X-ray equipment

Abstract

An X-ray imaging device (100) comprises: an X-ray source (1); an X-ray detector (2); an image generation unit (10a) for generating an X-ray image (80); a part acquisition unit (10b) for acquiring a region of each part in the X-ray image on the basis of a learning model (9); a region of interest selection unit (10c) for selecting a region of interest (85); and an X-ray condition adjustment unit (10d) for adjusting, on the basis of a first pixel value (23) which is a pixel value within the region of interest, conditions of an X-ray emitted from the X-ray source.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an X-ray imaging apparatus, and more particularly to an X-ray imaging apparatus that performs imaging by adjusting X-ray conditions. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, there has been known an X-ray imaging apparatus that performs imaging by adjusting X-ray conditions. Such an X-ray imaging apparatus is disclosed, for example, in Japanese Patent No. 6737337.

[0003] The X-ray fluoroscopy apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 6737337 includes an X-ray tube, an X-ray detector, an image generation unit, and a control unit. The control unit includes a region of interest setting unit that sets a region of interest on an X-ray image generated by the image generation unit, and an automatic irradiation condition adjustment unit that calculates X-ray irradiation conditions based on the luminance of the region of interest. The region of interest setting unit is configured to set a rectangular region of interest on the X-ray image. The automatic irradiation condition adjustment unit is configured to compare the image luminance value within the rectangular region of interest with a predetermined ideal luminance value and calculate X-ray irradiation conditions such that the luminance value of the X-ray image matches the ideal luminance value. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6737337 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Although not disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 6737337, an X-ray image may include various parts, such as bones and internal organs. Therefore, as disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 6737337, when a rectangular region of interest is set, multiple parts may be included within the region of interest. In this case, parts other than the part the user wishes to view may be included in the region of interest. When parts other than the part the user wishes to view are included in the region of interest, the X-ray irradiation conditions (X-ray conditions) may not be suitable for the part the user wishes to view due to a difference in X-ray absorption rate between the part the user wishes to view and the other parts. In this case, the visibility of the part the user wishes to view may be reduced. Therefore, there is a need for an X-ray imaging device that allows the user to easily adjust the X-ray conditions to suit the part the user wishes to view, thereby preventing a reduction in the visibility of the part the user wishes to view.

[0006] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and provides an X-ray imaging device that enables a user to easily adjust the X-ray conditions to suit the desired area, thereby preventing a decrease in visibility of the area that the user wants to view. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, an X-ray imaging apparatus in one aspect of the present invention includes an X-ray source that irradiates an examinee with X-rays, an X-ray detector that detects the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source, an image generation unit that generates an X-ray image based on the X-ray detection signal detected by the X-ray detector, a part acquisition unit that acquires a region for each part in the X-ray image based on a learning model that has been trained to classify parts that appear in the X-ray image, a region of interest selection unit that selects a region of interest from the region of the part acquired by the part acquisition unit, and an X-ray condition adjustment unit that adjusts the conditions of the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source based on a first pixel value, which is a pixel value within the region of interest selected by the region of interest selection unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The X-ray imaging device according to one aspect includes a region acquisition unit that acquires a region for each region in an X-ray image based on a learning model, a region of interest selection unit that selects a region of interest from the region of the region acquired by the region acquisition unit, and an X-ray condition adjustment unit that adjusts the conditions of X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source based on a first pixel value, which is a pixel value within the region of interest selected by the region of interest selection unit. This allows the X-ray conditions to be adjusted based on the first pixel value, which is a pixel value within the region of interest among the regions classified by multiple regions shown in the X-ray image. This prevents pixel values ​​of regions other than the region of interest from being included in the first pixel value. Therefore, since the X-ray conditions can be adjusted based only on the first pixel value, the X-ray conditions can be easily adjusted to be suitable for the region the user wishes to view. As a result, by making it possible to easily adjust the X-ray conditions to be suitable for the region the user wishes to view, it is possible to prevent a decrease in visibility of the region the user wishes to view. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an X-ray imaging apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating functional blocks included in a processor according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining an imaging region selection screen for selecting an imaging region in the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] 2 is a schematic diagram for explaining an X-ray image generated by an image generating unit according to one embodiment. FIG. [Figure 5] 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining a region selection screen for selecting a region in the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a block diagram for explaining a configuration in which a processor adjusts X-ray conditions according to an embodiment. [Figure 7]10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration in which a processor according to an embodiment selects a region of interest based on a preset part and acquires a first pixel value. FIG. [Figure 8] 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration in which a processor according to an embodiment sets a region of interest based on a user's operation input and acquires a first pixel value. FIG. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process of adjusting an X-ray condition by a processor according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process for acquiring a region of interest by a processor according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] (Configuration of X-ray equipment) The configuration of an X-ray imaging apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

[0011] As shown in FIG. 1, an X-ray imaging apparatus 100 according to this embodiment includes an X-ray source 1, an X-ray detector 2, and a computer 3. The X-ray imaging apparatus 100 also includes a storage unit 4. The X-ray imaging apparatus 100 also includes an input receiving unit 5. The X-ray imaging apparatus 100 also includes a display unit 6, a tabletop 7, and an apparatus control unit 8. In this embodiment, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 images a subject 90 as an object to be examined. The X-ray imaging apparatus 100 captures X-ray images 80 as moving images at a predetermined frame rate, for example. The X-ray imaging apparatus 100 is a so-called X-ray fluoroscopic imaging apparatus installed in an operating room where procedures such as catheterization are performed.

[0012] The X-ray source 1 and the X-ray detector 2 are held by an arm 9 that positions the X-ray source 1 and the X-ray detector 2 so that they face each other. The arm 9 is a so-called C-arm. The arm 9 is also provided on an arm movement mechanism (not shown) and is configured to be movable.

[0013] The X-ray source 1 is configured to irradiate the subject 90 with X-rays. Specifically, the X-ray source 1 irradiates X-rays when a voltage is applied by a driving unit (not shown). The X-ray source 1 has a collimator that can adjust the irradiation field, which is the range of X-ray irradiation. In this embodiment, the X-ray source 1 is attached to the tip of one side of an arm 9.

[0014] The X-ray detector 2 is configured to detect X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source 1. In this embodiment, the X-ray detector 2 is attached to the other end of the arm 9. That is, the X-ray detector 2 is disposed on the opposite side of the tabletop 7 from the X-ray source 1. The X-ray detector 2 is also configured to be able to detect X-rays. The X-ray detector 2 is, for example, an FPD (Flat Panel Detector). The X-ray detector 2 is configured to detect X-rays that have passed through a subject (subject 90) and output a detection signal based on the detected X-rays.

[0015] The computer 3 is configured to include a processor 10 such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) configured for image processing, as well as a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0016] The storage unit 4 is configured to store an X-ray image 80 acquired by an image generating unit 10a (see FIG. 2), which will be described later. The storage unit 4 is also configured to store various programs executed by the processor 10. The storage unit 4 is also configured to store an imaging program 20 for imaging a subject 90. The storage unit 4 is also configured to store a first pixel value 23 and an ideal pixel value 24, which are used when adjusting X-ray conditions. The storage unit 4 includes a non-volatile storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive).

[0017] The imaging program 20 is information that associates the imaging region 21 of the subject 90 with a region 25 (see FIG. 6) of the part 22 that has been set in advance as a region of interest 27 (see FIG. 6). That is, the storage unit 4 stores the imaging region 21 of the subject 90 with the region 25 of the part 22 that has been set in advance as a region of interest 27 in an associated state.

[0018] The ideal pixel value 24 is an ideal pixel value that is set in advance for each imaging region 21 of the subject 90 .

[0019] The input receiving unit 5 is configured to receive operation inputs from a user, and includes input devices such as a mouse, a keyboard, and a touch panel.

[0020] The display unit 6 is configured to display an X-ray image 80. The display unit 6 is also configured to display an operation screen when a user operates the X-ray imaging apparatus 100. The display unit 6 includes, for example, a liquid crystal monitor. In this embodiment, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 is provided with a touch panel display in which the input receiving unit 5 and the display unit 6 are integrated.

[0021] 1, the tabletop 7 is formed in the shape of a rectangular flat plate in a plan view. The subject 90 is placed on the tabletop 7 so that the head-to-foot direction of the subject 90 is along the long side of the rectangle and the left-to-right direction of the subject 90 is along the short side of the rectangle.

[0022] A movement mechanism (not shown) is provided on the tabletop 7. The X-ray imaging device 100 can image the subject (subject 90) by changing the relative positions of the tabletop 7, the X-ray source 1, and the X-ray detector 2 by moving the tabletop 7 in the longitudinal direction using the movement mechanism.

[0023] The device control unit 8 is configured to control the X-ray imaging device 100. Specifically, the device control unit 8 is configured to control the irradiation of X-rays from the X-ray source 1, the movement of the tabletop 7, and the movement of the arm 9. The device control unit 8 is also configured to control the X-ray dose output from the X-ray source 1 by controlling the X-ray source 1 based on an input signal from an X-ray condition adjustment unit 10d (see FIG. 2) described later.

[0024] The X-ray imaging apparatus 100 according to this embodiment moves the tabletop 7 and the arm 9 when the imaging region 21 is selected by the user. Then, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 starts imaging when an operation to start imaging is performed. Thereafter, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 adjusts the X-ray conditions based on the X-ray image 80. When the user selects a region 22 that the user wishes to view, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 adjusts the X-ray conditions so that the X-ray conditions are appropriate for the region 22 that the user wishes to view.

[0025] <Functional blocks included in the processor> 2, processor 10 includes image generator 10a, region acquirer 10b, region of interest selector 10c, and X-ray condition adjuster 10d. In this embodiment, processor 10 further includes region designation receiver 10e, rectangular region setter 10f, region of interest setter 10g, and first pixel value acquirer 10h. Image generator 10a, region acquirer 10b, region of interest selector 10c, X-ray condition adjuster 10d, region designation receiver 10e, rectangular region setter 10f, region of interest setter 10g, and first pixel value acquirer 10h are configured in software as functional blocks implemented by processor 10 executing various programs. The image generating unit 10a, the region acquiring unit 10b, the region of interest selecting unit 10c, the X-ray condition adjusting unit 10d, the region designation accepting unit 10e, the rectangular region setting unit 10f, the region of interest setting unit 10g, and the first pixel value acquiring unit 10h may be configured by hardware using a dedicated processor (processing circuit). Details of each functional block included in the processor 10 will be described later.

[0026] <Shooting area selection screen> Next, with reference to FIG. 3, a description will be given of the photographic area selection screen 30 when the user selects the photographic area 21 (see FIG. 1).

[0027] The photographing area selection screen 30 is a screen that is displayed on the display unit 6 (see FIG. 1) when the user selects the photographing area 21 (see FIG. 1) before starting photographing.

[0028] The imaging region selection screen 30 displays buttons for selecting each imaging region 21. In the example shown in Fig. 3, buttons for selecting the head and neck region 21a, cervical vertebrae 21b, abdomen 21c, chest region 21d, hip joint 21e, and leg region 21f are displayed as each imaging region 21. Note that each button for selecting the imaging region 21 is a push button displayed on a GUI (Graphical User Interface).

[0029] When the user operates (presses) any of the buttons displayed on the imaging area selection screen 30, the processor 10 (see FIG. 1) moves at least one of the top board 7 (see FIG. 1) and the arm 9 (see FIG. 1) to a position set in advance according to the selected imaging area 21. After that, the user performs an operation input to start imaging, and imaging begins.

[0030] <X-ray image> Next, an X-ray image 80 generated by the image generating unit 10a (see FIG. 2) will be described with reference to Fig. 4. The example shown in Fig. 4 is an X-ray image 80 obtained by photographing the hip joint of a subject 90 (see Fig. 1) when the hip joint 21e (see Fig. 3) is selected as the photographing region 21 (see Fig. 1) on the photographing region selection screen 30 (see Fig. 3).

[0031] The X-ray image 80 shown in FIG. 4 shows a plurality of regions 22 (see FIG. 1). The plurality of regions 22 include, for example, bone tissue 22a, soft tissue 22b such as skin and muscle, and background 22d. In the example shown in FIG. 4, an image of a subject 90 is taken in which an artificial object 22c is placed on the bone tissue 22a, and therefore the regions 22 include the artificial object 22c. The artificial object 22c includes, for example, a metal material or ceramics. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the artificial object 22c is a metallic artificial bone. In the X-ray image 80 shown in FIG. 4, the bone tissue 22a, the soft tissue 22b, and the artificial object 22c are hatched differently from one another to make it possible to distinguish the bone tissue 22a, the soft tissue 22b, the artificial object 22c, and the background 22d.

[0032] The processor 10 (see FIG. 1) adjusts the X-ray conditions when continuously capturing X-ray images 80 showing multiple regions 22, as shown in FIG. 4. The X-ray conditions include at least the tube voltage. In addition to the tube voltage, the X-ray conditions also include the tube current and the X-ray irradiation time. In this embodiment, a configuration will be described in which the processor 10 adjusts the X-ray conditions by changing the value 12 of the tube voltage (see FIG. 6).

[0033] <Part selection screen> Next, with reference to FIG. 5, a description will be given of the region selection screen 31 when the user selects the region 22 (see FIG. 1) that he or she wishes to view.

[0034] The region selection screen 31 shown in Fig. 5 is a screen for selecting a region 22 that the user wishes to view from among the regions 22 (see Fig. 1) in the photographing region 21 (see Fig. 1). Specifically, the region selection screen 31 is a screen for selecting a region 22 that the user wishes to view when the user wishes to view a region 22 other than a pre-set region 22. That is, the region selection screen 31 is displayed on the display unit 6 (see Fig. 1) after the photographing region 21 is selected on the photographing region selection screen 30 (see Fig. 3).

[0035] Buttons for selecting a region 22 that the user desires to view from among the regions 22 (see FIG. 1) shown in the X-ray image 80 (see FIG. 4) are displayed on the region selection screen 31. In the example shown in FIG. 5, buttons for selecting bone tissue 22a, soft tissue 22b, artificial object 22c, and background 22d are displayed as the respective regions 22. Note that each button for selecting a region 22 is a push button displayed on the GUI.

[0036] When the user operates (presses) any of the buttons displayed on the region selection screen 31, the processor 10 (see Figure 1) adjusts the X-ray conditions so that they are suitable for the selected region 22.

[0037] The storage unit 4 (FIG. 1) stores an imaging program 20 (see FIG. 1) that associates the imaging region 21 (see FIG. 1) of the subject 90 with a region 25 (see FIG. 6) of a region 22 (see FIG. 4) that has been preset as a region of interest 27 (see FIG. 6). Therefore, if there is no operation input on the region selection screen 31, the processor 10 adjusts the X-ray conditions based on the imaging region 21 selected on the imaging region selection screen 30 (see FIG. 3) and the imaging program 20 so that the X-ray conditions are suitable for the preset region 22.

[0038] <Adjusting X-ray conditions> Next, a configuration in which the processor 10 adjusts the X-ray conditions will be described with reference to Fig. 6. The processor 10 sets one of the regions 25 of the multiple parts 22 shown in the X-ray image 80 as a region of interest 27, and adjusts the X-ray conditions based on the pixel values ​​of the region of interest 27. In the configuration in which the processor 10 adjusts the X-ray conditions, the configuration for setting the region of interest 27 includes the following three configurations. (1) A first configuration in which a region 25 of a predetermined region 22 (see FIG. 4) appearing in an X-ray image 80 generated by the image generating unit 10a is set as a region of interest 27. (2) A second configuration in which a region 25 of a part 22e to be selected as a region of interest 27 (a region 25e selected as a region of interest 27) selected by a user's operation input is set as the region of interest 27. (3) A third configuration in which the region of interest 27 is set based on a region 25 of the part 22 that is set in advance or a region 25e that is set as the region of interest 27 and a rectangular region 26 selected by the user. Hereinafter, each component of the processor 10 that adjusts the X-ray conditions will be described in detail.

[0039] First, a first configuration in which processor 10 sets region of interest 27 will be described. Image generator 10a acquires X-ray detection signals from X-ray detector 2 (see FIG. 1). Image generator 10a generates an X-ray image 80 based on the X-ray detection signals detected by X-ray detector 2. Image generator 10a also outputs the generated X-ray image 80 to region acquirer 10b. Note that image generator 10a may store the generated X-ray image 80 in storage unit 4.

[0040] Region acquisition unit 10b acquires X-ray image 80 from image generation unit 10a. Region acquisition unit 10b also reads learning model 11 from memory unit 4. Region acquisition unit 10b then acquires region 25 for each region 22 (see FIG. 4) appearing in X-ray image 80 (see FIG. 4) based on X-ray image 80 input from image generation unit 10a and learning model 11 read from memory unit 4.

[0041] In this embodiment, the learning model 11 is generated by learning to classify parts 22 (see FIG. 1) that appear in the X-ray image 80, and is stored in advance in the storage unit 4. In this embodiment, the learning model 11 includes a plurality of learning models 11 for each imaging region 21 (see FIG. 1), which have been trained to classify parts 22 according to the imaging region 21.

[0042] In this embodiment, part acquirer 10b is configured to acquire region 25 of part 22 in X-ray image 80 based on learning model 11 corresponding to imaging region 21 from among multiple learning models 11. In this embodiment, part acquirer 10b is configured to acquire regions classified into at least two of region 25a of bone tissue 22a, region 25b of soft tissue 22b, region 25c of artificial structure 22c, and region 25d of background 22d as region 25 of part 22, as illustrated in Fig. 7. Furthermore, part acquirer 10b outputs acquired region 25 of part 22 to region of interest selector 10c, as shown in Fig. 6.

[0043] Region of interest selection unit 10c is configured to select a region of interest 27 from regions 25 of region 22 acquired by region acquisition unit 10b. Specifically, region of interest selection unit 10c reads imaging program 20 from storage unit 4. Region of interest selection unit 10c then acquires region 25 of region 22 corresponding to imaging region 21 using imaging program 20 as region 25e to be selected as region of interest 27. In this embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 4 , X-ray image 80 shows four regions 22: bone tissue 22a, soft tissue 22b, artificial object 22c, and background 22d. Therefore, region acquisition unit 10b acquires four regions 25 of region 22. Region of interest selection unit 10c acquires one region 25 of region 22 corresponding to imaging region 21 from among the four regions 25 of region 22 as region 25e to be selected as region of interest 27. 6, region of interest selector 10c outputs region 25e selected as region of interest 27 to first pixel value acquirer 10h. That is, in the first configuration, region of interest selector 10c outputs region 25e selected as region of interest 27 as region of interest 27.

[0044] The first pixel value acquisition unit 10h acquires the region of interest 27 from the region of interest selection unit 10c. The first pixel value acquisition unit 10h acquires the first pixel value 23 based on the acquired region of interest 27. Specifically, the first pixel value acquisition unit 10h acquires the first pixel value 23 as a representative value of the pixel values ​​of the region of interest 27. The first pixel value acquisition unit 10h outputs the acquired first pixel value 23 to the X-ray condition adjustment unit 10d.

[0045] The X-ray condition adjustment unit 10d acquires the first pixel value 23 input from the first pixel value acquisition unit 10h. The X-ray condition adjustment unit 10d also reads the ideal pixel value 24 from the storage unit 4. The X-ray condition adjustment unit 10d is configured to adjust the conditions of the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source 1 based on the first pixel value 23, which is a pixel value within the region of interest 27 selected by the region of interest selection unit 10c. Specifically, the X-ray condition adjustment unit 10d is configured to adjust the X-ray conditions so that the first pixel value 23 approaches the ideal pixel value 24. The X-ray condition adjustment unit 10d outputs to the device control unit 8 the value 12 of the tube voltage that makes the first pixel value 23 approach the ideal pixel value 24.

[0046] The device control unit 8 adjusts the tube voltage based on the value 12 of the tube voltage input from the X-ray condition adjustment unit 10d.

[0047] Next, a second configuration will be described in which the processor 10 sets the region of interest 27. Note that the configuration up to when the region of interest selector 10c acquires the region 25 of the part 22 and the imaging program 20 is the same as the first configuration, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0048] In the second configuration, region designation receiving unit 10e is configured to receive designation of region 25 of region 22 to be selected as region of interest 27, based on input from input receiving unit 5. Specifically, region designation receiving unit 10e acquires region 22e to be selected as region of interest 27, based on region designation operation input 50a input from input receiving unit 5. In this embodiment, the region designation operation input 50a is the operation input by the user to select region 22 on region selection screen 31 shown in FIG. 5. Region designation receiving unit 10e outputs the acquired region 22e to be selected as region of interest 27 to region of interest selection unit 10c.

[0049] Region of interest selection unit 10c selects region 25e to be selected as region of interest 27 from among regions 25 of multiple regions 22. That is, region of interest selection unit 10c selects region 25 of region 22e specified by region designation receiving unit 10e as region 25e to be selected as region of interest 27. Then, region of interest selection unit 10c outputs region 25e selected as region of interest 27 to first pixel value acquisition unit 10h as region of interest 27. That is, in the second configuration, region of interest selection unit 10c selects region 25 (region 25e to be selected as region of interest 27) of region 22 selected by the user (region 22e to be selected as region of interest 27) as region of interest 27, rather than region 25 of region 22 set in advance.

[0050] In the second configuration, the configuration in which the first pixel value acquisition unit 10h acquires the first pixel value 23 and the configuration in which the X-ray condition adjustment unit 10d adjusts the X-ray conditions are the same as those in the first configuration described above, so detailed explanations will be omitted.

[0051] Next, a third configuration will be described in which the processor 10 sets the region of interest 27. Note that the configuration up to when the region of interest selector 10c acquires the region 25 of the part 22 and the imaging program 20 is the same as the first configuration, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0052] In the third configuration, when rectangular region 26 is set by a user's operation input, processor 10 sets region of interest 27. In the third configuration, region of interest selector 10c outputs region 25e selected as region of interest 27 to region of interest setter 10g.

[0053] Furthermore, rectangular region setting unit 10f is configured to set rectangular region 26 in X-ray image 80 based on an operation input input by input receiving unit 5. Specifically, rectangular region setting unit 10f sets rectangular region 26 in X-ray image 80 based on operation input 50b for rectangular region 26 input from input receiving unit 5. Rectangular region setting unit 10f outputs set rectangular region 26 to region of interest setting unit 10g.

[0054] Region of interest setting unit 10g is configured to set rectangular region 26 set by rectangular region setting unit 10f as region of interest 27 based on an operation input input by input receiving unit 5. Furthermore, when region 25e selected as region of interest 27 is input from region of interest selection unit 10c and rectangular region 26 is input from rectangular region setting unit 10f, region of interest setting unit 10g sets region of interest 27 based on region 25e selected as region of interest 27 and rectangular region 26. Region of interest setting unit 10g outputs set region of interest 27 to first pixel value acquisition unit 10h. The configuration in which first pixel value acquisition unit 10h acquires first pixel value 23 and the configuration in which X-ray condition adjustment unit 10d adjusts X-ray conditions are similar to the first configuration described above, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0055] Note that region 25e selected as region of interest 27 is a region selected as a candidate for region of interest 27 from among regions 25 of multiple parts 22. In the first and second configurations, region 25e selected as region of interest 27 is directly set as region of interest 27. In the third configuration, region of interest 27 is set based on region 25e selected as region of interest 27 and rectangular region 26.

[0056] Selecting a region of interest and obtaining the first pixel value Next, a configuration in which region of interest selection unit 10c selects a region of interest 27 and a configuration in which first pixel value acquisition unit 10h acquires first pixel values ​​23 based on the region of interest 27 selected by region of interest selection unit 10c will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Note that the configuration described in Fig. 7 is a configuration in which processor 10 selects region of interest 27 and acquires first pixel values ​​23 using the first configuration described above.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 7, an X-ray image 80 generated by image generating unit 10a (see FIG. 2) is input to region acquiring unit 10b.

[0058] The region acquisition unit 10b acquires labeled images 80a that classify regions 22 appearing in an X-ray image 80 using the learning model 11. The labeled images 80a are images in which different labels are assigned to each region 22. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the labeled image 80a is an image in which different label values ​​are assigned to a region 25a of bone tissue 22a, a region 25b of soft tissue 22b, a region 25c of artificial structure 22c, and a region 25d of background 22d. Note that in the example shown in FIG. 7, for convenience, the region 25a of bone tissue 22a, the region 25c of artificial structure 22c, and the region 25d of background 22d are hatched differently.

[0059] The labeled image 80a acquired by the region acquisition unit 10b is input to the region of interest selection unit 10c.

[0060] Region of interest selection unit 10c selects one of regions 22 appearing in input labeled image 80a as region of interest 27. In the example shown in FIG. 7, region 25a of bone tissue 22a is set in advance as region 22 to be selected as region of interest 27, and therefore region of interest selection unit 10c selects region 25a of bone tissue 22a as region of interest 27.

[0061] In this embodiment, when a region of non-interest is included inside region 25 of region 22 (see FIG. 6 ), region of interest selection unit 10c is configured to select a region obtained by excluding the region of non-interest from region 25 of region 22 as region of interest 27. In other words, when a region 22 other than the region 22 that the user desires to view is included inside region 22 that the user desires to view, region of interest selection unit 10c selects region 25 of region 22 excluding the region 22 other than the region 22 that the user desires to view as region of interest 27.

[0062] 7, when a region 25c of an artificial object 22c is included inside a region 25a of bone tissue 22a, region of interest selector 10c selects the region obtained by excluding region 25c of artificial object 22c from region 25a of bone tissue 22a as region of interest 27. Note that a region of non-interest is a region 25 of multiple regions 22 other than region of interest 27. In other words, a region of non-interest is a region 25 of region 22 other than a region 22 preset for each imaging region 21 (see FIG. 1) or region 22e (see FIG. 6) to be selected as region of interest 27.

[0063] Furthermore, the labeled image 80b, in which the region of interest 27 has been selected by the region of interest selection unit 10c, is input to the first pixel value acquisition unit 10h. The first pixel value acquisition unit 10h acquires the pixel values ​​within the region of interest 27 in the input labeled image 80b as the first pixel value 23. Specifically, the first pixel value acquisition unit 10h acquires the average pixel value within the region of interest 27 as a representative value of the pixel values ​​within the region of interest 27. In other words, the first pixel value acquisition unit 10h acquires the average pixel value within the region of interest 27 as the first pixel value 23.

[0064] Moreover, the X-ray condition adjusting unit 10d (see FIG. 2) is configured to adjust the X-ray conditions based on the first pixel value 23 of a region of interest 27 obtained by excluding regions of non-interest from a region 25 of the part 22.

[0065] Setting the region of interest and obtaining the first pixel value Next, referring to Fig. 8, a configuration will be described in which region of interest setting unit 10g sets region of interest 27 and first pixel value acquisition unit 10h acquires first pixel value 23 based on region of interest 27 set by region of interest setting unit 10g. Note that the example shown in Fig. 8 is the third configuration described above in which region of interest 27 is set and first pixel value 23 is acquired when region 25e of part 22e to be selected as region of interest 27 is selected by region of interest selection unit 10c (see Fig. 2) and there is a user operation input (operation input 50b of rectangular region 26 (see Fig. 6)).

[0066] As shown in FIG. 8, a labeled image 80c in which region 25e has been selected by region of interest selection unit 10c (see FIG. 2) is input to rectangular region setting unit 10f. Rectangular region setting unit 10f sets rectangular region 26 on labeled image 80c based on operation input 50b (see FIG. 6) for rectangular region 26 input from input receiving unit 5 (see FIG. 6). Specifically, rectangular region setting unit 10f sets rectangular region 26 of a predetermined size at a position designated by the user based on operation input 50b for rectangular region 26. As a result, rectangular region setting unit 10f acquires labeled image 80d in which rectangular region 26 has been set on labeled image 80c. Note that rectangular region setting unit 10f may be configured to set rectangular region 26 of a size designated by the user at a position designated by the user.

[0067] The rectangular region setting unit 10f outputs the acquired labeled image 80d to the region of interest setting unit 10g.

[0068] The region of interest setting unit 10g is configured such that when a rectangular region 26 is set and one of the regions of the region 22 is selected, the region of interest setting unit 10g is set as the region of interest 27, which is the region 25e of the selected region 22 excluding the rectangular region 26, or both the region 25e of the selected region 22 and the rectangular region 26.

[0069] 8 is a configuration in which region of interest setting unit 10g sets a region obtained by excluding rectangular region 26 from region 25e of selected region 22 as region of interest 27. Region of interest setting unit 10g acquires region of interest image 80e in which region of interest 27 is set by excluding rectangular region 26 from region 25e of selected region 22. Region of interest setting unit 10g also outputs region of interest image 80e to first pixel value acquisition unit 10h.

[0070] The first pixel value acquiring unit 10h acquires, as the first pixel value 23, the average pixel value within the region of interest 27 in the region of interest image 80e.

[0071] <X-ray condition adjustment processing> Next, with reference to FIG. 9, a process in which the processor 10 (see FIG. 6) adjusts the X-ray conditions will be described.

[0072] In step 101, the region acquisition unit 10b (see FIG. 6) acquires the X-ray image 80 (see FIG. 6) generated by the image generation unit 10a (see FIG. 6).

[0073] In step 102, region acquirer 10b uses learning model 11 (see FIG. 6) to acquire region 25 (see FIG. 6) of each region 22 (see FIG. 1) appearing in X-ray image 80. In this embodiment, region acquirer 10b acquires region 25a (see FIG. 7) of bone tissue 22a (see FIG. 7), region 25b (see FIG. 7) of soft tissue 22b (see FIG. 7), region 25c (see FIG. 7) of artificial structure 22c (see FIG. 7), and region 25d (see FIG. 7) of background 22d (see FIG. 7).

[0074] In step 103, region of interest selection unit 10c (see FIG. 6) or region of interest setting unit 10g (see FIG. 6) selects region of interest 27 (see FIG. 6) based on imaging program 20 and region 25 of region 22. Details of the process by region of interest selection unit 10c or region of interest setting unit 10g to select region of interest 27 will be described later.

[0075] In step 104, the first pixel value acquisition unit 10h (see FIG. 6) acquires the first pixel value 23 (see FIG. 6). Specifically, the first pixel value acquisition unit 10h acquires the average pixel value within the region of interest 27 as the first pixel value 23.

[0076] In step 105, the X-ray condition adjusting unit 10d (see FIG. 6) acquires the ideal pixel value 24 (see FIG. 6) from the storage unit 4. Note that either the process of step 104 or the process of step 105 may be performed first.

[0077] In step 106, the X-ray condition adjustment unit 10d determines whether the difference between the first pixel value 23 and the ideal pixel value 24 is within the allowable range. If the difference between the first pixel value 23 and the ideal pixel value 24 is within the allowable range, the processing ends. In other words, if the difference between the first pixel value 23 and the ideal pixel value 24 is within the allowable range, the X-ray condition adjustment unit 10d does not adjust the X-ray conditions. Note that the difference between the first pixel value 23 and the ideal pixel value 24 being within the allowable range is a concept that includes a case where the pixel values ​​of both are completely the same and a case where the difference between the first pixel value 23 and the ideal pixel value 24 falls within a predetermined range.

[0078] If the first pixel value 23 and the ideal pixel value 24 are not equal, the process proceeds to step 107 .

[0079] In step 107, the X-ray condition adjusting unit 10d determines whether the first pixel value 23 is smaller than the ideal pixel value 24. If the first pixel value 23 is smaller than the ideal pixel value 24, the process proceeds to step 108. If the first pixel value 23 is larger than the ideal pixel value 24, the process proceeds to step 109.

[0080] In step 108, the X-ray condition adjuster 10d increases the tube voltage value 12. In this embodiment, the X-ray condition adjuster 10d increases the tube voltage value 12 by, for example, a preset value. The preset value is, for example, 10 kV (kilovolts). Then, the process ends.

[0081] Furthermore, when the process proceeds from step 107 to step 109, in step 109, the X-ray condition adjuster 10d decreases the tube voltage value 12. In this embodiment, the X-ray condition adjuster 10d decreases the tube voltage value 12 by, for example, a preset value. The preset value is, for example, 10 kV (kilovolts). Thereafter, the process ends.

[0082] In this embodiment, the processor 10 performs the processes of steps 101 to 109 for each frame that acquires the X-ray image 80, which is a moving image. Also, in this embodiment, as described above, the processor 10 increases or decreases the tube voltage value 12 in a stepwise manner so that the first pixel value 23 approaches the ideal pixel value 24, and repeatedly adjusts the X-ray conditions until the difference between the first pixel value 23 and the ideal pixel value 24 falls within an allowable range.

[0083] <Region of Interest Setting Process> Next, with reference to FIG. 10, a process in which the processor 10 (see FIG. 6) sets the region of interest 27 will be described.

[0084] In step 103a, the region designation receiving unit 10e (see FIG. 6) determines whether or not there is a region designation operation input 50a (see FIG. 6). If there is a region designation operation input 50a, the process proceeds to step 103b. If there is no region designation operation input 50a, the process proceeds to step 103e.

[0085] In step 103b, rectangular area setting unit 10f determines whether or not there is an operation input 50b (see FIG. 6) for setting rectangular area 26 (see FIG. 8). If there is an operation input 50b for setting rectangular area 26, the process proceeds to step 103c. If there is no operation input 50b for setting rectangular area 26, the process proceeds to step 103d.

[0086] In step 103c, region of interest setting unit 10g (see FIG. 6) sets region of interest 27 based on region 25e (see FIG. 6) of region 22e (see FIG. 6) to be selected as region of interest 27, which region 25e (see FIG. 6) is specified by region-specifying operation input 50a, and rectangular region 26 (see FIG. 6). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step 104.

[0087] When the process proceeds from step 103b to step 103d, in step 103d, region acquisition unit 10b (see FIG. 6) sets region 25e (see FIG. 6) of region 22e (see FIG. 6) to be selected from region 25 (see FIG. 6) of region 22 (see FIG. 1) by region designation operation input 50a (see FIG. 6) as region of interest 27. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step 104.

[0088] When the process proceeds from step 103a to step 103e, in step 103e, part acquirer 10b selects a predetermined region from region 25 of part 22 as region of interest 27. Specifically, part acquirer 10b selects a predetermined region from region 25 of part 22 as region of interest 27 based on imaging program 20 stored in storage unit 4 and imaging region 21. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step 104.

[0089] (Effects of this embodiment) In this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0090] In this embodiment, as described above, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 includes an X-ray source 1 that irradiates X-rays onto a subject 90, an X-ray detector 2 that detects the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source 1, an image generation unit 10a that generates an X-ray image 80 based on the X-ray detection signal detected by the X-ray detector 2, a region acquisition unit 10b that acquires a region 25 for each region 22 in the X-ray image 80 based on a learning model 11 that has been trained to classify regions 22 appearing in the X-ray image 80, a region of interest selection unit 10c that selects a region of interest 27 from the region 25 of the region 22 acquired by the region acquisition unit 10b, and an X-ray condition adjustment unit 10d that adjusts the conditions of the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source 1 based on a first pixel value 23, which is a pixel value within the region of interest 27 selected by the region of interest selection unit 10c.

[0091] As a result, the X-ray conditions are adjusted based on the first pixel values ​​23, which are pixel values ​​within the region of interest 27 among the regions classified into a plurality of regions 22 appearing in the X-ray image 80, and it is possible to prevent pixel values ​​of regions 22 other than the region of interest 27 from being included in the first pixel values ​​23. Therefore, it is possible to adjust the X-ray conditions based only on the first pixel values ​​23, and it is possible to easily set X-ray conditions suitable for the region 22 that the user wishes to view. As a result, by making it possible to easily adjust the X-ray conditions suitable for the region 22 that the user wishes to view, it is possible to prevent a decrease in visibility of the region 22 that the user wishes to view.

[0092] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the following additional effects can be obtained by configuring as follows.

[0093] That is, in this embodiment, as described above, the region acquirer 10b is configured to acquire regions classified into at least two of the region 25a of the bone tissue 22a, the region 25b of the soft tissue 22b, the region 25c of the artificial structure 22c, and the region 25d of the background 22d as the region 25 of the region 22. This makes it possible to provide an X-ray imaging device that can adjust the X-ray conditions so that the conditions are suitable for a region desired by the user among the region 25a of the bone tissue 22a, the region 25b of the soft tissue 22b, the region 25c of the artificial structure 22c, and the region 25d of the background 22d.

[0094] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, when a region of non-interest is included inside region 25 of region 22, region of interest selector 10c is configured to select a region obtained by excluding the region of non-interest from region 25 of region 22 as region of interest 27, and X-ray condition adjuster 10d is configured to adjust the X-ray conditions based on first pixel value 23 of region of interest 27 obtained by excluding the region of non-interest from region 25 of region 22. This makes it possible to prevent pixel values ​​of the region of non-interest from being included in pixel values ​​acquired as first pixel value 23, even when a region of non-interest is included inside region 25 of region 22. As a result, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the accuracy of adjustment of X-ray conditions due to pixel values ​​of the region of non-interest.

[0095] Furthermore, as described above, this embodiment further includes a storage unit 4 that stores the imaging region 21 of the subject 90 and the region 25 of the part 22 that has been preset as the region of interest 27 in an associated state, and the region of interest selection unit 10c is configured to select the region 25 of the part 22 that corresponds to the imaging region 21 as the region of interest 27. This allows the user to select only the imaging region 21, and thus select the region of interest 27, without selecting the part 22, unlike a configuration in which the user selects both the imaging region 21 and the part 22 when performing imaging. As a result, it is possible to prevent an increase in the number of user operation inputs when capturing the X-ray image 80, and therefore to prevent the operations when capturing the X-ray image 80 from becoming complicated.

[0096] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the learning model 11 includes a plurality of learning models 11 for each imaging region 21 that have been trained to classify the region 22 according to the imaging region 21, and the region acquisition unit 10b is configured to acquire the region 25 of the region 22 in the X-ray image 80 based on the learning model 11 corresponding to the imaging region 21 among the plurality of learning models 11. This allows the learning model 11 to perform learning appropriate for the imaging region 21 and the region 22 for each imaging region 21. As a result, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the accuracy of classification of the region 22 in each learning model 11, compared to a configuration in which one learning model 11 is trained to classify the region 22 according to a plurality of imaging regions 21.

[0097] As described above, this embodiment further includes an input receiving unit 5 that receives user operation input, and a region designation receiving unit 10e that receives designation of a region 25 of a region 22 to be selected as a region of interest 27 based on input from the input receiving unit 5. This allows the user to select a desired region 22 as a region of interest 27, even if, for example, a region 22e to be selected as a region of interest 27 is set in advance for each imaging region 21. As a result, it is possible to improve the degree of freedom in selecting a region 22e to be selected as a region of interest 27, thereby improving user convenience (usability).

[0098] Furthermore, as described above, this embodiment further includes an input receiving unit 5 that receives a user's operational input, a rectangular region setting unit 10f that sets a rectangular region 26 in an X-ray image 80 based on the operational input input by the input receiving unit 5, and a region of interest setting unit 10g that sets the rectangular region 26 set by the rectangular region setting unit 10f as a region of interest 27 based on the operational input input by the input receiving unit 5. This makes it possible to adjust the X-ray conditions without classifying the region 22 using the learning model 11, for example, when only one region 22 can be included within one rectangular region 26. As a result, it is possible to suppress an increase in the processing load on the processor 10 due to classifying the region 22 using the learning model 11.

[0099] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, when rectangular region 26 is set and one region of region 22 is selected, region of interest setting unit 10g is configured to set, as region of interest 27, region 25e of selected region 22 excluding rectangular region 26, or both region 25e of selected region 22 and rectangular region 26. As a result, the region of selected region 22 excluding rectangular region 26 is set as region of interest 27. Therefore, for example, if the learning model 11 has low classification accuracy of region 22 and region 25e of selected region 22 includes region 25 of another region 22, setting rectangular region 26 in region 25e of selected region 22 that includes the other region 22 can further prevent regions of non-interest from being included in region of interest 27. As a result, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the accuracy of adjustment of X-ray conditions. Furthermore, since both region 25e of selected body part 22 and rectangular region 26 are set as region of interest 27, regions other than selected body part 22 can also be included in region of interest 27. As a result, it is possible to set region of interest 27 to include not only region 25 of body part 22 classified by learning model 11 but also rectangular region 26 set by the user, thereby improving user convenience (usability).

[0100] Furthermore, as described above, this embodiment further includes a storage unit 4 that stores ideal pixel values ​​24, which are ideal pixel values ​​set in advance for each imaging region 21 of the subject 90, and the X-ray condition adjustment unit 10d is configured to adjust the X-ray conditions so that the first pixel value 23 approaches the ideal pixel value 24. As a result, the X-ray conditions are adjusted so that the first pixel value 23 approaches the ideal pixel value 24 in the imaging region 21, thereby improving the image quality of the part 22 selected as the region of interest 27 in the X-ray image 80.

[0101] In this embodiment, as described above, the X-ray conditions include at least the tube voltage, so that the X-ray source 1 can irradiate the region of interest 27 with X-rays having an intensity and energy suitable for the region of interest 27 by adjusting the tube voltage that contributes to the intensity and energy of the X-rays emitted from the X-ray source 1.

[0102] (Variation) The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the description of the above embodiments, and includes all modifications (variations) within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0103] For example, in the above embodiment, an example of a configuration was shown in which region acquirer 10b acquires regions 25 of region 22 classified into at least two of region 25a of bone tissue 22a, region 25b of soft tissue 22b, region 25c of artificial structure 22c, and region 25d of background 22d, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, region acquirer 10b may be configured to acquire regions classified into regions including regions other than the above four regions (for example, regions of blood vessels into which a contrast agent has been administered).

[0104] In the above embodiment, an example of a configuration in which the X-ray imaging device 100 includes a plurality of learning models 11 that have been trained to classify the regions 22 according to the imaging regions 21 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the X-ray imaging device 100 may include one learning model that has been trained to classify the regions 22 according to the plurality of imaging regions 21.

[0105] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example of a configuration in which the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 includes the region designation receiving unit 10e has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 does not have to include the region designation receiving unit 10e. However, if the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 does not include the region designation receiving unit 10e, it will not be possible to adjust the X-ray conditions to be suitable for a region 22 other than the region 22 previously set according to the imaging region 21. For this reason, it is preferable that the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 includes the region designation receiving unit 10e.

[0106] In the above embodiment, an example of a configuration in which X-ray imaging apparatus 100 includes rectangular region setting unit 10f and region of interest setting unit 10g has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, X-ray imaging apparatus 100 does not necessarily include rectangular region setting unit 10f and region of interest setting unit 10g. However, if X-ray imaging apparatus 100 does not include rectangular region setting unit 10f and region of interest setting unit 10g, the degree of freedom in setting region of interest 27 may be reduced. Therefore, it is preferable that X-ray imaging apparatus 100 includes rectangular region setting unit 10f and region of interest setting unit 10g.

[0107] In the above embodiment, an example of a configuration has been shown in which region of interest setting unit 10g sets, as region of interest 27, a region obtained by excluding rectangular region 26 from region 25e of selected portion 22, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, for example, region of interest setting unit 10g may be configured to set both region 25e of selected portion 22 and rectangular region 26 as region of interest 27.

[0108] In the above embodiment, an example of a configuration has been shown in which region of interest setting unit 10g sets, as region of interest 27, a region obtained by excluding rectangular region 26 from region 25e of selected part 22, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, region of interest setting unit 10g may be configured to set, as region of interest 27, rectangular region 26 set by a user's operational input.

[0109] In addition, in the above embodiment, an example of a configuration in which the X-ray condition adjusting unit 10d adjusts the value 12 of the tube voltage as an X-ray condition has been shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, for example, the X-ray condition adjusting unit 10d may be configured to adjust at least one of the value of the tube current and the value of the X-ray irradiation time as an X-ray condition.

[0110] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example of a configuration has been shown in which region designation receiving unit 10e sets region 22 selected by the user on region selection screen 31 as region 22e to be selected as region of interest 27, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, region designation receiving unit 10e may be configured to set region 22 selected by the user in X-ray image 80 as region 22e to be selected as region of interest 27, for example.

[0111] In the above embodiment, the X-ray imaging device 100 is configured as a so-called X-ray fluoroscopic imaging device that captures the X-ray image 80 as a moving image, but the present invention is not limited to this. The X-ray imaging device 100 may be configured as a so-called general imaging device that captures the X-ray image 80 as a still image.

[0112] In the above embodiment, an example of a configuration in which the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 is installed in an examination room or the like has been shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, for example, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 may be configured as a so-called mobile imaging apparatus that is moved to a hospital room or the like to perform X-ray imaging.

[0113] [Aspect] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the exemplary embodiments described above are examples of the following aspects.

[0114] (Item 1) an X-ray source that irradiates the subject with X-rays; an X-ray detector that detects X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source; an image generating unit that generates an X-ray image based on a detection signal of the X-ray detected by the X-ray detector; a region acquisition unit that acquires regions for each region in the X-ray image based on a learning model that has been trained to classify regions shown in the X-ray image; a region of interest selection unit that selects a region of interest from the region of the part acquired by the part acquisition unit; an X-ray condition adjustment unit that adjusts the conditions of X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source based on a first pixel value, which is a pixel value within the region of interest selected by the region of interest selection unit.

[0115] (Item 2) The X-ray imaging device described in item 1, wherein the part acquisition unit is configured to acquire areas classified into at least two of a bone tissue area, a soft tissue area, an artificial object area, and a background area as the area of ​​the part.

[0116] (Item 3) the region of interest selection unit is configured to, when a region of non-interest is included inside the region of the part, select a region of the part excluding the region of non-interest as the region of interest; Item 3. The X-ray imaging apparatus according to item 2, wherein the X-ray condition adjustment unit is configured to adjust the X-ray conditions based on the first pixel value of the region of interest excluding the region of non-interest from the region of the part.

[0117] (Item 4) a storage unit that stores an imaging region of the subject and a region of the part that has been preset as the region of interest in a correlated state; 3. The X-ray imaging apparatus according to item 2, wherein the region of interest selection unit is configured to select, as the region of interest, a region of the part corresponding to the imaging region.

[0118] (Item 5) the learning model includes a plurality of learning models for each of the imaging regions that have been trained to classify the body parts according to the imaging regions; Item 5. The X-ray imaging device according to item 4, wherein the part acquisition unit is configured to acquire the area of ​​the part in the X-ray image based on a learning model corresponding to the imaging area among the plurality of learning models.

[0119] (Item 6) an input receiving unit that receives an operation input from a user; Item 3. The X-ray imaging apparatus according to item 2, further comprising: a region designation receiving unit that receives designation of a region of the region to be selected as the region of interest based on input from the input receiving unit.

[0120] (Item 7) an input receiving unit that receives an operation input from a user; a rectangular area setting unit that sets a rectangular area in the X-ray image based on an operation input inputted by the input receiving unit; Item 3. The X-ray imaging apparatus according to item 2, further comprising: a region of interest setting unit that sets the rectangular region set by the rectangular region setting unit as the region of interest based on an operation input input by the input receiving unit.

[0121] (Item 8) Item 8. The X-ray imaging apparatus according to item 7, wherein the region of interest setting unit is configured to, when the rectangular region is set and one of the regions of the body parts is selected, set the region of the selected body part excluding the rectangular region, or both the region of the selected body part and the rectangular region, as the region of interest.

[0122] (Item 9) a storage unit that stores ideal pixel values ​​that are ideal pixel values ​​that are set in advance for each imaging region of the subject; 2. The X-ray imaging apparatus according to item 1, wherein the X-ray condition adjustment unit is configured to adjust the X-ray conditions so that the first pixel value approaches the ideal pixel value.

[0123] (Item 10) 2. The X-ray imaging apparatus according to item 1, wherein the X-ray conditions include at least a tube voltage. [Explanation of symbols]

[0124] 1 X-ray source 2 X-ray detection unit 4 Storage section 5 Input reception section 10a Image generation unit 10b Part acquisition part 10c Region of interest selection section 10d X-ray condition adjustment section 10e Body Part Designation Reception 10f Rectangular area setting section 10g Region of interest setting section 11 Learning Model 21 Shooting Area 22 parts 22a Bone tissue 22b Soft tissue 22c Artifacts 22d background 22e Areas to select as regions of interest 23 First pixel value 24 Ideal pixel value 25 areas 25a Bone tissue area 25b Soft tissue area 25c Artificial Realm 25d Background Area 25e Area selected as region of interest 26 Rectangular Areas 27 Areas of Interest 80 X-ray images 90 subjects 100 X-ray equipment

Claims

1. an X-ray source for irradiating the subject with X-rays; an X-ray detector that detects X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source; an image generating unit that generates an X-ray image based on a detection signal of the X-rays detected by the X-ray detector; a region acquisition unit that acquires regions for each region in the X-ray image based on a learning model that has been trained to classify regions shown in the X-ray image; a region of interest selection unit that selects a region of interest from the region of the part acquired by the part acquisition unit; an X-ray condition adjustment unit that adjusts the conditions of X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source based on a first pixel value that is a pixel value within the region of interest selected by the region of interest selection unit.

2. 2. The X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the region acquisition unit is configured to acquire, as the region of the region, regions classified into at least two of a bone tissue region, a soft tissue region, an artificial object region, and a background region.

3. the region of interest selection unit is configured to, when a region of non-interest is included inside the region of the part, select a region of the part excluding the region of non-interest as the region of interest; 3. The X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the X-ray condition adjustment unit is configured to adjust the X-ray conditions based on the first pixel value of the region of interest obtained by excluding the region of non-interest from the region of the part.

4. a storage unit that stores an imaging region of the subject and a region of the part that has been preset as the region of interest in a correlated state; The X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the region of interest selection unit is configured to select, as the region of interest, a region of the part corresponding to the imaging region.

5. the learning model includes a plurality of learning models for each of the imaging regions that have been trained to classify the body parts according to the imaging regions; The X-ray imaging device according to claim 4 , wherein the part acquisition unit is configured to acquire the area of ​​the part in the X-ray image based on the learning model corresponding to the imaging area among the plurality of learning models.

6. an input receiving unit that receives an operation input from a user; The X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 2 , further comprising: a region designation receiving unit that receives designation of a region of the region to be selected as the region of interest based on an input from the input receiving unit.

7. an input receiving unit that receives an operation input from a user; a rectangular area setting unit that sets a rectangular area in the X-ray image based on an operation input inputted by the input receiving unit; The X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 2 , further comprising: a region of interest setting unit that sets the rectangular region set by the rectangular region setting unit as the region of interest based on an operation input input by the input receiving unit.

8. 8. The X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 7, wherein when the rectangular region is set and one of the regions of the body parts is selected, the region of interest setting unit is configured to set, as the region of interest, the region of the selected body part excluding the rectangular region, or both the region of the selected body part and the rectangular region.

9. a storage unit that stores ideal pixel values ​​that are ideal pixel values ​​that are set in advance for each imaging region of the subject; The X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the X-ray condition adjustment unit is configured to adjust the X-ray conditions so that the first pixel value approaches the ideal pixel value.

10. The X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the X-ray conditions include at least a tube voltage.

Images