Mobile radiography apparatus, control method, and program

Abstract

To achieve both efficiency of power consumption and a user's convenience in a mobile radiographic apparatus having two independent power supply units.SOLUTION: A mobile radiographic apparatus 100 includes: two independent power supply units (a device main power source 10, a power source 20 for DR); and two control units (a radiation control unit 11, a DR console 21) which are supplied with power from each of the two power supply units and driven. One control unit (DR console 21) of the two control units inquires the other control unit (the radiation control unit 11) of the condition of the other control unit of the two control units and shuts down one of the control units or stops shutting down in response to a reply of the other control unit when a prescribed condition is satisfied.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a mobile radiography apparatus, a control method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a mobile radiography apparatus for the purpose of performing radiography outside a radiographic room in a hospital (such as a patient room or an operating room) is known. Due to the characteristic that the mobile radiography apparatus can be moved to any location, it is necessary to be driven by a battery.

[0003] For example, in order to prevent forgetting to charge the battery of a mobile X-ray imaging apparatus, when it is detected that a charger is connected to an external power source, a technique has been proposed in which a computer that controls each part of the apparatus sets its own system to a shutdown state (see Patent Document 1).

[0004] A mobile radiography apparatus is provided with a DR (Digital Radiography) console for performing setting operations for radiation detection of an FPD (Flat Panel Detector) panel. When an independent power source is not provided for this DR console (single power supply configuration), when turning off the power to the entire apparatus, the DR console is shut down. The single power supply configuration has one power source for turning on / off the apparatus, so the operation is simple, but the DR console cannot be started alone.

[0005] In contrast, a system is known in which the main power supply for the device, which supplies power for operations related to radiation irradiation and the operation of the device (movement of the device, movement of the irradiation unit and adjustment of the irradiation field, etc.), and the DR power supply for the DR console are driven independently (two-power supply configuration). In a two-power supply configuration, the main power supply for the device and the DR power supply are turned on / off separately. Therefore, by selectively turning off the power systems that are not being used, such as turning off the main power supply for the device and turning on only the DR power supply to perform operations related to the captured images (brightness adjustment, output to external devices, etc.), or turning off the DR power supply and turning on only the main power supply for moving the device, the battery can be used efficiently (power saving). In addition, since patient information and captured images are displayed on the DR console, turning off the DR power supply has the advantage of making it more difficult for third parties to see private information. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2009-153847 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] However, in a mobile radiography system with a dual power supply configuration (where the main power supply for the device and the power supply for DR are independent), if at least one of the power supplies is left on, there is a risk of data corruption due to forced shutdown caused by insufficient battery power, or battery degradation due to prolonged operation. Furthermore, if peripheral devices are powered from either power supply, the peripheral devices will continue to operate until the power supply to the source is shut off. Therefore, if it is permissible to shut off each power supply in a dual power supply configuration, it is desirable to do so appropriately without relying on user intervention.

[0008] Incidentally, when the technology described in Patent Document 1 is applied to a mobile radiography system with a dual power supply configuration, even if a large volume of captured images is being transmitted externally, the system will enter a shutdown state provided that it is connected to an external power supply (i.e., charging). Thus, when shutting down the system, it is necessary to consider not only the power supply status to the system but also the processing status of the system.

[0009] In the case of a dual power supply configuration, it is also possible to periodically query the main unit of the DR console (the part responsible for radiation delivery and movement of the device) to check whether it is running or not (check for operational status), and to shut down the DR console if the main unit does not respond that it is running. However, in mobile radiography equipment, the power capacity is limited, so if the DR console frequently queries the main unit of the device, the power consumption will increase, which could lead to insufficient battery power during actual rounds.

[0010] The present invention has been made in view of the problems of the prior art described above, and aims to achieve both efficient power consumption and user convenience in a mobile radiography apparatus having two independent power supply units. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] To solve the above problems, the invention described in claim 1 is: A first power supply unit and a second power supply unit that can be switched on / off independently of each other. The power supply unit and A first control device that is powered and driven by the first power supply unit and controls a functional unit related to radiation irradiation and the operation of a mobile radiography apparatus; a second control device that is powered and driven by the second power supply unit and controls a functional unit related to radiation detection and the manipulation of captured images; A mobile radiography apparatus equipped with, The first control device and the second One of the control devices, when certain conditions are met, The first control device and the second The other control unit of the control unit queries the other control unit for its status, and in response to the other control unit, shuts down the first control unit. i) Turn off the power supply unit that supplies power to one of the control devices, which is the first power supply unit and the second power supply unit. or, The one control device Cancel the shutdown.

[0012] The invention described in claim 2 is a mobile radiography apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein one control device transmits a shutdown request to the other control device or a peripheral device connected to the one control device before shutting down the one control device.

[0013] The invention described in claim 3 is a mobile radiography apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the predetermined condition is that no operation is performed on one of the control devices for a certain period of time or longer.

[0015] Claim 4 The invention described is A first power supply unit and a second power supply unit that can be switched on / off independently of each other. The power supply unit and A first control device that is powered and driven by the first power supply unit and controls a functional unit related to radiation irradiation and the operation of a mobile radiography apparatus; a second control device that is powered and driven by the second power supply unit and controls a functional unit related to radiation detection and the manipulation of captured images; A control method for a mobile radiography apparatus comprising: The first control device and the second One of the control devices, when certain conditions are met, The first control device and the second The other control unit of the control unit queries the other control unit for its status, and in response to the other control unit, shuts down the first control unit. i) Turn off the power supply unit that supplies power to one of the control devices, which is the first power supply unit and the second power supply unit. or, The one control device Cancel the shutdown.

[0016] Claim 5 The invention described is A first power supply unit and a second power supply unit that can be switched on / off independently of each other. The power supply unit and A first control device that is powered and driven by the first power supply unit and controls a functional unit related to radiation irradiation and the operation of a mobile radiography apparatus; a second control device that is powered and driven by the second power supply unit and controls a functional unit related to radiation detection and the manipulation of captured images; Mobile radiography system equipped with The first control device and the second In the computer of one of the control devices, if certain conditions are met, The first control device and the second The process involves querying the other control device for the status of that other control device, and, in response to the response of the other control device, shutting down the first control device. i) Turn off the power supply unit that supplies power to one of the control devices, which is the first power supply unit and the second power supply unit. or, The one control device This is a program that executes the process of canceling the shutdown. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] According to the present invention, a mobile radiography apparatus having two independent power supply units can achieve both efficient power consumption and user convenience.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0018] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a radiation imaging system in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a mobile radiation imaging device. [Figure 3] It is a sequence diagram of a power-off process executed in a DR console and a radiation control unit. [Figure 4] It is a flowchart showing the first shutdown determination process executed in a DR console. [Figure 5] It is a flowchart showing the second shutdown determination process executed in the DR console of Modification 1. [Figure 6] It is a flowchart showing the third shutdown determination process executed in the DR console of Modification 2. [Figure 7] It is a flowchart showing the fourth shutdown determination process executed in the DR console of Modification 3. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart showing the fifth shutdown determination process executed in the DR console of the second embodiment.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0019] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the scope of the invention is not limited to the illustrated examples.

[0020] [First Embodiment] First, the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 1 shows an example of the overall configuration of the radiography system 1. The radiography system 1 is a system built within a medical facility, and as shown in Figure 1, it is configured such that a mobile radiography device 100, a RIS (Radiology Information System) 110, a PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) 120, and a dynamic analysis device 130 are connected to each other via a communication network N such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or WAN (Wide Area Network) to enable data transmission and reception. Multiple access points 140 are provided within the medical facility where the radiography system 1 is installed. The mobile radiography device 100 can connect to the communication network N via the access points 140 using wireless LAN communication with a wireless LAN interface provided on the mobile radiography device 100. In addition to the wireless LAN interface, the mobile radiography device 100 may also be equipped with a wired LAN interface, in which case it can connect to the communication network N via wired LAN communication using the wired LAN interface. Each device constituting the radiography system 1 conforms to the DICOM (Digital Image and Communications in Medicine) standard, and communication between devices is conducted in accordance with DICOM.

[0021] The mobile radiography system 100 is a device for performing radiography on patients who have difficulty moving during ward rounds. The mobile radiography system 100 has wheels W on its main body 100A and is configured as a mobile ward round cart.

[0022] The mobile radiography device 100 is brought into operating rooms, intensive care units (ICUs), patient rooms, etc., and the FPD 51 is inserted, for example, between the subject M lying on the bed and the bed, or into an insertion opening on the opposite side of the bed from the subject M. With the FPD 51 inserted, radiation is emitted from the radiation generating unit 13 to take still images or motion images of the subject M. In this embodiment, still image capture means acquiring one image of the subject M in a single shooting operation. Motion imaging means acquiring multiple images of the subject M in a single shooting operation by repeatedly irradiating the subject M with pulsed radiation such as X-rays at predetermined time intervals (pulsed irradiation), or by continuously irradiating it with a low dose without interruption (continuous irradiation). A series of images obtained by motion imaging is called a motion image. Each of the multiple images that make up a motion image is called a frame image. Here, "dynamic photography" includes video recording, but does not include taking still images while displaying video. "Dynamic images" includes moving images, but does not include images obtained by taking still images while displaying moving images.

[0023] The RIS110 issues and stores inspection order information, and transmits the issued inspection order information to the mobile radiography device 100 via the communication network N.

[0024] PACS120 is an image management system that stores and manages medical images (still images, motion images) generated by modalities such as mobile radiography equipment 100, as well as analysis results from motion analysis equipment 130, in association with patient information and examination information.

[0025] The motion analysis device 130 performs analysis on motion images output from the mobile radiography device 100 and transmits the motion images and analysis results to the PACS 120. The motion analysis device 130 is capable of performing multiple types of analysis, and performs the specified type of analysis from among the multiple types of analysis.

[0026] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a mobile radiography system 100 (mobile medical unit). As shown in Figure 2, the mobile radiography system 100 is configured to include a main power supply 10, a radiation control unit 11, a DR power supply 20, a DR console 21, a battery 30, an exposure interlocking unit 41, and the like.

[0027] The main power supply 10 and the DR power supply 20 are mutually independent power supply units. In other words, the mobile radiography system 100 is a mobile radiography system with a dual power supply configuration. The main power supply 10 of the device supplies power to the radiation control unit 11. The DR power supply 20 supplies power to the DR console 21 and the exposure interlocking unit 41. The DR power supply 20 also supplies power to the FPD 51 via the exposure interlocking unit 41.

[0028] The radiation control unit 11 is powered and driven by the device's main power supply 10. The radiation control unit 11 is a control device that controls the functions related to radiation irradiation and the driving operation of the mobile radiography device 100 (such as moving the device, moving the irradiation section and adjusting the irradiation field). The radiation control unit 11 includes a main control unit 12, a radiation generation unit 13, a drive unit 14, a display unit 15, an operation unit 16, a communication unit 17, etc.

[0029] The main control unit 12 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), etc. The CPU of the main control unit 12 reads various programs stored in ROM, loads them into RAM, executes various processes according to the loaded programs, and centrally controls the operation of each part of the radiation control unit 11 and the main power supply 10 of the device.

[0030] The radiation generating unit 13 has a rotating anode, a filament, etc., and is configured to generate radiation according to the irradiation conditions (conditions related to radiation irradiation such as tube voltage, tube current, irradiation time, current-time product, etc.). The radiation generating unit 13 irradiates the subject M with radiation from a position opposite the FPD 51 with the subject M in between.

[0031] The drive unit 14 rotates the wheels W by driving the motor based on the control signal from the main control unit 12. The drive unit 14 also moves the radiation generating unit 13 and adjusts the irradiation field.

[0032] The display unit 15 is comprised of a monitor such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and displays various screens according to the instructions of the display signals input from the main control unit 12 or the DR control unit 22. For example, the display unit 15 displays irradiation conditions, etc.

[0033] The operation unit 16 is equipped with operation buttons, a touch panel, etc., and detects user operations, inputting them as operation information to the display unit 15 or outputting them to the main control unit 12. User operations include, for example, changing irradiation conditions. The control unit 16 is also equipped with a handlebar for driving and a handle for moving the radiation generating unit 13, and detects user steering inputs and transmits them as operation information to the main control unit 12. Based on this operation information, the main control unit 12 controls the drive unit 14 via control signals, as described earlier.

[0034] The communication unit 17 is an interface for sending and receiving data with the DR console 21. For example, the communication unit 17 transmits irradiation conditions to the DR console 21.

[0035] The DR console 21 is powered by a power supply 20 for DR. The DR console 21 is a control device that controls the functions related to radiation detection and manipulation of captured images (such as brightness adjustment and output to external devices). The DR console 21 includes a DR control unit 22, a display unit 23, an operation unit 24, a first communication unit 25, a second communication unit 26, and the like.

[0036] The DR control unit 22 is composed of a CPU, RAM, ROM, etc. The CPU of the DR control unit 22 reads various programs stored in ROM, loads them into RAM, executes various processes according to the loaded programs, and centrally controls the operation of each part of the DR console 21 and the DR power supply 20.

[0037] The display unit 23 is comprised of a monitor such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and displays various screens according to the instructions of the display signals input from the DR control unit 22. For example, the display unit 23 displays patient information of the patient being photographed, the captured images, etc.

[0038] The operation unit 24 is equipped with operation buttons, a touch panel, etc., and detects the user's operations (such as the type of operation button pressed and the contact position of the finger or stylus), and outputs this as operation information to the DR control unit 22. User operations include, for example, adjusting the brightness of the captured image and outputting the captured image to an external device.

[0039] The first communication unit 25 is an interface for transmitting and receiving data wirelessly with the FPD 51. For example, the first communication unit 25 receives image data of captured images from the FPD 51. Furthermore, the first communication unit 25 is connected to the access point 140 via a wireless LAN interface and is an interface for sending and receiving data (input / output) with external devices (RIS 110, PACS 120, dynamic analysis device 130, etc.) connected to the communication network N via the access point 140. For example, the first communication unit 25 transmits image data of captured images to the external device. The first communication unit 25 may also send and receive data with external devices connected to the communication network N via a wired LAN. In addition, the first communication unit 25 may have both a wireless LAN interface and a wired LAN interface and use them exclusively to send and receive data with external devices, or use them simultaneously to send and receive data with external devices.

[0040] The second communication unit 26 is an interface for sending and receiving data with the radiation control unit 11. For example, the second communication unit 26 receives irradiation conditions from the radiation control unit 11.

[0041] Battery 30 stores power supplied from an external power source 35 and supplies the stored power to the device's main power source 10 and DR power source 20. Battery 30 is connected to a power cable with a plug at its end, and is configured to receive power from the external power source 35 by plugging the cable into a nearby outlet. When battery 30 is not connected to the external power source 35, the remaining charge of battery 30 decreases in accordance with the use of the device's main power source 10 and DR power source 20.

[0042] The exposure interlocking unit 41 synchronizes the timing of the operation of the radiation generating unit 13 of the radiation control unit 11 with the timing of the operation of the radiation detection unit 54 of the FPD 51. The exposure interlocking unit 41 includes a control unit 42, an exposure interlocking unit 43, and the like.

[0043] The control unit 42 is composed of a CPU, RAM, ROM, etc. The CPU of the control unit 42 reads various programs stored in ROM, loads them into RAM, executes various processes according to the loaded programs, and centrally controls the operation of each part of the exposure interlocking unit 41.

[0044] The exposure interlocking unit 43 transmits an exposure interlocking signal to the FPD 51 based on the irradiation conditions obtained from the radiation control unit 11 and via the DR console 21.

[0045] The FPD51 includes a control unit 52, an operation unit 53, a radiation detection unit 54, an exposure interlocking unit 55, an image communication unit 56, and the like.

[0046] The control unit 52 is composed of a CPU, RAM, ROM, etc. The CPU of the control unit 52 reads various programs stored in ROM, loads them into RAM, executes various processes according to the loaded programs, and centrally controls the operation of each part of the FPD 51.

[0047] The control unit 53 is equipped with operation buttons and the like, detects user operations, and outputs them as operation information to the control unit 52. User actions include, for example, switching between shooting modes.

[0048] The radiation detection unit 54 has a glass substrate or the like, and multiple detection elements (pixels) are arranged in a matrix at predetermined positions on the substrate. These elements detect radiation irradiated from the radiation generation unit 13 that has passed through at least the subject M according to its intensity, and convert the detected radiation into an electrical signal for storage. Each pixel is configured with a switching unit such as a TFT (Thin Film Transistor). The radiation detection unit 54 can be an indirect conversion type that converts radiation into an electrical signal via a scintillator using a photoelectric conversion element, or a direct conversion type that directly converts radiation into an electrical signal; either type may be used.

[0049] The exposure interlocking unit 55, based on the exposure interlocking signal transmitted from the exposure interlocking unit 41, synchronizes the operation of the radiation detection unit 54 with the operation of the radiation generating unit 13 of the radiation control unit 11.

[0050] The image communication unit 56 is an interface for transmitting and receiving data wirelessly with the DR console 21. For example, the image communication unit 56 transmits image data of the radiation image obtained by the radiation detection unit 54 to the DR console 21.

[0051] The DR console 21 (one control device) queries the radiation control unit 11 (the other control device) for the status of the radiation control unit 11 when predetermined conditions are met. The predetermined conditions are the conditions (termination conditions) for shutting down the DR console 21 and ending the DR power supply 20. For example, one predetermined condition is that "no operation has been performed on the DR console 21 for a certain period of time or longer."

[0052] Depending on the response of the radiation control unit 11, the DR console 21 will either shut down or cancel the shutdown of the DR console 21.

[0053] Before shutting down the DR console 21, it sends a shutdown request to the radiation control unit 11 or to peripheral devices connected to the DR console 21.

[0054] In the mobile radiography system 100, imaging is performed based on examination order information under the control of the main control unit 12 and the DR control unit 22. The FPD 51 transmits the images acquired by imaging to the mobile radiography system 100 (DR console 21) via the image communication unit 56. When imaging is completed, the DR control unit 22 of the DR console 21 receives the images transmitted from the FPD 51 via the first communication unit 25, temporarily stores them in RAM, and outputs the images to an external device (PACS 120, dynamic analysis device 130, etc.) via the first communication unit 25 (image data transfer).

[0055] Next, the operation of the mobile radiography device 100 will be described. Figure 3 is a sequence diagram of the power shutdown process performed in the DR console 21 and the radiation control unit 11.

[0056] The DR control unit 22 of the DR console 21 monitors the status of the DR console 21 (step S1). When the termination conditions of the DR console 21 are met (step S2), the DR control unit 22 queries the radiation control unit 11 via the second communication unit 26 to confirm the status of the radiation control unit 11 (step S3). The "status of the radiation control unit 11" that is the subject of the query includes the startup status of the radiation control unit 11 (whether it is running or not), the shutdown status (whether it has shut down or not), the input status (whether operation input / data input has been performed or not), the exposure status (whether radiation is being emitted by the radiation generating unit 13 or not), the driving status (whether it is driving or not), etc.

[0057] When the radiation control unit 11 sends a response to the DR console 21 in response to an inquiry about the status of the radiation control unit 11 (Case C1, step S4), the DR control unit 22 of the DR console 21 determines whether or not it is possible to shut down the DR console 21 in accordance with the response from the radiation control unit 11.

[0058] If shutdown is not possible (Case C11), the DR control unit 22 resumes monitoring the status of the DR console 21 (Step S5). In other words, the DR control unit 22 cancels the shutdown of the DR console 21. If shutdown is possible (Case C12), the DR control unit 22 shuts down the DR console 21 and turns off the DR power supply 20 (Step S6).

[0059] If the radiation control unit 11 does not respond to the DR console 21 to an inquiry about the status of the radiation control unit 11 (Case C2), the DR control unit 22 shuts down the DR console 21 and turns off the DR power supply 20 (Step S7). This completes the power-off process.

[0060] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the first shutdown decision process executed in the DR console 21. This process is performed through the cooperation of the CPU of the DR control unit 22 and a program stored in ROM.

[0061] First, the DR control unit 22 monitors the termination conditions of the DR console 21 (step S11) and determines whether or not the termination conditions of the DR console 21 are met (step S12).

[0062] (Termination condition A) For example, the DR control unit 22 determines whether or not no operation (from the operation unit 24) has been performed on the DR console 21 for a certain period of time or longer. If no operation is performed on the DR console 21 for a certain period of time or longer, the DR control unit 22 determines that the termination conditions for the DR console 21 have been met. Allowing the user to set this period (automatic shutdown waiting time) allows for optimization according to the facility's operation, improving convenience.

[0063] (Termination condition B) The DR control unit 22 determines, via the second communication unit 26, whether or not it has received a termination request from the radiation control unit 11 (or the device main power supply 10). If the DR control unit 22 receives a termination request from the radiation control unit 11 (or the device main power supply 10), it determines that the termination conditions of the DR console 21 have been met. For example, in the case of a forced shutdown by the radiation control unit 11, it is conceivable that the radiation control unit 11 sends a termination request to the DR console 21 just before shutting down.

[0064] (Termination condition C) The DR control unit 22 determines whether a predetermined time or time period has arrived. If the predetermined time or time period has arrived, the DR control unit 22 determines that the termination conditions of the DR console 21 have been met. Allowing users to set the predetermined time or time period allows for optimization according to the facility's operation, improving convenience. For example, by setting the predetermined time or time period to match the facility's normal closing time, an automatic shutdown will be performed when the closing time arrives, preventing users from forgetting to shut down at the end of business hours.

[0065] (Termination condition D) The DR control unit 22 determines whether communication has been completed if there are modules currently communicating in the mobile radiography device 100. The DR control unit 22 determines that the termination conditions of the DR console 21 have been met when communication in a module that is currently communicating has been completed. "Modules currently communicating" may include not only modules that are currently communicating, but also communication modules that are not currently communicating but have data scheduled for communication and are in the process of being prepared. "Modules currently communicating" include the first communication unit 25 that communicates between the DR console 21 and an external device, the first communication unit 25 that communicates between the DR console 21 and the FPD 51, and the second communication unit 26 that communicates between the DR console 21 and the radiation control unit 11. The termination conditions of the DR console 21 may be determined to be met when communication is completed in all modules of these multiple communication units, or the completion of communication in modules of some communication units may be considered as waiting for communication completion.

[0066] For example, the system could target communication units that handle the transfer of images for diagnostic purposes or images used to generate diagnostic images (for example, the first communication unit 25 that communicates between the DR console 21 and an external device, and the first communication unit 25 that communicates between the DR console 21 and the FPD 51), while excluding communication units that do not handle the transfer of images for diagnostic purposes or images used to generate diagnostic images (for example, the second communication unit 26 that communicates between the DR console 21 and the radiation control unit 11). The system could then determine that the termination condition of the DR console 21 is met when the communication of the targeted communication units is completed. Since images have a large data size, if the system terminates during communication, it will take time to retransmit the data when the system restarts. This approach improves work efficiency. Furthermore, by excluding communication units that do not perform image transfer for diagnostic purposes and waiting for their communication to complete, it is possible to prevent situations where the battery level decreases due to communication that is not important to the user (for example, status notifications between devices) preventing the termination condition from being met for a long time.

[0067] Furthermore, instead of differentiating between communications that are awaiting completion and those that are not based on the communication unit itself, the classification can be based on the content of the communication. Modules in communication related to the transfer of images for diagnostic purposes or images used to generate diagnostic images may be designated as communications that are awaiting completion, while other communications are not, and similar effects can be expected.

[0068] Furthermore, the combination of the communication unit and the communication content may be used to differentiate between those that are subject to waiting for communication completion and those that are not. Specifically, only the first communication unit 25 that communicates between the DR console 21 and an external device, and whose communication content relates to the transfer of images for diagnostic purposes or images used to generate images for diagnostic purposes, may be subject to waiting for communication completion, while all others may not be subject to waiting for communication completion.

[0069] Furthermore, the communication method used by the communication unit may be used to determine whether or not the communication unit is subject to waiting for completion. Specifically, if the first communication unit 25 is using wireless LAN communication, it is not subject to waiting for completion; if it is using wired LAN communication, it is subject to waiting for completion. For the mobile radiography device 100 to use wired LAN communication, the user must intentionally connect a wired LAN cable to the mobile radiography device 100, which can be considered as the user wanting to send and receive data via wired LAN. Therefore, shutting down the device while wired LAN communication is in progress would be contrary to the user's intention and would be inconvenient to use. Thus, by making wired LAN communication subject to waiting for completion, the device behaves in accordance with the user's intention.

[0070] Conversely, wired LAN communication may be excluded from the communication completion waiting period, while wireless LAN communication may be included. Since the user will not connect the wired LAN cable to this device if they move the mobile radiography device 100 immediately afterward, connecting the wired LAN cable to this device can be considered as meaning that the mobile radiography device 100 will not be used for some time afterward. By including wireless LAN communication in the communication completion waiting period and excluding wired LAN communication, the communication completion waiting period will not be triggered when switching from wireless LAN to wired LAN. This allows for a prompt shutdown in anticipation of subsequent unused operation, thereby reducing battery consumption.

[0071] Furthermore, two or more of the following can be combined to differentiate between devices that are subject to waiting for communication completion and those that are not. For example, if wireless LAN communication is designated as a device that is subject to waiting for communication completion, and in addition, wired LAN communication with image transfer is also designated as a device that is subject to waiting for communication completion, it is possible to achieve both prompt shutdown in anticipation of the wired LAN cable becoming unused after connection and intentional avoidance of shutdown during transmission or reception.

[0072] (Termination condition E) The DR control unit 22 determines whether the communication network N between the DR console 21 and the external device has been disconnected. The DR control unit 22 determines that the termination conditions for the DR console 21 have been met if the communication network N between the DR console 21 and the external device has been disconnected.

[0073] (Termination condition F) The mobile radiography device 100 is equipped with a sensor that detects whether or not there is a person within a predetermined distance from the DR console 21. The DR control unit 22 determines, based on the sensor output signal, whether or not a user has been absent from the DR console 21 for a certain period of time. If a user has been absent from the DR console 21 for a certain period of time, the DR control unit 22 determines that the termination condition for the DR console 21 has been met. Here, the absence of a user from the DR console 21 is considered to be a state in which the DR console 21 is not in use. Depending on the type of sensor, user identification such as facial recognition may be performed in conjunction with the sensor. If a person unsuitable for use is present in front of the DR console 21, it may be determined that the termination condition (user absent for a certain period of time) has been met.

[0074] (Termination condition G) The DR control unit 22 determines that the termination conditions of the DR console 21 have been met when all examinations scheduled to be performed during the mobile imaging, as indicated by the examination order information issued from the RIS 110, have been completed, or when a certain amount of time has elapsed since their completion. The completion of the examinations may also be triggered by communication with an external device via the communication module as described in termination condition D above, i.e., the completion of image output.

[0075] (Termination condition H) The DR control unit 22 determines that the termination conditions for the DR console 21 have been met when a predetermined number of used FPDs 51 have been stored in the panel storage space attached to the mobile radiography device 100, and a certain amount of time has elapsed. Here, the state in which the FPDs 51 are stored is judged to be a state in which no imaging is being performed, and the DR console 21 is considered to be in a state where it is not being used.

[0076] Multiple conditions may be combined to determine the termination conditions for the DR console 21. For example, termination condition A and termination condition C can be combined to set a time period (e.g., nighttime) during which automatic shutdown is enabled. Automatic shutdown can then be performed only if no operations (from the control unit 24) are performed on the DR console 21 for a certain period of time or longer during that time period. In this way, automatic shutdown will not occur during times when the mobile radiography system 100 is used frequently (e.g., during the day), allowing users to use it immediately when needed. During times when it is used infrequently (e.g., at night), automatic shutdown will be performed to prioritize battery life. Generally, there are fewer users remaining at the facility at night, so it is expected that users unfamiliar with the mobile radiography system 100 may use it, potentially leading to accidental shutdowns. This configuration helps to avoid such situations.

[0077] If the termination conditions of the DR console 21 are not met in step S12 (step S12; NO), the process returns to step S11 and is repeated.

[0078] In step S12, if the termination conditions of the DR console 21 are met (step S12; YES), the DR control unit 22 determines whether or not the radiation control unit 11 is running (step S13).

[0079] Specifically, the DR control unit 22, via the second communication unit 26, inquires with the radiation control unit 11 whether or not the radiation control unit 11 is currently running. If the radiation control unit 11 is being started, the main control unit 12 of the radiation control unit 11 sends a response to the DR console 21 via the communication unit 17 indicating that it is being started. When the DR control unit 22 receives a response from the radiation control unit 11 via the second communication unit 26 indicating that it is being started, it determines that the radiation control unit 11 is being started. On the other hand, if the DR control unit 22 does not receive a response from the radiation control unit 11, it determines that the radiation control unit 11 is not running.

[0080] In step S13, if the radiation control unit 11 is running (step S13; YES), the DR control unit 22 clears the monitoring of the termination conditions (step S14). In other words, the DR control unit 22 resets the state that the termination conditions of the DR console 21 have been met. After step S14, the process returns to step S11 and is repeated.

[0081] In step S13, if the radiation control unit 11 is not running (step S13; NO), that is, if the radiation control unit 11 has already been shut down and the main power supply 10 of the device is turned off, the DR control unit 22 proceeds to step S15 and starts the termination sequence of the DR console 21.

[0082] The DR control unit 22 determines whether peripheral devices powered via the DR power supply 20 are connected to the DR console 21 (step S15). Specifically, the DR control unit 22 determines whether the exposure interlocking unit 41 and FPD 51 are connected as peripheral devices powered via the DR power supply 20. Other peripheral devices may include access points and the like that powered via the DR power supply 20.

[0083] If a peripheral device that receives power via the DR power supply 20 is connected (step S15; YES), the DR control unit 22 sends a shutdown request to the peripheral device (step S16). When a peripheral device (such as the exposure-linked unit 41 or FPD 51) receives a shutdown request, it shuts down itself and cuts off the power supply to the peripheral device from the DR power supply 20.

[0084] If, after step S16, or in step S15, no peripheral devices are connected that are powered via the DR power supply 20 (step S15; NO), the DR control unit 22 shuts down the DR console 21 (step S17) and turns off the DR power supply 20 (step S18). This completes the first shutdown determination process.

[0085] As described above, according to the first embodiment, when the termination conditions (predetermined conditions) of the DR console 21 are met, the DR control unit 22 of the DR console 21 queries the radiation control unit 11 for the status of the radiation control unit 11, and depending on the response of the radiation control unit 11, either shuts down the DR console 21 or cancels the shutdown of the DR console 21. Based on the termination conditions of the DR console 21, the DR control unit 22 can determine whether or not it is time to shut down the DR console 21, and also consider the status of the radiation control unit 11 to decide whether or not to shut down the DR console 21. Furthermore, since the DR control unit 22 automatically determines the termination conditions of the DR console 21, no user instructions are required. In addition, the DR control unit 22 ensures that no problems occur with the entire device by checking the status of the radiation control unit 11.Therefore, in a mobile radiography device 100 having two independent power supply units (device main power supply 10, DR power supply 20), it is possible to achieve both efficient power consumption and user convenience. Furthermore, by shutting down the DR console 21, patient information and captured images will no longer be displayed, thus protecting privacy.

[0086] For example, the DR control unit 22 of the DR console 21 can shut down the DR console 21 and terminate the DR power supply 20 if no operation is performed on the DR console 21 for a certain period of time or longer, thereby making the non-use state of the DR console 21 a trigger for the shutdown of the DR console 21 itself.

[0087] Furthermore, as shown in step S16 of the first shutdown determination process (see Figure 4), the DR control unit 22 of the DR console 21 can prevent peripheral devices from continuing to operate after the DR console 21 has been shut down by sending a shutdown request to the peripheral devices connected to the DR console 21 before shutting down the DR console 21.

[0088] Furthermore, if the termination condition for step S12 of the first shutdown determination process is "communication between the DR console 21 and the external device has been completed," then as long as communication between the DR console 21 and the external device is ongoing (step S12; NO), the process will not proceed to the shutdown of the DR console 21 or the off-power-off of the DR power supply 20. Here, instead of waiting for the termination condition to be met, the DR control unit 22 of the DR console 21 may choose not to shut down the DR console 21 (turn off the DR power supply 20) or to postpone it while communication between the DR console 21 and the external device continues. Examples of communication between the DR console 21 and the external device include sending large images such as motion images to the PACS 120 or motion analysis device 130.

[0089] Similarly, the DR control unit 22 of the DR console 21 may choose not to shut down the DR console 21 (turn off the DR power supply 20) or may postpone it if there is an operation on the operating unit 53 of the FPD 51 or if the cable connecting the FPD 51 and the exposure interlocking unit 41 is connected or disconnected (while switching between wired and wireless communication for the FPD 51).

[0090] Furthermore, the DR control unit 22 of the DR console 21 may choose not to shut down the DR console 21 (turn off the DR power supply 20) or may postpone it if the mobile radiography device 100 is in a charging state, that is, if the battery 30 is connected to the external power supply 35. Furthermore, the DR control unit 22 of the DR console 21 may be configured to switch the DR console 21 to a sleep state when the mobile radiography device 100 is in a charging state. Furthermore, the DR control unit 22 of the DR console 21 may switch the display unit 23 of the DR console 21 to an off state (blackout) when the mobile radiography device 100 is in a charging state.

[0091] [Example 1] Next, we will describe Modification 1 of the First Embodiment. The following description will focus on the differences from the First Embodiment. In Modification 1, when the DR console 21 meets the termination conditions, the information it queries the radiation control unit 11 includes not only whether the radiation control unit 11 is running, but also the continuous travel time of the mobile radiography device 100.

[0092] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the second shutdown decision process executed in the DR console 21. This process is performed through the cooperation of the CPU of the DR control unit 22 and a program stored in ROM.

[0093] The processes in steps S21 to S23 are the same as those in steps S11 to S13 of the first shutdown determination process (see Figure 4), so their explanation is omitted.

[0094] In step S23, if the radiation control unit 11 is activated (step S23; YES), the DR control unit 22 determines whether the continuous travel time of the mobile radiography device 100 is greater than or equal to a predetermined value (step S24). This determination is based on the idea that radiography is not performed while the device is traveling (moving).

[0095] Specifically, the DR control unit 22, via the second communication unit 26, inquires with the radiation control unit 11 whether or not the drive unit 14 has been operating for a certain period of time or longer. The main control unit 12 of the radiation control unit 11 transmits a response to the DR console 21 via the communication unit 17 indicating whether or not the drive unit 14 has been moving for a certain period of time or longer. The DR control unit 22 determines whether the continuous travel time of the mobile radiography device 100 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, based on the response from the radiation control unit 11 received via the second communication unit 26.

[0096] Furthermore, the DR control unit 22 may inquire with the radiation control unit 11 whether or not it is "in motion," and if the response from the radiation control unit 11 indicates "in motion" a certain number of times or more consecutively, it may be determined that the continuous motion time of the mobile radiography device 100 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0097] In step S24, if the continuous travel time of the mobile radiography device 100 is less than a predetermined value (step S24; NO), the DR control unit 22 clears the monitoring of the termination condition (step S25), returns to step S21, and the process is repeated.

[0098] In step S23, if the radiation control unit 11 is not running (step S23; NO), or in step S24, if the continuous travel time of the mobile radiography device 100 is greater than or equal to a predetermined value (step S24; YES), the DR control unit 22 proceeds to step S26 and starts the termination sequence of the DR console 21.

[0099] The processing in steps S26 to S29 is the same as the processing in steps S15 to S18 of the first shutdown determination process (see Figure 4), so the explanation is omitted. This completes the second shutdown decision process.

[0100] According to Modification 1, in addition to the same effects as the first embodiment, if the DR console 21 meets the termination conditions, even if the radiation control unit 11 is running, if the continuous travel time of the mobile radiography device 100 is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the DR console 21 can be shut down and the DR power supply 20 can be shut down. In other words, when the mobile radiography device 100 is traveling (moving), it is assumed that radiography will not be performed immediately, and power consumption can be reduced by shutting down the DR console 21.

[0101] [Differentiation 2] Next, a modified example 2 of the first embodiment will be described. The following description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment. In Modification 2, when the DR console 21 meets the termination conditions, the content of the query from the DR console 21 to the radiation control unit 11 includes not only whether the radiation control unit 11 is running, but also the status of the radiation control unit 11 being unused.

[0102] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the third shutdown decision process executed in the DR console 21. This process is performed through the cooperation of the CPU of the DR control unit 22 and a program stored in ROM.

[0103] The processing in steps S31 to S33 is the same as the processing in steps S11 to S13 of the first shutdown determination process (see Figure 4), so the explanation is omitted.

[0104] In step S33, if the radiation control unit 11 is running (step S33; YES), the DR control unit 22 determines whether the radiation control unit 11 (radiation irradiation function, mobile driving function, etc.) has been inactive for a certain period of time (step S34).

[0105] Specifically, the DR control unit 22, via the second communication unit 26, inquires with the radiation control unit 11 about the output voltage value of the device's main power supply 10 as the operating status of the radiation control unit 11. The main control unit 12 of the radiation control unit 11 transmits the output voltage value of the device's main power supply 10 to the DR console 21 via the communication unit 17. The DR control unit 22 determines whether the radiation control unit 11 is in use based on the output voltage value of the device's main power supply 10, which is received from the radiation control unit 11. The DR control unit 22 determines that the radiation control unit 11 is not in use when the output voltage value of the device's main power supply 10 is below a predetermined value. The DR control unit 22 determines whether or not the radiation control unit 11 has been inactive for a certain period of time by repeatedly querying the radiation control unit 11.

[0106] In step S34, if the radiation control unit 11 remains unused for a certain period of time (step S34; YES), the DR control unit 22 sends a shutdown request to the radiation control unit 11 via the second communication unit 26 (step S35). When the radiation control unit 11 receives a shutdown request via the communication unit 17, the main control unit 12 shuts down the radiation control unit 11 and turns off the main power supply 10 of the device based on the shutdown request.

[0107] In step S34, if the radiation control unit 11 is not in use for a certain period of time (step S34; NO), the DR control unit 22 clears the monitoring of the termination condition (step S36), returns to step S31, and the process is repeated.

[0108] In step S33, if the radiation control unit 11 is not running (step S33; NO), or after step S35, the process proceeds to step S37. That is, if the radiation control unit 11 is already shut down and the device main power supply 10 is turned off, or if it is expected that the radiation control unit 11 will be shut down due to a shutdown request to the radiation control unit 11, the DR control unit 22 starts the termination sequence of the DR console 21.

[0109] The processing in steps S37 to S40 is the same as the processing in steps S15 to S18 of the first shutdown determination process (see Figure 4), so the explanation is omitted. This concludes the third shutdown decision process.

[0110] According to Modification 2, in addition to the same effects as the first embodiment, when the DR console 21 meets the termination conditions, even if the radiation control unit 11 is running, if the radiation control unit 11 has been unused for a certain period of time or longer, the DR console 21 can be shut down and the DR power supply 20 can be shut down. In other words, if the radiation control unit 11 is not being used, it is assumed that radiography will not be performed immediately, and power consumption can be reduced by shutting down the DR console 21.

[0111] Furthermore, as shown in step S35 of the third shutdown determination process (see Figure 6), the DR control unit 22 of the DR console 21 sends a shutdown request to the radiation control unit 11 before shutting down the DR console 21, thereby reducing power consumption in the radiation control unit 11 when the radiation control unit 11 is not in use, etc.

[0112] In the third shutdown determination process, when the DR console 21 is shut down, if the radiation control unit 11 has been unused for a certain period of time, a shutdown request is sent to the radiation control unit 11. However, regardless of the timing of the shutdown of the DR console 21, if the radiation control unit 11 is not being used and the DR console 21 is being continuously operated for a certain period of time, a shutdown request may also be sent from the DR console 21 to the radiation control unit 11.

[0113] [Difference 3] Next, a third modified example of the first embodiment will be described. The following description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment. In variation 3, when the DR console 21 meets the forced termination conditions, the DR console 21 proceeds to shutdown without querying the radiation control unit 11 from the DR console 21.

[0114] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the fourth shutdown decision process executed in the DR console 21. This process is performed through the cooperation of the CPU of the DR control unit 22 and a program stored in ROM.

[0115] First, the DR control unit 22 monitors the forced termination conditions of the DR console 21 (step S41) and determines whether a predetermined operation (an operation corresponding to the forced termination conditions) has been performed on the DR console 21 by the user (step S42). The predetermined operation is not limited to an operation on the operation unit 24. Examples of operations that qualify as conditions for forced termination include pressing the shutdown button, operation via voice control, and remote operation from a device capable of communicating with the DR console 21.

[0116] If no predetermined operation is performed in step S42 (step S42; NO), the process returns to step S41 and is repeated.

[0117] If a predetermined operation occurs in step S42 (step S42; YES), the process proceeds to step S43. That is, the DR control unit 22 starts the termination sequence of the DR console 21 without querying the radiation control unit 11 for the status of the radiation control unit 11.

[0118] The processing in steps S43 to S46 is the same as the processing in steps S15 to S18 of the first shutdown determination process (see Figure 4), so the explanation is omitted. This concludes the fourth shutdown decision process.

[0119] According to Modification 3, the DR console 21 can be forcibly shut down by performing a predetermined operation. The timing for forcible shutdown may include, for example, when the battery 30 is likely to run out before the mobile radiography device 100 has finished moving to the target location.

[0120] In the first embodiment and variations 1 to 3, the case in which the DR console 21 is "one control device" and the radiation control unit 11 is "the other control device" was described, but the invention is not limited to this. The radiation control unit 11 may also query the DR console 21 for its status when it has met its termination conditions.

[0121] [Second Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described. Since the mobile radiography apparatus in the second embodiment has the same configuration as the mobile radiography apparatus 100 shown in the first embodiment, we will refer to Figures 1 and 2 and omit the illustration and description of its configuration. The configuration and processing characteristic of the second embodiment will be described below.

[0122] In the second embodiment, in the mobile radiography apparatus 100, both the radiation control unit 11 and the DR console 21 (two control devices) have their own termination conditions. That is, both the radiation control unit 11 and the DR console 21 each have a function to determine whether or not the termination conditions for the control device itself are met, and if the termination conditions are met, they shut down the control device itself and also shut down the power supply units corresponding to the control device (device main power supply 10, DR power supply 20) (hereinafter referred to as the "automatic shutdown function").

[0123] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, instead of the control unit that has met the termination condition querying the other control unit for its status, the control unit that enters shutdown mode notifies the other control unit that it is entering shutdown mode before performing its own shutdown when the termination condition is met.

[0124] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the fifth shutdown decision process executed in the DR console 21. This process is performed through the cooperation of the CPU of the DR control unit 22 and a program stored in ROM.

[0125] The processing in steps S51 to S52 is the same as the processing in steps S11 to S12 of the first shutdown determination process (see Figure 4), so the explanation is omitted.

[0126] In step S52, if the termination conditions for the DR console 21 are met (step S52; YES), the DR control unit 22 notifies the radiation control unit 11 via the second communication unit 26 that the DR console 21 will shut down (step S53).

[0127] Next, the DR control unit 22 shuts down the DR console 21 (step S54) and turns off the DR power supply 20 (step S55). This concludes the fifth shutdown decision process.

[0128] The fifth shutdown decision process described the process on the DR console 21 side, but the same applies to the radiation control unit 11. Specifically, the main control unit 12 of the radiation control unit 11 determines the timing to shut down the radiation control unit 11 based on the termination conditions of the radiation control unit 11. Then, before shutting down the radiation control unit 11, the main control unit 12 notifies the DR console 21 via the communication unit 17 that the radiation control unit 11 will be shutting down.

[0129] As described above, according to the second embodiment, in the radiation control unit 11 and the DR console 21, the timing for shutting down the control device itself is determined based on the termination conditions of the control device itself. Therefore, in a mobile radiography apparatus 100 having two independent power supply units, it is possible to achieve both efficient power consumption and user convenience.

[0130] In a mobile radiography system 100 in which both the radiation control unit 11 and the DR console 21 have an automatic shutdown function, the radiation control unit 11 can be shut down (the main power supply 10 of the system is turned off) regardless of the state of the DR console 21. However, the DR console 21 may be shut down (the power supply 20 for DR is turned off) only when at least the main power supply 10 of the system is off and no operations are being performed on the DR console 21. This makes it possible to avoid automatically shutting down the DR console 21 when the DR console 21 has not been operated for a certain period of time, such as while the mobile radiography system 100 is in motion, but there is a possibility that it will be used soon afterward.

[0131] Furthermore, in a mobile radiography system 100 in which both the radiation control unit 11 and the DR console 21 (two control devices) have an automatic shutdown function, the automatic shutdown settings (termination conditions, etc.) stored in each control device may be made copyable from one control device to the other. This eliminates the need for the user to configure the automatic shutdown settings for each of the two control devices. Additionally, the convenience can be improved by allowing the automatic shutdown settings to be configured from the DR console 21, which has a more comprehensive user interface.

[0132] One example of an automatic shutdown setting that can be copied is the automatic shutdown waiting time under termination condition A. If the radiation control unit 11 also has a function to determine whether to perform an automatic shutdown based on the automatic shutdown waiting time, that is, if the main control unit 12 determines whether or not no operation has been performed on the radiation control unit 11 from the operation unit 16 of the radiation control unit 11 for a certain period of time or longer, and the radiation control unit 11 has a function to determine that the termination condition of the radiation control unit 11 has been met when no operation has been performed on the radiation control unit 11 for a certain period of time or longer, then the automatic shutdown waiting time on the DR console 21 side is transmitted to the radiation control unit 11 via communication between the second communication unit 26 of the DR console 21 and the communication unit 17 of the radiation control unit 11, and the radiation control unit 11 saves (copys) and uses that value. A standard workflow for ending use of the mobile radiography system 100 involves operating the control unit 16 (e.g., the handlebars for driving) of the radiation control unit 11 to move the mobile radiography system 100 to its unused storage location, then operating the control unit 24 of the DR console 21 to check for any remaining images to be transmitted from the first communication unit 25 to the PACS 120, etc., and finally operating the control unit 16 of the radiation control unit 11 to move the radiation generating unit 13 to its storage position, thus completing the series of operations. In this way, the final operation on the radiation control unit 11 and the final operation on the DR console 21 occur at roughly the same time, so by making the automatic shutdown waiting time for both common through copying, the timing of the automatic shutdown on the radiation control unit 11 and the automatic shutdown on the DR console 21 will generally coincide in many cases. If the timing of the automatic shutdowns of both systems differs significantly, users may become anxious about whether the automatic shutdown is functioning correctly and may perform manual shutdown operations, thus reducing user convenience. However, when the timing of the automatic shutdowns of both systems is roughly synchronized, manual shutdown operations become unnecessary, improving convenience.

[0133] The above descriptions of embodiments and modifications are examples of the mobile radiography apparatus according to the present invention, and are not limited thereto. The detailed configuration and operation of each part constituting the apparatus can also be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0134] For example, in the above embodiments and modifications, the radiation control unit 11 controls the functions related to radiation irradiation and the driving operation of the mobile radiography device 100, and the DR console 21 controls the functions related to radiation detection and the manipulation of captured images. However, the division of roles between the two control devices within the mobile radiography device 100 (which functions they control) is not limited to this example.

[0135] Furthermore, when the process of shutting down the DR console 21 and turning off the DR power supply 20 is initiated, the user may be notified of the shutdown of the DR console 21 and the termination of the DR power supply 20 by some means (dialog display, sound, light, etc.). Similarly, when the process of shutting down the radiation control unit 11 and turning off the main power supply 10 of the device is initiated, the user may be notified.

[0136] Furthermore, the time period for determining whether or not the termination conditions are met may be predetermined in the DR console 21 or the radiation control unit 11. For example, by enabling the determination of whether or not the termination conditions are met only at night, it is possible to avoid automatic shutdown during the daytime.

[0137] Furthermore, the present invention is applicable whether or not the mobile radiography apparatus 100 is connected to an external power supply 35. However, since there is no need to consider saving the battery 30 when connected to the external power supply 35 (during charging), it is particularly effective when the apparatus is not connected to the external power supply 35.

[0138] Furthermore, the programs for executing each process may be stored on a portable recording medium or the like. Alternatively, a carrier wave may be used as the medium for providing the program data via a communication line. Furthermore, the automatic shutdown function in this proposal may allow for setting termination conditions and whether or not it can be implemented for each mobile radiography device 100, each facility, and each logged-in user. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0139] 1. Radiography System 10. Main power supply for the device 11 Radiation Control Unit 12 Main Control Unit 13 Radiation-generating section 14 Drive Unit 15 Display section 16 Control section 17 Communications Department 20 Power supply for DR 21 DR Console 22 DR Control Unit 23 Display section 24 Control section 25. First Communications Department 26. Second Communications Department 30 batteries 35 External power supply 41. Exposure-linked unit 51 FPD 54 Radiation detection unit 100 Mobile radiography equipment N Communication Network

Claims

1. A mobile radiography apparatus comprising: a first power supply unit and a second power supply unit that can be switched on / off independently of each other; a first control device that is powered by the first power supply unit and controls a functional unit relating to radiation irradiation and the operation of the mobile radiography apparatus; and a second control device that is powered by the second power supply unit and controls a functional unit relating to radiation detection and the manipulation of captured images, A mobile radiography apparatus wherein, when one of the first control device and the second control device satisfies predetermined conditions, it queries the other control device of the first control device and the other control device for the status of the other control device, and in response to the response of the other control device, it shuts down the first control device and turns off the power supply unit of the first power supply unit and the second power supply unit that supplies power to the first control device, or cancels the shutdown of the first control device.

2. The mobile radiography apparatus according to claim 1, wherein one of the control devices transmits a shutdown request to the other control device or a peripheral device connected to the one of the control devices before shutting down the one of the control devices.

3. The mobile radiography apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the predetermined condition is that no operation is performed on one of the control devices for a certain period of time or longer.

4. A control method for a mobile radiography apparatus comprising: a first power supply unit and a second power supply unit that can be switched on / off independently of each other; a first control device that is powered by the first power supply unit and drives a functional unit relating to radiation irradiation and the operation of the mobile radiography apparatus; and a second control device that is powered by the second power supply unit and drives a functional unit relating to radiation detection and the manipulation of captured images, wherein A control method comprising: when one of the first control device and the second control device satisfies predetermined conditions, the control device inquiring of the other control device from the first control device and the other control device about the status of the other control device, and in response to the response of the other control device, shutting down the first control device and turning off the power supply unit that supplies power to the first control device from the first power supply unit and the second power supply unit, or canceling the shutdown of the first control device.

5. A mobile radiography apparatus comprising a first power supply unit and a second power supply unit that can be turned on / off independently of each other, a first control device that is powered by the first power supply unit and drives a functional unit relating to radiation irradiation and the operation of the mobile radiography apparatus, and a second control device that is powered by the second power supply unit and drives a functional unit relating to radiation detection and the manipulation of captured images, wherein the computer of one of the first control device and the second control device, If predetermined conditions are met, the process involves querying the other control device of the first control device and the second control device for the status of the other control device, The process involves shutting down the first control device in response to the other control device, turning off the power supply unit that supplies power to the first control device from the first power supply unit and the second power supply unit, or canceling the shutdown of the first control device. A program to execute.

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