Sterilization device and mobile radiation irradiation device

Abstract

To sterilize at least an entire radiation incidence surface in a radiographic device, by using an ultraviolet LED, while preventing excessive increase in power consumption, weight and manufacturing cost of a sterilizing apparatus.SOLUTION: A sterilizing apparatus 100, 100A, 100B or 100C includes a holding part 1 capable of holding a portable radiographic device 200, and an LED row 2 formed by aligning a plurality of LEDs 22 emitting ultraviolet light U in a row and directly or indirectly applying the ultraviolet light U emitted by the respective LEDs 22 to a radiation incident surface 200a of the radiographic device 200 held by the holding part 1, Alternatively, the sterilizing apparatus 100, 100A, 100B or 100C further includes a first drive part 3 that moves the LED row 2 in a direction along the radiation incidence surface 200a, in the direction orthogonal to the alignment direction of the plurality of LEDs 22.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sterilization device and a mobile radiation irradiation device.

Background Art

[0002] In radiation imaging performed while traveling within a medical facility using a mobile radiation irradiation device (also called a mobile X-ray unit) and a portable radiation imaging device (FPD: Flat Panel Detector), it is common to image a plurality of subjects while repeatedly using the radiation imaging device. Therefore, conventionally, in order to prevent infection by bacteria or viruses through the radiation imaging device, measures have been taken such as replacing the bag when moving on to the next imaging after imaging with the radiation imaging device placed in a bag, or wiping the surface of the radiation imaging device with a disinfectant solution each time imaging is completed. However, these operations have been a heavy burden on the person performing the imaging (such as a radiologic technologist). Therefore, in recent years, it has been devised to provide a germicidal lamp in a housing portion for housing a radiation imaging device in a mobile radiation irradiation device, and to sterilize the housed radiation imaging device (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, conventional germicidal lamps used for sterilizing radiation imaging devices have used mercury. For this reason, there are concerns about the impact on the environment during the manufacture and disposal of conventional germicidal lamps.

[0005] By the way, in recent years, an ultraviolet LED capable of generating high-energy ultraviolet rays necessary for sterilization has been developed. Therefore, it is expected that the light source of sterilization lamps will be replaced with ultraviolet LEDs in the future. On the other hand, since an LED is already a point light source, when it is arranged in a narrow space such as the housing of a radiation irradiation device (where the distance from the irradiation target cannot be increased), the irradiation range becomes extremely narrow. Therefore, in order to irradiate ultraviolet rays in a planar shape on a radiation imaging device, it is necessary to use a large number of ultraviolet LEDs and irradiate ultraviolet rays from a plurality of locations.

[0006] However, when the number of ultraviolet LEDs used increases, the power consumption increases. Therefore, when trying to use an ultraviolet LED as a sterilization lamp for a mobile radiation generation device, there is a possibility that the battery built into the radiation generation device will not be able to supply enough power. In addition, the ultraviolet LED has poor energy conversion efficiency and releases most of the supplied power as heat. Therefore, when using a large number of ultraviolet LEDs for sterilization, heat dissipation measures such as making the substrate on which the ultraviolet LEDs are mounted made of metal or providing a heat sink behind the substrate are required. Such heat dissipation measures increase the weight of the device. Moreover, since ultraviolet LEDs are very expensive, the manufacturing cost of the device increases as the number of them used increases.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to enable sterilization of at least the entire radiation incident surface in a radiation imaging device using an ultraviolet LED while preventing an excessive increase in the power consumption, weight, and manufacturing cost of the device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] To solve the above problems, the sterilization device according to the present invention includes a holding unit capable of holding a portable radiation imaging device, A plurality of ultraviolet-ray-emitting LEDs are arranged in a row, and an LED row that directly or indirectly irradiates the radiation incident surface of the radiation imaging device held by the holding unit with the ultraviolet rays emitted by each LED. Calculation means for calculating the intensity of the energy received by the radiation incident surface due to ultraviolet irradiation based on at least any one of the irradiation mode of ultraviolet rays on the radiation incident surface, the intensity of ultraviolet rays emitted by each LED, and the range in which each LED can irradiate ultraviolet rays; Energy notification means for notifying the calculated intensity; It is provided with. Further, the sterilization device according to the present invention A holding part capable of holding a portable radiation imaging device; An LED array in which a plurality of LEDs that emit ultraviolet rays are arranged in a row, and the ultraviolet rays emitted by each LED directly or indirectly irradiate the radiation incident surface of the radiation imaging device held by the holding part; Calculation means for calculating the intensity of the energy received by the radiation incident surface due to ultraviolet irradiation based on at least any one of the irradiation mode of ultraviolet rays on the radiation incident surface, the intensity of ultraviolet rays emitted by each LED, and the range in which each LED can irradiate ultraviolet rays; Correction means for performing correction so that the intensity of the energy received by the radiation incident surface becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined intensity when the calculated intensity is lower than the predetermined intensity; It is provided with.

[0009] Also, the mobile radiation irradiation device according to the present invention is a main body, a holding unit provided on the main body and capable of holding a portable radiation imaging device, a plurality of ultraviolet-ray-emitting LEDs are arranged in a row, and an LED row that irradiates the radiation incident surface of the radiation imaging device held by the holding unit with the ultraviolet rays emitted by each LED, a radiation source that generates radiation, Calculation means for calculating the intensity of the energy received by the radiation incident surface due to ultraviolet irradiation based on at least any one of the irradiation mode of ultraviolet rays on the radiation incident surface, the intensity of ultraviolet rays emitted by each LED, and the range in which each LED can irradiate ultraviolet rays; Energy notification means for notifying the calculated intensity; It is provided with, and is configured to be movable. Further, the mobile radiation irradiation device according to the present invention The main body, A holding part provided on the main body and capable of holding a portable radiation imaging device; An LED array in which a plurality of LEDs that emit ultraviolet rays are arranged in a row, and the ultraviolet rays emitted by each LED irradiate the radiation incident surface of the radiation imaging device held by the holding part; A radiation source that generates radiation; Calculation means for calculating the intensity of the energy received by the radiation incident surface due to ultraviolet irradiation based on at least any one of the irradiation mode of ultraviolet rays on the radiation incident surface, the intensity of ultraviolet rays emitted by each LED, and the range in which each LED can irradiate ultraviolet rays; Correction means for performing correction so that the intensity of the energy received by the radiation incident surface becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined intensity when the calculated intensity is lower than the predetermined intensity; It is provided with, It is configured to be movable.

Effects of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to sterilize at least the entire radiation incident surface in a radiation imaging apparatus using an ultraviolet LED while preventing an excessive increase in the power consumption, weight, and manufacturing cost of the apparatus.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to what is shown in the drawings.

[0013] <1. First Embodiment> First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0014] 〔1-1. Radiation Imaging Apparatus〕 First, an overview of a radiation imaging apparatus (hereinafter, imaging apparatus 200) sterilized by the sterilization apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the imaging apparatus 200. Note that this imaging apparatus 200 is also sterilized by the sterilization apparatuses 100A, 100B, and 100C according to the second to fourth embodiments described later.

[0015] The imaging apparatus 200 is portable. The imaging apparatus 200 according to the present embodiment has a rectangular panel shape as shown in FIG. 1, for example. Of the six rectangular surfaces forming the surface of the imaging apparatus 200 according to the present embodiment, one of the pair of the largest rectangular surfaces is a radiation incident surface (hereinafter, incident surface 200a). Hereinafter, of the six rectangular surfaces forming the surface of the imaging apparatus 200, the other of the pair of the largest rectangular surfaces (the surface on the opposite side of the incident surface 200a) is referred to as a back surface 200b, and the surfaces other than the incident surface 200a and the back surface 200b are referred to as side surfaces 200c. The imaging apparatus 200 according to the present embodiment includes a first terminal 200d on any one of the four side surfaces 200c.

[0016] When the imaging apparatus 200 configured as described above receives radiation on the incident surface 200a, it generates image data of a radiation image corresponding to the dose distribution of the received radiation. Then, the imaging apparatus 200 transmits the generated image data to another apparatus (for example, a mobile radiation irradiation apparatus described later) via a communication network (wired or wireless).

[0017] [1-2. Configuration of the sterilization device] Next, the configuration of the sterilization device 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of the sterilization device 100, FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the device, FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a modification of the holding unit included in the device 100, FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing an example of the LED array included in the device 100, and FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram for explaining the mechanism by which the sterilization device 100 sterilizes the entire incident surface 200a. Note that the reference numerals in parentheses in FIGS. 2 and 3 are those of the second to fourth embodiments described later.

[0018] The sterilization device 100 includes, for example, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, a holding unit 1 and an LED array 2. The sterilization device 100 according to the present embodiment further includes a first drive unit 3. Also, as shown in FIG. 2, the sterilization device 100 according to the present embodiment is a mobile radiation irradiation device (round-trip vehicle) (configured to be movable). Therefore, the sterilization device 100 (hereinafter, the round-trip vehicle 100) according to the present embodiment further includes a main body 4, a radiation source 5, and a console 6.

[0019] (1-2-1. Main body) The main body 4 is configured to be movable. The main body 4 according to the present embodiment includes wheels 41. That is, the round-trip vehicle 100 according to the present embodiment is configured to move by the rotation of the wheels 41. Also, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the main body 4 according to the present embodiment includes a control unit 42, a high-voltage generation unit 43, a battery 44, and an arm 45. Each of the units 42 to 44 is electrically connected.

[0020] The control unit 42 controls each part of the round-trip vehicle 100 including the LED array 2 and the first drive unit 3 based on the imaging conditions set in the console 6.

[0021] Based on the control from the control unit 42, the high-voltage generation unit 43 applies a preset tube voltage to the radiation source 5 and energizes the radiation source 5 with a preset tube current for a preset irradiation time.

[0022] The battery 44 is configured to supply power to the control unit 42. Also, based on the control signal from the control unit 42, the battery 44 is also configured to supply power to the high-voltage generation unit 43, the LED array 2 and the first drive unit 3, and the imaging device 200 held by the holding unit 1.

[0023] The arm 45 forms the front part of the main body 4 and is provided to extend upward as shown in FIG. 2.

[0024] Note that the main body 4 may be movable by means other than the wheels 41 (for example, on a bottom surface that is designed to slide, etc.).

[0025] (1-2-2. Radiation Source) The radiation source 5 generates radiation. The radiation source 5 according to the present embodiment is provided at the tip of the arm 45 of the main body 4. The radiation source 5 according to the present embodiment generates radiation (for example, X-rays, etc.) with a dose corresponding to the tube voltage applied from the high-voltage generation unit 43 and the tube current that is energized.

[0026] (1-2-3. Console) Also, the console 6 sets various imaging conditions (conditions regarding the subject (imaging site, imaging direction, body build, etc.), conditions regarding radiation irradiation (imaging mode (still image imaging, moving image imaging, etc.), tube voltage, tube current, irradiation time, current-time product (mAs value), etc.)) for at least one of the imaging device 200 and the main body 4. Also, the console 6 can acquire the image data of the radiation image generated by the imaging device 200, save it in itself, or transmit it to other devices (PACS, dynamic analysis device, etc.). In addition, the console 6 according to the present embodiment includes a display unit 61. The display unit 61 can display imaging conditions, radiographic images, and the like.

[0027] (1-2-4. Holding unit) The holding unit 1 is provided on the main body 4 and can hold the imaging device 200. The holding unit 1 according to the present embodiment is provided on the back surface of the main body 4. In addition, the holding unit 1 according to the present embodiment is a wall surface that forms a rectangular parallelepiped-shaped space slightly larger than the imaging device 200 that opens upward. That is, the holding unit 1 according to the present embodiment is configured such that the imaging device 200 can be inserted and removed by moving the imaging device 200 in the vertical direction. In addition, the holding unit 1 according to the present embodiment has a second terminal 11 at a position facing the first terminal 200d of the imaging device 200. When the first terminal 200d of the imaging device 200 comes into contact with the second terminal 11, the imaging device 200 is electrically connected to each part of the mobile X-ray unit 100.

[0028] Note that the holding unit 1 may be provided on a surface other than the back surface of the main body 4. In addition, the holding unit 1 may be configured such that the imaging device 200 can be inserted and removed by moving the imaging device 200 in a direction other than the vertical direction. In addition, the holding unit 1 may be configured to hold the imaging device 200 horizontally (so that the incident surface 200a faces upward or downward). In addition, as long as the holding unit 1 can restrict unnecessary displacement of the imaging device 200, it does not necessarily have to be shaped like the present embodiment to accommodate the entire imaging device 200. That is, the holding unit 1 may be, for example, as shown in FIG. 4, attached to the wall surface of the main body 4 and lock a part of the imaging device 200. In that case, it is desirable that the holding unit 1 be made of a material that does not block ultraviolet rays (for example, a highly transparent resin or the like).

[0029] (1-2-5. LED array) As shown in FIG. 5, for example, the LED column 2 is formed by arranging a plurality of LEDs 22 that emit ultraviolet rays U in a row. The LED column 2 according to the present embodiment includes a substrate 21 and a plurality of LEDs 22. The substrate 21 has an elongated strip shape. The plurality of LEDs 22 are attached to the surface of the substrate 21 so as to be arranged in a plurality along the longitudinal direction thereof. Further, in the LED column 2 according to the present embodiment, each LED 22 is arranged so as to emit ultraviolet rays U toward the incident surface 200a. That is, in the LED column 2 according to the present embodiment, the ultraviolet rays U emitted by each LED 22 are directly irradiated onto the incident surface 200a of the imaging device 200 held by the holding portion 1.

[0030] Although FIG. 5 illustrates the LED column 2 in which a plurality of LEDs 22 are arranged in a row, each LED of the LED column 2 may be arranged in a plurality of rows (for example, about 2 or 3 rows).

[0031] (1-2-6. First driving unit) The first driving unit 3 (see FIG. 3) moves the LED column 2 in a direction along the incident surface 200a and orthogonal to the direction in which the plurality of LEDs 22 are arranged. The first driving unit 3 is configured by, for example, a ball screw linear motion mechanism, a belt drive shuttle mechanism, or the like.

[0032] [1-3. Control of sterilization device] The control unit 42 of the main body 4 of the home visit vehicle 100 configured as described above executes the following control. For example, when a predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, the imaging device 200 is held by the holding portion 1, the sterilization of the previous imaging device 200 is completed, a predetermined reset operation is performed, etc.), the control unit 42 controls the first driving unit 3 and moves the LED column 2 to a position (sterilization start position, the position shown by the solid line in FIG. 6) facing one end E1 in a direction along an arbitrary side of the incident surface 200a of the imaging device 200 (for example, the longitudinal direction). Further, when a predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, the imaging device 200 is held by the holding unit 1, a predetermined sterilization start operation is performed, etc.), the control unit 42 controls the battery 44 to turn on each LED 22 of the LED array 2. Further, when a predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, the imaging device 200 is held by the holding unit 1, a predetermined sterilization start operation is performed, power supply to the LED 22 is started, etc.), the control unit 42 controls the first drive unit 3 to move the LED array 2 at a constant speed to a position facing the other end E2 along an arbitrary side of the incident surface 200a of the imaging device 200 in the direction along the LED array 2 at the sterilization start position (sterilization end position, the position shown by the two-dot chain line in FIG. 6).

[0033] [1-4. Operation of the sterilization device] When the imaging device 200 is held by the holding unit 1 of the home visit vehicle 100 configured as described above, the linear ultraviolet rays emitted by the LED array 2 are first irradiated at the sterilization start position. Then, the irradiation position of the ultraviolet rays moves, and finally the ultraviolet rays are irradiated at the sterilization end position. When the ultraviolet rays are irradiated at the sterilization end position, it means that the entire incident surface 200a has been sterilized.

[0034] [1-5. Modification] Note that the home visit vehicle 100 may be modified as follows.

[0035] (Modification 1) For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the home visit vehicle 100 may further include a reflector 7. The reflector 7 reflects the ultraviolet rays U emitted by at least one of the LEDs 22 of the LED array 2 toward the side surface 200c of the imaging device 200. The reflector 7 is disposed at a position facing the side surface 200c of the imaging device 200 held by the holding unit 1. Specifically, the reflector 7 is disposed at a position facing at least one of the four side surfaces 200c of the imaging device 200 so as to extend in the same direction as the facing side surface 200c (the one shown in FIG. 7 is the direction orthogonal to the paper surface of FIG. 7).

[0036] When the reflective material 7 is arranged at a position facing at least one of a pair of side surfaces 200c extending along the moving direction of the LED row 2 (facing right or left) (in the state shown in FIG. 7), a part of the side surface 200c facing the reflective material 7 will be irradiated with ultraviolet rays from the LED row 2. However, as the LED row 2 moves, the entire side surface 200c will be irradiated with ultraviolet rays. On the other hand, when the reflective material 7 is arranged at a position facing at least one of a pair of side surfaces 200c extending along the direction orthogonal to the moving direction of the LED row 2 (facing up or down), when the LED row 2 is at the sterilization start position or the sterilization end position, the entire side surface 200c facing the reflective material 7 will be irradiated with ultraviolet rays U all at once. In this way, without increasing the number of LEDs 22 to be used, not only the incident surface 200a but also the side surface 200c can be sterilized.

[0037] (Modification 2) Moreover, as shown in FIG. 8, the mobile medical vehicle 100 may further include a second LED row 8. Similar to the above-mentioned LED row 2, the second LED row 8 is formed by arranging a plurality of LEDs 82 that emit ultraviolet rays U in a row. Then, the second LED row 8 irradiates the back surface 200b on the opposite side of the incident surface 200a in the imaging device 200 held by the holding portion 1 with the ultraviolet rays U emitted by each LED 82. The second LED row 8 may be configured to move together with the LED row 2 by the first driving portion 3, or may be configured to move independently from the LED row 2 by another driving portion different from the first driving portion 3. In this way, the mobile medical vehicle 100 can sterilize not only the incident surface 200a but also the back surface 200b without taking the trouble of, for example, swapping the front and back of the imaging device 200 after sterilization and holding it again for sterilization.

[0038] Note that the moving direction, moving speed, sterilization start position, etc. of the second LED row 8 may be the same as those of the LED row 2, or may be different. Also, the number of LEDs 82 included in the second LED row 8 may be the same as that of the LED row 2, or may be different.

[0039] (Modification Example 3) In addition, the visiting car 100 calculates the intensity of the energy received by the radiation incident surface due to the irradiation of ultraviolet rays, based on at least any one of the irradiation mode of the ultraviolet rays U on the incident surface 200a (whether the LED array 2 moves or a light guide plate is used (details will be described later), the moving (rotating) speed of the LED array 2, etc.), the intensity of the ultraviolet rays U emitted by each LED 22, and the range in which each LED 22 can irradiate the ultraviolet rays U, and may be configured to notify the calculated intensity. The calculation of the energy intensity may be performed by the control unit 42 of the main body 4, or may be performed by the console 6. In addition, the intensity notification may be performed by the console 6 by displaying it on the display unit 61, or may be performed by other means. In this way, the visiting car 100 further includes a calculating means and an energy notification means, and the user can easily grasp whether the incident surface 200a is being irradiated with ultraviolet rays so as to be sufficiently sterilized.

[0040] (Modification Example 4) In addition, the visiting car 100 may store the cumulative time during which each LED 22 of the LED array 2 has emitted ultraviolet rays U (has been energized to the LED 22), and may be configured to notify that fact when the cumulative time exceeds a predetermined time. The storage of the cumulative time may be performed by the control unit 42 of the main body 4, or may be performed by the console 6. In addition, the notification that the cumulative time has exceeded the predetermined time may be performed by the console 6 by displaying it on the display unit 61, or may be performed by other means. In this way, the visiting car 100 further includes a storage means and a time notification means, and the user can easily estimate the timing when the deterioration of the LED 22 starts.

[0041] (Modification Example 5) Further, the visiting vehicle 100 may be configured to measure the intensity of the ultraviolet ray U emitted by each LED 22 in the LED array 2 and notify when the intensity of the ultraviolet ray U falls below a predetermined intensity. The measurement of the intensity of the ultraviolet ray U (digitization of the electrical signal from a light receiving unit (not shown)) may be performed by the control unit 42 of the main body 4, or may be performed by the console 6. The notification that the intensity of the ultraviolet ray U has fallen below the predetermined intensity may be performed by causing the console 6 to display it on the display unit 61, or may be performed by other means. In this way, the visiting vehicle 100 is further provided with a measuring means and an intensity notification means, and the user can easily grasp whether the deterioration of the LED 22 has started.

[0042] Further, when the calculated intensity of the ultraviolet ray U falls below the predetermined intensity, the visiting vehicle 100 may perform correction so that the intensity of the energy received by the radiation incident surface 200a of the imaging device 200 described above becomes equal to or higher than the predetermined intensity. The correction is performed, for example, by changing the voltage or current supplied to each LED 22, or the irradiation time according to the irradiation mode. In this way, the visiting vehicle 100 is further provided with a correction means, and even if the ultraviolet ray intensity decreases, the energy required for sterilization can be ensured, and the replacement frequency of the LED 22 can also be reduced. Note that when the visiting vehicle 100 performs the above correction, it may be configured to notify the user of the correction status. Further, the user may be able to set the value of the predetermined intensity and whether the visiting vehicle 100 automatically performs the correction.

[0043] <2. Second Embodiment> Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram for explaining the mechanism by which the sterilization device 100A according to the present embodiment sterilizes the entire incident surface 200a. Regarding the configuration similar to that of the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are given in this embodiment as well, and the description thereof is omitted.

[0044] The sterilization device 100A according to this embodiment is a mobile radiation irradiation device (round-trip vehicle), similar to the sterilization device 100 according to the first embodiment above. Therefore, the sterilization device 100A according to this embodiment is hereinafter referred to as the round-trip vehicle 100A.

[0045] 〔2-1. Differences in configuration〕 The round-trip vehicle 100A according to this embodiment does not include the first drive unit 3 provided in the round-trip vehicle 100 according to the first embodiment above. The LED array 2A according to this embodiment is fixed at a predetermined position such that each LED 22 emits ultraviolet rays U toward the incident surface 200a. That is, similar to the one in the first embodiment, the LED array 2A according to this embodiment directly irradiates the incident surface 200a of the imaging device 200 held by the holding unit 1 with the ultraviolet rays U emitted by each LED 22.

[0046] In addition, as shown in FIG. 3, the round-trip vehicle 100A according to this embodiment further includes a second drive unit 3A. The second drive unit 3A moves the imaging device 200 in a direction along the incident surface 200a and orthogonal to the direction in which the plurality of LEDs 22 are arranged.

[0047] 〔2-2. Differences in control〕 The control unit 42A of the main body 4A according to this embodiment controls the second drive unit 3A when a predetermined condition is satisfied, and moves the imaging device 200 at one end E1 of the incident surface 200a facing the LED array 2A (sterilization start position, the position shown by the solid line in FIG. 9), for example, as shown in FIG. 9, to the position where the other end E2 of the incident surface 200a faces the LED array 2 (sterilization end position, the position shown by the two-dot chain line in FIG. 9) at a constant speed.

[0048] 〔2-3. Operation of the sterilization device〕 When the imaging device 200 is held by the holding unit 1 of the home visit vehicle 100A configured as described above, the linear ultraviolet rays emitted by the LED array 2A are first irradiated on the sterilization start position. Thereafter, the irradiation position of the ultraviolet rays moves, and finally the ultraviolet rays are irradiated on the sterilization end position. When the ultraviolet rays are irradiated on the sterilization end position, it means that the entire incident surface 200a has been sterilized.

[0049] 〔2-4. Modification Example〕 Note that the home visit vehicle 100A may further have at least one of the configurations of Modification Examples 1 to 5 in the above first embodiment.

[0050] <3. Third Embodiment> Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining the mechanism by which the sterilization device 100B according to the present embodiment sterilizes the entire incident surface 200a. Note that, for the configurations similar to those in the above first embodiment, the same reference numerals are given in the present embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.

[0051] The sterilization device 100B according to the present embodiment is a mobile radiation irradiation device (home visit vehicle), similar to the sterilization device 100 according to the above first embodiment. Therefore, the sterilization device 100B according to the present embodiment is hereinafter referred to as the home visit vehicle 100B.

[0052] 〔3-1. Differences in Configuration〕 The home visit vehicle 100B according to the present embodiment does not include the first drive unit 3 provided in the home visit vehicle 100 according to the above first embodiment. The LED array 2B according to the present embodiment is arranged such that each LED 22 is arranged along the incident surface 200a. The LED array 2 according to the present embodiment is arranged such that, for example, as shown in FIG. 10, each LED is arranged along a straight line L passing through the center C of the incident surface 200a and parallel to any side of the incident surface 200a (extending horizontally or vertically (in a direction orthogonal to the plane of FIG. 10)).

[0053] In addition, as shown in FIG. 3, the home visit vehicle 100B according to the present embodiment further includes a third drive unit 3B. As shown in FIG. 10, the third drive unit 3B rotates the LED array 2 about a straight line L extending along the direction in which a plurality of LEDs 22 are arranged, with the straight line L as the rotation axis. Although FIG. 10 illustrates a case where the LED array 2 and the straight line L are separated, the straight line L may pass through the LED array 2 (the LED array 2 may be configured to rotate without changing its position).

[0054] 〔3-2. Differences in control〕 When a predetermined condition is satisfied, the control unit 42B of the main body 4B according to the present embodiment controls the third drive unit 3B, and as shown in FIG. 10, the LED array 2B in which each LED 22 is directed in the direction in which one end E1 of the incident surface 200a exists (the sterilization start direction, the direction indicated by the solid line in FIG. 10) is rotated until each LED 22 is directed in the direction in which the other end E2 of the incident surface 200a exists (the sterilization end direction, the direction indicated by the two-dot chain line in FIG. 10). That is, similar to the LED arrays 2 in the first and second embodiments, the LED array 2B according to the present embodiment directly irradiates the incident surface 200a of the imaging device 200 held by the holding unit 1 with the ultraviolet rays U emitted by each LED 22. When the LED array 2B is arranged as in the present embodiment, the ultraviolet rays U irradiated to one end E1 or the other end E2 of the incident surface 200a may be more diffused than the ultraviolet rays U irradiated to the central portion of the incident surface 200a. Therefore, the rotation speed may be changed according to the direction of the LED array 2B so that the ultraviolet rays U are uniformly irradiated over the entire incident surface 200a.

[0055] 〔3-3. Operation of the sterilization device〕 When the imaging device 200 is held by the holding unit 1 of the home visit vehicle 100B configured as described above, the linear ultraviolet rays emitted by the LED array 2B are first irradiated in the sterilization start direction. Thereafter, the irradiation direction of the ultraviolet rays changes, and finally the ultraviolet rays are irradiated in the sterilization end direction. When the ultraviolet rays are irradiated in the sterilization end direction, it means that the entire incident surface 200a has been sterilized.

[0056] [3-4. Variant Example] Note that the visiting vehicle 100B may further have at least one of the configurations of the variant examples 1 to 5 in the above first embodiment.

[0057] [4. Fourth Embodiment] Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram for explaining the mechanism by which the sterilization device 100C according to the present embodiment sterilizes the entire incident surface 200a. Note that the same components as those in the above first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals in the present embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0058] The sterilization device 100C according to the present embodiment is a mobile radiation irradiation device (visiting vehicle), similar to the sterilization device 100 according to the above first embodiment. Therefore, the sterilization device 100C according to the present embodiment is hereinafter referred to as the visiting vehicle 100C.

[0059] [4-1. Differences in Configuration] The visiting vehicle 100C according to the present embodiment does not include the first drive unit 3 provided in the visiting vehicle 100 according to the above first embodiment. And the visiting vehicle 100C according to the present embodiment further includes a light guide plate 9 as shown in FIG. 11. The light guide plate 9 has a plate shape and diffuses the linear light incident from the side surface 9a and emits it in a planar shape from the main surface 9b. Also, the main surface 9b of the light guide plate 9 is arranged so as to face the incident surface 200a of the imaging device 200 held by the holding unit 1.

[0060] The LED array 2C according to the present embodiment is arranged such that each LED 22 emits ultraviolet rays U toward the side surface 9a of the light guide plate 9. That is, unlike the LED arrays in the above first to third embodiments, the LED array 2 according to the present embodiment indirectly irradiates (through the light guide plate 9) the incident surface 200a of the imaging device 200 held by the holding unit 1 with the ultraviolet rays U emitted by each LED 22.

[0061] [4-2. Differences in Control] The control unit 42C (see FIG. 3) of the main body 4C according to the present embodiment does not have a function of controlling the drive unit.

[0062] [4-3. Operation of the Sterilizing Device] When the imaging device 200 is held by the holding unit 1 of the home visit vehicle 100C configured as described above, the ultraviolet rays diffused in the light guide plate 9 are irradiated in a planar manner from the main surface 9b. That is, the entire incident surface 200a is immediately sterilized.

[0063] [4-4. Modification Example] Note that the home visit vehicle 100C may further have at least one of the configurations of Modification Examples 1 to 5 in the above First Embodiment.

[0064] [5. Effects] The home visit vehicles (sterilizing devices) 100, 100A, 100B, and 100C described above include a holding unit 1 capable of holding a portable imaging device 200, and a plurality of LEDs 22 that emit ultraviolet rays U arranged in a row, and the ultraviolet rays U emitted by each LED 22 are directly or indirectly irradiated onto the incident surface 200a of the imaging device 200 held by the holding unit 1. Therefore, according to the home visit vehicles 100, 100A, 100B, and 100C, it is possible to sterilize the entire incident surface 200a using the LEDs 22 while preventing an excessive increase in the power consumption, weight, and manufacturing cost of the device.

[0065] [6. Others] Although the present invention has been described based on the embodiments, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and the like, and can be appropriately modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0066] For example, in the above First to Fourth Embodiments, the sterilizing devices 100, 100A, 100B, and 100C which are mobile radiation irradiation devices (home visit vehicles) have been exemplified. However, the sterilizing devices 100, 100A, 100B, and 100C according to the present invention may be a single device that does not have a function of irradiating radiation, for example, as shown in FIG. 12. In that case, the sterilization apparatuses 100, 100A, 100B, and 100C may also serve as a charging device that charges the built-in battery of the imaging device 200 held by the holding unit 1, or a cradle that relays the transfer of image data from the imaging device 200 held by the holding unit 1 to another device.

[0067] In addition, in the first to fourth embodiments, the sterilization apparatuses 100, 100A, 100B, and 100C that sterilize using the LED array 2 in which a plurality of LEDs 22 are arranged in a row are exemplified. However, the sterilization apparatus may include one to several non-row-forming LEDs 22, and means for irradiating the entire incident surface 200a of the imaging device 200 held by the holding unit 1 with the ultraviolet rays U emitted by the LEDs 22. The means may be, for example, a fourth driving unit that relatively moves the LED 22 or the imaging device 200 along the incident surface 200a and in a direction along any one side of the incident surface 200a and a direction orthogonal to that direction. In addition, the means may be a light guide plate 9 similar to that in the fourth embodiment and a light pipe that is rod-shaped and arranged such that its side surface faces the side surface 9a of the light guide plate 9, and diffuses the dot-like light incident from the end surface and emits it linearly from the side surface.

[0068] In addition, in the first to fourth embodiments, the control units 42, 42A, 42B, and 42C execute the control of the LED arrays 2, 2A, 2B, 2C and the first to third driving units 3, 3A, 3B. However, the console 6 may execute these controls. In addition, in the first to fourth embodiments, the sterilization apparatuses 100, 100A, 100B, and 100C that automatically move the LED arrays 2, 2A or rotate the LED array 2B are exemplified. However, the sterilization apparatus may be configured to manually move the LED arrays 2, 2A or rotate the LED array 2B.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0069] 100 Sterilization apparatus (mobile radiation irradiation apparatus (rounds vehicle)) 1 Holding unit 11 Second terminal 2 LED array 21 Substrate 22 LED 3 First driving part 4 Body 41 Wheel 42 Control part 43 High voltage generation part 44 Battery 45 Arm 5 Radiation source 6 Console 61 Display part 7 Reflective material 8 Second LED row 100A Sterilizing device (Mobile radiation irradiation device (rounds vehicle)) 2A LED row 2B LED row 3A Second driving part 4A Body 42A Control part 100B Sterilizing device (Mobile radiation irradiation device (rounds vehicle)) 2C LED row 3B Third driving part 4B Body 42B Control part 100C Sterilizing device (Mobile radiation irradiation device (rounds vehicle)) 9 Light guide plate 9a Side surface 9b Main surface 4C Body 42C Control part 200 Radiation imaging device 200a Incident surface 200b Back surface 200c Side surface 200d First terminal L Straight line passing through the center of the radiation incident surface and parallel to any of its sides (Rotation axis of the LED row) U Ultraviolet ray

Claims

1. A holding part capable of holding a portable radiation imaging device, An LED array in which a plurality of LEDs emitting ultraviolet rays are arranged in a row, and the ultraviolet rays emitted by each LED are directly or indirectly irradiated onto the radiation incident surface of the radiation imaging device held by the holding part, Calculating means for calculating the intensity of the energy received by the radiation incident surface due to the irradiation of ultraviolet rays based on at least any one of the irradiation mode of ultraviolet rays onto the radiation incident surface, the intensity of ultraviolet rays emitted by each LED, and the range in which each LED can irradiate ultraviolet rays, Energy notification means for notifying the calculated intensity, A sterilization device comprising the above.

2. A holding part capable of holding a portable radiation imaging device, An LED array in which a plurality of LEDs emitting ultraviolet rays are arranged in a row, and the ultraviolet rays emitted by each LED are directly or indirectly irradiated onto the radiation incident surface of the radiation imaging device held by the holding part, Calculating means for calculating the intensity of the energy received by the radiation incident surface due to the irradiation of ultraviolet rays based on at least any one of the irradiation mode of ultraviolet rays onto the radiation incident surface, the intensity of ultraviolet rays emitted by each LED, and the range in which each LED can irradiate ultraviolet rays, Correction means for performing correction so that the intensity of the energy received by the radiation incident surface becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined intensity when the calculated intensity is lower than the predetermined intensity, A sterilization device comprising the above.

3. The LED array is arranged such that each LED emits ultraviolet rays toward the radiation incident surface, The sterilization device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a first driving part for moving the LED array in a direction along the radiation incident surface and orthogonal to the direction in which the plurality of LEDs are arranged.

4. The LED array is fixed at a predetermined position such that each LED emits ultraviolet rays toward the radiation incident surface, The sterilization device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a second driving part for moving the radiation imaging device in a direction along the radiation incident surface and orthogonal to the direction in which the plurality of LEDs are arranged.

5. The LED array is arranged such that each LED is arranged along the radiation incident surface, The sterilization device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a third driving part for rotating the LED array about a straight line extending in the direction in which the plurality of LEDs are arranged as a rotation axis.

6. It further includes a light guide plate having a plate shape, the main surface of which is arranged to face the radiation incident surface of the radiation imaging device held by the holding portion, and diffuses linearly incident light from the side surface and emits it in a planar shape from the main surface. The sterilization device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the LED array is arranged such that each LED emits ultraviolet light toward the side surface of the light guide plate.

7. The sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a reflector that reflects ultraviolet light emitted by at least one of the LEDs in the LED array toward the side surface of the radiation imaging device.

8. The sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a second LED array in which a plurality of LEDs emitting ultraviolet light are arranged in a row, and ultraviolet light emitted by each LED is irradiated onto the back surface opposite to the radiation incident surface of the radiation imaging device held by the holding portion.

9. Storage means for storing the cumulative time during which each LED in the LED array emits ultraviolet light; Time notification means for notifying when the cumulative time exceeds a predetermined time; The sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising the above.

10. Measuring means for measuring the intensity of ultraviolet light emitted by each LED in the LED array; Intensity notification means for notifying when the intensity of ultraviolet light falls below a predetermined intensity; The sterilization device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising the above.

11. A holding portion capable of holding a portable radiation imaging device; An LED that emits ultraviolet light; Means for enabling the ultraviolet light emitted by the LED to irradiate the entire radiation incident surface of the radiation imaging device held by the holding portion; Calculating means for calculating the intensity of the energy received by the radiation incident surface due to the irradiation of ultraviolet light based on at least one of the irradiation mode of ultraviolet light on the radiation incident surface, the intensity of ultraviolet light emitted by each LED, and the range in which each LED can irradiate ultraviolet light; Energy notification means for notifying the calculated intensity; A sterilization device comprising the above.

12. A holding portion capable of holding a portable radiation imaging device; An LED that emits ultraviolet light; Means for enabling the ultraviolet light emitted by the LED to irradiate the entire radiation incident surface of the radiation imaging device held by the holding portion; Calculation means for calculating the intensity of the energy received by the radiation incident surface due to ultraviolet irradiation based on at least any one of the irradiation mode of ultraviolet rays on the radiation incident surface, the intensity of ultraviolet rays emitted by each LED, and the range in which each LED can irradiate ultraviolet rays; Correction means for performing correction such that the intensity of the energy received by the radiation incident surface becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined intensity when the calculated intensity is lower than the predetermined intensity; A sterilization device comprising the above.

13. A main body, A holding part provided on the main body and capable of holding a portable radiation imaging device; An LED array in which a plurality of LEDs emitting ultraviolet rays are arranged in a row, and the ultraviolet rays emitted by each LED are irradiated onto the radiation incident surface of the radiation imaging device held by the holding part; A radiation source for generating radiation; Calculation means for calculating the intensity of the energy received by the radiation incident surface due to ultraviolet irradiation based on at least any one of the irradiation mode of ultraviolet rays on the radiation incident surface, the intensity of ultraviolet rays emitted by each LED, and the range in which each LED can irradiate ultraviolet rays; Energy notification means for notifying the calculated intensity; Comprising, A mobile radiation irradiation device configured to be movable.

14. A main body, A holding part provided on the main body and capable of holding a portable radiation imaging device; An LED array in which a plurality of LEDs emitting ultraviolet rays are arranged in a row, and the ultraviolet rays emitted by each LED are irradiated onto the radiation incident surface of the radiation imaging device held by the holding part; A radiation source for generating radiation; Calculation means for calculating the intensity of the energy received by the radiation incident surface due to ultraviolet irradiation based on at least any one of the irradiation mode of ultraviolet rays on the radiation incident surface, the intensity of ultraviolet rays emitted by each LED, and the range in which each LED can irradiate ultraviolet rays; Correction means for performing correction such that the intensity of the energy received by the radiation incident surface becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined intensity when the calculated intensity is lower than the predetermined intensity; Comprising, A mobile radiation irradiation device configured to be movable.

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