Medical image diagnostic device and control method

Abstract

To sterilize a medical image diagnostic device without influencing a patient or medical staff.SOLUTION: A medical image diagnostic device includes an imaging unit, a sterilizing unit, a first detection unit, a second detection unit, and a sterilization control unit. The imaging unit images a subject. The sterilizing unit is provided at a position where a part with which the subject comes in contact can be sterilized. The first detection unit detects that a person is present in an examination room where imaging of the subject is executed. The second detection unit detects a state of the sterilizing unit. The sterilization control unit prohibits an operation of the sterilizing unit according to the state of the sterilizing unit that the second detection unit detects when the first detection unit detects that a person is present in the examination room.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to a medical image diagnostic apparatus and a control method.

[0002] In recent years, interest in infection prevention measures has been growing due to the global spread of various infectious diseases. In particular, it is necessary to take infection prevention measures for medical image diagnostic devices, which are used for examinations of various patients. Conventionally, a technology has been proposed as an infection prevention measure for medical image diagnostic devices, in which parts that are in direct contact with patients are disinfected by irradiating them with ultraviolet light after each patient diagnosis.

[0003] However, with conventional techniques, when a patient or medical staff such as a doctor, nurse, or technician is present around the medical image diagnostic apparatus, there is a possibility that the patient or medical staff may be irradiated with ultraviolet light. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 7-313561 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to sterilize a medical image diagnostic device without affecting patients or medical staff. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described later can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A medical image diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment includes an imaging unit, a sterilization unit, a first detection unit, a second detection unit, and a sterilization control unit. The imaging unit images a subject. The sterilization unit is provided at a position where it can sterilize an area that the subject comes into contact with. The first detection unit detects the presence of a person in an examination room where the subject is imaged. The second detection unit detects the state of the sterilization unit. When the first detection unit detects the presence of a person in the examination room, the sterilization control unit prohibits operation of the sterilization unit according to the state of the sterilization unit detected by the second detection unit. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a hospital information processing system including a medical image diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a warning message screen according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a warning message screen according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a selection message screen according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to the first modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] Hereinafter, the medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. For the sake of specificity, the medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described as an example in which the medical image diagnostic apparatus is an X-ray computed tomography imaging apparatus (hereinafter referred to as an "X-ray CT apparatus"). In the following embodiments, the parts with the same reference numerals perform the same operations, and the duplicated explanations will be omitted as appropriate.

[0009] FIG. 1 shows a medical information processing system S including an X-ray CT apparatus 1 incorporating a sterilization apparatus 2, an interviewing doctor terminal 6, and a radiology department information server device .

[0010] The devices included in the medical information processing system S can communicate with each other via a network N. The network N may be a wired communication network, a wireless communication network, or a network in which wired communication and wireless communication are mixed.

[0011] The X-ray CT device 1 is installed, for example, in an examination room in a hospital. Here, the examination room is a space (room) where examinations are performed using the X-ray CT device 1, and may also be called an imaging room. A human presence sensor 21 is also provided in the examination room. The human presence sensor 21 is electrically connected to the X-ray CT device 1. The interviewing doctor terminal 6 is installed in a space (typically a diagnosis room) where an interviewing doctor interviews patients. The radiology department information server device 7 is typically installed in a hospital.

[0012] For example, the radiology department information server device 7 can be installed outside the hospital as long as it is in an environment in which it can communicate with each device included in the medical information processing system S via the network N.

[0013] The X-ray CT apparatus 1 acquires information about an examination from the radiology department information server apparatus 7, and performs imaging of a subject such as a patient in response to an operation by an operator such as a technician. By performing imaging, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 collects projection data about the subject.

[0014] The X-ray CT device 1 generates a reconstructed image as a medical image based on the projection data, and transmits the generated medical image together with examination order information to a server device of a medical image management system (not shown) (also called Picture Archiving and Communication Systems: PACS). The configuration and operation of the X-ray CT device 1 will be described in detail later.

[0015] The sterilization device 2 sterilizes the X-ray CT scanner 1 under the control of the X-ray CT scanner 1. The sterilization device 2 is, for example, an ultraviolet irradiating device that irradiates an object to be sterilized with ultraviolet rays. The sterilization device 2 is provided, for example, on a gantry device 10 of the X-ray CT scanner 1, which will be described later. Details of sterilization will be described later.

[0016] In this specification, sterilization refers to reducing the number of bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms present in an object. In addition, sterilization can be interpreted as disinfection, sterilization, or disinfection. Sterilization refers to killing (inactivating) bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms present in an object.

[0017] Sterilization means the destruction of all bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms present in an object, regardless of whether they are harmful or not. Disinfection means the destruction (or removal) of pathogenic bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms present in an object to the extent that they are harmless.

[0018] In the X-ray CT apparatus 1 of this embodiment, a sterilization process performed before or after an examination is performed by using the sterilization apparatus 2. The sterilization apparatus 2 starts the sterilization process according to an instruction from an operator. The instruction from the operator is input, for example, by pressing a sterilization start button provided on a console device 40 described later.

[0019] In this embodiment, the sterilization device 2 sterilizes the X-ray CT device 1 under the control of the X-ray CT device 1, but the sterilization device 2 may also sterilize the X-ray CT device 1 under the control of a sterilization control device separate from the control device 15 of the X-ray CT device 1.

[0020] The human presence sensor 21 detects the presence of a person in the examination room. The human presence sensor 21 is, for example, an infrared sensor that detects the presence of a person from the state of infrared rays. Note that the human presence sensor 21 is not limited to an infrared sensor.

[0021] For example, the human presence sensor 21 may be a thermograph that analyzes infrared rays emitted from an object and displays heat distribution as a diagram. The human presence sensor 21 may also be, for example, one or more cameras that can capture an image of the entire examination room. In this case, the human presence sensor 21 detects the presence of a person by analyzing the captured image and recognizing human movement. The medical information processing system S may not be provided with the human presence sensor 21.

[0022] The interviewing doctor terminal 6 is, for example, a computer installed in a consultation room, and creates examination order information for examination of a subject using the X-ray CT device 1 according to an input operation of the interviewing doctor. The interviewing doctor terminal 6 transmits the created examination order information to the radiology department information server device 7 via the network N.

[0023] Here, the examination order information refers to information that includes, in addition to information identifying the subject (patient ID information) and examination reservation information (examination date and time, etc.), at least one of, for example, the purpose of the examination (examination type), information identifying the medical image diagnostic device to be used, imaging conditions (tube voltage, tube current), imaging site (diagnostic site), imaging technique (presence or absence of contrast agent, etc.), posture of the subject during imaging, reconstruction conditions, etc.

[0024] The interviewing doctor terminal 6 can be realized, for example, by a mobile terminal (such as a notebook computer or a tablet computer).

[0025] The radiology department information server device 7 is a computer device that executes processes related to information management in a radiology department information system (also called "RIS"). Here, a RIS is an information system that manages information in a radiology department in a hospital. The radiology department information server device 7 is sometimes called a RIS server.

[0026] The radiology department information server device 7 receives, for example, examination order information from the interviewing doctor terminal 6 via the network N. The radiology department information server device 7 transmits the examination order information to the X-ray CT device 1 specified by the examination order information.

[0027] When the examination order information is transmitted to the X-ray CT apparatus 1, the radiology department information server device 7 may add patient ID information and examination reservation information to a DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) tag or the like.

[0028] Next, a detailed description will be given of the configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus 1. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus 1. As shown in Fig. 2, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 has a gantry device 10, a bed device 30, and a console device 40.

[0029] In FIG. 1, the rotation axis of the rotating frame 13 in the non-tilted state or the longitudinal direction of the table top 33 of the bed device 30 is defined as the Z-axis direction, the axial direction perpendicular to the Z-axis direction and horizontal to the floor surface is defined as the X-axis direction, and the axial direction perpendicular to the Z-axis direction and perpendicular to the floor surface is defined as the Y-axis direction.

[0030] The gantry 10 has an imaging system 19 for capturing medical images used in diagnosis. The imaging system 19 is composed of, for example, an X-ray tube 11, an X-ray detector 12, a wedge 16, and a collimator 17. That is, the gantry 10 is an apparatus having the imaging system 19 that irradiates an object P with X-rays and collects projection data from detection data of the X-rays that have passed through the object P. Therefore, the imaging system 19 of the gantry 10 can be said to be an example of an imaging unit.

[0031] The gantry device 10 also has an opening for accommodating the subject P. The tabletop 33 on which the subject P is placed is accommodated in the opening, with the side on which the bed device 30 is provided serving as the entrance. A sterilization device 2 is attached above the entrance of the opening. The sterilization device 2 is an example of a sterilization section. The sterilization device 2 performs sterilization by irradiating ultraviolet light.

[0032] By providing the sterilization device 2 above the entrance of the gantry device 10, it is possible to irradiate the upper surface of the tabletop 33 of the bed device 30 with ultraviolet rays. In other words, it is possible to sterilize the area that the subject P may come into contact with.

[0033] The installation position of the sterilization apparatus 2 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 1, so long as it is a position where the site that the subject P comes into contact with can be sterilized.

[0034] For example, all or part of the rotating frame 13 may be made of a material that transmits ultraviolet light, and the sterilization device 2 may be provided inside the rotating frame 13. By providing the sterilization device 2 inside the rotating frame 13, it becomes possible to irradiate ultraviolet light while rotating the rotating frame 13. In other words, it is possible to irradiate ultraviolet light to parts other than the upper surface of the table top 33 of the bed device 30.

[0035] The gantry device 10 has an X-ray tube 11, a wedge 16, a collimator 17, an X-ray detector 12, an X-ray high voltage device 14, a DAS (Data Acquisition System) 18, a rotating frame 13, a control device 15, and a bed device 30.

[0036] The X-ray tube 11 is a vacuum tube that irradiates thermoelectrons from a cathode (filament) to an anode (target) by application of a high voltage from an X-ray high voltage device 14.

[0037] 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.

[0038] The wedge 16 is, for example, a wedge filter or a bow-tie filter, which is a filter made by processing aluminum so as to have a predetermined target angle and a predetermined thickness.

[0039] The collimator 17 is a lead plate or the like for narrowing down the irradiation range of the X-rays transmitted through the wedge 16, and a slit is formed by combining a plurality of lead plates or the like.

[0040] The X-ray detector 12 detects X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 11 and passing through the subject P, and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of X-rays to a data acquisition device (DAS 18). The X-ray detector 12 has, for example, a plurality of X-ray detection element rows in which a plurality of X-ray detection elements are arranged in the channel direction along one arc with the focus of the X-ray tube 11 as the center.

[0041] The X-ray detector 12 has, for example, a plurality of X-ray detection element rows in which a plurality of X-ray detection elements are arranged in the channel direction along one arc centered on the focal point of the X-ray tube 11. The X-ray detector 12 has a structure in which, for example, a plurality of X-ray detection element rows in which a plurality of X-ray detection elements are arranged in the channel direction are arranged in the slice direction (also called the body axis direction or row direction).

[0042] The X-ray detector 12 is an indirect conversion type detector having, for example, a grid, a scintillator array, and a photosensor array. The scintillator array has a plurality of scintillators, and the scintillators have scintillator crystals that output light with a photon amount corresponding to the amount of incident X-rays. The grid is disposed on the X-ray incident surface of the scintillator array, and has an X-ray shielding plate that has a function of absorbing scattered X-rays.

[0043] The photosensor array has a function of converting the amount of light from the scintillator into an electrical signal according to the amount of light, and has photosensors such as photomultiplier tubes (PMTs), etc. The X-ray detector 12 may be a direct conversion type detector having a semiconductor element that converts the incident X-rays into an electrical signal.

[0044] The X-ray high voltage device 14 has electric circuits such as a transformer and a rectifier, and includes a high voltage generator having a function of generating a high voltage to be applied to the X-ray tube 11, and an X-ray control device that controls the output voltage according to the X-rays irradiated by the X-ray tube 11. The high voltage generator may be of a transformer type or an inverter type.

[0045] The X-ray high voltage device 14 may be provided on the rotating frame 13, or may be provided on the fixed frame (not shown) side of the gantry device 10. The fixed frame is a frame that supports the rotating frame 13 so that it can rotate.

[0046] The DAS 18 has an amplifier that performs an amplification process on the electric signals output from each X-ray detection element of the X-ray detector 12, and an A / D converter that converts the electric signals into digital signals, and generates detection data. The detection data generated by the DAS 18 is transferred to the console device 40.

[0047] The rotating frame 13 is an annular frame that supports the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 so as to face each other and rotates the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 using a control device 15. Note that the rotating frame 13 may further support an X-ray high voltage device 14 and a DAS 18 in addition to the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12.

[0048] In addition, the detection data generated by the DAS 18 is, as an example, transmitted by optical communication from a transmitter having a light-emitting diode provided on the rotating frame 13 to a receiver having a photodiode provided on a non-rotating part of the mounting device 10, such as a fixed frame, and then transferred to the console device 40.

[0049] The method of transmitting the detection data from the rotating frame 13 to the non-rotating portion of the gantry device 10 is not limited to optical communication, and other non-contact data transmission methods may be used.

[0050] The control device 15 has a processing circuit having a CPU and the like, and a driving mechanism such as a motor and an actuator. The control device 15 has a function of receiving an input signal from an input interface 43 attached to the console device 40 or an input interface attached to the gantry device 10, and controlling the operation of the gantry device 10 and the bed device 30.

[0051] In addition, the control device 15 receives an input signal and controls the rotation of the rotating frame 13 and the operation of the gantry device 10 and the bed device 30 .

[0052] The control device 15 tilts the gantry 10 by rotating the rotating frame 13 around an axis parallel to the X-axis direction, for example, based on inclination angle (tilt angle) information inputted through an input interface attached to the gantry 10.

[0053] The bed device 30 is a device for placing and moving the subject P to be scanned, and includes a base 31, a bed driving device 32, a top plate 33, and a support frame 34. The base 31 is a housing that supports the support frame 34 so that it can move in the vertical direction. The bed driving device 32 is a motor or actuator that moves the top plate 33, on which the subject P is placed, in its longitudinal direction (the Z-axis direction in FIG. 1).

[0054] The tabletop 33 provided on the upper surface of the support frame 34 is a plate on which the subject P is placed. The bed driving device 32 may move the support frame 34 in the longitudinal direction of the tabletop 33 in addition to the tabletop 33.

[0055] The bed driving device 32 moves the base 31 up and down in accordance with a control signal from the control device 15. The bed driving device 32 moves the tabletop 33 in the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) in accordance with a control signal from the control device 15.

[0056] The bed device 30 also includes a weight sensor (not shown). The weight sensor is a sensor that detects the weight of an object (mainly the subject P) placed on the top board 33. The weight sensor is an example of a weight detection unit.

[0057] The console device 40 is a device that receives operations of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 by an operator and reconstructs X-ray CT image data from the X-ray detection data collected by the gantry device 10. The console device 40 is provided outside the examination room. The console device 40 includes a memory 41, a display 42, an input interface 43, and a processing circuit 45.

[0058] The memory 41 is realized by, for example, a random access memory (RAM), a semiconductor memory element such as a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, etc. The memory 41 stores, for example, projection data and reconstructed image data. The memory 41 also stores, for example, examination order information or examination steps based on the examination order information in the order of scheduled execution.

[0059] The memory 41 also stores dedicated programs for realizing an operation control function 45a, a pre-processing function 45b, a reconstruction processing function 45c, a first detection function 45d, a second detection function 45e, a setting function 45f, a display control function 45g, and a sterilization control function 45h, which will be described later.

[0060] The display 42 is a monitor that an operator refers to and displays various information. The display 42 is, for example, a liquid crystal display or a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display.

[0061] The display 42 outputs medical images (CT images) generated by the processing circuitry 45, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for receiving various operations from the operator, and the like. The display 42 displays, for example, a sterilization start button for receiving a sterilization start instruction from the operator.

[0062] 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 circuit 45. For example, the input interface 43 receives from the operator acquisition conditions for acquiring projection data, reconstruction conditions for reconstructing a CT image, image processing conditions for generating a post-processed image from a CT image, an instruction for termination processing of the X-ray CT device 1, and the like.

[0063] Furthermore, an instruction to start sterilization may be received from an operator via the input interface 43. The input interface 43 is realized by, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a trackball, a switch, a button, a joystick, or the like.

[0064] The processing circuitry 45 controls the overall operation of the X-ray CT apparatus 1. The processing circuitry 45 has, for example, an operation control function 45a, a pre-processing function 45b, a reconstruction processing function 45c, a first detection function 45d, a second detection function 45e, a setting function 45f, a display control function 45g, and a sterilization control function 45h.

[0065] In the embodiment, each processing function performed by the components, that is, the operation control function 45a, the preprocessing function 45b, the reconstruction processing function 45c, the first detection function 45d, the second detection function 45e, the setting function 45f, the display control function 45g, and the sterilization control function 45h, is stored in the memory 41 in the form of a computer-executable program. The processing circuitry 45 is a processor that reads out the programs from the memory 41 and executes them to realize the function corresponding to each program.

[0066] 1. In other words, the processing circuit 45 in a state in which each program has been read out has each function shown in the processing circuit 45 of FIG.

[0067] In FIG. 1, it has been described that the processing functions performed by the operation control function 45a, the pre-processing function 45b, the reconstruction processing function 45c, the first detection function 45d, the second detection function 45e, the setting function 45f, the display control function 45g, and the sterilization control function 45h are realized by a single processing circuit 45. However, the processing circuit 45 may be configured by combining a plurality of independent processors, and each processor may realize a function by executing a program.

[0068] In other words, each of the above-mentioned functions may be configured as a program and one processing circuit may execute each program, or a specific function may be implemented in a dedicated, independent program execution circuit.

[0069] The term "processor" used in the above description refers to circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphical processing unit), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD), a Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD), and a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)).

[0070] The processor realizes its functions by reading and executing the programs stored in the memory 41. Note that instead of storing the programs in the memory 41, the programs may be directly built into the circuits of the processor. In this case, the processor realizes its functions by reading and executing the programs built into the circuits.

[0071] The operation control function 45a controls various functions of the processing circuit 45 based on an input operation received from an operator via the input interface 43. For example, the operation control function 45a receives input of user information (e.g., a user ID, etc.) for logging in, subject information, etc. via the input interface 43. In addition, the operation control function 45a receives input of an imaging protocol via the input interface 43.

[0072] Moreover, the operation control function 45a performs control related to positioning imaging, main imaging, and the like.

[0073] The pre-processing function 45b generates data by performing pre-processing such as logarithmic conversion processing, offset processing, sensitivity correction processing between channels, beam hardening correction, etc. on the detection data output from the DAS 18. Note that the data before pre-processing (detection data) and the data after pre-processing may be collectively referred to as projection data.

[0074] The reconstruction processing function 45c performs reconstruction processing using a filtered back projection method, an iterative reconstruction method, or the like on the projection data generated by the pre-processing function 45b in accordance with the reconstruction conditions to generate CT image data.

[0075] Furthermore, the reconstruction processing function 45c converts the reconstructed CT image data into tomographic image data of an arbitrary cross section or three-dimensional image data, based on an input operation received from the operator via the input interface 43, by a known method.

[0076] The first detection function 45d detects the presence or absence of a person in the examination room where the imaging of the subject P is performed. The first detection function 45d is an example of a first detection unit. The first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room based on, for example, a detection result of the human presence sensor 21 provided in the examination room.

[0077] Furthermore, the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room, for example, based on information obtained from the X-ray CT apparatus 1. Specifically, when the first detection function 45d receives an input signal from an input interface attached to the gantry device 10, it detects the presence of a person in the examination room.

[0078] Moreover, the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room based on the detection result of a weight sensor provided in the bed apparatus 30. Since the weight sensor is provided in the bed apparatus 30, the detection result of the weight sensor can be said to be an example of information obtained from the X-ray CT apparatus 1. Specifically, the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room when the weight sensor detects weight.

[0079] In this way, even if the motion sensor 21 fails, it is possible to detect the presence of a person in the examination room by detecting the presence of a person in the examination room based on information from the X-ray CT device 1. Also, even if the X-ray CT device 1 is configured without the motion sensor 21, it is possible to detect the presence of a person in the examination room.

[0080] The second detection function 45e detects the operation state of the sterilization apparatus 2. For example, the second detection function 45e detects that the sterilization apparatus 2 is in a sterilization stopped state in which sterilization is not being performed. Specifically, if the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room and the sterilization apparatus 2 is not operating, the second detection function 45e detects that the sterilization apparatus 2 is in a sterilization stopped state.

[0081] Furthermore, the second detection function 45e detects that the sterilization apparatus 2 is in a sterilization operation state in which sterilization is being performed. Specifically, the second detection function 45e detects that the sterilization apparatus 2 is in a sterilization operation state if the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room and the sterilization apparatus 2 is performing an operation related to a sterilization process.

[0082] The setting function 45f performs various settings. For example, the setting function 45f performs settings related to sterilization. Specifically, the setting function 45f performs settings for processing when the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room according to an instruction from an operator.

[0083] The setting function 45f can be set, for example, so that when it is detected that a person is present in the examination room, a warning is issued and then a process of stopping the sterilization apparatus 2 is performed. Also, the setting function 45f can be set, for example, so that when it is detected that a person is present in the examination room, a process of immediately stopping the sterilization apparatus 2 is performed.

[0084] The display control function 45g controls displaying various information on the display 42. The display control function 45g causes the display 42 to display a message notifying a warning in accordance with the detection results of the first detection function 45d and the second detection function 45e.

[0085] For example, when the display control function 45g receives an instruction to start sterilization from an operator while the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room and the second detection function 45e detects that the sterilization device 2 is in a sterilization stopped state, the display control function 45g controls the display of a message indicating that sterilization cannot be started because a person is present in the examination room.

[0086] 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a warning message screen. When the display control function 45g receives a sterilization start instruction from the operator in a state where the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room and the second detection function 45e detects that the sterilization is stopped, the display control function 45g displays a warning message screen 42a on the display 42.

[0087] The warning message screen 42a is composed of, for example, a message m1 and an OK button b1. The message m1 is a message indicating that the sterilization process cannot be started because there is a person in the examination room. The OK button b1 is a button for receiving an input from the operator indicating that the message has been confirmed. When the display control function 45g receives the input of the OK button b1 from the operator, it erases the warning message screen 42a.

[0088] Furthermore, the display control function 45g performs control to display a message notifying a warning that a person is present in the examination room when, for example, the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room and the second detection function 45e detects that the sterilization apparatus 2 is in a sterilization operation state. In this case, the display control function 45g is an example of a notification control unit.

[0089] 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a warning message screen. When the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room and the second detection function 45e detects that the sterilization apparatus 2 is in operation, the display control function 45g displays a warning message screen 42b on the display 42.

[0090] The warning message screen 42b is composed of, for example, a message m2 and an OK button b2. The message m2 is a message indicating that the presence of a person in the examination room has been detected during the sterilization process. The OK button b2 is a button for receiving an input from the operator indicating that the message has been confirmed. When the display control function 45g receives the input of the OK button b2 from the operator, it erases the warning message screen 42b.

[0091] The means for notifying the warning is not limited to displaying the warning message. For example, instead of or in addition to displaying the warning message, a warning sound may be generated.

[0092] The sterilization control function 45h controls the operation of the sterilization apparatus 2 based on the detection results of the first detection function 45d and the second detection function 45e. Specifically, when the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room, the sterilization control function 45h performs control to prohibit the sterilization operation of the sterilization apparatus 2 based on the operating state of the sterilization apparatus 2 detected by the second detection function 45e.

[0093] For example, when the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room and the second detection function 45e detects that the sterilization device 2 is in a sterilization stopped state, the sterilization control function 45h performs control to prohibit operation and suppress the operation of starting the sterilization process by the sterilization device 2.

[0094] Specifically, when the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room and the second detection function 45e detects that the sterilization apparatus 2 is in a sterilization stopped state, the sterilization control function 45h performs control such that the sterilization process cannot be started by disabling the sterilization start button, etc. The sterilization control function 45h also performs similar processing when the imaging process or sterilization process of the subject P is being performed.

[0095] Disabling the sterilization start button means, for example, disabling operation of the sterilization start button displayed on the display 42 by graying it out, or hiding the sterilization start button itself, etc. Note that control to suppress the operation to start the sterilization process by the sterilization device 2 also includes preventing the sterilization process by the sterilization device 2 from starting by displaying a warning message as shown in Fig. 3.

[0096] The sterilization control function 45h performs control to stop the sterilization device 2 as a control to prohibit operation when the second detection function 45e detects that the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room and that the sterilization device 2 is in a sterilization operation state.

[0097] For example, when the setting function 45f is set to perform processing to stop the sterilization device 2 after a warning is issued, the sterilization control function 45h stops the operation of the sterilization device 2 a certain time after the display control function 45g displays a warning message such as that shown in Figure 4.

[0098] Furthermore, for example, when the setting function 45f is set to perform processing to immediately stop the sterilization apparatus 2, the sterilization control function 45h performs control to immediately stop the sterilization apparatus 2.

[0099] Next, a sterilization process executed by the X-ray CT apparatus 1 configured as above will be described.

[0100] Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the X-ray CT apparatus 1 of this embodiment. It is assumed that, at the start, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 is not executing the imaging process or the sterilization process, and the setting function 45f is set to immediately stop the sterilization apparatus 2 when it detects the presence of a person in the examination room. Fig. 5 shows an example of processing that is started when a person enters the examination room based on the above assumptions.

[0101] First, when a person enters the examination room, the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room (step S11).

[0102] Furthermore, if the sterilization apparatus 2 is not performing a sterilization process at this time, the second detection function 45e detects that the sterilization apparatus 2 is in a sterilization stopped state (Step S12).

[0103] In this case, the sterilization control function 45h performs control to suppress the start operation of the sterilization process by the sterilization device 2 based on the detection results of steps S11 and S12 (step S13).

[0104] Next, the first detection function 45d detects whether or not a person is present in the examination room (step S14). If the first detection function 45d detects that no person is present in the examination room in step S14 (step S14: Yes), the process proceeds to step S15, which will be described later. On the other hand, if the first detection function 45d detects that a person is present in the examination room in step S14 (step S14: No), the process continues to step S13.

[0105] The sterilization control function 45h cancels the control that inhibits the sterilization apparatus 2 from starting the sterilization process, and, if an instruction to start sterilization is input by the operator, accepts the instruction to start sterilization (step S15).

[0106] The sterilization control function 45h controls the sterilization apparatus 2 to execute the sterilization process (step S16).

[0107] The first detection function 45d detects whether or not a person is present in the examination room (step S17). If the first detection function 45d does not detect the presence of a person in the examination room in step S3 (step S17: No), the process continues with S16.

[0108] On the other hand, if the first detection function 45d detects that a person is present in the examination room (Step S17: Yes), the second detection function 45e detects that the sterilization apparatus 2 is operating (Step S18).

[0109] Then, the sterilization control function 45h performs control to stop the sterilization apparatus 2, and ends this process (step S19).

[0110] According to the X-ray CT apparatus 1 of the embodiment described above, the imaging system 19 of the gantry device 10 as an imaging unit images the subject P, the sterilization device 2 as a sterilization unit is provided at a position where the area contacted by the subject P can be sterilized, the first detection function 45d as a first detection unit detects the presence of a person in the examination room where the imaging of the subject P is performed, the second detection function 45e as a second detection unit detects the operating status of the sterilization device 2, and the sterilization control function 45h as a sterilization control unit performs control to prohibit operation of the sterilization device 2 based on the detection result of the second detection function 45e when the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room.

[0111] As a result, when the presence of a person is detected in the examination room, control can be performed to prohibit the sterilization process depending on the operating state of the sterilization apparatus 2. For example, if the sterilization apparatus 2 is in a state where it can start sterilization, the start of sterilization can be prohibited, and if the sterilization apparatus 2 is in operation, control can be performed to stop sterilization.

[0112] Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to this embodiment can prevent the sterilization process from being performed on people in the examination room. In other words, the medical image diagnostic apparatus can be sterilized without affecting patients and medical staff.

[0113] In addition, the display control function 45g, which serves as an alarm control unit, controls the issuing of a warning to the effect that a person is present in the examination room when the second detection function 45e detects that the sterilization device 2 is operating and the first detection function 45d detects that a person is present in the examination room.

[0114] This allows the operator to know if there is anyone in the examination room even though the sterilization process is in progress.

[0115] Furthermore, after a warning is issued, the sterilization control function 45h performs control to stop the sterilization apparatus 2. This allows the operator to understand the reason why the sterilization process is stopped before stopping the sterilization process.

[0116] Furthermore, the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room based on information from the X-ray CT device 1. For example, the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room when there is an input from an input interface provided in the gantry device 10. This is because the input interface is present in the examination room, and therefore no operation input is made from the interface unless there is a person in the examination room.

[0117] In addition, the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room based on the detection result of a weight sensor provided on the top board 33 of the bed device 30. This is because it is considered that if there is no person in the examination room, the weight sensor will not detect the weight.

[0118] In this way, by detecting the presence of a person in the examination room based on information from the X-ray CT device 1, it is possible to detect the presence of a person in the examination room without providing a motion sensor. Even if a motion sensor is provided, it may malfunction for some reason. According to the X-ray CT device of this embodiment, it is possible to detect the presence of a person in the examination room even in such a case.

[0119] The above-described embodiment can be modified as appropriate by changing a part of the configuration or function of each device. Therefore, some modified examples of the above-described embodiment will be described below as other embodiments. Note that the following mainly describes the differences from the above-described embodiment, and a detailed description of the common points with the contents already described will be omitted. The modified examples described below may be implemented individually or in appropriate combination.

[0120] (First Modification) In the above embodiment, the sterilization apparatus 2 is stopped when the first detection function 45d detects a person in the examination room. However, the operator may be able to select whether to stop or continue the sterilization process when the first detection function 45d detects a person in the examination room.

[0121] The setting function 45f in this modified example is set so that, for example, when the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room, a process is performed to receive an instruction from the operator as to whether to stop or continue sterilization after an alert is issued.

[0122] For example, when the setting function 45f is set to perform processing to receive instructions from the operator as to whether to stop or continue sterilization after a warning is issued, the display control function 45g controls the display of a screen for accepting instructions from the operator after displaying a message notifying the warning.

[0123] 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a selection message screen. After accepting the input of the OK button b2 on the warning message screen 42b of FIG.

[0124] The selection message screen 42c is composed of, for example, a message m3, a continue button b3, and a stop button b4. The message m3 is a message asking the operator whether to continue or stop the sterilization process. The continue button b3 is a button for receiving an input from the operator to continue the sterilization process. The stop button b4 is a button for receiving an input from the operator to stop the sterilization process.

[0125] When the display control function 45g receives input of the continue button b3 or the stop button b4 from the operator, it erases the selection message screen 42c.

[0126] For example, when the setting function 45f is set to perform processing to receive an instruction from an operator as to whether to stop or continue sterilization after a warning is issued, the sterilization control function 45h controls the sterilization apparatus 2 in accordance with the operator's instruction.

[0127] For example, in the example of Fig. 6, when the sterilization control function 45h receives input of the stop button b4 from the operator, it performs control to stop the sterilization apparatus 2. On the other hand, in the example of Fig. 6, when the sterilization control function 45h receives input of the continue button b3 from the operator, it performs control to continue the operation of the sterilization apparatus 2.

[0128] Next, a description will be given of the processing of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to this modified example. Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first modified example.

[0129] It is assumed that, at the start, the X-ray CT scanner 1 is not performing imaging processing or sterilization processing, and the setting function 45f is set to perform processing to receive an instruction from the operator to stop or continue sterilization after issuing a warning when it detects the presence of a person in the examination room. Figure 7 shows an example of processing that is started when a person enters the examination room based on the above assumptions.

[0130] First, when a person enters the examination room, the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person in the examination room (step S31).

[0131] Furthermore, if the sterilization apparatus 2 is not performing a sterilization process at this time, the second detection function 45e detects that the sterilization apparatus 2 is in a sterilization stopped state (Step S32).

[0132] In this case, the sterilization control function 45h performs control to suppress the start operation of the sterilization process by the sterilization device 2 based on the detection results of steps S11 and S12 (step S33).

[0133] Next, the first detection function 45d detects whether or not a person is present in the examination room (step S34). If the first detection function 45d detects that no person is present in the examination room in step S34 (step S34: Yes), the process proceeds to step S35, which will be described later. On the other hand, if the first detection function 45d detects that a person is present in the examination room in step S34 (step S34: No), the process continues to step S33.

[0134] The sterilization control function 45h cancels the control that inhibits the sterilization apparatus 2 from starting the sterilization process, and, if a sterilization start instruction is input by the operator, accepts the sterilization start instruction (step S35).

[0135] The sterilization control function 45h controls the sterilization apparatus 2 to execute the sterilization process (step S36).

[0136] The first detection function 45d detects whether or not a person is present in the examination room (step S37). If the first detection function 45d does not detect the presence of a person in the examination room in step S37 (step S37: No), the process proceeds to step S42, which will be described later.

[0137] On the other hand, if the first detection function 45d detects that a person is present in the examination room (Step S37: Yes), the second detection function 45e detects that the sterilization apparatus 2 is operating (Step S38).

[0138] The display control function 45g performs control to display a message to notify the user of the presence of a person in the examination room (step S39).

[0139] The display control function 45g displays a screen for receiving an instruction to stop or continue sterilization. Then, the sterilization control function 45h receives an instruction to stop or continue sterilization from the operator via the screen (step S40).

[0140] When an instruction to stop sterilization has been received (Step S40: Yes), the sterilization control function 45h performs control to stop the sterilization apparatus 2, and ends this process (Step S41).

[0141] On the other hand, if an instruction to continue sterilization has been received (step S40: No), the sterilization control function 45h performs control to continue the operation of the sterilization apparatus 2 (step S42).

[0142] Then, the sterilization control function 45h checks whether the sterilization process has been completed each time a sterilization process is completed (step S43). If the sterilization process has been completed (step S43: Yes), this process ends. On the other hand, if the sterilization process has not been completed (step S43: No), the process proceeds to step S36.

[0143] According to the X-ray CT apparatus of this modified example, the sterilization process can be continued at the discretion of the operator in cases such as when someone immediately leaves the examination room, thereby enabling the sterilization process to be carried out efficiently.

[0144] (Second Modification) In the above embodiment, the second detection function 45e detects the state of the sterilization apparatus 2 when the first detection function 45d detects a person. However, the second detection function 45e may be configured to constantly detect the state of the sterilization apparatus 2.

[0145] In this modification, the first detection function 45d detects the presence or absence of a person in the examination room only when the second detection function 45e detects that the sterilization apparatus 2 is in a sterilization operating state. That is, in this modification, the sterilization control function 45h does not perform control to suppress the start of sterilization processing by the sterilization apparatus 2, but only performs processing when the sterilization apparatus 2 is in an operating state.

[0146] The first detection function 45d may constantly detect the presence or absence of a person in the examination room. In this case, when the first detection function 45d detects the presence of a person, the sterilization control function 45h refers to the detection result of the second detection function 45e and controls the sterilization apparatus 2 based on the detection result.

[0147] (Third Modification) In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which an ultraviolet irradiator is used as the sterilization device 2 to sterilize an object. However, an object may be sterilized using the X-ray tube 11 of the X-ray CT scanner 1. In this case, the X-ray tube 11 is an example of a sterilization unit. The X-ray CT scanner 1 of this modified example does not need to be equipped with the sterilization device 2.

[0148] Specifically, the sterilization control function 45h controls the X-ray tube 11 (the gantry device 10) and the bed device 30 to irradiate the top board 33 with X-rays while moving the top board 33 in and out of the gantry device 10.

[0149] (Fourth Modification) In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which an ultraviolet irradiating device is used as the sterilization device 2 to sterilize an object. In contrast, an object may be sterilized by using a liquid spraying device as the sterilization device 2. The liquid spraying device is a device that sprays an agent having a sterilizing effect, such as ethanol or hypochlorous acid water, onto an object.

[0150] The liquid spraying device is provided, for example, above the entrance of the gantry device 10. This allows the disinfectant to be sprayed onto the top board 33 of the bed device 20. In other words, it is possible to disinfect the parts that the subject P may touch. The liquid spraying device may also be provided on the ceiling of the examination room. This allows the disinfectant to be sprayed over a wide area.

[0151] Specifically, the sterilization control function 45h controls the liquid spraying device and the bed device 30 to spray the medicine onto the tabletop 33 while moving the tabletop 33 in and out of the gantry device 10.

[0152] (Fifth Modification) In the above embodiment, the medical image diagnostic device is an X-ray CT device, but is not limited to this. The medical image diagnostic device may be, for example, an X-ray diagnostic device, a PET-CT system, an angio-CT system, a magnetic resonance imaging device, a nuclear medicine diagnostic device, etc.

[0153] For example, if the medical image diagnostic device is a magnetic resonance imaging device, the sterilization control function 45h monitors the connection status of the receiving coils in the magnetic resonance imaging device, and performs control to suppress the start of the sterilization process by the sterilization device 2 until a certain time has elapsed since all receiving coils are disconnected.

[0154] (Sixth Modification) In the above embodiment, the console device 40 is a part of the X-ray CT apparatus 1. However, the console device 40 may be configured as a device (e.g., a control device) separate from the X-ray CT apparatus 1. In this case, the console device 40 controls the operation of the gantry device 10, which is an example of an imaging section, and the sterilization device 2, which is an example of a sterilization section, to execute the various processes described above. The bed device 30 may be included in the imaging section together with the gantry device 10, or may be configured as a device separate from the imaging section or associated with the imaging section.

[0155] According to at least the embodiment and the modified examples described above, it is possible to sterilize a medical image diagnostic apparatus without affecting patients or medical staff.

[0156] Although some embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations of embodiments can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as described in the claims, as well as in the scope and spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0157] 1 X-ray CT device 2. Sterilization equipment 6. Doctor's interview terminal 7 Radiology department information server device 10 Mounting device 11 X-ray tube 12 X-ray detector 13 Rotating Frame 14 High voltage X-ray device 15 Control device 16 Wedge 17 Collimator 18 DAS(Data Acquisition System) 19 Imaging system 21 Human Sensor 30 Sleeping device 31 Foundation 32 Bed drive unit 33 Tabletop 34 Support frame 40 Console device 41 Memory 42 Display 43 Input Interface 45 Processing circuit 45a Motion control function 45b Pre-processing function 45c Reconstruction processing function 45d First detection function 45e Secondary detection function 45f Setting Function 45g Display control function 45h sterilization control function

Claims

1. an imaging unit that images a subject; a sterilization unit provided at a position capable of sterilizing a site that comes into contact with the subject; an infrared sensor that detects the state of infrared rays in an examination room where the subject is imaged; a thermograph that analyzes infrared rays emitted from objects in the examination room and displays a heat distribution as a diagram; and a human presence sensor that is at least one of one or more cameras that image the inside of the examination room; a first detection unit that detects the presence of a person in the examination room based on at least one of a state of the infrared rays in the examination room, a heat distribution in the examination room, and an image captured inside the examination room, which are detection results of the human presence sensor; and A second detection unit that detects whether the state of the sterilization unit is a stopped state in which the sterilization process is stopped or an operating state in which the sterilization process is being performed; a sterilization control unit that, when the first detection unit detects the presence of a person in the examination room, performs control to suppress start of a sterilization process by the sterilization unit if the state of the sterilization unit detected by the second detection unit is the stopped state, and performs control to stop the sterilization process of the sterilization unit if the state is the operating state; a notification control unit that notifies the user that a person is present in the examination room when the first detection unit detects that a person is present in the examination room based on a detection result of the human presence sensor and the second detection unit detects that the state of the sterilization unit is in the operating state; and a setting unit that sets, when the presence of a person in the examination room is detected, control to stop the sterilization process of the sterilization unit after the notification control unit issues a notification; and Equipped with the sterilization control unit is set to perform control to stop the sterilization process of the sterilization unit after a notification by the notification control unit, and when the state of the sterilization unit is in the operating state, the sterilization control unit performs control to stop the sterilization process of the sterilization unit after a notification by the notification control unit. Medical imaging diagnostic equipment.

2. An imaging unit that images a subject; a sterilization unit provided at a position capable of sterilizing a site that comes into contact with the subject; an infrared sensor that detects the state of infrared rays in an examination room where the subject is imaged; a thermograph that analyzes infrared rays emitted from objects in the examination room and displays a heat distribution as a diagram; and a human presence sensor that is at least one of one or more cameras that image the inside of the examination room; a first detection unit that detects the presence of a person in the examination room based on at least one of a state of the infrared rays in the examination room, a heat distribution in the examination room, and an image captured inside the examination room, which are detection results of the human presence sensor; and A second detection unit that detects whether the state of the sterilization unit is a stopped state in which the sterilization process is stopped or an operating state in which the sterilization process is being performed; a sterilization control unit that, when the first detection unit detects the presence of a person in the examination room, performs control to suppress start of a sterilization process by the sterilization unit if the state of the sterilization unit detected by the second detection unit is the stopped state, and performs control to stop the sterilization process of the sterilization unit if the state is the operating state; a notification control unit that notifies the user that a person is present in the examination room when the first detection unit detects that a person is present in the examination room based on a detection result of the human presence sensor and the second detection unit detects that the state of the sterilization unit is in the operating state; and A setting unit that sets control to immediately stop the sterilization process of the sterilization unit when the presence of a person in the examination room is detected; Equipped with The sterilization control unit is set to immediately perform control to stop the sterilization process of the sterilization unit, and when the state of the sterilization unit is in the operating state, the sterilization control unit immediately performs control to stop the sterilization process of the sterilization unit. Medical imaging diagnostic equipment.

3. The first detection unit detects the presence of a person in the examination room when there is an input from an operation unit that operates a medical image diagnostic device installed in the examination room, even if the human presence sensor fails. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 .

4. a bed on which the subject is placed; A weight detection unit that detects a weight of an object placed on the bed, The first detection unit detects that a person is present in the inspection room when the weight detection unit detects a weight even if the human presence sensor fails. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 .

5. A control method for a medical image diagnostic apparatus including an imaging unit that images a subject, a sterilization unit provided at a position capable of sterilizing a site that comes into contact with the subject, an infrared sensor that detects the state of infrared rays in an examination room where the subject is imaged, a thermograph that analyzes infrared rays emitted from an object and represents a heat distribution as a diagram, and a human presence sensor that is at least one of one or a plurality of cameras that image the inside of the examination room, a first detection step of detecting the presence of a person in the examination room based on at least one of the detection results of the human presence sensor, which are a state of the infrared rays in the examination room, a heat distribution in the examination room, and an image captured inside the examination room; a second detection step of detecting whether the state of the sterilization unit is in a stopped state in which the sterilization process is stopped or in an operating state in which the sterilization process is being performed; a sterilization control step of performing control to inhibit start of a sterilization process by the sterilization unit if the state of the sterilization unit detected in the second detection step is the stopped state when the first detection step detects the presence of a person in the examination room, and performing control to stop the sterilization process of the sterilization unit if the state of the sterilization unit is the operating state; a notification control step of detecting the presence of a person in the examination room based on a detection result of the human presence sensor in the first detection step and notifying the presence of a person in the examination room when the state of the sterilization unit is detected to be the operating state in the second detection step; a setting step of setting a control to stop the sterilization process of the sterilization unit after the notification by the notification control step when the presence of a person in the examination room is detected; Including, The sterilization control step is set to perform control to stop the sterilization process of the sterilization unit after the notification by the notification control step, and when the state of the sterilization unit is in the operating state, the sterilization control step performs control to stop the sterilization process of the sterilization unit after the notification by the notification control step. Control methods.

6. A control method for a medical imaging diagnostic device comprising an imaging unit that images a subject, a sterilization unit provided at a position capable of sterilizing an area that the subject comes into contact with, an infrared sensor that detects the state of infrared rays in an examination room where the subject is imaged, a thermograph that analyzes infrared rays emitted from an object and represents a heat distribution as a diagram, and a human presence sensor which is at least one of one or more cameras that image the inside of the examination room, a first detection step of detecting the presence of a person in the examination room based on at least one of the detection results of the human presence sensor, which are a state of the infrared rays in the examination room, a heat distribution in the examination room, and an image captured inside the examination room; a second detection step of detecting whether the state of the sterilization unit is in a stopped state in which the sterilization process is stopped or in an operating state in which the sterilization process is being performed; a sterilization control step of performing control to inhibit start of a sterilization process by the sterilization unit if the state of the sterilization unit detected in the second detection step is the stopped state when the first detection step detects the presence of a person in the examination room, and performing control to stop the sterilization process of the sterilization unit if the state of the sterilization unit is the operating state; a notification control step of detecting the presence of a person in the examination room based on a detection result of the human presence sensor in the first detection step and notifying the presence of a person in the examination room when the state of the sterilization unit is detected to be the operating state in the second detection step; A setting step of setting control to immediately stop the sterilization process when the presence of a person in the examination room is detected; Including, The sterilization control step is set to immediately perform control to stop the sterilization process of the sterilization unit, and when the state of the sterilization unit is in the operating state, the sterilization control step immediately performs control to stop the sterilization process of the sterilization unit. Control methods.

Images