Medical imaging diagnostic equipment and video projection equipment

Abstract

To reduce a feeling of pressure and a cooped-up feeling in a bore.SOLUTION: A medical image diagnostic device includes a moving body, a top plate, a screen, a first frame, a second frame, a posture estimation part, a rotation amount determination part, and a projector control part. The moving body can move in a bore along a central axis of the bore formed on a trestle equipped with a medical imaging mechanism for imaging a subject. The top plate can be inserted into the bore. The screen is provided in the moving body, and a video from a projector is projected on it. The first frame is connected to the moving body, and is disposed on a projector side with respect to the screen. The second frame supports a reflection plate, and is movable along the first frame. The posture estimation part estimates the posture of the subject on the basis of the position of the reflection plate with respect to the screen or the direction of the head of the subject. The rotation amount determination part determines a rotation amount of the video on the basis of the posture. The projector control part controls the projector so as to rotate the video according to the rotation amount.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to a medical image diagnostic device and an image projection device. [Background technology]

[0002] A magnetic resonance imaging device has a gantry equipped with an imaging mechanism such as a magnet. The gantry has a roughly hollow bore. MR (Magnetic Resonance) imaging is performed with a patient inserted into the bore. Although gantry with a relatively large bore diameter have been developed, many patients find MR examinations stressful due to the long MR imaging time, the noise generated while the gantry is moving, and the feeling of pressure and claustrophobia inside the bore.

[0003] To reduce the sense of pressure and blockage inside the bore, a device has been proposed that projects an image onto a screen from a projector and allows the patient to view the image through a mirror. However, this device projects the image in a fixed direction, and the mirror is positioned to match this direction, so the patient can only view the image while lying on their back. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-195841 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to reduce the feeling of pressure and blockage in the bore. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described below can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A medical image diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment includes a moving body, a top plate, a screen, a first frame, a second frame, a posture estimation unit, a rotation amount determination unit, and a projector control unit. The moving body is movable within a bore formed in a gantry equipped with a medical imaging mechanism for imaging a subject along the central axis of the bore. The top plate is insertable into the bore. A screen is provided on the moving body, and an image from a projector is projected onto the screen. The first frame is connected to the moving body and is positioned on the projector side relative to the screen. The second frame supports a reflector and is movable along the first frame. The posture estimation unit estimates the posture of the subject based on the position of the reflector relative to the screen or the orientation of the subject's head. The rotation amount determination unit determines the amount of rotation of the image based on the posture. The projector control unit controls the projector to rotate the image according to the rotation amount. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a medical image diagnostic system including a medical image diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an installation environment of a magnetic resonance imaging system according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a movable screen device according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] 5 is a side view of the mobile screen device of FIG. 4. FIG. [Figure 6] 6 is a front view of the mobile screen device of FIG. 4. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the movable screen device and the top plate connected together according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a front view of the movable screen device relating to the embodiment and showing the movement of the reflector along the first frame. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a fixing operation by a fixing mechanism according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure in an image rotation process according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, a medical image diagnostic apparatus according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having substantially the same functions and configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be given only when necessary.

[0009] (Embodiment) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a medical image diagnostic system 1 including a medical image diagnostic apparatus 10 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the medical image diagnostic system 1 includes the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10, a projector 100, and a projector control device 200, which are communicatively connected to each other via wired or wireless communication. The medical image diagnostic apparatus 10 includes a gantry 11, a bed 13, a movable screen device 15, and an imaging control unit 17. For example, the gantry 11, the bed 13, and the movable screen device 15 are installed in an examination room, and the imaging control unit 17 is installed in a control room adjacent to the examination room. The gantry 11 is equipped with a mechanism for performing medical imaging. A hollow bore is formed in the gantry 11. The bed 13 is installed in front of the gantry 11. The bed 13 movably supports a tabletop on which a subject P is placed. The bed 13 moves the tabletop under the control of the gantry 11, a console, and the like. A movable screen device 15 is movably provided within the bore of the stand 11. A projector 100 is installed in front or behind the stand 11. An image from the projector 100 is projected onto the movable screen device 15.

[0010] The projector control device 200 is a computer device that controls the projector 100. The projector control device 200 supplies data related to an image to be projected to the projector 100. The projector 100 projects an image corresponding to the data from the projector control device 200 onto the screen of the movable screen device 15. The projector 100 is equipped with at least a display device and a light source. The display device displays an image corresponding to the data from the projector control device 200. The light source irradiates light onto the display device directly or indirectly via an optical system. Light transmitted through or reflected from the display device (hereinafter referred to as projection light) is emitted outside the projector 100 directly or indirectly via an optical system. When the projection light is irradiated onto the movable screen device 15, an image corresponding to the projection light is displayed on the movable screen device 15.

[0011] The imaging control unit 17 functions as the core of the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10. For example, the imaging control unit 17 controls the gantry 11 to perform medical imaging. The imaging control unit 17 also reconstructs a medical image of the subject P based on raw data collected by the gantry 11 during medical imaging. The imaging control unit 17 may be configured to be able to control the projector 100 via the projector control device 200. The configuration of the medical image diagnostic system 1 in this embodiment is not limited to the above.

[0012] The medical image diagnostic system 1 according to this embodiment utilizes a projector 100 and a movable screen device 15 to improve occupancy within the bore during medical imaging by the medical image diagnostic device 10. The medical image diagnostic device 10 according to this embodiment may be any device capable of imaging a subject P using a gantry 11 having a bore. Specifically, the medical image diagnostic device 10 according to this embodiment may be applied to a single modality such as an MRI device, an X-ray computed tomography (CT) device, a positron emission tomography (PET) device, or a single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) device. Alternatively, the medical image diagnostic device 10 according to this embodiment may be applied to a combined modality such as an MR / PET device, a CT / PET device, an MR / SPECT device, or a CT / SPECT device. However, for the sake of specificity in the following description, the medical image diagnostic device 10 according to this embodiment is assumed to be a magnetic resonance imaging device 10. Furthermore, the medical image diagnostic system 1 including the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10, the projector 100, and the projector control device 200 will be referred to as the magnetic resonance imaging system 1.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 includes an imaging control unit 17, a gantry 11, a bed 13, and a movable screen device 15. The imaging control unit 17 includes a gradient magnetic field power supply 21, a transmission circuit 23, a reception circuit 25, and a console 27. The console 27 includes an imaging control circuit 31, a processing circuit 30, a communication interface 34, a display 35, an input interface 36, and a memory 37. The imaging control circuit 31, the processing circuit 30, the communication interface 34, the display 35, the input interface 36, and the memory 37 are communicatively connected to one another via a bus. The gradient magnetic field power supply 21, the transmission circuit 23, and the reception circuit 25 are provided separately from the console 27 and the gantry 11.

[0014] The gantry 11 has a static magnetic field magnet 41, a gradient magnetic field coil 43, and an RF coil 45. The static magnetic field magnet 41 and the gradient magnetic field coil 43 are housed in a housing 51 of the gantry 11 (hereinafter referred to as the gantry housing). The RF coil 45 is disposed in a bore 53 of the gantry housing 51. The movable screen device 15 according to this embodiment is disposed in the bore 53 of the gantry housing 51.

[0015] The static magnetic field magnet 41, the gradient magnetic field coil 43, the RF coil 45, etc. correspond to the medical imaging mechanism. When the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10 is a modality such as a CT device, a PET device, a SPECT device, a CT / PET device, an MR / PET device, an MR / SPECT device, or a CT / SPECT device, the medical imaging mechanism corresponds to a set of various imaging devices mounted on the gantry of these modalities.

[0016] The static magnetic field magnet 41 has a hollow, approximately cylindrical shape and generates a static magnetic field inside the approximately cylinder. For example, a permanent magnet, a superconducting magnet, or a normal-conducting magnet may be used as the static magnetic field magnet 41. Here, the central axis of the static magnetic field magnet 41 is defined as the Z axis, the axis perpendicular to the Z axis is called the Y axis, and the axis horizontally perpendicular to the Z axis is called the X axis. The X axis, Y axis, and Z axis form an orthogonal three-dimensional coordinate system.

[0017] The gradient magnetic field coil 43 is a hollow, approximately cylindrical coil unit attached to the inside of the static magnetic field magnet 41. The gradient magnetic field coil 43 receives a current from the gradient magnetic field power supply 21 to generate a gradient magnetic field.

[0018] The gradient magnetic field power supply 21 supplies a current to the gradient magnetic field coil 43 under the control of the imaging control circuit 31. The gradient magnetic field power supply 21 supplies a current to the gradient magnetic field coil 43, thereby causing the gradient magnetic field coil 43 to generate a gradient magnetic field.

[0019] The RF coil 45 is disposed inside the gradient magnetic field coil 43, and generates a high-frequency magnetic field upon receiving RF pulses from the transmission circuit 23. The RF coil 45 also receives magnetic resonance signals (hereinafter referred to as MR signals) emitted from target nuclei present in the subject P under the action of the high-frequency magnetic field. The received MR signals are supplied to the reception circuit 25 via wire or wirelessly. Although the above-mentioned RF coil 45 is a coil having a transmission and reception function, a transmission RF coil and a reception RF coil may be provided separately.

[0020] The transmission circuitry 23 transmits a radio frequency magnetic field for exciting target nuclei, such as protons, present in the subject P to the subject P via the RF coil 45. Specifically, the transmission circuitry 23 supplies a radio frequency signal (RF signal) for exciting the target nuclei to the RF coil 45 under the control of the imaging control circuitry 31. The radio frequency magnetic field generated from the RF coil 45 oscillates at a resonance frequency specific to the target nuclei, exciting the target nuclei. An MR signal is generated from the excited target nuclei and detected by the RF coil 45. The detected MR signal is supplied to the reception circuitry 25.

[0021] The receiving circuitry 25 receives MR signals generated from the excited target nuclei via the RF coil 45. The receiving circuitry 25 processes the received MR signals to generate digital MR signals (hereinafter referred to as MR data). The MR data is output to the processing circuitry 30 via the imaging control circuitry 31.

[0022] A bed 13 is installed adjacent to the gantry 11. The bed 13 has a top plate 131 and a base 133. A subject P is placed on the top plate 131. The base 133 supports the top plate 131 so that it can slide along the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis. A bed driving device 135 is housed in the base 133. The bed driving device 135 moves the top plate 131 under control of the imaging control circuit 31. Any motor such as a servo motor or a stepping motor may be used as the bed driving device 135. This allows the top plate 131 to be inserted into the bore 53.

[0023] The imaging control circuit 31 controls the gradient magnetic field power supply 21, the transmission circuit 23, the reception circuit 25, etc. in accordance with the imaging protocol output from the processing circuit 30, and performs imaging of the subject P. The imaging protocol has a pulse sequence according to the type of examination. The imaging protocol defines the magnitude of the current supplied to the gradient magnetic field coil 43 by the gradient magnetic field power supply 21, the timing at which the gradient magnetic field power supply 21 supplies the current to the gradient magnetic field coil 43, the magnitude and time width of the radio frequency pulse supplied to the RF coil 45 by the transmission circuit 23, the timing at which the radio frequency pulse is supplied to the RF coil 45 by the transmission circuit 23, the timing at which the MR signal is received by the RF coil 45, etc. The imaging control circuit 31 synchronously controls the gradient magnetic field power supply 21, the transmission circuit 23, and the reception circuit 25 based on the pulse sequence supplied from the system control function 301, and images the subject P with the pulse sequence according to the pulse sequence information.

[0024] The imaging control circuit 31 drives the gradient magnetic field power supply 21, the transmission circuit 23, the reception circuit 25, etc. to image the subject P, and when it receives MR data from the reception circuit 25, it transfers the received MR data to the processing circuit 30, etc.

[0025] The imaging control circuit 31 is realized by, for example, a processor. The term "processor" refers to a circuit such as a CPU, a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA)).

[0026] If the processor is a CPU, for example, the processor realizes its functions by reading and executing a program stored in memory 37. On the other hand, if the processor is an ASIC, instead of storing a program in memory 37, the function is directly incorporated into the processor circuit as a logic circuit. Note that each processor in this embodiment is not limited to being configured as a single circuit, but may be configured as a single processor by combining multiple independent circuits to realize its functions. Also, although the description has been given assuming that a single storage circuit stores a program corresponding to each processing function, multiple storage circuits may be distributed and arranged, and the processing circuit may read the corresponding program from each storage circuit.

[0027] The communication interface 34 performs data communication with the projector control device 200 or the projector 100 via a wired or wireless connection (not shown). The communication interface 34 may also perform data communication with external devices such as a server for a medical image management system (Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS)) or a server for a hospital information system (hereinafter referred to as an HIS (Hospital Information System)), which are connected via a network (not shown). The communication interface 34 may also perform data communication with devices (described below) attached to the movable screen device 15.

[0028] The display 35 displays various information. For example, the display 35 displays MR images reconstructed by the reconstruction function 303 and MR images processed by the image processing function 305. The display 35 may also display images projected by the projector 100.

[0029] The input interface 36 accepts various commands from the user. The input interface 36 may be a keyboard, a mouse, various switches, or the like. The input interface 36 supplies input signals input by user instructions to the processing circuit 30 via a bus. Note that the input interface 36 is not limited to interfaces equipped with physical operation components such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, the input interface 36 also includes an electrical signal processing circuit that receives electrical signals corresponding to input operations from an external input device provided separately from the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 and outputs the received electrical signals to various circuits.

[0030] The memory 37 is realized by a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or an integrated circuit storage device that stores various information. The memory 37 may also be realized by a drive or the like that reads and writes various information from and to a portable storage medium such as a CD-ROM drive, a DVD drive, or a flash memory. For example, the memory 37 stores MR images, a control program for the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10, and the like.

[0031] The processing circuit 30 is realized by the above-mentioned processor or the like. The processing circuit 30 includes a system control function 301, a reconstruction function 303, an image processing function 305, an attitude estimation function 307, a rotation amount determination function 309, and a projector control function 311. The processing circuit 30, which respectively realizes the system control function 301, the reconstruction function 303, the image processing function 305, the attitude estimation function 307, the rotation amount determination function 309, and the projector control function 311, corresponds to a system control unit, a reconstruction unit, an image processing unit, an attitude estimation unit, a rotation amount determination unit, and a projector control unit. Each function, such as the system control function 301, the reconstruction function 303, the image processing function 305, the attitude estimation function 307, the rotation amount determination function 309, and the projector control function 311, is stored in the memory 37 in the form of a computer-executable program.

[0032] For example, the processing circuitry 30 realizes the functions corresponding to each program by reading and executing the programs from the memory 37. In other words, after each program has been read, the processing circuitry 30 has functions such as a system control function 301, a reconstruction function 303, an image processing function 305, an attitude estimation function 307, a rotation amount determination function 309, and a projector control function 311.

[0033] The processing circuitry 30 controls the entire magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 using a system control function 301. Specifically, the system control function 301 reads out a control program stored in a memory 37, expands it on the memory, and controls each part of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 in accordance with the expanded control program. For example, the system control function 301 reads out an imaging protocol from the memory 37 based on imaging conditions input by an operator via the input interface 36. The system control function 301 transmits the imaging protocol to an imaging control circuit 31 and controls imaging of the subject P.

[0034] The processing circuitry 30 reconstructs an MR image of the subject P based on the MR data from the receiving circuitry 25 using the reconstruction function 303. For example, the reconstruction function 303 performs a Fourier transform or the like on the MR data arranged in the k-space or frequency space to generate an MR image defined in real space.

[0035] The processing circuitry 30 performs various image processing on the reconstructed MR image using an image processing function 305. The image processing function 305 may be realized by an ASIC, FPGA, CPLD, or SPLD. The processing contents of the posture estimation function 307, rotation amount determination function 309, and projector control function 311 realized by the processing circuitry 30 will be described later.

[0036] The magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 of this embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0037] First, the installation environment of the magnetic resonance imaging system 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the installation environment of the magnetic resonance imaging system 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 3, the installation environment of the magnetic resonance imaging system 1 includes an examination room 300 where MR imaging is performed and a control room 400 adjacent to the examination room 300. A gantry 11 and a bed 13 are installed in the examination room 300. The bed 13 is installed in front of the gantry 11. A movable screen device 15 is provided in a bore 53 of the gantry 11.

[0038] The examination room 300 is a shielded room capable of shielding against leakage magnetic fields from the gantry 11 and external electromagnetic fields. The examination room 300 is provided with a door D1 for entry and exit. A door D2 is provided between the examination room 300 and the control room 400 for movement between the examination room 300 and the control room 400. A console 27, a projector 100, and a projector control device 200 are installed in the control room 400. The projector 100 is installed behind the gantry 11, separated by a wall 500 between the examination room 300 and the control room 400. A camera capable of photographing the subject P or a camera capable of photographing a reflector 67 of a moving object 61 (described later) may be installed on the wall or ceiling of the examination room 300. The camera capable of photographing at least one of the subject P and the reflector 67 may be installed on the inner wall of the gantry housing 51. In this case, the camera photographs the inside of the bore 53. Data output from the camera (hereinafter referred to as photographed data) is output from the camera to the processing circuit 30 wirelessly or via a wire.

[0039] A window 510 that allows the projection light LP to pass through is provided in a portion of the wall 500 through which the projection light LP propagates from the projector 100 toward the movable screen device 15. The projection light LP can be propagated from the projector 100 installed in the control room 400 to the movable screen device 15 in the inspection room 300 through the window 510. The control room 400 should also be provided with a door D3 for entering and exiting the room.

[0040] The above layout is an example and is not limiting. For example, although the projector 100, the projector control device 200, and the console 27 are installed in the control room 400, the console 27 and the projector control device 200 may be installed in a room separate from the projector 100. Furthermore, if the projector 100 can be made of a material that is not affected by magnetic fields, the projector 100 may be installed in the examination room 300. Furthermore, in addition to the examination room 300 and the control room 400, a machine room for installing the gradient magnetic field power supply 21 and the receiving circuit 25 may be provided.

[0041] A rail 55 parallel to the central axis Z of the bore 53 is formed at the bottom of the bore 53 of the gantry housing 51. The rail 55 is a structure that guides the sliding of the tabletop 131 and the movable screen device 15 along the central axis Z. The rail 55 is provided on the inner wall of the gantry housing 51 that contacts the bore 53. The rail 55 is made of a non-magnetic material that does not act on the magnetic field used in magnetic resonance imaging. Here, with respect to the Z axis, the direction from the bed side toward the projector side is defined as the +Z-axis direction, and the direction from the projector side toward the bed side is defined as the -Z-axis direction.

[0042] Next, the structure of the movable screen device 15 will be described with reference to Figures 4 to 7. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the movable screen device 15 according to this embodiment. Figure 5 is a side view of the movable screen device 15. Figure 6 is a front view of the movable screen device 15. Figure 7 is a perspective view of adjacent movable screen devices 15 and a top plate 131.

[0043] As shown in FIGS. 4 to 7 , the movable screen device 15 includes a movable body 61, a screen 63, a first frame 651, a second frame 653, and a reflector 67. The movable body 61 is a structure (a movable carriage) that moves along rails 55 attached to the inner wall 57 of the gantry housing 51. Wheels (not shown) that roll on the rails 55 are attached to the bottom of the movable body 61 to improve its running performance on the rails 55. Note that, as long as the movable body 61 can run on the rails 55, wheels are not necessarily required; the surface that contacts the rails 55 may be made of a material with a low coefficient of friction. Furthermore, instead of the rails 55 and wheels, guides such as linear bearings may be provided. With this configuration, the movable body 61 can move within the bore 53 along the central axis Z of the bore 53 formed in the gantry 11, which is equipped with a medical imaging mechanism for imaging the subject P. The movable body 61 supports the screen 63 and the first frame 651. The moving body 61 is made of a non-magnetic material such as resin that does not act on a magnetic field.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 7, for example, the moving body 61 and the top plate 131 may be adjacent to each other. In this case, the moving body 61 can move within the bore 53 along the central axis Z of the bore 53 together with the top plate 131. That is, the moving body 61 can move within the bore 53 along the central axis Z of the bore 53 formed in the gantry 11 that is equipped with a medical imaging mechanism for imaging the subject P. A subject fixing device 137 is attached to the front part (+Z-axis direction side) of the top plate 131. The subject fixing device 137 fixes the head of the subject P placed on the top plate 131. The subject fixing device 137 has a curved shape so that it can cover the back of the head without obstructing the field of view of the subject P placed supine on the top plate 131. That is, the front side of the subject fixing device 137 is open.

[0045] It should be noted that subject fixing device 137 connected to moving body 61 is not limited to a device that fixes the head of subject P in a supine position. For example, subject fixing device 137 connected to moving body 61 may fix the head of subject P placed on top board 131 in a prone or lateral position. For example, when subject fixing device 137 fixes the head of a subject placed on top board 131 in a prone position, moving body 61 or top board 131 is provided with a reflecting plate (hereinafter referred to as a lower mirror) that allows the subject in a prone position to view the image projected on screen 63. This allows the subject in a prone position to view the image projected on screen 63 via the lower mirror provided on moving body 61 or top board 131.

[0046] As shown in FIGS. 4 to 7 , the screen 63 is provided on the moving body 61. An image from the projector 100 is projected onto the screen 63. Specifically, the image from the projector 100 is projected onto the screen 63 from the side opposite the side where the tabletop 131 is inserted into the bore 53. That is, the projector 100 is disposed on the opposite side of the screen 63 from the bed 13. Here, the surface of the screen 63 facing the projector 100 will be referred to as the back side, and the surface facing the bed 13 will be referred to as the front side. To project an image onto the front side, the screen 63 is preferably made of a translucent material. Examples of such a translucent material include translucent plastic and frosted glass. By forming the screen 63 from a translucent material, projection light emitted from the projector 100 is irradiated onto the back side of the screen 63, and an image corresponding to the projection light is projected onto the front side. As a result, the subject P and the like can view the image projected onto the front side from the bed 13 side through a reflector 67.

[0047] The screen 63 may be of a type having a flat shape or a type having a curved shape. If it has a curved shape, it is preferable that the concave surface faces the bed 13, that is, that it is disposed so as to form the surface. By facing the concave surface toward the bed 13, it becomes possible for the screen 63 to cover the area behind the head of the subject P placed on the tabletop 131. This makes it possible for the subject P's field of view to be filled with the image projected on the screen 63, allowing the subject P to be immersed in the image.

[0048] 6, the first frame 651 has an outer diameter RS ​​that is smaller than the diameter RB of the inner wall 57 that contacts the bore 53 of the gantry housing 51. By designing the outer diameter RS ​​to be smaller than the inner diameter RB in this way, the movable screen device 15 can be inserted into the bore 53. Note that air flows through the bore 53 from a ventilation fan (not shown) provided on the gantry 11. By providing a gap G1 between the edge of the screen 63 and the inner wall 57, it is possible to prevent the screen 63 from blocking the air sent out from the ventilation fan.

[0049] 4, 5, and 7, the two connection points 66 between the first frame 651 and the moving body 61 are located on the projector side of the screen 63 in a state where the subject P placed on the top board 131 can view the image through the reflector 67. Furthermore, the connection points 66 between the first frame 651 and the moving body 61 are provided at positions on the moving body 61 that do not block the image projected onto the screen 63 from the projector 100.

[0050] The first frame 651 is connected to the moving body 61. The first frame 651 is provided on the moving body 61 so as to be movable along the central axis Z. In addition to the above, the first frame 651 supports the second frame 653 so as to be movable in an outer shape direction along the outer shape of the first frame 651 (in other words, in an outer circumferential direction along the outer periphery). The structure of the second frame 653 will be described in detail later. At least one of the first frame 651 and the second frame 653 may be made of a transparent material. More preferably, the first frame 651 and the second frame 653 are made of a transparent material. This can reduce the feeling of pressure on the subject P caused by the first frame 651 and the second frame 653.

[0051] 4, 5, and 7, the first frame 651 is connected to the moving body 61 at a connection point 66, and is disposed on the projector side of the screen 63. In this case, the position of the first frame 651 is outside the field of view of the subject P placed on the tabletop 131. The first frame 651 has, for example, a curved shape that follows the inner wall 57 of the bore 53. The shape of the first frame 651 is not limited to the above-mentioned arc, as long as it does not block the image projected from the projector 100 onto the screen 63.

[0052] 4 to 7, the second frame 653 is supported by the first frame 651 via a connecting frame 655 so as to be movable along the first frame 651. The second frame 653 supports a reflector 67 that reflects the image projected onto the screen 63. The second frame 653 passes through the gap between the outer edge of the screen 63 and the inner wall 57 of the bore 53. In other words, the second frame 653 supports the reflector 67 from the first frame 651 beyond the screen 63.

[0053] For example, the second frame 653 supports the reflector 67 across the screen 63 by passing through the gap between the outer edge of the screen 63 and the inner wall 57 of the bore 53. Specifically, the second frame 653 is configured with two arms parallel to the central axis Z of the bore 53 in the gap between the inner wall 57 of the bore 53 and the screen 63. The second frame 653 uses these two arms to support the reflector 67 rotatably around an axis perpendicular to the Z axis. In this case, the cross-sectional shape of each of the two arms has, for example, a curved shape that follows the inner wall 57 of the bore 53. This makes it possible to adjust the angle of the reflector 67 appropriately around the rotation axis.

[0054] The second frame 653 may be supported by the first frame 651 so as to be movable toward the projector along the central axis Z of the bore 53. In this case, for example, a linear bearing is provided between the second frame 653 and the connecting frame 655. In this case, a guide rail that guides a block in the linear bearing is provided in the second frame 653 along the central axis Z of the bore 53. In this case, the block is provided in the connecting frame 655. The linear bearing is made of a non-magnetic material.

[0055] As shown in FIGS. 4 to 7, the connection frame 655 supports the second frame 653 movably along the outer periphery of the first frame 651 (i.e., the outer edge of the first frame 651). As shown in FIGS. 4 to 7, one end of the connection frame 655 is movable to the connection point 66. For example, a rack-and-pinion mechanism is provided between the connection frame 655 and the first frame 651. In this case, a rack gear is provided on the first frame 651 along the outer periphery of the first frame 651. In addition, the connection frame 655 is provided with a pinion gear that engages with the rack gear. Note that the connection between the first frame 651 and the connection frame 655 is not limited to the rack-and-pinion mechanism and may be realized by other mechanisms such as a linear bearing. In this case, the first frame 651 is provided with an arc-shaped guide rail that guides a block in the linear bearing. In addition, the block is provided on the connection frame 655. The rack and pinion mechanism and linear bearing described above are made of non-magnetic materials.

[0056] FIG. 8 is a front view of the movable screen device 15 showing the movement of the reflector 67 along the first frame 651. For ease of explanation, the second frame 653 and the connecting frame 655 are omitted from FIG. 8. As shown in FIG. 8, the reflector 67, which is in a predetermined position, can be moved to end positions 673 and 675 along the outer periphery of the first frame 651 by moving the connecting frame 655. The movement of the connecting frame 655 is achieved, for example, by manual operation by a user or by driving a pinion gear or block provided on the connecting frame 655. Driving the pinion gear or block can be controlled by various known motors or the like, and therefore will not be described here.

[0057] The connection frame 655 is provided with a fixing mechanism 657 that fixes the connection frame 655 to the first frame 651. As shown in FIGS. 4 to 7 , the fixing mechanism 657 has, for example, a pressing member 658 that presses against the first frame 651 and a lever 659 whose knob can be operated by a user. For example, an elastic member such as rubber is provided at the contact portion between the pressing member 658 and the first frame 651, which can fix the connection frame 655 to the first frame 651 by friction when the pressing member 658 presses against the first frame 651. Note that the pressing member 658 may be able to fit into a plurality of holes provided in the first frame 651. In this case, the elastic member is not necessary. The fixing mechanism 657 is made of a non-magnetic material.

[0058] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the fixing operation by the fixing mechanism 657. As shown in Fig. 9, when the lever 659 is moved in a direction away from the first frame 651, the pressing member 658 is pressed against the first frame 651. As a result, the connection frame 655 is fixed to the first frame 651. Note that the means for fixing the connection frame 655 to the first frame 651 as shown in Fig. 9 and described above is just an example, and other configurations can be used as appropriate.

[0059] For example, when the movable body 61 and the top board 131 are connected, the reflector 67 is supported by the second frame 653 at a distance from the surface of the movable body 61 so as not to hit the head of the subject P placed on the top board 131. As shown in FIGS. 4 to 8 , the reflector 67 is provided approximately at the end of the second frame 653. The reflector 67 reflects the image projected on the surface of the screen 63. The reflector 67 is made of a non-magnetic material and may be made of any material that can optically reflect the object. For example, the reflector 67 may be a mirror made of acrylic that has been subjected to aluminum deposition processing or a half mirror with a dielectric film attached. The subject P, whose head is placed in the subject fixture 137, can see the image projected on the surface through the reflector 67.

[0060] The reflector 67 is rotatably mounted on the second frame 653 so that the angle of the reflector 67 can be manually adjusted. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5 , the reflector 67 is mounted on the second frame 653 so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis RR1 by a rotation mechanism (not shown) mounted on the second frame 653. The rotation axis RR1 is mounted on the second frame 653 so that the orientation of the reflector 67 with respect to the surface of the screen 63 can be adjusted, for example. More specifically, the second frame 653 is preferably configured to be switchable between at least a first angle for a first projection format and a second angle for a second projection format, which will be described later. The first projection format is a format in which the subject P views the image on the screen 63 from outside the gantry 11 without using the reflector 67. For this reason, the first angle of the reflector 67 in the first projection format is preferably set to an angle that does not obstruct the view of the subject P and others outside the gantry 11, for example, parallel to the second frame 653. At this time, the second frame 653 is moved along the central axis Z toward the projector, or moved along the first frame 651 to the connection point 66 .

[0061] In the second projection format, the subject P views an image through a reflector 67 in the bore 53. When switching from the first projection format to the second projection format, if the subject P is in a supine position as shown in FIGS. 4 to 7, the second frame 653 is moved so that the reflector 67 is positioned directly above the subject fixture 137. If the subject P is in a position other than the supine position, such as a lateral position, the reflector 67 is moved manually or automatically to a position in front of the subject P. If the subject P is in a prone position, the movable body 61 or a lower mirror provided on the top panel 131 is positioned in front of the subject P, and the reflector 67 is stationary. The second angle of the reflector 67 or the lower mirror in the second projection format may be set to any angle between horizontal and vertical depending on the physique of the subject P as the observer. The reflector 67 may be configured as a prism mirror. The reflector 67 may also have a Fresnel structure.

[0062] The process of rotating an image in accordance with the posture (or posture) of the subject P (hereinafter referred to as image rotation process) will be described below with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure of the image rotation process.

[0063] (Image rotation processing) (Step S101) The processing circuitry 39 uses the posture estimation function 307 to estimate the posture of the subject P based on the position of the reflector 67 relative to the screen 63 or the orientation of the head of the subject P. Specifically, when a camera is installed on at least one of the wall surface intersecting the central axis (Z-axis) of the static magnetic field magnet 41 in the examination room 300, the ceiling of the examination room 300, and the inner wall 57 of the gantry housing 51, the posture estimation function 307 estimates the posture of the subject P using imaging data output from the camera that can capture at least one of the reflector 67 and the subject P. For example, when the camera is a patient camera (and / or a ceiling camera) that captures the subject P, the posture estimation function 307 identifies the orientation of the head of the subject P using the imaging data output from the patient camera, and estimates the posture of the subject P.

[0064] Specifically, the processing circuitry 39 uses the posture estimation function 307 to perform image recognition processing on the imaging data to estimate the posture of the subject P. More specifically, the posture estimation function 307 estimates the posture of the subject P by identifying the positional relationship between the orientation of the head of the subject P in the imaging data and the screen 63, and the orientation of the head of the subject P relative to the reflecting plate 67 at a predetermined position, using various segmentation processes, etc. The posture of the subject P is, for example, a supine position, a lateral position, a prone position, etc. The above description corresponds to detecting the posture of the subject P by capturing an image of the subject P with a camera. Furthermore, for example, after estimating the posture of the subject P, the reflecting plate 67 is moved to the front of the subject P.

[0065] In the above description, an image of the subject P is essential in the imaging data, but the method for estimating the posture of the subject P is not limited to the above description. For example, when only a portion of the subject P is captured in the imaging data, or when the camera in question is a camera (and / or a ceiling camera) that captures an image of the reflector 67, the processing circuitry 39 uses the posture estimation function 307 to identify the position of the reflector 67 relative to the screen 63 in the imaging data by various segmentation processes, etc. Next, the posture estimation function 307 estimates the posture of the subject P by considering the identified position of the reflector 67 as the front (frontal plane) of the subject P. For example, when the reflector 67 is moved from a predetermined position to the front of the subject P, and the position of the reflector 67 is positioned at an angle of 90° with respect to the support surface of the tabletop 131, the posture estimation function 307 determines the posture of the subject P to be in a lateral position.

[0066] Note that estimation of the posture of the subject P is not limited to being based on the image data captured by the camera. For example, if a tilt sensor is provided on the reflecting plate 67, the second frame 653, or the connecting frame 655, the processing circuitry 39 uses the tilt data output from the tilt sensor to estimate the posture of the subject P using the posture estimation function 307. Specifically, after the reflecting plate 67 is moved from a predetermined position to the front of the subject P, the posture estimation function 307 estimates the posture of the subject P using the tilt data output from the tilt sensor to the processing circuitry 30 wirelessly or via a wire. For example, if the tilt information is 90°, the posture estimation function 307 estimates the posture of the subject P as a lateral position.

[0067] Furthermore, estimation of the posture of the subject P is not limited to the above description. For example, the processing circuitry 39 may use the posture estimation function 307 to identify the orientation of the head of the subject P using imaging conditions (e.g., imaging protocol and / or sequence) set for the subject P, and estimate the posture of the subject P. Note that the posture estimation function 307 may also estimate the posture of the subject P using the examination purpose in the examination order for the subject P output from a Radiology Information System (RIS) via the communication interface 34. At this time, the subject P is placed on the top board 131 in a posture according to the imaging conditions, i.e., the estimated posture. Thereafter, the reflecting plate 67 is moved to the front of the subject P.

[0068] For example, when imaging conditions related to the subject P are input via the input interface 36, the posture estimation function 307 estimates the posture of the subject P corresponding to the input imaging conditions using a correspondence table in which the imaging conditions are associated with the posture of the subject P. Note that when the imaging conditions are input, if the posture of the subject P in imaging is input as prone position, supine position, lateral position, or the like, the posture estimation function 307 may estimate the posture of the subject P according to the input without using the correspondence table.

[0069] (Step S102) The processing circuitry 30 determines the amount of rotation of the image projected onto the screen 63 using the rotation amount determination function 309, based on the posture of the subject P estimated in step S101. The reference for the amount of rotation is set to 0°, which is the angle when the vertical direction of the image is equal to the Y axis. For example, if the posture of the subject P is prone, the rotation amount determination function 309 determines 180° as the amount of rotation. At this time, the image projected onto the screen 63 is an image that is upside down. On the other hand, if the posture of the subject P is in a lateral position facing rightward in the positive direction of the X axis, the rotation amount determination function 309 determines 270° as the amount of rotation. At this time, the image projected onto the screen 63 is an image that is tilted 90° to the right.

[0070] (Step S103) The processing circuit 30 controls the projector 100 so that the projector control function 311 rotates the image projected onto the screen 63 according to the determined amount of rotation. For example, if the projector 100 is rotatable along a rotation axis by a rotation drive mechanism, the projector control function 311 controls the rotation drive mechanism according to the determined amount of rotation. Furthermore, if the projector 100 has an application program for rotating an image, the projector control function 311 executes the application program so that the image is rotated according to the determined amount of rotation. As a result, the image projected onto the screen 63 rotates around the rotation axis by the determined amount of rotation.

[0071] (Step S104) The imaging control circuitry 31 executes an imaging protocol for the subject P. As a result, MR imaging is performed on the subject P. Subsequently, the processing circuitry 30 reconstructs an MR image for the subject P using the reconstruction function 303 based on the MR data from the receiving circuitry 25. The processing circuitry 30 stores the reconstructed MR image in the memory 37 using the system control function 301.

[0072] (Step S105) If there is next MR imaging for the same subject (Yes in step S105), the process of step S106 is executed. If there is no next MR imaging for the same subject (No in step S105), the image rotation process ends.

[0073] (Step S106) If there is a change in the posture of the subject P for the next MR imaging (Yes in step S106), the process of step S101 is executed. If there is no change in the posture of the subject P for the next MR imaging (No in step S106), the process of step S104 is executed. The determination in this step is made by, for example, the posture estimation function 307 based on, for example, a change in the relative positional relationship between the subject P and the reflector 67 as seen by the camera. Note that this step may be omitted, and the processes from step S101 onwards may be executed after step S105.

[0074] As a modification of this embodiment, the processing circuitry 30 may use the posture estimation function 307 to estimate the positional relationship of the front surface of the subject P with respect to the screen 63 based on the imaging data output from the camera, the tilt data output from the tilt sensor, or the imaging conditions related to the subject P. In this case, the rotation amount determination function 309 determines the amount of rotation based on the positional relationship of the front surface of the subject P with respect to the screen 63.

[0075] The medical image diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the embodiment described above estimates the posture of the subject P based on the position of the reflecting plate 67 relative to the screen 63 or the orientation of the head of the subject P, determines the amount of rotation of the image projected onto the screen 63 based on the estimated posture, and controls the projector 100 to rotate the image projected onto the screen 63 according to the determined amount of rotation. For example, the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the embodiment estimates the posture of the subject P using imaging data output from a camera capable of capturing images of at least one of the reflecting plate 67 and the subject P. The medical image diagnostic apparatus 10 may also estimate the posture of the subject P using tilt data output from a tilt sensor provided on the reflecting plate 67 or the second frame 653. The medical image diagnostic apparatus 10 may also estimate the posture of the subject P by identifying the orientation of the head of the subject P using imaging conditions for the subject P. Furthermore, a reflecting plate (lower mirror) is provided on the top board 131 or the moving body 61 of the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10, allowing the subject P in a prone position to view the image projected on the screen 63. That is, according to the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the embodiment, the position of the mirror can be aligned with the face of the subject P.

[0076] For these reasons, the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the embodiment can project onto the screen 63 an image rotated in accordance with the posture of the subject P placed on the tabletop 131. That is, according to the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the embodiment, the subject P can view an image in which the vertical direction of the image coincides with the subject P's own craniocaudal direction, regardless of the posture of the subject P (i.e., regardless of the direction of the subject P's face). Therefore, according to the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the embodiment, for example, in the second projection format during MR imaging, the subject P can be made less aware of the feeling of pressure and wearing the movable screen device 15, and therefore the relaxing image projected onto the screen 63 can be provided to the subject P in a wide and realistic state. As a result, the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the embodiment can reduce the feeling of pressure and claustrophobia in the bore and improve the subject P's immersion in the image. That is, according to the present medical image diagnostic apparatus 10, an examination environment that can sufficiently relax the subject P can be provided.

[0077] As described above, the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10 can reduce anxiety felt by the subject P placed in the bore and can make the subject P feel that the examination time is shorter than the actual length, allowing the subject P to remain still while imaging is being performed. Therefore, the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10 can stably collect images, improve the quality of images related to the subject P, and increase the throughput of examinations on the subject P.

[0078] When the technical idea of ​​the embodiment is realized in a video projection device 700, the video projection device 700 includes, for example, a movable screen device 15, a projector 100, and a projector control device 200. The projector control device 200 has various functions capable of executing image rotation processing. The projector control device 200 is realized, for example, by a computer. The processing circuit in the computer has, for example, an attitude estimation function 307, a rotation amount determination function 309, and a projector control function 311. The video projection device 700 may be configured with the movable screen device 15 and the projector control device 200. Furthermore, when the various functions capable of executing image rotation processing are installed in the processing circuit of the projector 100, the video projection device 700 may be configured with the movable screen device 15 and the projector 100.

[0079] For example, the image projection device 700 includes a movable body 61 movable within a bore 53 along a central axis Z of the bore 53 formed in a gantry 11 equipped with a medical imaging mechanism for imaging the subject P, a screen 63 mounted on the movable body 61 and onto which an image is projected, a projector 100 projecting the image onto the screen 63, a first frame 651 connected to the movable body 61 and positioned on the projector 100 side of the screen 63, a second frame 653 supporting a reflector 67 and movable along the first frame 651, a posture estimation unit estimating the posture of the subject P based on the position of the reflector 67 relative to the screen 63 or the orientation of the subject P's head, a rotation amount determination unit determining the amount of rotation of the image based on the estimated posture, and a projector control unit controlling the projector 100 to rotate the image according to the determined amount of rotation. The components of the image projection device 700 and the procedure and effects of the image rotation process are similar to those of the embodiment, and therefore will not be described here.

[0080] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, it is possible to reduce the feeling of pressure and blockage inside the bore.

[0081] Although several embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations of embodiments can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0082] 1. Medical imaging diagnostic system (magnetic resonance imaging system) 10 Medical imaging diagnostic equipment (magnetic resonance imaging equipment) 11 Mounting stand 13 berths 15 Mobile Screen Equipment 17 Imaging control unit 21 Gradient magnetic field power supply 23 Transmitting circuit 25 Receiving circuit 27 Console 30 Processing circuit 31 Imaging control circuit 34 Communication Interface 35 Display 36 Input Interface 37 Memory 41 Static magnetic field magnet 43 Gradient magnetic field coil 45 RF coil 51 Mounting case 53 Bore 55 Rail 57 Inner wall 61 Mobile 63 screens 66 Connection points 67 Reflector 100 projector 131 Top plate 133 Foundation 135 Bed drive unit 137 Subject Fixation Device 200 Projector control device 300 examination rooms, 301 System Control Function 303 Reconfiguration function 305 Image Processing Function 307 Posture Estimation Function 309 Rotation amount determination function 311 Projector control function 400 Control Room 500 Wall 510 Windows 651 1st Frame 653 2nd Frame 655 Connection Frame 657 Fixing mechanism 658 Pressing member 659 Lever D1 Door D2 Door D3 Door G1 Gap RR1 Rotating Axis

Claims

1. a movable body that is movable within a bore along a central axis of the bore formed in a gantry equipped with a medical imaging mechanism for imaging an object; a top plate insertable into the bore; a screen provided on the moving body and onto which an image from a projector is projected; a first frame connected to the moving body and disposed on the projector side with respect to the screen; a second frame supporting a reflector and movable along the first frame; a posture estimation unit that estimates a posture of the subject based on a position of the reflector relative to the screen or a direction of the subject's head; a rotation amount determination unit that determines a rotation amount of the image based on the posture; a projector control unit that controls the projector to rotate the image according to the rotation amount; Equipped with the posture estimation unit estimates the posture using tilt data output from a tilt sensor provided on the reflector or the second frame. Medical imaging diagnostic equipment.

2. the posture estimation unit estimates the posture using imaging data output from a camera capable of imaging at least one of the reflector and the subject. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 .

3. a reflector is provided on the tabletop or the moving body, allowing the subject in a prone position to view the image projected onto the screen; 3. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

4. a movable body that is movable within a bore along a central axis of the bore formed in a gantry equipped with a medical imaging mechanism for imaging an object; a screen provided on the moving body and onto which an image is projected; a projector that projects the image onto the screen; a first frame connected to the moving body and disposed on the projector side with respect to the screen; a second frame supporting a reflector and movable along the first frame; a posture estimation unit that estimates a posture of the subject based on a position of the reflector relative to the screen or a direction of the subject's head; a rotation amount determination unit that determines a rotation amount of the image based on the posture; a projector control unit that controls the projector to rotate the image according to the rotation amount; Equipped with the posture estimation unit estimates the posture using tilt data output from a tilt sensor provided on the reflector or the second frame. Video projection equipment.

Images