X-ray computed tomography equipment

Abstract

To open / close a door of a protective cover while preventing the protective cover protecting a subject from a cradle body from contacting an operator.SOLUTION: An X-ray computer tomographic apparatus includes a cradle body, a cradle support part, a protective cover, and a first control part. The cradle body has an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector arranged with an opening in between. The cradle support part supports the cradle body in which a center axis of the opening faces nearly vertically to a floor surface so that it is movable in a vertical direction relative to the floor surface. The protective cover is provided on the floor surface so that the opening of the cradle body is within a region where the cradle body moves in a vertical direction and has a door openable / closable so that a subject moves back and forth between an inside of the region and an outside of the region. The first control part performs opening / closing control of the door on the basis of progress information showing progress situations of X-ray CT photography of the subject.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to an X-ray computed tomography apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] In the field of X-ray computed tomography (CT), there is known an X-ray CT device capable of performing standing and sitting position imaging to capture cross-sectional, three-dimensional, and dynamic images of various parts of the human body under the weight of a patient (subject). For example, this type of X-ray CT device is installed in an imaging room and has a gantry that can be driven up and down, and standing position imaging is performed with a standing patient inserted into an opening of the gantry. Also, for example, with this X-ray CT device, sitting position imaging is performed with a patient seated in a chair inserted into an opening of the gantry.

[0003] Among such X-ray CT apparatuses, there is one that is equipped with a protective cover on the floor of the imaging room to protect the patient from contact with or being pinched by the gantry body, which moves up and down. The protective cover has a roughly cylindrical shape with a diameter that fits into the opening of the gantry body, and is made up of two fixed wall members and two doors that can be opened and closed freely like sliding doors, arranged alternately. The protective cover can be opened and closed by an operator who grasps the doors. Such a protective cover is preferable from the perspective of infection control for patients, as it protects the patient (subject) from contact with the gantry body.

[0004] On the other hand, when considering infection control measures for operators, there is thought to be room for improvement in this X-ray CT apparatus, since the operator touches at least the door of the protective cover, which is one of the items in the imaging room. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 7-382 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to open and close the door of a protective cover that protects the subject from the gantry body while preventing contact between the protective cover and the operator. 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]

[0007] An X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to an embodiment includes a gantry main body, a gantry support unit, a protective cover, and a first controller. The gantry main body has an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector arranged on either side of an opening. The gantry support unit supports the gantry main body, with the central axis of the opening oriented substantially perpendicular to the floor surface, so as to be movable in a direction perpendicular to the floor surface. The protective cover is provided on the floor surface so as to fit within an area through which the opening of the gantry main body passes when the gantry main body moves in the vertical direction, and has a door that can be opened and closed to allow a subject to move between the inside and outside of the area. The first controller controls the opening and closing of the door based on progress information indicating the progress of X-ray CT imaging of the subject. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray CT apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a top view schematically showing the X-ray CT apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the protective cover in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a top view illustrating the closed state of the protective cover in the first embodiment. [Figure 5]FIG. 5 is a top view illustrating opening and closing of the protective cover in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram for explaining the operation in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the X-ray CT apparatus for explaining the operation in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray CT apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram for explaining the operation in the second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray CT apparatus according to the third embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram for explaining the operation in the third embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram for explaining another example of the operation in the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, an X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to each embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the "X-ray computed tomography apparatus" described below may also be referred to as an "X-ray computed tomography system." Similarly, a "patient" may also be referred to as a "subject."

[0010] First Embodiment FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray CT apparatus according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 2 is a top view schematically showing the X-ray CT apparatus. This X-ray CT apparatus 1 has a gantry device 10 and a console device 60. For example, the gantry device 10 is installed in an imaging room R1, and the console device 60 is installed in an operation room R2 adjacent to the imaging room R1. The gantry device 10 and the console device 60 are connected to each other by wire or wirelessly so that they can communicate with each other. The gantry device 10 is a scanning apparatus configured to perform X-ray CT imaging of a patient in a sitting or standing position. The console device 60 is a computer that controls the gantry device 10.

[0011] 1, the gantry main body 11 is a horizontally elongated, approximately cubic structure having a substantially cylindrical opening 15. The gantry main body 11 houses an X-ray tube 17 and an X-ray detector 19 that are arranged to face each other with the opening 15 in between.

[0012] More specifically, the gantry main body 11 further includes a fixed frame (not shown) that is a non-rotating portion, and a rotating frame 21 that is supported by the fixed frame so as to be rotatable around the central axis A1 of the opening 15. The rotation mechanism includes, for example, a motor that generates a rotational driving force, and a bearing that transmits the rotational driving force to the rotating frame 21 to rotate it. The motor is provided, for example, in the non-rotating portion, and the bearing is physically connected to the rotating frame 21 and the motor, so that the rotating frame 21 rotates in response to the rotational force of the motor.

[0013] The rotating frame 21 is an annular frame that supports the X-ray tube 17 and the X-ray detector 19 so that they face each other, and rotates the X-ray tube 17 and the X-ray detector 19 using a control device 25, which will be described later. In addition to the X-ray tube 17 and the X-ray detector 19, the rotating frame 21 also supports a high-voltage generator 31 and a DAS 33.

[0014] The support pillar 13 is a base that supports the gantry main body 11 at a distance from the floor surface. The support pillar 13 has a columnar shape, such as a cylindrical or rectangular pillar shape. The support pillar 13 is formed of any material, such as plastic or metal. The support pillar 13 is attached, for example, to the side of the gantry main body 11. The support pillar 13 supports the gantry main body 11 in a state in which the central axis A1 of the opening 15 is oriented approximately perpendicular to the floor surface, so that the gantry main body 11 can move in a direction perpendicular to the floor surface in order to perform X-ray CT imaging of a patient in a seated or standing position. The support pillar 13 is an example of a gantry support part.

[0015] Typically, the support pillars 13 are provided on both side portions of the gantry main body 11. However, this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, one support pillar 13 may be connected to only one of the both side portions of the gantry main body 11. Furthermore, although the support pillars 13 have been described as having a columnar shape, this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the support pillars 13 may have any shape, such as a U-shape, as long as they can support at least one side portion of the gantry main body 11.

[0016] It is not necessary for the support column 13 to fix the gantry body 11 so that the central axis A1 is perpendicular to the floor surface. In other words, the support column 13 may be configured to support the gantry body 11 so that it can rotate about a horizontal axis (hereinafter referred to as the tilt axis) parallel to the floor surface. In this case, the support column 13 and the gantry body 11 may be connected via a bearing or the like so that the gantry body 11 can rotate about the tilt axis. This makes it possible to perform upright position radiography, sitting position radiography, and supine position radiography with a single gantry device 10.

[0017] As shown in Fig. 1, the support column 13 houses a support column drive device (not shown) for sliding the gantry main body 11 in the vertical direction. The support column drive device generates power for sliding the gantry main body 11 in the vertical direction under the control of the control device 25. Specifically, the support column drive device generates power by driving at a rotation speed according to the duty ratio, etc., of a drive signal from the control device 25. The support column 13 receives power from the support column drive device and slides the gantry main body 11 in the vertical direction relative to the support column 13. The support column drive device is realized by a motor such as a servo motor, for example.

[0018] The operation panel 29 may include switch buttons, a touchpad for inputting operations by touching the operation surface, a touch panel display that integrates a display screen and a touchpad, and a speaker for outputting audio guidance or alerts. The operation panel 29 accepts various input operations from the operator, converts the accepted input operations into electrical signals, and outputs the electrical signals to the control device 25. The operation panel 29 accepts, for example, a selection operation for selecting a sitting position imaging mode for imaging a patient in a seated position or a standing position imaging mode for imaging a patient in a standing position. As shown in FIG. 2 , the operation panel 29 may also include a free button 29a, a close button 29b, and an open button 29c for inputting one of first to third operation signals for controlling the opening and closing of the door 43 in response to an operator's operation of a protective cover 37 having a wall member 41 and a door 43. Note that FIG. 2 shows the open state of the door 43 from above. When the door 43 is closed, the protective cover 37 assumes a generally cylindrical shape with the wall members 41 and the door 43 alternately arranged. The free button 29a is a button for inputting a first operation signal that controls the door 43 of the protective cover 37 to a state in which it can be opened and closed freely. The close button 29b is a button for inputting a second operation signal that controls the door 43 to a closed state. The open button 29c is a button for inputting a third operation signal that controls the door 43 to an open state. In other words, the operation panel 29 is an example of an input unit that inputs an operation signal for controlling the opening and closing of the door in response to an operation by an operator.

[0019] The protective cover 37 prevents contact between the gantry body 11 and the patient. The protective cover 37 is provided on the floor surface so as to fit within an area through which the opening of the gantry body 11 passes when the gantry body 11 moves vertically, and has a door 43 that can be opened and closed to allow the patient (subject) to move between the inside and outside of this area. Here, the inside of this area may be approximately referred to as an area inside the protective cover 37. Similarly, the outside of this area may be approximately referred to as an area outside the protective cover 37. More specifically, the protective cover 37 is provided on the floor surface near the boundary between a first area through which the opening of the gantry body 11 passes when the gantry body 11 moves vertically and a second area outside the first area so as to fit within the first area. The structure of the protective cover 37 will be described separately with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0020] Returning to FIG. 1, the X-ray tube 17 is a vacuum tube that generates X-rays by applying high voltage from a high voltage generator 31, causing the cathode (filament) to emit thermoelectrons toward an anode (target). For example, the X-ray tube 17 may be a rotating anode type X-ray tube that generates X-rays by irradiating a rotating anode with thermoelectrons.

[0021] The X-ray detector 19 detects X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 17 and transmitted through the patient (subject), and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the X-ray dose to the DAS 33. The X-ray detector 19 has, for example, multiple X-ray detection element rows, each of which has a plurality of X-ray detection elements arranged in the channel direction along an arc centered on the focal point of the X-ray tube 17. The X-ray detector 19 has, for example, a structure in which multiple X-ray detection element rows, each of which has a plurality of X-ray detection elements arranged in the channel direction, are arranged in the slice direction (row direction). The X-ray detector 19 is an indirect conversion type detector having, for example, a grid, a scintillator array, and a photosensor array. The scintillator array has multiple scintillators, each of which has a scintillator crystal that outputs light with a photon amount corresponding to the dose of incident X-rays. The grid is arranged on the X-ray incident side of the scintillator array and has an X-ray shielding plate that has the function of absorbing scattered X-rays. The grid is sometimes called a collimator (one-dimensional collimator or two-dimensional collimator). The photosensor array has a function of converting the amount of light from the scintillator into an electrical signal according to the amount of light, and includes a photosensor such as a photomultiplier tube (PMT). The X-ray detector 19 may be a direct conversion type detector having a semiconductor element that converts incident X-rays into an electrical signal. The X-ray detector 19 is an example of an X-ray detection unit.

[0022] The DAS 33 (Data Acquisition System) has an amplifier that amplifies the electrical signals output from each X-ray detection element of the X-ray detector 19 and an A / D converter that converts the electrical signals into digital signals, and generates detection data (digital data). The detection data generated by the DAS 33 is called raw data. The raw data is a set of digital values ​​of X-ray intensity identified by the channel number and column number of the X-ray detection element that generated the raw data, and the view number indicating the acquired view. The raw data is supplied to the console device 60, for example, via a non-contact data transmission device (not shown) housed in the gantry main body 11.

[0023] The control device 25 includes a processing circuit having a CPU and other components, and a drive mechanism including a motor and an actuator. The control device 25 has a function of receiving input signals from an input interface 63 (described later) attached to the console device 60 or the gantry device 10 and controlling the operation of the gantry device 10. For example, the control device 25 receives the input signals and controls the rotation of the rotating frame 21 and the tilt or elevation of the gantry device 10. The control device 25 may be provided in the gantry device 10 or the console device 60. The control device 25 may also control the opening and closing of the door of the protective cover 37 based on an operation signal from the operation panel 29. For example, the processing circuit of the control device 25 may control the opening and closing of the door of the protective cover 37 based on an operation signal input from the operation panel 29, prior to the opening and closing control based on progress information of the X-ray CT scan in the console device 60. In this case, the processing circuit of the control device 25 is an example of a second control unit.

[0024] 1, the console device 60 has a memory 61, a display 62, an input interface 63, and a processing circuit 64. Data communication between the memory 61, the display 62, the input interface 63, and the processing circuit 64 is performed via a bus (BUS). Note that although the console device 60 will be described as being separate from the gantry device 10, the gantry device 10 may include some of the components of the console device 60.

[0025] The memory 61 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, etc. The memory 61 stores, for example, projection data, reconstructed image data, a control program according to this embodiment, etc. The storage area of ​​the memory 61 may be located within the X-ray CT apparatus 1 or may be located in an external storage device connected via a network. The memory 61 is an example of a storage unit.

[0026] The display 62 displays various data such as two-dimensional CT images, display images, and information regarding the opening and closing of the protective cover 37. For example, the display 62 outputs medical images (CT images) generated by the processing circuitry 64, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for receiving various operations from an operator, and the like. For example, the display 62 is a liquid crystal display or a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display. The display 62 is an example of a display unit. The display 62 may be provided on the gantry device 10. The display 62 may be a desktop type or may be configured as a tablet terminal or the like capable of wireless communication with the console device 60 main body. The display 62 may also be provided with a speaker that outputs audio guidance or alerts under the control of the processing circuitry 64.

[0027] The input interface 63 accepts various input operations from the operator, converts the accepted input operations into electrical signals, and outputs the electrical signals to the processing circuitry 64. For example, the input interface 63 accepts input operations from the operator, such as acquisition conditions for acquiring projection data, reconstruction conditions for reconstructing CT images, image processing conditions for generating post-processed images from CT images, and operation signals for controlling the opening and closing of the door. For example, as shown in FIG. 2 , the input interface 63 may be implemented by a mouse, keyboard, trackball, switch, button group 631, joystick, etc. Here, the button group 631 may include a free button 631a, a close button 631b, and an open button 631c for inputting any of first to third operation signals for controlling the opening and closing of the door 43 in response to an operation by the operator. The free button 631a is a button for inputting a first operation signal for controlling the door 43 to a state in which it can be opened and closed freely. The open and closed state of the door 43 means, for example, a state in which the door 43 can be opened and closed by hand without applying an electromagnetic brake or the like to the door 43. The close button 631b is a button for inputting a second operation signal for controlling the door 43 to a closed state. The open button 631c is a button for inputting a third operation signal for controlling the door 43 to an open state. In other words, the input interface 63 is an example of an input unit that inputs an operation signal for controlling the opening and closing of the door in response to an operation by an operator. The input interface 63 may also be provided in the gantry device 10. The input interface 63 may also be configured as a tablet terminal or the like that is capable of wireless communication with the console device 60 main body.

[0028] The processing circuitry 64 has, as hardware resources, processors such as a CPU, MPU, GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), etc., and memories such as ROM, RAM, etc. The processing circuitry 64 executes various programs to realize a system control function 641, a preprocessing function 642, a reconstruction processing function 643, an image processing function 644, and a door control function 645.

[0029] In the system control function 641, the processing circuitry 64 performs overall control of the X-ray CT apparatus according to this embodiment. Specifically, the processing circuitry 64 reads out a control program stored in the memory 61, loads it on the memory, and controls each part of the X-ray CT apparatus except for the protective cover 37 in accordance with the loaded control program. Accordingly, the processing circuitry 64 sends progress information indicating the progress of X-ray CT imaging of the patient (subject) to the door control function 645. However, the system control function 641 may also control the opening and closing of the door 43 based on the progress information. In this case, the door control function 645 is included in the system control function 641.

[0030] In the preprocessing function 642, the processing circuitry 64 generates data by performing preprocessing such as logarithmic conversion processing, offset correction processing, inter-channel sensitivity correction processing, and beam hardening correction on the raw data transmitted from the gantry device 10. Note that the data before preprocessing (raw data) and the data after preprocessing may be collectively referred to as projection data.

[0031] In the reconstruction processing function 643, the processing circuitry 64 performs reconstruction processing using a filtered back projection method, an iterative reconstruction method, or the like on the projection data generated by the preprocessing function 642 to generate CT image data.

[0032] In the image processing function 644, the processing circuitry 64 converts the CT image data generated by the reconstruction processing function 643 into tomographic image data of an arbitrary cross section or three-dimensional image data by a known method based on an input operation received from the operator via the input interface 63. Note that the generation of three-dimensional image data may be performed directly by the reconstruction processing function 643.

[0033] In the door control function 645, the processing circuitry 64 controls the opening and closing of the door 43 of the protective cover 37. Specifically, the processing circuitry 64 reads a control program stored in the memory 61, loads it on the memory, and controls the opening and closing of the door 43 in accordance with the loaded control program. More specifically, in the door control function 645, the processing circuitry 64 controls the opening and closing of the door 43 based on progress information indicating the progress of X-ray CT imaging of a patient (subject). For example, the processing circuitry 64 may control the door 43 to a closed state based on the progress information corresponding to the completion of protocol setting for X-ray CT imaging. Furthermore, the processing circuitry 64 may control the opening and closing of the door 43 based on an operation signal input from the input interface 63, giving priority to the opening and closing control based on the progress information. Furthermore, the processing circuitry 64 may allow the operator to freely open and close the door 43 for emergency evacuation when the imaging system is turned off, when the emergency stop button is operated, or when a button on the operation panel 29 or one of the button group 631 is operated. Here, the case where the imaging system is in the off state corresponds to a case where at least one of the gantry device 10 and the console device 60 is in the off state, or a case where the console device 60 is in the on state but an application program for controlling the X-ray CT device 1 is not running. When the console device 60 is in the off state, the processing circuit 64 is also in the off state, but as a result of the processing circuit 64 in the off state not performing opening and closing control, the door 43 can be opened and closed freely. The door control function 645 and the processing circuit 64 are examples of a first control unit and a second control unit.

[0034] The system control function 641, pre-processing function 642, reconstruction processing function 643, image processing function 644, and door control function 645 may be implemented by the processing circuit 64 on one board, or may be implemented in a distributed manner by the processing circuits 64 on multiple boards.

[0035] Next, the protective cover 37 will be described in detail.

[0036] 1 and 2, a protective cover 37 is provided below the gantry main body 11. The protective cover 37 is provided on the floor surface so as to fit into the opening 15 of the gantry main body 11 when the gantry main body 11 in an upright position is lowered in a direction perpendicular to the floor surface. In other words, the protective cover 37 is provided on the inner circumferential side of the projection of the opening 15 of the gantry main body 11 in an upright position. This is to avoid interference between the gantry main body 11 and the protective cover 37.

[0037] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the protective cover 37 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. As shown in FIG. 3, the protective cover 37 is provided so as to fit within the vertical movement path of the opening 15 of the gantry body 11. The protective cover 37 has two wall members 41 and two doors 43 that can be opened and closed to allow the patient to pass through, alternating between them. For example, the right and left sides of the protective cover 37 are fixed as wall members 41, and the front and rear sides are formed as doors 43. However, this is not limited thereto, and the protective cover 37 may have a structure including one wall member formed by connecting one of the two doors 43 to the wall members 41 on both sides, and another door 43. In other words, the number of wall members 41 and doors 43 may be changed as appropriate. The protective cover 37 is transparent. For example, the wall members 41 and doors 43 of the protective cover 37 are each formed of an acrylic material or the like. However, the protective cover 37 is not limited to an acrylic material, and may be formed from a transparent resin such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or polycarbonate (PC), or a transparent material such as glass. However, the protective cover 37 is not necessarily limited to a transparent material, and may be formed from a translucent material or an opaque material. For example, if the height of the protective cover 37 is about knee-length of the patient, there is no particular inconvenience even if the protective cover 37 is opaque. Furthermore, a metal material may be used for the portion of the protective cover 37 that is out of the X-ray irradiation path, such as the portion near the floor.

[0038] The protective cover 37 also has tracks 45 for the door 43 along its right and left sides. FIG. 4 is a top view of the protective cover 37 shown in FIG. 3 . FIG. 5 is a top view of the protective cover 37 when the door 43 is slid along the tracks 45. The door 43 is slidable along the tracks 45. When the door 43 is slid clockwise from the closed state shown in FIG. 4 to the open state shown in FIG. 5 , the door 43 moves from the closed state shown in FIG. 5 to the open state shown in FIG. 5 . The clockwise direction of the door 43 when opened may be changed to a counterclockwise direction. However, if this is done, the position of the open / close detector 47 (described later) is changed to a position below the tracks 45 where the closed state of the door 43 can be detected. The patient is subjected to X-ray CT imaging by the gantry main body 11 in the space inside the protective cover 37. The door 43 is closed during both standing and sitting position imaging. This prevents the patient from protruding outside the protective cover 37 and becoming pinched between the gantry main body 11 and the floor. However, when radiography is performed in a sitting position, if the patient transport device (wheelchair, etc.) is larger in diameter than the protective cover 37, the door 43 may be opened.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 3 , the protective cover 37 also has an open / close detector 47 that detects the open / close state of the door 43. The X-ray CT scanner in this embodiment uses, for example, a mechanical contact switch as the open / close detector 47. The X-ray CT scanner incorporates the mechanical contact switch in a portion of the track 45 buried under the floor. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3 to 5 , the mechanical contact switch is provided in a position where the door 43 reaches only when the door 43 is closed. When the door 43 is closed, the mechanical contact switch is touched and turned on. The X-ray CT scanner in this embodiment determines that the door 43 is closed when the mechanical contact switch is turned on. When the mechanical contact switch is turned on, the open / close detector 47 transmits a close signal to the control device 25, indicating that the door 43 is closed.

[0040] Note that a sensor that electrically or magnetically detects the opening and closing of the door 43 may be used as the open / close detection unit 47. The open / close detection unit 47 may also be operated when the door 43 is not completely closed. By operating the open / close detection unit 47 when the door 43 is not completely closed, for example, a predetermined gap is ensured between the door 43 and the wall member 41. This is to prevent fingers from getting caught between the door 43 and the wall member 41 when the door 43 is closed. However, the open / close detection unit 47 is not essential and may be omitted.

[0041] Next, the operation of the X-ray CT apparatus configured as described above will be explained using the sequence diagram in Fig. 6 and the schematic diagram in Fig. 7. The following explanation will be given using standing position imaging as a representative example, but it can also be applied to sitting position imaging. In Fig. 6, the operation related to the system control function 641 and the operation related to the door control function 645 are shown separately, but since both are performed by the processing circuitry 64, the following explanation will be given as the operation of the processing circuitry 64.

[0042] First, in the radiography room R1, the gantry body 11 is supported on the upper part of the support pillar 13 with the central axis A1 of the opening 15 oriented substantially perpendicular to the floor surface. Also, the door 43 of the protective cover 37 is in an open state.

[0043] In this state, the patient P enters the radiography room R1 (st1a). Meanwhile, in the console device 60 in the operation room R2, the operator operates the next patient button (ST1), and the processing circuitry 64 starts preparations for X-ray CT imaging of the next patient. At this time, the protective cover 37 maintains the door 43 in an open state (st1d). However, this is not limited thereto. The processing circuitry 64 of the console device 60 may generate progress information indicating the entry of the patient P or progress information indicating the operation of the next patient button, and control the door 43 from a closed state to an open state based on the progress information. Alternatively, the processing circuitry 64 may control the door 43 from a closed state to an open state in response to the operation of the next patient button (irrespective of the progress information). The progress information is information indicating the progress of the X-ray CT imaging of the patient P.

[0044] After step ST1, the processing circuitry 64 sets a protocol related to scan conditions and image conditions (ST2). In parallel with step ST2, the patient P enters the dome corresponding to the area inside the protective cover 37 (st2a), as shown in FIG. 7, and the CT imaging position is determined (st2b). Note that in FIG. 7, a movement path 59 may be provided on the floor so as to pass through the protective cover 37 from front to rear. The movement path 59 is formed to guide a patient transport device such as a wheelchair. The movement path 59 may be a mark on the floor, or a rail that guides the patient transport device.

[0045] Returning to FIG. 6, after step ST2, the processing circuit 64 generates progress information corresponding to the completion of protocol setting (ST3).

[0046] After step ST3, the processing circuit 64 controls the door 43 to a closed state based on the progress information (ST4). As a result, the protective cover 37 is in a closed state with the door 43 closed (ST5). That is, after the patient P enters the room, the door 43 is automatically closed at the time when the state in which the protocol setting is completed is completed. Note that if the door 43 is manually closed before step ST4 is executed, step ST4 ends immediately after it starts, or is skipped based on a closing signal from the open / close detection unit 47.

[0047] Furthermore, the closed state of the door 43 in step ST5 is basically maintained until the door 43 is opened in step ST10, which will be described later. However, if an unexpected event occurs, such as the patient P becoming dizzy and sitting down, the door 43 can be manually opened or closed by operating the button group 631 on the input interface 63. For example, when the free button 631a is operated, a first operation signal is input. The processing circuit 64 controls the door 43 to a state in which it can be opened and closed freely based on the first operation signal, with priority over the close control based on the progress information in step ST4. In this case, the door 43 is held by the operator and placed in an open state. Alternatively, when the open button 631c is operated, a third operation signal is input. The processing circuit 64 controls the door 43 to an open state based on the third operation signal, with priority over the close control based on the progress information in step ST4. Furthermore, when the free button 631a or the open button 631c is operated in this manner, the processing circuit 64 prompts the closing of the door 43 by audio output and / or display output, etc. Thereafter, in response to the operation of the close button 631b, a second operation signal is input. The processing circuit 64 controls the door 43 to the closed state based on the second operation signal. In either case, the processing circuit 64 controls the door 43 to the closed state before the start of step ST6.

[0048] After step ST5, the X-ray CT device 1 scans the patient P (ST6). In Fig. 6, the scan in step ST6 refers to a series of scans such as a positioning scan and a main scan. During the positioning scan and the main scan, the processing circuitry 64 may control the control device 25 to move the gantry body 11 in a direction perpendicular to the floor surface 50 in response to an operation by an operator and / or based on a set protocol.

[0049] After step ST6, the console device 60 generates and displays CT image data based on the raw data obtained by the scan. The gantry body 11 is controlled to move vertically away from the floor surface 50 and is supported on the upper part of the support column 13. In this state, the protocol ends (ST7).

[0050] After step ST7, the processing circuitry 64 generates progress information corresponding to the end of the protocol (ST8).

[0051] After step ST8, the processing circuitry 64 controls the door 43 to an open state based on the progress information (ST9). As a result, the protective cover 37 is in an open state with the door 43 open (ST10). That is, when the scan is completed and the protocol is finished, the door 43 is automatically opened. Thereafter, the patient P exits the dome (st10a).

[0052] Thereafter, the next patient P enters the room while the door 43 remains open, and a series of operations are performed. However, the processing circuitry 64 may control the door 43 to a closed state after the patient P leaves the dome by executing the opening control of step ST9 for a predetermined time period of about one minute. In this case, during the next series of operations, the processing circuitry 64 may control the door 43 to change from a closed state to an open state based on progress information indicating the entry of the patient P or the operation of the next patient button.

[0053] As described above, according to the first embodiment, the gantry main body 11 has the X-ray tube 17 and the X-ray detector 19 arranged on either side of the opening 15. The support column 13 (gantry support section) supports the gantry main body 11, with the central axis A1 of the opening 15 oriented approximately perpendicular to the floor surface 50, so as to be movable in a direction perpendicular to the floor surface 50. The protective cover 37 is provided on the floor surface 50 so as to fit within an area through which the opening 15 of the gantry main body 11 passes when the gantry main body 11 moves in the vertical direction, and has a door 43 that can be opened and closed to allow the patient P to move between the inside and outside of this area. The processing circuitry 64 (first control section) controls the opening and closing of the door 43 based on progress information indicating the progress of X-ray CT imaging of the patient P (subject).

[0054] Therefore, by controlling the opening and closing of the protective cover door based on progress information indicating the progress of X-ray CT imaging of the subject, the protective cover door can be opened and closed while preventing contact between the operator and the protective cover that protects the subject from the gantry body. This makes it possible to implement infection control measures for both the subject and the operator during X-ray CT imaging. Furthermore, since X-ray CT imaging can be performed without the operator (healthcare worker) entering the imaging room R1, the operator does not need to come into contact with items in the imaging room R1, the X-ray CT device 1, or the patient P, which is expected to help prevent infection.

[0055] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the processing circuitry 64 may control the door to a closed state based on the progress information corresponding to the completion of protocol setting for X-ray CT imaging. In this case, in addition to the above-described advantageous effects, the operator does not need to move to close the door 43 of the protective cover 37 after the protocol setting is completed, thereby reducing the operator's effort.

[0056] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the input interface 63 (input unit) inputs an operation signal for controlling the opening and closing of the door 43 in response to an operation by the operator. The processing circuit 64 (second control unit) may be configured to control the opening and closing of the door 43 based on the operation signal, with priority over the opening and closing control based on the progress information described above. In this case, in addition to the effects described above, in the event of an unexpected situation, the opening and closing control of the door 43 can be controlled in response to an operation by the operator with priority over the opening and closing control based on the progress information described above.

[0057] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the input interface 63 may input, in response to an operation by an operator, any one of a first operation signal for controlling the door 43 to a state in which it can be opened and closed, a second operation signal for controlling the door 43 to a closed state, and a third operation signal for controlling the door 43 to an open state. In this case, in addition to the above-described advantageous effects, manual and automatic opening and closing of the protective cover 37 with respect to the door 43 can be achieved by inputting the first operation signal when the operator wishes to open or close the door 43 manually, and inputting the second or third operation signal when the operator wishes to open or close the door 43 by operating a button or the like.

[0058] <Second embodiment> Next, an X-ray CT apparatus according to a second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment is a modified version of the first embodiment in which an interlock is added, and when the patient P is located inside the protective cover 37, the door 43 is opened and closed after it is recognized that the patient P has moved away from the door 43, thereby ensuring the safety of the patient P.

[0059] 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an X-ray CT apparatus according to the second embodiment, and components similar to those described above are given the same reference numerals and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted, and the following description will mainly focus on the differences. Duplicate descriptions will also be omitted for the following embodiments.

[0060] This X-ray CT apparatus 1 further includes a camera 71 in comparison with the configuration described above.

[0061] The camera 71 captures an image of the inside of an area through which the opening 15 of the gantry body 11 passes when the gantry body 11 moves in the vertical direction, and sends the camera image to the console device 60. The camera 71 is provided, for example, facing downward on a central axis A1 that is oriented approximately perpendicular to the floor surface, and may be attached to the ceiling of the imaging room R1 or the gantry body 11. However, the camera 71 does not necessarily have to be on the central axis A1; for example, multiple cameras may be provided around the central axis A1, and may be arranged so that a blind spot of one camera can be captured by another camera.

[0062] Furthermore, in the door control function 645c, in addition to the above-described functions, the processing circuitry 64 performs opening / closing control based on the progress information described above while recognizing, based on the camera image, that the patient P is not in contact with or approaching the door 43. Specifically, when the processing circuitry 64 determines, based on the camera image, that the patient P is located inside the area, if the patient P is at least a predetermined distance away from the door 43, the processing circuitry 64 performs opening / closing control based on the progress information. Furthermore, when the processing circuitry 64 detects body movement of the patient P when the patient P is located inside the area based on the camera image, it outputs an alert. Note that the function of recognizing the position of the patient P on the camera image may be possessed by either the processing circuitry 64 or the camera 71. In this embodiment, the processing circuitry 64 recognizes the position of the patient P on the camera image.

[0063] The other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0064] Next, the operation of the X-ray CT apparatus configured as above will be described with reference to the sequence diagram of FIG.

[0065] First, steps ST1 and ST2 are executed in the same manner as described above, whereby protocol setting is executed and the imaging position for CT imaging of the patient P is determined in the area inside the protective cover 37 (st2b).

[0066] After step ST2, the processing circuit 64 generates progress information corresponding to the completion of protocol setting (ST3). The camera 71 also captures an image of the inside of the area and transmits the camera image to the console device 60. Note that the position (photographing position) of the patient P in the camera image is a predetermined distance or more away from the door 43, and is therefore considered normal (ST3c).

[0067] After steps ST3 and ST3c, if the camera image indicates that the patient P is located inside the area, and if the patient P is a predetermined distance or more away from the door 43, the processing circuitry 64 controls the door 43 to a closed state based on the progress information (ST4). That is, the processing circuitry 64 controls the door 43 to a closed state when the AND condition of the protocol setting being completed and the patient P being a predetermined distance or more away from the door 43 is satisfied. Note that the condition of the patient P being a predetermined distance or more away from the door 43 may be changed to a stricter condition of the patient P being in the imaging position. By step ST4, the protective cover 37 is brought to a closed state in which the door 43 is closed (ST5). Note that if the door 43 is manually closed before step ST4 is executed, step ST4 ends immediately after it starts, or is skipped based on a closing signal from the open / close detection unit 47.

[0068] After step ST5, the camera 71 captures an image of the interior of the area and transmits the camera image to the console device 60 (ST5c-1). Note that the patient P in the camera image is basically at the imaging position determined in step ST2b. The processing circuit 64 maintains the closing control of step ST4 and determines whether the patient P has moved at the imaging position based on the camera image. If the patient P has moved, it outputs an alert (ST5c-2). The alert is preferably output as both an audio signal from a speaker (not shown) and a visual signal on the display 62. While an alert is output, scanning in step ST6 cannot be started. Furthermore, if an alert is output during scanning, the scan is interrupted. In either case, depending on the patient P's condition when the alert is output, the door 43 may be temporarily opened or closed by operating the button group 631 on the input interface 63, as described above.

[0069] Subsequently, after step ST5, if the result of determination in step ST5c-2 is that the patient P is not moving, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 scans the patient P (ST6).

[0070] After step ST6, the protocol ends (ST7) as described above.

[0071] After step ST7, the processing circuitry 64 generates progress information corresponding to the end of the protocol (ST8). The camera 71 also captures an image of the interior of the area and transmits the camera image to the console device 60. It is assumed that the position of the patient P in the camera image is normal (ST8c). However, the position of the patient P after step ST7 does not necessarily have to be at the imaging position, as long as the patient P is at least a predetermined distance away from the door 43.

[0072] After steps ST8 and ST3c, if the patient P is located inside the area based on the camera image, and if the patient P is more than a predetermined distance away from the door 43, the processing circuit 64 controls the door 43 to an open state based on the progress information (ST9).

[0073] Thereafter, steps ST10 and thereafter are executed in the same manner as described above.

[0074] As described above, according to the second embodiment, the camera 71 captures an image of the inside of the area corresponding to the protective cover 37 and transmits the camera image. When the patient P (subject) is located inside the area based on the camera image, if the patient P is at least a predetermined distance away from the door 43, the processing circuitry 64 (first control unit) controls the opening and closing of the door 43 based on progress information of the X-ray CT imaging.

[0075] This makes it possible to prevent the door 43 from being controlled to open or close while the patient P is in contact with the door 43, and therefore in addition to the effect of the first embodiment, it is possible to ensure the safety of the patient when the door is opened or closed.

[0076] Supplementally, in the second embodiment, as an interlock of the first embodiment, a camera 71 is installed facing downward directly above the protective cover 37 (on the stand or ceiling), and the opening and closing of the acrylic door is automatically controlled based on the camera image and progress information. In addition, the camera image can be used to monitor whether the imaging position has been confirmed and whether the patient P has not come into contact with the door 43.

[0077] Furthermore, according to the second embodiment, it may be possible to determine whether the patient has moved from the imaging position based on the camera image, and to output an alert if the patient has moved. In this case, in addition to the effects described above, it is possible to prevent the start of scanning when the patient has moved, thereby preventing unnecessary radiation exposure.

[0078] <Third embodiment> Next, an X-ray CT apparatus according to a third embodiment will be described. The third embodiment is a modified example of the second embodiment, and when a patient P is not located inside the protective cover 37, upon detecting a person approaching the protective cover 37, the door 43 is controlled to open, thereby preventing contact with the protective cover 37 and enhancing infection control measures.

[0079] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an X-ray CT apparatus according to the third embodiment. This X-ray CT apparatus 1 further includes a detection sensor 73 compared to the configuration shown in FIG.

[0080] The detection sensor 73 is disposed on the support 13 and detects a person approaching the protective cover 37 from outside the area of ​​the protective cover 37. Here, the detection sensor 73 detects an approaching person when the door 43 is both open and closed. As the detection sensor 73, for example, a non-contact sensor using infrared rays, ultrasonic waves, visible light, or the like, such as a human presence sensor, can be used as appropriate. However, the location of the detection sensor 73 is not limited to this, and it can be disposed in any location, such as the gantry main body 11, the ceiling of the radiography room R1, the floor surface 50 near the protective cover 37, or the outer periphery of the door 43.

[0081] In addition to the above-described functions, in the door control function 645cs, the processing circuitry 64 controls the door 43 to an open state when the detection sensor 73 detects an approaching individual when the patient P is not located inside the area based on the camera image. For example, when the processing circuitry 64 detects an approaching individual, it opens the door 43 if the door 43 is closed, and keeps the door 43 open if the door 43 is open. Furthermore, when the processing circuitry 64 determines based on the camera image that the patient P is located inside the area and is less than a predetermined distance from the door, it controls the door 43 to a closed state and outputs an alert, regardless of whether an approaching individual is detected. In other words, when the processing circuitry 64 recognizes on the camera image that the patient P is touching the door 43 or is close enough to touch the door 43, it does not open the door 43 and outputs an alert even if the detection sensor 73 detects an approaching individual outside the door 43.

[0082] The other configurations are the same as those of the second embodiment.

[0083] Next, the operation of the X-ray CT apparatus configured as described above will be described using the sequence diagrams of Fig. 11 and Fig. 12. In the following description, Fig. 11 will be used to explain the case where the door 43 is open when entering the room, and Fig. 12 will be used to explain the case where the door 43 is closed when entering the room. Fig. 12 will also be used to explain the case where the patient P comes into contact with the door 43 when the protocol is completed. However, the operation when the patient P comes into contact with the door 43 when the protocol is completed is independent of the open / closed state of the door 43 when entering the room, and therefore may also be applied when the door 43 is open when entering the room.

[0084] (When door 43 is open when entering the room: Figure 11) First, in the radiography room R1, the gantry body 11 is supported on the upper part of the support pillar 13 with the central axis A1 of the opening 15 oriented substantially perpendicular to the floor surface. Also, the door 43 of the protective cover 37 is in an open state.

[0085] In this state, patient P enters the radiography room R1 (st1a). Meanwhile, on the console device 60 in the operation room R2, the operator presses the next patient button (ST1), and the processing circuit 64 starts preparations for X-ray CT imaging of the next patient. At this time, the protective cover 37 maintains the open state with the door 43 open (st1d).

[0086] Next, the patient P moves toward the protective cover 37 and approaches the detection sensor 73 (ST1s-1). The detection sensor 73 detects a person approaching the protective cover 37 from outside the area of ​​the protective cover 37 (ST1s-2), and sends a detection signal to the console device 60.

[0087] If the processing circuit 64 of the console device 60 detects an approaching person based on the camera image when the patient P is not located inside the area, it controls the door 43 to the open state. In this case, since the door 43 is already in the open state, the processing circuit 64 maintains the door 43 in the open state (ST1s-3).

[0088] After step ST1s-3, the processing circuitry 64 sets the protocol in the same manner as described above (ST2). In parallel with step ST2, the patient P enters the dome, which corresponds to the area inside the protective cover 37 (st2a). This prevents the detection sensor 73 from detecting an approaching individual, and sends a non-detection signal to the console device 60 (ST2s). The CT imaging position for the patient P is determined in the same manner as described above (st2b).

[0089] Thereafter, the operations from step ST3, ST3c onwards are executed in the same manner as described above.

[0090] (When door 43 is closed upon entry and door 43 is touched upon completion of the protocol: Figure 12) First, in the radiography room R1, the gantry main body 11 is supported on the upper part of the support column 13, as described above. Also, the door 43 of the protective cover 37 is in a closed state.

[0091] In this state, patient P enters the radiography room R1 (st1a). Meanwhile, on the console device 60 in the operation room R2, the operator presses the next patient button (ST1), and the processing circuit 64 starts preparations for X-ray CT imaging of the next patient. At this time, the protective cover 37 maintains the closed state with the door 43 closed (st1dx).

[0092] Next, the patient P moves toward the protective cover 37 and approaches the detection sensor 73 (ST1s-1). The detection sensor 73 detects a person approaching the protective cover 37 from outside the area of ​​the protective cover 37 (ST1s-2), and sends a detection signal to the console device 60.

[0093] If the processing circuit 64 of the console device 60 detects an approaching person based on the camera image when the patient P is not located inside the area, the processing circuit 64 controls the door 43 to the open state (ST1s-3x). This causes the door 43 to enter an open state. Thus, step ST1x, from the closed state (st1dx) of the door 43 to the open state (ST1s-3x) based on the detection of an approaching person by the detection sensor 73, is completed.

[0094] After step ST1x, the processing circuitry 64 sets the protocol in the same manner as described above (ST2). In parallel with step ST2, the patient P enters the dome, which corresponds to the area inside the protective cover 37 (st2a). This prevents the detection sensor 73 from detecting an approaching individual, and the detection sensor 73 sends a non-detection signal to the console device 60 (ST2s). The CT imaging position for the patient P is determined in the same manner as described above (st2b).

[0095] Thereafter, the operations of steps ST3, ST3c to ST10 are executed in the same manner as described above, and the patient P leaves the dome (st10a).

[0096] Next, a case where the patient P comes into contact with the door 43 at the end of the protocol in step ST7 will be described.

[0097] After step ST7, the processing circuit 64 generates progress information corresponding to the end of the protocol (ST8). The camera 71 also captures the inside of the area and sends the camera image to the console device 60. It is assumed that the position of the patient P in the camera image is abnormal and is in contact with the door (ST8cx). The abnormal position in step ST8cx does not necessarily have to be a position in contact with the door 43, but can be any position within a predetermined distance from the door 43, such as a position close to the door 43. The detection sensor 73 also detects a person approaching the protective cover 37 from outside the area of ​​the protective cover 37 (ST8s-1) and sends a detection signal to the console device 60.

[0098] If the patient P is located within the area based on the camera image and is less than a predetermined distance from the door, the processing circuitry 64 of the console device 60 controls the door 43 to a closed state and maintains the door 43 closed, regardless of whether an approaching person is detected (ST8s-2). In parallel with step ST8s-2, the processing circuitry 64 outputs an alert (ST8s-3). As a result, the patient P does not exit the dome but waits inside the dome (st8a). Thus, if the patient comes into contact with the door 43 at the end of the protocol, step ST8x (steps ST8cx to st8a) differs from steps ST8c to st10a shown in FIG. 11. If the patient P moves away from the door 43 by more than a predetermined distance in response to the alert in step ST8s-3, steps ST8c to st10a shown in FIG. 11 are executed, as described above, and the process ends.

[0099] As described above, according to the third embodiment, the detection sensor 73 detects a person approaching the protective cover 37 from outside the area inside the protective cover 37. If an approaching person is detected when the patient P (subject) is not located inside the area based on the camera image, the processing circuit 64 (first control unit) controls the door 43 to an open state.

[0100] As a result, when patient P approaches protective cover 37, door 43 of protective cover 37 is automatically opened, thereby providing the effect of the second embodiment and preventing contact with protective cover 37, thereby enhancing infection control measures.

[0101] Furthermore, according to the third embodiment, the detection sensor 73 detects a person approaching the protective cover 37 from outside the area within the protective cover 37. When the patient P (subject) is located inside the area based on the camera image, if the patient P is located less than a predetermined distance from the door 43, the processing circuit 64 (first control unit) controls the door 43 to a closed state and outputs an alert, regardless of whether an approaching person is detected or not.

[0102] <Modification of the third embodiment> The third embodiment may be implemented as the following modified example. A modified example of the third embodiment is a form in which a priority is assigned to each of the above-mentioned opening and closing controls. Specifically, for example, a table that associates priority with progress information, operation signals, and identification information related to opening and closing controls for each patient position may be stored in memory 61, and processing circuitry 64 may refer to the table before executing opening and closing control. When multiple opening and closing controls compete, processing circuitry 64 performs the opening and closing control with the higher priority. In the following description, the notation "nth priority" indicates that a priority with a smaller n is given priority. For example, first priority indicates the highest priority.

[0103] Here, the first priority is given to the opening / closing control for emergency evacuation. The opening / closing control with the first priority allows the operator to freely open and close the door 43 when, for example, the imaging system is off, the emergency stop button is operated, or a button on the operation panel 29 or in the button group 631 is operated. Operation signals corresponding to various button operations with the first priority are not generated simultaneously, and therefore are executed with the same priority.

[0104] The second priority is given to the closing control based on the camera image when the patient P comes into contact with or approaches the door 43. According to the closing control with the second priority, the processing circuit 64 controls the door 43 to the closed state when the patient P is located within the protective cover 37 at a position less than a predetermined distance from the door 43 based on the camera image.

[0105] The third priority is assigned to the opening / closing control based on the progress information of the X-ray CT scan. According to the opening / closing control with the third priority, the processing circuit 64 performs the opening / closing control of the door 43 based on the progress information. For example, if there is a conflict between the closing control based on the camera image with the second priority and the opening / closing control based on the progress information with the third priority, the closing control with the second priority is executed preferentially. In other words, even if the door 43 is opened based on the progress information, the door 43 is maintained in a closed state as long as the patient P is in contact with or in proximity to the door 43.

[0106] The fourth priority is given to the opening / closing control based on the detection sensor 73. According to the opening / closing control with the fourth priority, when the detection sensor 73 detects a person approaching the protective cover 37, the processing circuit 64 controls the door 43 to the open state.

[0107] The fifth priority is assigned to the case where, during close control based on camera images, the patient P is located at a predetermined distance or more from the door 43. According to the close control with the fifth priority, the processing circuit 64 controls the door 43 to a closed state when, based on camera images, the patient P is located at a predetermined distance or more from the door 43 inside the protective cover 37. However, in the case of the close control with the fifth priority, the door 43 is opened, for example, due to the occurrence of the open control based on the progress information with the third priority or the open control by the detection sensor 73 with the fourth priority.

[0108] The other configurations are the same as those in the third embodiment.

[0109] According to the above modification, by appropriately assigning priorities to various types of opening and closing controls, it is possible to realize opening and closing controls according to priorities in addition to the effect of the third embodiment.

[0110] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, the door of the protective cover can be opened and closed while preventing contact between the protective cover, which protects the subject from the gantry body, and the operator.

[0111] The term "processor" used in the above description refers to a circuit such as a CPU (central processing unit), a GPU (graphics processing unit), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA)). A processor realizes its functions by reading and executing a program stored in a memory. Note that instead of storing a program in a memory, the processor may be configured so that the program is directly embedded in the circuit. In this case, the processor realizes its functions by reading and executing the program embedded in the 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. Furthermore, multiple components in FIGS. 1, 8, and 10 may be integrated into a single processor to realize its functions.

[0112] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims, as well as in the scope and spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0113] 1 X-ray CT device 10 Mounting device 11 Stand body 13 Posts 15 Aperture 17 X-ray tube 19 X-ray detector 21 Rotating Frame 25 Control device 29 Operation Panel 29a, 631a free button 29b, 631b Closure button 29c, 631c Open button 31 High voltage generator 33 Data collection circuit 37 Protective cover 41 Wall components 43 Doors 45 orbit 47 Open / close detection unit 50 floor 59 Travel Route 60 Console device 61 memory 62 Display 63 Input Interface 631 Buttons 64 Processing Circuit 641 System Control Functions 642 Pre-processing function 643 Reconstruction Processing Function 644 Image Processing Function 645, 645c, 645cs Door Control Function 71 Camera 73 Sensor A1 center axis

Claims

1. a gantry body having an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector arranged on either side of an opening; a gantry support portion that supports the gantry main body in a state in which the central axis of the opening is oriented substantially perpendicular to a floor surface, so as to be movable in a direction perpendicular to the floor surface; a protective cover provided on the floor surface so as to fit within an area through which an opening of the gantry body passes when the gantry body moves in a vertical direction, the protective cover having an openable and closable door for allowing a subject to move between the inside and outside of the area; a first control unit that controls opening and closing of the door based on progress information indicating a progress status of the X-ray CT imaging of the subject; a camera that captures an image of the inside of the area and transmits the camera image; Equipped with The first control unit performs the opening and closing control based on the progress information when the subject is located inside the area based on the camera image and the subject is away from the door by a predetermined distance or more.

2. the first control unit controls the door to a closed state based on the progress information corresponding to a case where protocol setting for the X-ray CT imaging has been completed; 2. An X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1.

3. an input unit that inputs an operation signal for controlling opening and closing of the door in response to an operation by an operator; a second control unit that performs opening and closing control of the door based on the operation signal, with priority over opening and closing control by the first control unit; 3. The X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:

4. the input unit inputs, in response to an operation by the operator, the operation signal being any one of a first operation signal for controlling the door to a state in which it can be opened and closed, a second operation signal for controlling the door to a closed state, and a third operation signal for controlling the door to an open state.

4. The X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 3.

5. a detection sensor that detects an approaching person to the protective cover from outside the area; Further provided with the first control unit controls the door to an open state when the approaching person is detected based on the camera image in a case where the subject is not located inside the area.

2. An X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1.

6. a detection sensor that detects an approaching person to the protective cover from outside the area; Further provided with When the object is located inside the area based on the camera image, if the object is located within a predetermined distance from the door, the first control unit controls the door to a closed state and outputs an alert, regardless of whether the approaching person is detected or not.

2. An X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1.

Images