The top plate 33 is formed of, for example, carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) having good X-ray transmittance and physical properties such as rigidity and strength. In addition, for example, the inside of the top plate 33 is hollow. The support frame 34 supports the table top 33 so as to be movable in the longitudinal direction of the table top 33. The bed driving device 32 may move the support frame 34 in the longitudinal direction of the table top 33 in addition to the table top 33.

[0030] The console 40 has a memory 41, a display 42, an input interface 43, and a processing circuit 44. Data communication between the memory 41, the display 42, the input interface 43, and the processing circuit 44 is performed via a bus (BUS). Note that, although the console 40 will be described as being separate from the gantry 10, the gantry 10 may include the console 40 or some of the components of the console 40. Here, the input interface 43 is an example of an input unit.

[0031] The memory 41 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, or the like. For example, the memory 41 stores projection data and reconstructed image data. Also, for example, the memory 41 stores detection data under each scan condition obtained by pre-collection processing and estimated data (estimated count numbers) of counting results under each scan condition. Also, for example, the memory 41 stores various programs. Note that the storage area of ​​the memory 41 may be in the X-ray CT device 1 or in an external storage device connected via a network. Here, the memory 41 is an example of a storage unit.

[0032] The display 42 displays various types of information. For example, the display 42 outputs medical images (CT images) generated by the processing circuitry 44, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for receiving various operations from an operator, and the like. As the display 42, various arbitrary displays can be used as appropriate. For example, as the display 42, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a cathode ray tube (CRT) display, an organic electro luminescence display (OLED), or a plasma display can be used.

[0033] The display 42 may be provided anywhere in the control room. The display 42 may be provided on the stand 10. The display 42 may be a desktop type, or may be configured as a tablet terminal or the like capable of wireless communication with the main body of the console 40. One or more projectors may be used as the display 42.

[0034] The input interface 43 receives various input operations from the operator, converts the received input operations into electrical signals, and outputs the electrical signals to the processing circuitry 44. For example, the input interface 43 receives from the operator collection conditions for collecting projection data, reconstruction conditions for reconstructing a CT image, image processing conditions for generating a post-processed image from a CT image, and the like. As the input interface 43, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a trackball, a switch, a button, a joystick, a touchpad, a touch panel display, and the like can be used as appropriate. In this embodiment, the input interface 43 is not limited to those having these physical operation parts. For example, an example of the input interface 43 includes an electrical signal processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device provided separately from the device and outputs the electrical signal to the processing circuitry 44. The input interface 43 may also be provided on the pedestal 10. The input interface 43 may also be configured as a tablet terminal or the like capable of wireless communication with the console 40 main body.

[0035] The processing circuitry 44 controls the overall operation of the X-ray CT apparatus 1. The processing circuitry 44 has a processor and memories such as ROM and RAM as hardware resources. The processing circuitry 44 executes a system control function 441, a data transfer function 442, a preprocessing function 443, a reconstruction processing function 444, an image processing function 445, a display control function 446, and the like, by the processor that executes a program expanded in the memory.

[0036] In the system control function 441, the processing circuitry 44 controls various functions of the processing circuitry 44 based on an input operation received from an operator via the input interface 43. As an example, the processing circuitry 44 controls a scan performed by the gantry 10. Specifically, the processing circuitry 44 controls the operations of the X-ray detector 12, the X-ray high voltage device 14, the control device 15, the DAS 18, and the bed driving device 32, thereby controlling the collection process of the counting results in the gantry 10. For example, the processing circuitry 44 controls the collection process of the projection data in a positioning scan for collecting a positioning image (scanogram) and in an imaging (main scan) for collecting an image used for diagnosis.

[0037] Furthermore, in the system control function 441, the processing circuitry 44 performs a pre-acquisition process. The processing circuitry 44 performs the pre-acquisition process at a time point before the positioning scan or the main scan. In the pre-acquisition process, the processing circuitry 44 collects detection data under each scan condition without the subject P being placed on the top board 33. This detection data is data indicating the count number of each energy bin of each detection element detected without passing through the subject P. In the pre-acquisition process, the processing circuitry 44 stores the detection data obtained under each scan condition as estimated data (estimated count number) in the memory 41. This estimated count number is the count number expected when the subject P (subject) is not placed, and therefore can be used regardless of the subject or region of interest.

[0038] Since the pre-collection process (imaging) is performed before the actual scan, it does not require high-speed data transmission. Therefore, the data transmission related to this imaging does not require data conversion processing that removes upper bits according to the scan conditions, as in the data transmission processing according to this embodiment (see FIG. 5).

[0039] Furthermore, in the bit number optimization process, the processing circuitry 44 acquires the estimated count number related to the designated scan condition from the memory 41 in response to the designation of the scan condition received from the operator via the input interface 43, for example. The processing circuitry 44 supplies the acquired estimated count number to the data transfer function 442. Here, the processing circuitry 44 realizing the system control function 441 is an example of an acquisition unit.

[0040] In the data transfer function 442, the processing circuit 44 designates the most significant bit (MSB) of the detection data from the DAS 18 based on the estimated count number acquired by the system control function 441. The processing circuit 44 designates the most significant bit of the detection data for each detection element, each view, and each energy bin. Here, the most significant bit of the detection data is the bit position of the most significant bit of the data to be transmitted. The most significant bit of the detection data output from the DAS 18 is a bit position corresponding to the other estimated count number of the most significant bit. In other words, the most significant bit of the detection data is a bit lower than the most significant bit of the detection data from the DAS 18. On the other hand, the most significant bit of the detection data is a bit higher than the bit position corresponding to the estimated count number so that the count result can be transmitted without loss even if a count number greater than the estimated count number is counted during collection. In other words, the most significant bit of the detection data is a bit position corresponding to a count number greater than the estimated count number. In this way, the processing circuit 44 determines the number of bits to be used in data transmission based on the estimated count number for each detection element, each view, and each energy bin. The processing circuit 44 also supplies the designated most significant bit to the conversion unit 21 (see FIG. 2), which will be described later. Here, the processing circuit 44 realizing the data transfer function 442 is an example of a determination unit.

[0041] In the pre-processing function 443, the processing circuitry 44 generates data by performing pre-processing such as logarithmic conversion processing, offset correction processing, inter-channel sensitivity correction processing, beam hardening correction, etc. on the detection data output from the DAS 18. Note that, hereinafter, the data before pre-processing (detection data) and the data after pre-processing are collectively referred to as projection data.

[0042] In addition, in the pre-processing function 443, the processing circuit 44 performs a restoration process in which the data before pre-processing (detection data) is divided into data for each channel based on the most significant bit at the time of data transfer designated by the data transfer function 442, and the data is restored to its original format by re-adding the most significant bit. Here, the original format is, for example, the format of data output from the DAS 18, and is a data format suitable for pre-processing and reconstruction processing. The processing circuit 44 stores the restored data in the memory 41. Here, the processing circuit 44 that realizes the pre-processing function 443 is an example of a restoration unit.

[0043] In the reconstruction processing function 444, the processing circuitry 44 performs reconstruction processing using a filtered back projection method, an iterative reconstruction method, machine learning, or the like on the projection data preprocessed by the preprocessing function 443 to generate CT image data. The processing circuitry 44 stores the reconstructed CT image data in the memory 41.

[0044] Here, the projection data generated from the counting results obtained by the photon-counting type X-ray CT device 1 contains information on the energy of X-rays attenuated by passing through the subject P. Therefore, in the reconstruction processing function 444, the processing circuitry 44 can reconstruct CT image data of a specific energy component, for example. Also, the processing circuitry 44 can reconstruct CT image data of each of a plurality of energy components, for example.

[0045] In addition, in the reconstruction processing function 444, the processing circuitry 44 can, for example, assign a color tone according to the energy component to each pixel of the CT image data of each energy component, and generate image data in which a plurality of CT image data color-coded according to the energy component are superimposed. In addition, the processing circuitry 44 can, for example, generate image data that allows identification of the substance by utilizing the K absorption edge specific to the substance. Other image data generated by the processing circuitry 44 include monochromatic X-ray image data, density image data, effective atomic number image data, and the like.

[0046] In the image processing function 445, the processing circuitry 44 converts the CT image data generated by the reconstruction processing function 444 into tomographic image data of an arbitrary cross section or three-dimensional image data by a known method based on an input operation received from an operator via the input interface 43. For example, the processing circuitry 44 performs three-dimensional image processing such as volume rendering, surface rendering, image value projection processing, MPR (Multi-Planar Reconstruction) processing, and CPR (Curved MPR) processing on the CT image data to generate rendering image data of an arbitrary viewpoint direction. Note that the generation of three-dimensional image data such as rendering image data of an arbitrary viewpoint direction may be performed directly by the reconstruction processing function 444. The processing circuitry 44 stores the tomographic image data and three-dimensional image data in the memory 41.

[0047] In the display control function 446, the processing circuitry 44 displays images on the display 42 based on various image data generated by the image processing function 445. The images displayed on the display 42 include CT images based on CT image data, cross-sectional images based on cross-sectional image data of an arbitrary cross section, rendering images of an arbitrary viewpoint direction based on rendering image data of an arbitrary viewpoint direction, etc. The images displayed on the display 42 include images for displaying an operation screen and images for displaying notifications and warnings to the operator.

[0048] Note that each of the functions 441 to 446 is not limited to being realized by a single processing circuit. The processing circuit 44 may be configured by combining a plurality of independent processors, and each processor may execute a respective program to realize each of the functions 441 to 446. Here, each of the functions 441 to 446 may be realized by being appropriately distributed or integrated into a single or a plurality of processing circuits.

[0049] Although the console 40 has been described as a single console that executes multiple functions, multiple functions may be executed by separate consoles. For example, the functions of the processing circuit 44, such as the preprocessing function 443 and the reconstruction processing function 444, may be distributed.

[0050] The processing circuitry 44 is not limited to being included in the console 40, but may be included in an integrated server that collectively processes detection data acquired by a plurality of medical image diagnostic devices.

[0051] The post-processing may be performed by either the console 40 or an external workstation. Also, the post-processing may be performed simultaneously by both the console 40 and the workstation. As the workstation, for example, a computer having a processor that realizes the reconstruction processing function 444 and the image processing function 445, and memories such as ROM and RAM as hardware resources can be appropriately used.

[0052] In addition, in the reconstruction of X-ray CT image data, either a full scan reconstruction method or a half scan reconstruction method may be applied. For example, in the reconstruction processing function 444, the processing circuitry 44 uses projection data for 360 degrees around the subject P in the full scan reconstruction method. In addition, the processing circuitry 44 uses projection data for 180 degrees + fan angle in the half scan reconstruction method. In the following, for the sake of simplicity, it is assumed that the processing circuitry 44 uses the full scan reconstruction method that reconstructs using projection data for 360 degrees around the subject P.

[0053] The technology according to this embodiment can be applied to both single-tube X-ray computed tomography apparatuses and so-called multi-tube X-ray computed tomography apparatuses in which multiple pairs of X-ray tubes and detectors are mounted on a rotating ring.

[0054] The technology according to the present embodiment can also be applied to an X-ray CT device 1 configured to be capable of imaging by a dual energy method. In this case, the X-ray high voltage device 14 can alternately switch the energy spectrum of the X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 11, for example, by high-speed switching between two types of voltage values. In other words, the X-ray CT device 1 is configured to collect projection data in each acquisition view while modulating the tube voltage at a timing according to a control signal for tube voltage modulation. By imaging the subject with different tube voltages, it is possible to improve the contrast of shading in the CT image based on the energy transmittance of materials for each X-ray energy spectrum.

[0055] 2 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration related to data transfer in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG.

[0056] The rotating unit 101 is a rotating portion of the gantry 10, and includes the rotating frame 13 and each part of the gantry 10 supported by the rotating frame 13. The rotating unit 101 includes the DAS 18 and the conversion unit 21.

[0057] The conversion unit 21 performs data conversion processing on the detection data from the DAS 18, removing the most significant bit of the detection data based on the most significant bit at the time of transmission designated by the data transfer function 442. This data conversion processing is performed for each detection element, each view, and each energy bin. Specifically, the conversion unit 21 removes bits higher than the most significant bit at the time of transmission in the detection data from the DAS 18. In other words, the conversion unit 21 converts the detection data from the DAS 18 into detection data with the number of bits determined by the data transfer function 442 by removing the most significant bits. The conversion unit 21 supplies the converted detection data to the transmitter of the transmission unit 23. The conversion unit 21 has a processor and a memory such as a ROM or a RAM as hardware resources. The memory of the conversion unit 21 stores the most significant bit at the time of data transmission designated by the data transfer function 442.

[0058] The fixed portion 102 is a non-rotating portion of the gantry 10 that includes a fixed frame that rotatably supports the rotating frame 13, the control device 15, and the like.

[0059] The gantry 10 further includes a transmission unit 23. The transmission unit 23 transmits detection data and the like from the rotating unit 101 to the fixed unit 102. As described above, the transmission unit 23 includes a transmitter provided on the rotating frame 13 and a receiver provided on the fixed frame or the like. That is, the rotating unit 101 includes the transmitter of the transmission unit 23. The fixed unit 102 includes the receiver of the transmission unit 23. The receiver of the transmission unit 23 supplies the detection data received from the transmitter to the console 40.

[0060] The fixed unit 102 may be provided with a restoration unit that executes the above-mentioned restoration process, i.e., a part of the pre-processing function 443. This restoration unit has, as hardware resources, a processor and a memory such as a ROM or RAM that stores the most significant bit at the time of data transmission designated by the data transfer function 442. When the transmission speed from the DAS 18 to the console 40 is limited by the data transmission speed from the rotating unit 101 to the fixed unit 102, the data transmission speed at the time of imaging can be improved even with this configuration. In other words, it is only necessary that the section that is a bottleneck of data transmission at the time of imaging among the data transmission section from the DAS 18 to the console 40 is included between the conversion unit 21 and the restoration unit. Therefore, in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the embodiment, the conversion unit 21 may be configured integrally with the DAS 18 or the transmitter of the transmission unit 23. Also, the restoration unit may be configured integrally with the receiver of the transmission unit 23.

[0061] Here, the reduction in the amount of data transfer from the rotating part 101 to the fixed part 102 according to the embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings. Fig. 3 is a diagram for explaining the reduction in the amount of data transfer in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the embodiment. Fig. 3 illustrates detection data 500 from the DAS 18 for an arbitrary view.

[0062] Each of the multiple detection elements (pixels) of the X-ray detector 12 outputs multiple pieces of energy-discriminated data 510, 520, 530, 540, and 550 for each view. In the example shown in Fig. 3, the detection data 500 includes five pieces of data 510, 520, 530, 540, and 550 that are assigned to five energy bins. The following description will be continued using the data 510 relating to an arbitrary energy bin as an example.

[0063] Conventionally, the number of bits of detection data from the X-ray detector 12 (or DAS 18) is a fixed value that is determined in advance according to, for example, an expected output. This fixed value 551 is set to a number of bits corresponding to the count number 551 that is sufficiently larger than the expected count number 553 so that detection data 500 of the expected number of detected photons (count number 553) under multiple scan conditions can be reliably transmitted.

[0064] For this reason, depending on the scan conditions, such as when the number of detected photons (count number) is small, the upper bits of the transmitted detection data may not be used. However, these upper bits are simply not used to express the count number, and are transmitted from the rotating unit 101 to the fixed unit 102 as bits with a value of "0". In this situation, the data transmission from the rotating unit 101 to the fixed unit 102 in the transmission unit 23 has a slower data transfer speed than, for example, transmission in other sections transmitted by wire. For this reason, data transfer takes a long time, especially in the photon-counting type X-ray CT device 1, which has a large amount of detection data.

[0065] Therefore, in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to this embodiment, the upper limit of the count number that can be measured under each scan condition is estimated in advance, and the upper bits that are not to be transmitted are set within a range in which detection data 500 with a count number larger than this estimated count number can be transmitted. In the following description, the most significant bit is referred to as the most significant bit, which is a count number larger than the estimated count number and indicates a number of bits sufficient for transmitting detection data 500 with the estimated count number. In other words, in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to this embodiment, bits higher than the most significant bit in the detection data from the DAS 18 are not transmitted. This makes it possible to reduce the amount of data transfer.

[0066] Here, we estimate how much the amount of data transfer can be reduced by removing the upper bits, that is, how much data compression is possible by removing the upper bits. In the following estimates, the view rate measurable by the X-ray CT device 1 is assumed to be 1000-5000 view / sec. The upper limit of the number of counts that the X-ray detector 12 can count is assumed to be 100 Mcps. The number of bins for energy discrimination is assumed to be 5 bins. The number of counts for each energy bin is assumed to be the same.

[0067] First, the number of counts that the X-ray detector 12 can count per view is the largest at 1000 view / sec, which is 1×10 5 counts / view. To transmit the detection data of 100,000 counts without compression, at least 17 bits are required. For this reason, as mentioned above, conventionally, the data of each energy bin of all detection elements (pixels) was predetermined to be transmitted at 17 bits each, regardless of the scan conditions.

[0068] In this case, the amount of data transmitted per unit time and per detector element increases as the view rate increases. For example, the amount of data transmitted per detector element for five energy bins is as follows: 1000 views / sec: 8.5×10 4 bit / pixel / sec 2000 view / sec: 1.7×10 5 bit / pixel / sec 3000 view / sec: 2.6×10 5 bit / pixel / sec 4000 view / sec: 3.4×10 5 bit / pixel / sec 5000 view / sec: 4.3×10 5 bit / pixel / sec

[0069] In this situation, we consider a case where the most significant bits are removed according to the estimated count number. Here, we calculate the amount of data transmission when data that counts 50 Mcps in all detection elements is given as the estimated detection data (estimated count number) of the X-ray detector 12.

[0070] The number of counts per view decreases as the view rate increases. For example, the number of counts that can be counted per view at 5000 view / sec is 1×10 4 This count is then split into energy bins, further reducing the number of counts per bin. As mentioned above, if we assume that we get the same number of counts in all energy bins, the number of counts per energy bin is 2 × 10 3 counts / view. In this case, the number of bits assigned to each energy bin is 11 bits.

[0071] Therefore, when transmitting detection data collected at 5000 views / sec, the number of bits assigned to each energy bin can be reduced from 17 bits to 11 bits, and the amount of data transmitted can be estimated to be reduced by approximately 35%.

[0072] Using this estimated count number, the number of bits per detector element required for transmission at each view rate can be estimated as follows: 1000 views / sec: 7.0×10 4 bit / pixel / sec (Bit count reduction by removing high-order bits: 18%) 2000 view / sec: 1.3×10 5 bit / pixel / sec (Bit reduction by removing high-order bits: 24%) 3000 view / sec: 1.8×10 5 bit / pixel / sec (Bit count reduction by removing high-order bits: 30%) 4000 view / sec: 2.4×10 5 bit / pixel / sec (Bit count reduction by removing high-order bits: 30%) 5000 view / sec: 2.8×10 5 bit / pixel / sec (Bit count reduction by removing high-order bits: 35%)

[0073] In this way, when removing the most significant bits according to the estimated count number, the size of data transmitted from the X-ray detector 12 to the console 40 can be reduced even when the view rate is lower than 5000 view / sec. According to the above estimate, the transmitted data can be reduced by about 20% to 40% in terms of the number of bits per detection element required for transmission at each view rate.

[0074] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a bit number optimization process executed in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the embodiment.

[0075] In the system control function 441, the processing circuitry 44 acquires scan conditions for a main scan specified by an operator based on an input operation received from the operator via the input interface 43 (S101). The processing circuitry 44 also acquires an estimated count number under the acquired scan conditions from the memory 41 (S102). The processing circuitry 44 supplies the acquired estimated count number to the data transfer function 442.

[0076] It is assumed that prior to the process of S102, imaging (pre-acquisition processing) is performed under each scan condition without the subject P being placed on the top board 33.

[0077] In the data transfer function 442, the processing circuitry 44 designates the most significant bit during data transmission based on the estimated count number (S103). Specifically, the processing circuitry 44 determines the most significant bit during data transmission indicating the number of bits capable of transmitting detection data with a count number greater than the respective estimated count numbers for each detection element, each view, and each energy bin based on the estimated count number for each scan condition. The processing circuitry 44 also supplies the determined most significant bit during data transmission to the conversion unit 21 of the rotating unit 101 of the gantry 10. Thereafter, the flow of FIG. 4 ends.

[0078] In this way, in the bit number optimization process of the embodiment, the most significant bit during data transmission for each detection element, each view, and each energy bin can be specified so that different compression is performed for each detection element, each view, and each energy bin.

[0079] Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of data transmission processing executed in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the embodiment. The flow in Fig. 5 is assumed to be executed after a main scan under specified scan conditions is started.

[0080] The conversion unit 21 acquires detection data collected by a main scan of the subject P from the DAS 18 (S201). The conversion unit 21 performs a data conversion process to convert the acquired detection data based on the most significant bit at the time of data transmission designated by the data transfer function 442 in the bit number optimization process (S202). In addition, the transmission unit 23 transmits the detection data converted by the conversion unit 21 (S203).

[0081] In the system control function 441, the processing circuit 44 acquires the detection data converted by the conversion unit 21 and the most significant bit at the time of transmission determined by the data transfer function 442, and supplies them to the pre-processing function 443. In the pre-processing function 443, the processing circuit 44 performs a restoration process to restore the converted detection data based on the designation of the most significant bit at the time of transmission (S204). After that, the flow of FIG. 5 ends.

[0082] In this manner, in the data transmission process according to the embodiment, different data conversion (compression) can be performed on the collected detection data for each detection element, each view, and each energy bin according to the most significant bit during data transmission designated for each detection element, each view, and each energy bin.

[0083] As described above, in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the embodiment, the X-ray detector 12 has a plurality of detector elements arranged at least in the channel direction. The processing circuitry 44 acquires an estimated count number (estimated count number) of X-rays incident on the X-ray detector 12 for each of the plurality of detector elements of the X-ray detector 12. The processing circuitry 44 also determines the number of bits at the time of data transmission of detection data from the DAS 18 indicating the count number of each of the plurality of detector elements of the X-ray detector 12 based on the acquired estimated count number.

[0084] According to this configuration, the number of bits during data transmission can be reduced to a number of bits corresponding to the estimated count number acquired for each of the multiple detection elements of the X-ray detector 12. Therefore, according to the technology of the embodiment, it is possible to reduce the time required for data transfer while maintaining the image quality of the data to be transmitted. The reduction in the time required for data transfer contributes to a reduction in the time required from imaging to completion of image reconstruction, and contributes to an improvement in the throughput of the examination.

[0085] As an example, in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the embodiment, the processing circuitry 44 determines the number of bits to be transmitted by designating the most significant bit of the detected data from the DAS 18 at a bit position corresponding to the other estimated count number of the most significant bit as the most significant bit at the time of transmission. This makes it possible to remove the most significant bits that do not contribute to the expression of the counting result, i.e., unnecessary bits, at the time of transmission, and thus reduce the amount of data to be transmitted.

[0086] As an example, in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the embodiment, the X-ray detector 12 is a photon counting type X-ray detector, and outputs a plurality of detection data discriminated by X-ray energy for each view. Also, the processing circuitry 44 determines the number of bits at the time of data transmission for each of the plurality of detection elements of the X-ray detector 12 for each view.

[0087] As an example, in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the embodiment, the processing circuitry 44 acquires detection data collected under at least one scan condition without penetrating the subject P, and estimates the count number based on the acquired detection data. This makes it possible to calculate an estimated count number that can be used regardless of the subject or region of interest.

[0088] As an example, in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the embodiment, the conversion unit 21 converts the number of bits of detection data indicating the count number of each of the multiple detection elements of the X-ray detector 12, collected in the main scan for the subject P, into the number of bits at the time of data transmission. The transmission unit 23 transmits the converted detection data from the rotating unit 101 to the fixed unit 102. In addition, in the pre-processing function 443, the processing circuit 44 restores the number of bits of the converted detection data for each of the multiple detection elements of the X-ray detector 12 to the number of bits before conversion by the conversion unit 21, based on the number of bits at the time of data transmission. This allows the detection data to be transmitted to be compressed, and the amount of detection data to be reduced.

[0089] (First Modification) In the above embodiment, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 is exemplified to calculate the estimated count number based on detection data collected without the subject P being placed, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the embodiment, the processing circuitry 44 can also calculate the estimated count number based on data of a positioning image (scanogram image) of the subject P collected in a positioning scan, for example.

[0090] In the system control function 441, the processing circuitry 44 performs a positioning scan (pre-acquisition process) according to the designated scan conditions (S102). The processing circuitry 44 also stores the scano image data, which indicates the count number of each energy bin of each detection element and is acquired by the positioning scan, in the memory 41 as estimated data (estimated count number).

[0091] According to this configuration, the calculated estimated count number can be made smaller than the estimated count number according to the above-mentioned embodiment due to the attenuation of X-rays by the subject P. In other words, according to the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to this modification, the number of bits during data transmission can be determined taking into account the shielding ability of the subject P. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to this modification can compress the transmitted detection data more efficiently than the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the above-mentioned embodiment.

[0092] (Second Modification) In the first modified example, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 is exemplified to calculate the estimated count number using scano image data to determine the number of bits during data transmission taking into account the shielding ability of the subject P, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the embodiment, the processing circuitry 44 may calculate the estimated count number based on at least one of the type and shape of the wedge 16. The wedge 16 is disposed between the X-ray tube 11 that generates X-rays and the X-ray detector 12.

[0093] As an example, in the system control function 441, the processing circuitry 44 performs a pre-collection process for each scan condition, the type of each wedge 16, and the shape of each wedge 16. The processing circuitry 44 stores the detection data obtained in the pre-collection process under each scan condition, the type of each wedge 16, and the shape of each wedge 16 in the memory 41 as estimated data (estimated count number).

[0094] As another example, in the system control function 441, the processing circuitry 44 corrects the detection data under each scan condition obtained by the pre-collection process according to the above embodiment based on at least one of the type and shape of the wedge 16. That is, the processing circuitry 44 estimates the detection data for the type and shape of each wedge 16 based on the X-ray shielding ability according to the type and shape of the wedge 16. The processing circuitry 44 stores the estimated detection data (estimated count number) in the memory 41. Note that the estimation of the detection data based on the type and shape of the wedge 16 is not limited to the pre-collection process, and may be performed, for example, in the process of S102 in FIG. 4.

[0095] According to this configuration, even when a wedge 16 different from the wedge 16 used in the pre-collection process according to the above-described embodiment is used for data collection for correction, the estimated count number can be calculated according to the wedge 16 used for imaging. In other words, according to the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to this modification, the number of bits during data transmission can be determined taking into account the shielding ability of the wedge 16. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to this modification can compress the detection data to be transmitted more efficiently than the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the above-described embodiment.

[0096] (Third Modification) The X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to this modification further includes an optical camera that captures an image of the subject P placed on the top board 33. The optical camera is disposed, for example, on the housing of the gantry 10. The optical camera may be disposed, for example, on the ceiling of the CT examination room in which the X-ray CT apparatus 1 is installed. The optical camera is equipped with an imaging element capable of detecting visible light and infrared light, for example.

[0097] In the X-ray CT device 1 according to this modified example, the processing circuitry 44 may acquire optical image data obtained by imaging the subject P placed on the tabletop 33 with an optical camera external to the X-ray CT device 1. It is sufficient to know the physique of the subject P based on the optical image data, and for example, optical image data obtained by imaging the subject P in an upright position may be used.

[0098] In the system control function 441, the processing circuitry 44 acquires optical image data obtained by capturing an image of the subject P with an optical camera. The processing circuitry 44 also acquires information on the physical build of the subject P, such as the body thickness of the subject P in the image, by performing image processing on the optical image data, for example. The processing circuitry 44 estimates the transmission length of the X-rays in the subject P detected in each view by each of the multiple detection elements of the X-ray detector 12, and the attenuation rate of the X-rays transmitted through the subject P, based on the information on the physical build of the subject P. The processing circuitry 44 corrects the detection data of the pre-collection process corresponding to the specified scan conditions, based on the transmission length and attenuation rate of the X-rays in the subject P. That is, the processing circuitry 44 estimates the detection data on the X-rays transmitted through the subject P, based on the transmission length and attenuation rate of the X-rays in the subject P.

[0099] This makes it possible to determine the number of bits during data transmission, taking into consideration the shielding ability of the subject P according to the subject P's build, such as the subject P's body thickness.

[0100] (Fourth Modification) In addition, by estimating the attenuation rate of X-rays passing through the subject P using a human body model, it is also possible to determine the number of bits during data transmission taking into account the shielding ability of the subject P, as in the third modified example. In the system control function 441, the processing circuitry 44 acquires a human body model related to the subject P from the memory 41 or from outside the X-ray CT device 1. The processing circuitry 44 estimates the transmission length and attenuation rate in the subject P of the X-rays incident on each of the multiple detection elements based on the acquired human body model. This makes it possible to determine the number of bits during data transmission taking into account the shielding ability of the subject P.

[0101] (Fifth Modification) In addition, in the system control function 441, the processing circuitry 44 can also acquire the estimated count number by using a model in which parameters and configuration are determined so as to calculate the estimated count number based on the scan conditions and the like. The model includes a function in which parameters are determined so as to output the estimated count number corresponding to each scan condition in response to the input of each scan condition, and a table in which the correspondence between each scan condition and the estimated count number is registered. As an example, the estimated count number corresponding to each scan condition can be calculated based on each value according to the configuration of the X-ray CT device 1, such as the expected dose from the X-ray tube 11, the distance from the X-ray tube 11 to the X-ray detector 12, and the detectability of the X-ray detector 12. The model may be determined in advance and stored in the memory 41, for example.

[0102] In addition, the generation of the model may take into consideration the shielding ability of the subject P. In this case, the model is generated for each physique (body shape) of the subject P, for example. Alternatively, the model is generated for each part of the subject P to be imaged in the actual scan.

[0103] Even with these configurations, the number of bits during data transmission can be determined taking into account the shielding ability of the subject P.

[0104] (Sixth Modification) 6 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration regarding data transfer of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, in the X-ray CT apparatus 1, the rotating unit 101 may further include a compression unit 25.

[0105] The compression unit 25 is provided after the DAS 18 and before the conversion unit 21. As an example, the compression unit 25 compresses the detection data collected regarding the subject P. This compression may be lossy compression (irreversible compression) or lossless compression. The conversion unit 21 converts the number of bits of the detection data into the number of bits at the time of data transmission designated by the data transfer function 442 by removing the most significant bits of the detection data compressed by the compression unit 25.

[0106] Fig. 7, Fig. 8, and Fig. 9 are diagrams for explaining the compression process according to the embodiment. Fig. 7 illustrates the number of bits of data indicating the count number before data compression by the compression unit 25. Fig. 8 illustrates the number of bits of data indicating the count number after data compression by the compression unit 25. Fig. 9 illustrates the number of bits of data indicating the count number after the conversion unit 21 removes the most significant bits of the data compressed by the compression unit 25. In the examples shown in Figs. 7, 8, and 9, the horizontal axis indicates the bit number.

[0107] The count data shown in FIG. 7 has a data length of 16 bits. Here, as shown in FIG. 7, a case is defined for each most significant bit position where a predetermined bit value ("1" in FIG. 7) is input. Therefore, in the case of a data length of 16 bits, there are 17 cases, including the case where the count is 0. In this case, the lower bit of the count data is bit J2, which is heavily influenced by quantum noise. For bit J2, which is heavily influenced by quantum noise, it is difficult to distinguish the change in the bit value from quantum noise. In other words, bit J2, which is heavily influenced by quantum noise, is an unusable bit.

[0108] Therefore, in order to prevent the amount of data from increasing due to the presence of unusable bits, the compressor 25 according to this modification removes the bit J2 that is heavily affected by quantum noise, i.e., the lower bits of the count number data. In other words, the compressor 25 sequentially pushes down the valid signal bit J1 by removing the lower bits, and pushes down the most significant bit. FIG. 8 illustrates a case where the data with the most significant bit of 15 bits shown in FIG. 7 is lossily compressed to the most significant bit of 9 bits by removing the lower bits by the compressor 25. For example, when the data shown in FIG. 8 is transmitted, the most significant bit (MSB) during transmission is 9 bits in all cases.

[0109] The converter 21 removes the most significant bits of the data compressed by the compressor 25 in the same manner as in the above-described embodiment, as shown in Fig. 9. This reduces the number of bits of the count data compared to when only lossy compression is applied, and further reduces the amount of detection data to be transmitted. For example, when the data shown in Fig. 9 is transmitted, the most significant bit (MSB) during transmission is determined according to the count for each case, and is 9 bits or less.

[0110] For ease of explanation, Fig. 9 illustrates an example in which all bits higher than the most significant bit position to which a predetermined bit value ("1" in Fig. 9) is input are removed. However, as explained in the above embodiment, the most significant bit at the time of transmission is a bit position corresponding to a count number greater than the estimated count number. In other words, in the transmitted detection data, the bit value input to the most significant bit (MSB) at the time of transmission is not limited to "1" and may also be "0".

[0111] The techniques according to the above-described modified examples can be applied to the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the embodiment in any combination.

[0112] The term "processor" used in the above description means a circuit such as a CPU, a GPU, an ASIC, or a programmable logic device (PLD). PLD includes a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA). The processor realizes a function by reading and executing a program stored in a storage circuit. The storage circuit in which the program is stored is a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium. Instead of storing the program in the storage circuit, the program may be directly built into the circuit of the processor. In this case, the processor realizes a function by reading and executing the program built into the circuit. Also, instead of executing the program, a function corresponding to the program may be realized by a combination of logic circuits. Note that each processor in this embodiment is not limited to being configured as a single circuit for each processor, but may be configured as one processor by combining multiple independent circuits to realize its function. Furthermore, the multiple components in FIG. 1 may be integrated into one processor to realize its function.

[0113] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, it is possible to reduce the time required for data transfer while maintaining image quality.

[0114] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, and are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0115] 1 X-ray CT device 10 Mounting stand 101 Rotating part 102 Fixed part 11 X-ray tube 12 X-ray detector (X-ray detection section) 13 Rotating Frame 14 High voltage X-ray device 15 Control device 16 Wedge 17 Collimator 18 Data Acquisition Circuit 19 Opening 21 Conversion section 23 Transmission section 25 Compression section 30 berths 31 Foundation 32 Bed drive unit 33 Tabletop 34 Support frame 40 Console 41 Memory 42 Display 43 Input Interface 44 Processing circuit 441 System Control Function (Acquisition Section) 442 Data transfer function (decision part) 443 Pre-processing function (restoration section) 444 Reconstruction Processing Function 446 Display Control Function

Claims

1. an X-ray detection unit in which a plurality of detection elements are arranged at least in a channel direction; an acquisition unit that acquires an estimated count number of X-rays incident on the X-ray detection unit for each of the plurality of detection elements; a determination unit that determines a number of bits at the time of transmission of detection data indicating the count number of each of the plurality of detection elements based on the estimated count number, the determination unit determines the number of bits at the time of transmission by designating a bit position corresponding to the estimated count number other than the most significant bit of the bits of the detection data as the most significant bit at the time of transmission. X-ray computed tomography equipment.

2. the X-ray detection unit is a photon counting type X-ray detector, and outputs a plurality of detection data items discriminated by X-ray energy for each view; The determination unit determines the number of bits at the time of transmission for each of the views.

2. An X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1.

3. the acquiring unit acquires detection data indicating a count number of each of the plurality of detecting elements collected without transmitting through a subject under at least one scanning condition, and calculates the estimated count number based on the acquired detection data.

3. An X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

4. the acquiring unit acquires scano image data of a subject collected under at least one scan condition, and calculates the estimated count number based on the acquired scano image data; 4. An X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1.

5. the acquisition unit calculates the estimated count number based on at least one of a type and a shape of a wedge disposed between an X-ray generation unit that generates the X-rays and the X-ray detection unit; 5. An X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1.

6. the acquisition unit acquires optical image data of a subject captured by an optical camera, acquires information about a physique of the subject based on the acquired optical image data, estimates a transmission length and an attenuation rate of the X-rays in the subject based on the information about the physique of the subject, and calculates the estimated count number based on the transmission length and the attenuation rate.

6. An X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1.

7. the acquisition unit estimates a transmission length and an attenuation rate of the X-ray in the subject based on a human body model related to the subject, and calculates the estimated count number based on the transmission length and the attenuation rate.

7. An X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1.

8. A storage unit that stores a model indicating a correspondence between a scan condition and the estimated count number, the acquiring unit acquiring scan conditions for collecting the detection data regarding the subject, and acquiring the estimated count number from the storage unit based on the scan conditions; 8. An X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1.

9. a conversion unit that converts the number of bits of the detection data collected about the subject into the number of bits at the time of transmission determined by the determination unit by removing most significant bits of the detection data; a transmission unit that transmits the converted detection data; a restoration unit that restores the detection data to the number of bits before conversion by the conversion unit by adding higher bits to the number of bits of the transmitted detection data based on the number of bits at the time of transmission; Further comprising:

9. An X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1.

10. A compression unit that performs lossy compression to remove lower bits of the detection data collected about the subject, the conversion unit converts the number of bits of the detection data into the number of bits at the time of transmission by removing most significant bits of the detection data compressed by the compression unit.

10. An X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 9.

11. acquiring an estimated count number of X-rays incident on an X-ray detection unit having a plurality of detection elements arranged at least in a channel direction, for each of the plurality of detection elements; determining a number of bits at the time of transmission of detection data indicating the count number of each of the plurality of detection elements based on the estimated count number; the number of bits during transmission is determined by designating a bit position corresponding to the estimated count number other than the most significant bit of the bits of the detection data as the most significant bit during transmission; Control methods.

Images