Radiography apparatus, radiation photography system, radiation photography method, and program

Abstract

To improve convenience for an engineer with a simple configuration and reduce a burden in selecting a lighting field in imaging using a detection device mounted with an automatic exposure control (AEC) function inside.SOLUTION: A radiographic apparatus includes: display control means for displaying, in a display unit, a candidate of a lighting field for executing automatic exposure control in a radiation detection device for picking up a radiation image by detecting a radiation; and acquisition means for acquiring information at least including information on the shape of the radiation detection device, the number of arrangements of the lighting field in the radiation detection device, a site to be imaged, and past imaging information. The display control means displays, in the display unit, the candidate of the lighting field determined on the basis of the information acquired by the acquisition means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a radiation imaging apparatus, a radiation imaging system, a radiation imaging method, and a program that perform AEC control. [Background technology]

[0002] Radiography devices using a sensor panel that detects radiation such as X-rays are widely used in the fields of industry and medicine. In recent years, the multi-function of radiation imaging devices has been considered. As one of the features, it has been considered to incorporate a function to monitor radiation irradiation. This function makes it possible to detect, for example, the timing at which radiation irradiation from a radiation source is started, the timing at which radiation irradiation should be stopped, and the radiation dose or cumulative dose. Automatic exposure control (AEC) is also possible by detecting the cumulative dose of radiation that has passed through the subject and stopping the radiation irradiation from the radiation source when the detected cumulative dose reaches an appropriate dose. In general, when automatic exposure control is performed using an FPD (Flat Panel Detector), a plate-shaped AEC sensor separate from the FPD is placed between the subject and the FPD. The AEC sensor measures the dose that has passed through the subject in a radiation detection area (light collection field) that monitors radiation at one or more predetermined locations, and controls the stopping of X-ray irradiation when the predetermined dose is reached.

[0003] When using a separate AEC sensor, it is difficult to transport the FPD and AEC sensor, so stationary installation such as standing or lying position imaging is common. If the AEC function is installed inside the FPD, it can be transported like a conventional FPD, and AEC imaging becomes possible in positions other than standing and lying position. However, if the positional relationship between the subject and the FPD is arbitrary or unintended, it becomes impossible to control the exposure appropriately. As a result, it is not possible to obtain a radiation image with the appropriate density, and there is a risk that re-imaging will be required.

[0004] Therefore, Patent Document 1 discloses a method of fixing the radiation field to a single point at the center of the FPD by attaching and detaching it from a stand used during fixed-position radiography such as upright and supine radiography, and a method of limiting the selection options. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2020-162971 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 lacks versatility in AEC imaging in positions other than the upright and lying positions because it fixes the center and limits the selection candidates. Furthermore, Patent Document 1 is based on the premise that one FPD equipped with an internal AEC function is used, and does not take into account the case where there are multiple FPDs equipped with an internal AEC function.

[0007] In particular, when there are multiple FPDs equipped with an AEC function inside, the positions and numbers of the measurement fields of each FPD are different, so the measurement fields to be set vary. Also, if selection patterns for all the measurement fields are displayed, it takes time for the operator to select the measurement field, which complicates the workflow.

[0008] In this way, when there are multiple FPDs equipped with an internal AEC function, it is necessary to display selection options for the light collection field according to the shooting purpose of each FPD, but this necessity has not been considered.

[0009] In consideration of the above-mentioned problems, one of the objects of the present invention is to provide a simple mechanism for improving ease of use for technicians and reducing the burden on technicians in selecting the imaging field when using a detection device equipped with an AEC function built in.

[0010] In addition to the above-mentioned objective, the achievement of effects derived from each configuration shown in the description of the embodiment of the invention described below, which cannot be obtained by conventional techniques, can also be considered as one of the other objectives of the disclosure of this specification. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] The radiographic imaging device of the present invention comprises a display control means for displaying on a display unit candidate radiation collection fields for automatic exposure control in a radiation detection device that captures radiographic images by detecting radiation, and an acquisition means for acquiring at least one piece of information regarding the shape of the radiation detection device and the number of radiation collection fields arranged in the radiation detection device, and is characterized in that the display control means displays on the display unit the candidate radiation collection fields determined based on the information acquired by the acquisition means. Another radiographic imaging device according to the present invention comprises a display control means for displaying on a display unit candidate radiation measurement fields for automatic exposure control in a radiation detection device that captures radiographic images by detecting radiation, and an acquisition means for acquiring at least one piece of information regarding the shape of the radiation detection device, the number of radiation measurement fields in the radiation detection device, the body part to be imaged, and past imaging information, and the display control means displays on the display unit the candidate radiation measurement fields determined based on the information acquired by the acquisition means in order of priority. Effect of the Invention

[0012] According to the present invention, when radiography is performed using a detection device equipped with an internal AEC function, a simple mechanism can be used to improve ease of use for technicians and reduce the burden on technicians in selecting the radiation field. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a radiation imaging system according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a detection device according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3]FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a light collection area arrangement in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a radiation imaging apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of an association table held in a storage unit in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of control of display of a candidate irradiation field in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of control of display of a candidate irradiation field in the second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a radiation imaging apparatus according to a second embodiment. [Figure 10] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of control of display of a candidate irradiation field in the third embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a radiation imaging apparatus according to a third embodiment. [Figure 12] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of control of display of a candidate irradiation field in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 13] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of control of display of a candidate irradiation field in the fifth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0014] [First embodiment] A first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a radiography system according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the radiography system according to this embodiment includes a radiography apparatus 1 and a Hospital Information System (HIS) 11 that manages the progress of an examination.

[0015] The radiation imaging system of this embodiment also includes a Radiology Information System (RIS) 12 that transmits an examination order to the radiation imaging apparatus 1. Furthermore, the radiation imaging system of this embodiment is connected to a Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) 13 that manages radiation images and a printer 14 that prints out the radiation images.

[0016] The HIS 11 is a hospital management system, and includes a server that manages accounting information. When performing radiography, the operator inputs examination instructions from a terminal (input unit) of the HIS 11. The HIS 11 then transmits the request information to the radiology department of the hospital that is the requestee for the radiography. This request information is called an examination order. An examination order includes the name of the requesting department, an examination ID, examination items, and patient information (subject information) related to the subject (subject).

[0017] When the RIS 12 receives an examination order, the radiology department adds imaging information related to the radiography (identification information of the examination item (examination ID), imaging part information, imaging direction information, procedure information, etc.) to the examination order and transmits it to the radiography device 1. The radiography device 1 performs radiography in accordance with the received examination order. The radiography device 1 acquires the captured radiographic image, generates examination information that associates the radiographic image with the examination order, and outputs it together with the radiographic image.

[0018] The PACS 13 is a server whose main purpose is image management. A high-definition monitor connected to the PACS 13 is used to carry out inspection of radiation images, detailed post-processing, and diagnostic work. In this manner, the radiation images acquired by the radiation imaging apparatus 1 are transmitted to the PACS 13.

[0019] Moreover, implementation information (such as image ID and imaging date and time) of the examination in the radiation imaging apparatus 1 is transmitted to the HIS 11. The implementation information transmitted to the HIS 11 is used for accounting after the examination as well as for progress management of the examination.

[0020] The radiation imaging apparatus 1, the HIS 11, the RIS 12, the PACS 13, and the printer 14 are connected to each other via a network 15 configured by, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network).

[0021] Each of these devices includes one or more computers. The computer includes, for example, a main control means such as a CPU, and storage means such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory). The computer may also include communication means such as a network card, and input / output means such as a keyboard, a display, and a touch panel. Each of these components is electrically connected by a bus or the like, and is controlled by the main control means executing a program stored in the storage means.

[0022] 1, a radiography device 1 for performing radiography is installed in an imaging room 50. Also installed in the imaging room 50 are a radiation generator 4 for generating radiation, a detector 7 for detecting radiation that has passed through a subject 10 to obtain a radiographic image, and an imaging table 16.

[0023] The radiation imaging apparatus 1 includes a display unit 2 that displays a radiation image and various information, an operation unit 3 operated by an operator, and a control unit 5 that controls each of the components.

[0024] The radiation generating device 4 sets radiation imaging conditions in the radiation generating unit 6 and controls the radiation generating unit 6. The radiation generating unit 6 functions as a radiation source that generates radiation. The radiation generating unit 6 is realized by, for example, a radiation tube, and irradiates radiation toward the subject 10 (for example, a specific part of the subject).

[0025] The radiation generating unit 6 can irradiate radiation to a desired irradiation range. A radiation-blocking aperture (not shown) is provided on the irradiation surface of the radiation generating unit 6. An operator can adjust the irradiation range of the radiation irradiated from the radiation generating unit 6 by controlling the radiation-blocking aperture.

[0026] The radiation imaging system includes a detection device 7 that detects radiation irradiated from a radiation generation unit 6. The detection device 7 detects radiation that has passed through a subject 10, and outputs image data corresponding to the radiation. The image data can also be referred to as a radiation image.

[0027] Specifically, the detector 7 detects the radiation that has passed through the subject 10 as an electric charge corresponding to the amount of transmitted radiation. The detector 7 may use a direct conversion sensor such as a-Se that converts radiation into an electric charge, or an indirect sensor that uses a scintillator such as CsI and a photoelectric conversion element such as a-Si.

[0028] Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the detection device 7. As shown in Fig. 2, the detection device 7 has a radiation detector 100. The radiation detector 100 has a function of detecting irradiated radiation. The radiation detector 100 has a plurality of pixels arranged to form a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns. In the following description, the region in which the plurality of pixels are arranged in the radiation detector 100 is referred to as a detection region.

[0029] The plurality of pixels include imaging pixels 101 for acquiring a radiation image or acquiring radiation irradiation information (hereinafter referred to as detection pixels in order to explain the present invention in relation to the use for acquiring radiation irradiation information), and correction pixels 121 for removing dark current components and crosstalk components. The detection pixels 101 may be used only for the purpose of acquiring a radiation image, or only for the purpose of acquiring radiation irradiation information. Furthermore, the detection pixels 101 may be used by selecting either one of the purposes of acquiring a radiation image or acquiring radiation irradiation information, or may be used simultaneously for the purposes of acquiring a radiation image and acquiring radiation irradiation information.

[0030] The detection pixel 101 includes a first conversion element 102 that converts radiation into an electrical signal, and a first switch 103 disposed between a column signal line 106 and the first conversion element 102 . The first conversion element 102 is composed of a scintillator that converts radiation into light and a photoelectric conversion element that converts light into an electrical signal. The scintillator is generally formed in a sheet shape so as to cover the detection area and is shared by multiple pixels. Alternatively, the first conversion element 102 is composed of a conversion element that directly converts radiation into light.

[0031] The first switch 103 includes a thin film transistor (TFT) having an active region made of a semiconductor such as amorphous silicon or polycrystalline silicon (preferably polycrystalline silicon). The area in which the detection pixels 101 and the correction pixels 121 for acquiring radiation irradiation information are arranged is located at any position in the detection region of the detection device 7. For example, similar to a conventional separate AEC sensor, they may be arranged in a plurality of regions such as those shown by A to C, K to O, and AA to AI in Figures 3(a), 3(b), and 3(c).

[0032] The detection device 7 has a plurality of column signal lines 106 and a plurality of drive lines 104. Each column signal line 106 corresponds to one of a plurality of columns in the detection area. Each drive line 104 corresponds to one of a plurality of rows in the detection area. Each drive line 104 is driven by a drive circuit 221.

[0033] First electrodes of the first conversion element 102 and the second conversion element 122 are connected to first main electrodes of the first switch 103 and the second switch 123, and second electrodes of the first conversion element 102 and the second conversion element 122 are connected to a bias line 108. Here, one bias line 108 extends in the column direction and is commonly connected to the second electrodes of the multiple conversion elements 102 and 122 arranged in the column direction.

[0034] The bias line 108 receives a bias voltage Vs from the element power supply circuit 226. The bias voltage Vs is supplied from the element power supply circuit 226. The power supply control unit 301 is composed of a battery, a DCDC converter, etc. The power supply control unit 301 includes the element power supply circuit 226, and generates a power supply for analog circuits and a power supply for digital circuits that perform drive control, communication, etc.

[0035] The second main electrodes of the first switches 103 of the multiple detection pixels 101 constituting one column and the second switches 123 of the correction pixels 121 are connected to one column signal line 106. The control electrodes of the first switches 103 of the multiple detection pixels 101 and the second switches 123 of the correction pixels 121 constituting one row are connected to one drive line 104. The multiple column signal lines 106 are connected to a readout circuit 222. Here, the readout circuit 222 includes multiple detection units 132, a multiplexer 134, and an analog-to-digital converter (hereinafter, AD converter) 136.

[0036] Each of the multiple column signal lines 106 is connected to a corresponding one of the multiple detection units 132 in the readout circuit 222. Here, one column signal line 106 corresponds to one detection unit 132. The detection unit 132 includes, for example, a differential amplifier. The multiplexer 134 selects the multiple detection units 132 in a predetermined order, and supplies a signal from the selected detection unit 132 to the AD converter 136. The AD converter 136 converts the supplied signal into a digital signal and outputs it.

[0037] Based on the output of the readout circuit 222 (AD converter 136), the signal processing unit 224 outputs information indicating irradiation of radiation to the detection device 7. Specifically, the signal processing unit 224 performs, for example, characteristic correction processing for removing dark current components and crosstalk components of the detection device 7 using correction pixels, detection of irradiation of radiation, calculation of the irradiation amount and integrated irradiation amount of radiation, etc.

[0038] The imaging device control unit 225 controls the drive circuit 221, the readout circuit 222, etc., based on information from the signal processing unit 224 and control commands from the control device 310.

[0039] The detection device 7 is a portable cassette-type detection device, and is carried to the imaging room 50 where the examination is performed together with the radiation generation device 4. Radiography is performed by selectively using the detection devices 7a and 7b of different sizes depending on the size of the subject and the part to be imaged.

[0040] The detection device 7 can add information (image ID, imaging date and time, and transfer status of the image data) to the image data and transfer it to the radiation imaging device 1 together with the image data.

[0041] The display unit 2 is realized, for example, by a liquid crystal display, and displays various information to an operator (for example, a radiographer or a doctor). The operation unit 3 includes an input unit 28 and a designation unit 29, and operates the processing in the radiation imaging apparatus 1. The operation unit 3 is composed of, for example, a mouse and operation buttons, and inputs various instructions from the operator to each component. The display unit 2 and operation unit 3 may be realized as an integrated touch panel.

[0042] The control unit 5 of the radiation imaging apparatus 1 is connected to the detection device 7 via a wireless LAN. Image data, control signals, and the like are transmitted and received between the control unit 5 and the detection device 7. That is, image data stored in the detection device 7 by radiation imaging is output (transferred) to the control unit 5 via the wireless LAN.

[0043] The radiation imaging system of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 4. The radiation imaging device 1 includes a control unit 5 that performs image processing on the radiation images output from the detection devices 7a and 7b to generate images. The control unit 5 has an application function that operates on a computer. The control unit 5 controls the operations of the detection devices 7a and 7b, outputs radiation images to the display unit 2, and outputs a graphical user interface (GUI).

[0044] The control unit 5 includes a communication unit 20 that communicates with the detection devices 7a, 7b, a management unit 21 that manages the status of the detection devices 7a, 7b, and a memory unit 22 that stores various information such as radiation images output from the detection devices 7a, 7b and test orders output from an external device such as a RIS.

[0045] The communication unit 20 includes a connection detection unit 30 , an information acquisition unit 31 , and an image acquisition unit 32 .

[0046] The connection detection unit 30 detects communication connection and disconnection between the radiation imaging apparatus 1 and the detection devices 7a, 7b. The information acquisition unit 31 receives information stored in the detection devices 7a, 7b (e.g., information on the radiation image such as the imaging site, information on the shape of the detection device such as the size of the detection device, information on the radiation measurement field, etc.). That is, the information acquisition unit 31 acquires information such as information on the radiation image, information on the shape of the detection device such as the size, and information on the radiation measurement field from the detection devices 7a, 7b that capture radiation images by detecting radiation.

[0047] The information acquired by the information acquisition unit 31 does not necessarily have to be all of information on the radiation image, information on the shape of the detection device such as size, and information on the measurement field, but may be any information including at least information on the number of measurement fields. That is, the information acquisition unit 31 corresponds to an example of an acquisition means that acquires at least one of information on the shape of the detection device, the number of measurement fields in the detection device, the imaging part to be imaged, and past imaging information. The information on the shape of the detection device may be a standardized size expression represented by full size, half-cut size, or large four-sided size, or may be a numerical value represented by width or thickness. It may also be information representing a shape such as a square or rectangle. In the following, as an example, the information on the shape of the detection device will be described as the size of the detection device.

[0048] The management unit 21 manages the information acquired by the communication unit 20. In addition, this information is stored in the detection device information storage unit and displayed on the display unit 2.

[0049] The measurement field information storage unit 33 stores, for example, a table that associates the size of the detection device with measurement field pattern information as shown in Fig. 5(a) and a list of measurement field setting candidates corresponding to the measurement field pattern as shown in Fig. 5(d). The measurement field information storage unit 33 may store the measurement field setting candidates in order of priority. This priority may be determined based on the case to be set in advance or the frequency of use in imaging.

[0050] The candidate detection area management unit 35, for example, compares the size of the detection device acquired from the information acquisition unit 31 with a table of detection device sizes and detection area pattern information stored in the detection area information storage unit 33, and selects a detection area pattern.

[0051] 5(d), based on the selected radiation measurement field pattern and the number of radiation measurement fields of the detection device, the control unit 5 displays candidates for the radiation measurement field on the display unit 2. In other words, the control unit 5 corresponds to an example of a display control means that displays candidates for the radiation measurement field for automatic exposure control on the display unit in a radiation detection device that captures radiation by detecting radiation.

[0052] Fig. 6 is a flow chart showing the operation of the radiation imaging system of this embodiment. Fig. 7 shows the display form of the display unit 2 of the radiation imaging system of the present invention. The display unit 2 includes a radiation image display unit 201, a patient information display unit 202, an imaging information display unit 203, an irradiation field information display unit 204, an examination hold instruction unit 205, and an examination end instruction unit 206.

[0053] The imaging information display section 203 includes an imaging protocol (207a, 207b, 207c in FIG. 7) in which the imaging site and detection device information to be performed in the examination are displayed.

[0054] The measurement field information display unit 204 includes a measurement field display unit 208 that displays position information of the measurement field of the connected detection device 7 .

[0055] The radiation imaging apparatus 1 and the detection apparatus 7a are connected by wire or wirelessly (S101). The connection detection unit 30 detects a communication connection between the radiation imaging apparatus 1 and the detection apparatus 7a. When the connection detection unit 30 detects a communication connection with the detection apparatus 7a, the information acquisition unit 31 acquires information about the detection apparatus (S102). In response to the connection detection, the management unit 21 acquires information about the detection apparatus 7a via the information acquisition unit 31. The information about the detection apparatus includes information such as the size of the detection apparatus and the number of radiation collection fields arranged.

[0056] The information acquisition unit 31 acquires, for example, information about the size of the detection device and the number of measurement areas as information about the detection device. In this embodiment, the size of the detection device is full size, and the number of measurement areas is five. The management unit 21 acquires the currently set measurement area information and displays it on the display unit 2 (S103). In FIG. 7(a), the measurement area display unit 208 shows that two points on the upper side are set as the measurement areas of the detection device 7a.

[0057] In addition, the measurement field display unit 208, which displays the current measurement field position information of the detection device 7a, functions as an operation unit for issuing a display instruction for selecting other measurement field candidates. For example, the measurement field display unit 208 is displayed as a button, and a screen for displaying other measurement field candidates is displayed by touching the button.

[0058] When changing the setting of the irradiation field before irradiation, an instruction to display the irradiation field candidates is given on the irradiation field display unit 208 (Yes in S104).

[0059] When an instruction to display the measurement field candidates is given by the measurement field display unit 208, the measurement field candidate management unit 35 selects a measurement field pattern based on the relationship table of the size of the detection device and the measurement field position (FIG. 5(a)) stored in the measurement field information storage unit 33 and the size of the detection device acquired by the information acquisition unit 31. If the size of the detection device is full size or half-cut size, a two-measurement field pattern is selected and the measurement field candidates are extracted with priority given to items with two measurement fields (S107). If the size of the detection device is large four-size, a one-measurement field pattern is selected and the measurement field candidates are extracted with priority given to items with one measurement field (S108). If the size of the detection device is other than the above, no particular selection is made and all candidates are extracted (S109).

[0060] Then, the candidate measurement field management unit 35 displays the extracted candidate measurement fields as display items in the candidate measurement field display unit 211 of FIG. 7(b).

[0061] The candidate measurement fields 212a to 212d displayed on the candidate measurement field display unit 211 function as an operation unit for selecting a measurement field. For example, the candidate measurement fields 212a to 212d are displayed as buttons, and when touched, a setting instruction for a new measurement field position is transmitted to the detection device to change the setting (Yes in S112).

[0062] Next, imaging is performed using a different detection device 7b. 207c in Fig. 7(c) is displayed as a button, and touching it instructs connection to the detection device 7b (S101). When 207c is selected, the connection detection unit 30 detects a communication connection between the radiation imaging apparatus 1 and the detection device 7b (S102). In response to the connection detection, the management unit acquires information about the detection device 7b via the information acquisition unit 31.

[0063] The information acquisition unit 31 acquires information about the size of the detection device and the number of the measurement areas as information about the detection device. In this embodiment, the detection device 7b is a large four-size device and has nine measurement areas. The management unit 21 acquires the currently set measurement area position information and displays it on the display unit 2 (S103). In Fig. 7(c), the measurement area display unit 208 shows that the measurement area of ​​the detection device 7b is set to one point on the left end of the upper side.

[0064] When changing the measurement field setting before shooting, a display instruction is given in the measurement field display section 208 (Yes in S104).

[0065] When a display command is given by the irradiation field display unit 208, the irradiation field candidate management unit 35 selects irradiation field candidates based on the association table between the size of the detection device and the irradiation field position stored in the irradiation field information storage unit 33 and the size of the detection device acquired by the information acquisition unit 31. Since the size of the detection device is large four sizes, one irradiation field group is selected, and irradiation field candidates are extracted with priority given to items with one irradiation field (S107).

[0066] Then, the potential measurement field management unit 35 displays the extracted potential measurement fields in the potential measurement field display unit 211 of FIG. 7(d).

[0067] In this way, by displaying selection candidates according to the purpose of shooting based on the size of the detection device, which can be enormous depending on the number of measurement fields arranged, it becomes possible to easily change the measurement field.

[0068] In addition, in this embodiment, even when the initial measurement area information is set in step S103, the management unit 21 may automatically select the measurement area candidate with the highest priority from among the extracted candidates in the extraction of measurement area candidates performed in steps S105 to S109.

[0069] [Second embodiment] In this example, the control unit 5 having the configuration described in the first embodiment extracts candidates for the selected irradiation field based on the number of irradiation fields of the detection device. Note that the processing other than that of the candidate irradiation field management unit 35 is the same, so it will be omitted.

[0070] The process of the candidate measurement area management unit 35 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 8. Steps S101 to S103 are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore the description will be omitted.

[0071] When changing the measurement field setting before shooting, a display instruction is given in the measurement field display section 208 (Yes in S104).

[0072] When the display command is given by the light-measurement field display unit 208, the light-measurement field candidate management unit 35 selects light-measurement field candidates based on the relation table of the number of light-measurement fields and the positions of the light-measurement fields of the detection device stored in the light-measurement field information storage unit 33 (FIG. 5(a)) and the number of light-measurement fields of the detection device acquired by the information acquisition unit 31. That is, the information acquisition unit 31 in the second embodiment corresponds to an example of an acquisition means for acquiring information including at least the number of light-measurement fields. If the number of light-measurement fields of the detection device is five, two light-measurement field groups are selected, and light-measurement field candidates are extracted with priority given to items with two light-measurement fields (S107). If the number of light-measurement fields is nine, one light-measurement field group is selected, and light-measurement field candidates are extracted with priority given to items with one light-measurement field (S108). If the number of light-measurement fields is three or in other cases, no particular selection is made and all candidates are extracted (S109).

[0073] Then, the potential measurement area management unit 35 displays the extracted potential measurement areas in the potential measurement area display unit 211 of FIG. 7(b).

[0074] [Third embodiment] 9 shows an embodiment in which the control unit 5 having the configuration described in the first embodiment extracts a candidate measurement field based on the imaging body part information newly stored in the imaging body part information storage unit 34. Note that the processing other than that of the imaging body part information storage unit 34 and the candidate measurement field management unit 35 is the same, so it will be omitted.

[0075] The processing of the imaging region information storage unit 34 and the candidate measurement field management unit 35 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0076] The radiation imaging apparatus 1 and the detection apparatus 7a are connected by wire or wirelessly (S301). The connection detection unit 30 detects a communication connection between the radiation imaging apparatus 1 and the detection apparatus 7a. When the connection detection unit 30 detects a communication connection with the detection apparatus 7a, the information acquisition unit 31 acquires information about the detection apparatus (S302). In response to the connection detection, the management unit acquires information about the detection apparatus 7a via the information acquisition unit 31. The information about the detection apparatus includes information such as the imaging body part and the number of radiation measurement fields. The information acquisition unit 31 acquires information about the imaging body part and the number of radiation measurement fields (S303).

[0077] The management unit 21 displays the currently set measurement field position information on the display unit 2 (S304). In Fig. 7(a), the measurement field display unit 208 shows that two points on the upper side of the measurement field of the detection device 7a are set.

[0078] The imaging information display unit 203 also includes imaging protocols (207a, 207b, 207c in FIG. 7(a)) that display the imaging region and detection device information to be performed in the examination. FIG. 7(a) shows that the currently selected imaging protocol is 207a. The imaging protocols are categorized into eight patterns according to the imaging region: head, chest, abdomen, pelvis, spine, upper limbs, lower limbs, and unspecified. In this embodiment, the categories are eight patterns, but they may be divided into more finer categories.

[0079] Next, the measurement area display unit 208 that displays the current measurement area position information of the detection device 7a functions as an operation unit for issuing a display instruction for selecting other measurement area candidates. For example, the measurement area display unit 208 is displayed as a button, and a screen for displaying other measurement area candidates is displayed by touching the button.

[0080] When changing the measurement field setting before shooting, a display instruction is given in the measurement field display section 208 (Yes in S305).

[0081] When a display instruction is given by the irradiation field display unit 208, the irradiation field candidate management unit 35 selects an irradiation field pattern from the association table Fig. 5(c) between the imaging body part category and the irradiation field position stored in the imaging body part information storage unit 34. Next, based on the table of Fig. 5(d), the display unit 2 displays candidates for the irradiation field based on the selected irradiation field pattern and the number of irradiation fields of the detection device acquired by the information acquisition unit 31.

[0082] Candidates for the detection field pattern are selected based on the number of detection fields of the detection device acquired by the information acquisition unit 31. If the imaging category of the selected protocol is chest, a two-detection field pattern is selected and candidates for the detection field are extracted with a preference for items with two detection fields (S307). If the imaging category is other than chest, a one-detection field pattern is selected and candidates for the detection field are extracted with a preference for items with one detection field (S308). If the number of detection fields is three or other cases, no particular selection is made and all candidates are extracted (S309).

[0083] Then, the potential measurement area management unit 35 displays the extracted potential measurement areas in the potential measurement area display unit 211 of FIG. 7(b).

[0084] [Fourth embodiment] 11 shows an embodiment in which the control unit 5 having the configuration described in the third embodiment extracts a candidate measurement area based on the shooting history information newly stored in the shooting history information storage unit 36. Note that the processing other than the shooting history information storage unit 36 ​​and the candidate measurement area management unit 35 is the same, so it will be omitted.

[0085] The processing of the imaging history information storage unit 36 ​​and the candidate measurement field management unit 35 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0086] Every time radiography is performed with the radiation imaging system, the radiation detection field candidate management unit 35 stores the number of times the radiation detection field pattern has been used, which corresponds to the detection device information and the imaging body part information, in the radiography history information storage unit 36 ​​(S402).

[0087] Thereafter, similarly to the third embodiment, after steps S301 to S304 are performed, if the measurement field setting is to be changed before shooting, a display instruction is given on the measurement field display unit 208 (Yes in S305).

[0088] When a display command is given in the irradiation field display unit 208, the irradiation field candidate management unit 35 extracts irradiation field patterns with a higher frequency of use based on the frequency of past use for each detection device size or imaging area stored in the imaging history information storage unit 36 ​​(S403).

[0089] Then, the candidate measurement field management unit 35 displays the extracted candidate measurement fields on the candidate measurement field display unit 211 in Fig. 7(b) (S309). Steps S310 and after are the same as those in the third embodiment, and therefore will not be described.

[0090] [Fifth embodiment] An embodiment in which the measurement field candidate management unit 35 having the configuration described in the fourth embodiment automatically selects a measurement field when selecting an imaging protocol will be described with reference to the flow chart of FIG.

[0091] The processing of the imaging history information storage unit 36 ​​and the candidate measurement field management unit 35 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0092] Every time radiography is performed with the radiation imaging system, the radiation detection field candidate management unit 35 stores the number of times the radiation detection field pattern has been used, which corresponds to the detection device information and the imaging body part information, in the radiography history information storage unit 36 ​​(S402).

[0093] The radiation imaging apparatus 1 and the detection apparatus 7a are connected by wire or wirelessly (S501). The connection detection unit 30 detects a communication connection between the radiation imaging apparatus 1 and the detection apparatus 7a. When the connection detection unit 30 detects a communication connection with the detection apparatus 7a, the information acquisition unit 31 acquires information about the detection apparatus (S502). In response to the connection detection, the management unit acquires information about the detection apparatus 7a via the information acquisition unit 31. The information about the detection apparatus includes information such as the size of the detection apparatus and the number of arranged detection fields. The candidate detection field management unit 35 acquires information about at least one of the size of the detection apparatus and the number of arranged detection fields as information about the detection apparatus.

[0094] The candidate measurement field management unit 35 extracts the most frequently used pattern based on the frequency of previously used patterns for each detection device size or imaging region stored in the imaging history information storage unit 36 ​​(S503). Then, the candidate measurement field management unit sets the extracted pattern as the currently used measurement field (S505).

[0095] [Other embodiments] The present invention can also be realized by a process in which a program for realizing one or more functions of the above-mentioned embodiments is supplied to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and one or more processors in a computer of the system or device read and execute the program. Also, the present invention can be realized by a circuit for realizing one or more functions.

[0096] The processor or circuitry may include a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessing unit (MPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gateway (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), a data flow processor (DFP), or a neural processing unit (NPU).

[0097] The radiation imaging system in each of the above-mentioned embodiments may be realized as a single device, or may be realized as a combination of multiple devices capable of communicating with each other to execute the above-mentioned processing, and either form is included in the embodiments of the present invention. The above-mentioned processing may be executed by a common server device or a group of servers. The multiple devices constituting the radiation imaging system need only be capable of communicating at a predetermined communication rate, and do not need to be located in the same facility or the same country.

[0098] The embodiments of the present invention include a form in which a software program that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or device, and the computer of the system or device reads and executes the code of the supplied program.

[0099] Therefore, the program code itself installed in a computer to realize the processing according to the embodiment is also one embodiment of the present invention. Also, the OS or the like running on the computer performs part or all of the actual processing based on the instructions contained in the program read by the computer, and the functions of the above-mentioned embodiment can also be realized by that processing.

[0100] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment, and various modifications (including organic combinations of the embodiments) are possible based on the spirit of the present invention, such as the applicability to not only still image shooting but also video shooting, and are not excluded from the scope of the present invention. In other words, all configurations that combine the above-mentioned embodiments are included in the embodiments of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0101] 1 Radiography system 2 Display section 3 Control section 4. Radiation Generator 5. Control section 6 Radiation generating unit 7. Detection Equipment 11 HIS 12 RIS 13 PACS 14 Printers 15 Network 16 Photo stand 20 Communications Department 21 Management Department 22 Memory section 30 Connection detection unit 31 Information Acquisition Department 32 Image acquisition section 33 Light field information storage section 34 Imaging body part information storage unit 35 Uikono Candidate Management Department 201 Radiation image display unit 202 Patient information display section 203 Shooting information display section 204 Light field information display section 205 Inspection Pending Instructions 206 Inspection end instruction section 208 Lighting field display section 211 Lighting field candidate display area

Claims

1. a display control means for displaying on a display unit candidates for radiation collection fields for performing automatic exposure control in a radiation detection device that captures a radiation image by detecting radiation; an acquisition means for acquiring at least one of information regarding a shape of the radiation detection device and a number of radiation collection fields arranged in the radiation detection device; Equipped with The radiation imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control means displays the candidate radiation field determined based on the information acquired by the acquisition means on a display unit.

2. the acquiring means acquires information regarding a shape of the radiation detection device, The radiation imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that the display control means displays at least one of a first pattern for selecting one candidate light-gathering field for automatic exposure control from among the arranged light-gathering fields based on the information regarding the shape, and a second pattern for selecting two candidate light-gathering fields for automatic exposure control from among the arranged light-gathering fields on the display unit.

3. 3. The radiation imaging device according to claim 2, wherein the information about the shape includes information about the size of the radiation detection device, and the display control means displays the second pattern when the size of the radiation detection device is full size and half-cut size, and displays the first pattern when the size of the radiation detection device is large size.

4. The radiographic imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that the display control means displays at least one of a first pattern for selecting one candidate light-gathering field for automatic exposure control from among the arranged light-gathering fields based on information on the number of arranged light-gathering fields, and a second pattern for selecting two candidate light-gathering fields for automatic exposure control from among the arranged light-gathering fields on the display unit.

5. 5. The radiographic imaging apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the display control means displays the first pattern when the number of the measurement areas is nine, and displays the second pattern when the number of the measurement areas is five.

6. The acquiring means acquires information on a body part to be imaged, The radiographic imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that the display control means displays on the display unit at least one of a first pattern for selecting one candidate radiation field for automatic exposure control from among the arranged radiation fields based on information about the imaging area, and a second pattern for selecting two candidate radiation fields for automatic exposure control from among the arranged radiation fields.

7. 7. The radiation imaging apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the display control means displays the second pattern when the imaging region is the chest, and displays the first pattern when the imaging region is other than the chest.

8. The acquiring means acquires past photographing information, The radiation imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that the display control means displays at least one of a first pattern for selecting one candidate radiation field for automatic exposure control from among the arranged radiation fields based on the past shooting information, and a second pattern for selecting two candidate radiation fields for automatic exposure control from among the arranged radiation fields on the display unit.

9. the acquiring means acquires, as the past imaging information, at least one of information on the shape of the radiation detector, the number of arranged radiation measurement fields, and the imaging region in imaging performed in the past, and information on candidate radiation measurement fields selected in the imaging, The radiographic imaging device according to claim 8, wherein the display control means displays on the display unit, among the candidates for radiation detection field corresponding to at least one of information regarding the shape of the radiation detector, the number of radiation detection fields arranged, and the imaging body part in previous imaging operations, a candidate for radiation detection field that is used more frequently is displayed with priority.

10. a radiation detection field management means for managing a table in which information on at least one of information on a shape of the radiation detection device, information on the number of radiation detection fields in the radiation detection device, and information on a body part to be imaged is associated with a pattern of the radiation detection fields, 10. The radiation imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the display control means displays on a display unit the candidate irradiation field determined based on the information acquired by the acquisition means and a table managed by the irradiation field management means.

11. 11. The radiation imaging device according to claim 10, wherein the radiation detection field management means manages, in order of priority, candidates for the radiation detection field that are determined based on information on at least one of information on the shape of the radiation detection device, the number of radiation detection fields arranged in the radiation detection device, and information on the imaging body part to be imaged, and a pattern of the radiation detection fields.

12. 12. The radiation imaging device according to claim 10, wherein the radiation field management means automatically sets the most frequently used radiation field as the radiation field to be used among the candidate radiation fields determined based on information on the shape of the radiation detection device, the number of radiation fields arranged in the radiation detection device, and information on at least one of the imaging parts to be imaged and the pattern of the radiation fields.

13. A radiation imaging system including a radiation generating device that irradiates radiation, a radiation detecting device that detects radiation and generates a radiation image, and a radiation imaging device that communicates with the radiation detecting device and controls the operation of the radiation imaging device, a display control means for displaying on a display unit candidates for a light collection field for which automatic exposure control is performed in the radiation detection device; an acquisition means for acquiring at least one of information regarding a shape of the radiation detection device and a number of radiation collection fields arranged in the radiation detection device; Equipped with The radiation imaging system according to claim 1, wherein the display control means displays the candidate radiation field determined based on the information acquired by the acquisition means on a display unit.

14. a display control step of displaying on a display unit candidates for a radiation collection field for performing automatic exposure control in a radiation detection device that captures a radiation image by detecting radiation; an acquiring step of acquiring at least one piece of information regarding the shape of the radiation detection device and the number of radiation collection fields arranged in the radiation detection device; Equipped with The radiography method according to the present invention, wherein the display control step displays the candidate radiation field determined based on the information acquired in the acquisition step on a display unit.

15. A program for causing a computer to execute the radiation imaging method according to claim 14.

16. a display control means for displaying on a display unit candidates for radiation collection fields for performing automatic exposure control in a radiation detection device that captures a radiation image by detecting radiation; an acquisition means for acquiring at least one of information regarding a shape of the radiation detection device, the number of radiation collection fields in the radiation detection device, a body part to be imaged, and past imaging information; Equipped with The radiation imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control means displays the candidates for the radiation measurement field determined based on the information acquired by the acquisition means on a display unit in order of priority.

17. A radiation imaging system including a radiation generating device that irradiates radiation, a radiation detecting device that detects radiation and generates a radiation image, and a radiation imaging device that communicates with the radiation detecting device and controls the operation of the radiation imaging device, a display control means for displaying on a display unit candidates for a light collection field for which automatic exposure control is performed in the radiation detection device; an acquisition means for acquiring at least one of information regarding a shape of the radiation detection device, the number of radiation collection fields in the radiation detection device, a body part to be imaged, and past imaging information; Equipped with The radiation imaging system according to claim 1, wherein the display control means displays the candidates for the radiation measurement field determined based on the information acquired by the acquisition means on a display unit in order of priority.

18. A program for causing a computer to execute the radiation imaging method according to claim 17.

Images