Medical imaging equipment bed

Abstract

To suppress deterioration in the quality of an image captured by an image diagnostic device equipped with a weight measuring function.SOLUTION: A bed for an image diagnostic device includes a top plate, a measuring part, a drive part, and a rigidity holding part. The top plate can place a subject on it. The measuring part includes an elastic body, and measures the weight of the subject placed on the top plate on the basis of a distortion generated in the elastic body. The drive part moves the top plate on which the subject is placed between an imaging position and an imaging stand-by position. The rigidity holding part holds the rigidity of the top plate at the imaging position higher than the rigidity at the imaging stand-by position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to a bed for an imaging diagnostic apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] In an imaging diagnostic apparatus such as an X-ray CT (Computed Tomography) apparatus, a subject placed on a bed is imaged. The imaging apparatus in the imaging diagnostic apparatus is installed on a gantry, for example. The bed is arranged outside the gantry before the subject is placed thereon so that the subject can be easily placed thereon. After the subject is placed, the bed is inserted inside the gantry and the subject is imaged.

[0003] When imaging a subject, it may be necessary to measure the weight of the subject placed on the bed. For weight measurement, a sensor such as a strain gauge (strain sensor) is used, for example, so the bed is supported by the strain gauge, for example. The strain gauge has a movable stroke of about 1 mm, for example. If the subject moves while this movable stroke remains effective, the top plate may bend or the subject may vibrate. If such bending of the top plate or vibration of the subject occurs during imaging of the subject, the image quality may deteriorate.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The problem that the embodiments disclosed herein and in the drawings aim to solve is to suppress the degradation of image quality of images captured by an imaging diagnostic device equipped with a weight measurement function. However, the problem that the embodiments disclosed herein and in the drawings aim to solve is not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described later can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The diagnostic imaging apparatus bed of this embodiment comprises a top plate, a weighing unit, a drive unit, and a rigidity-holding unit. The top plate is capable of supporting a patient. The weighing unit includes an elastic body and measures the weight of the patient placed on the top plate based on the strain generated in the elastic body. The drive unit moves the top plate on which the patient is placed between an imaging position and an imaging standby position. The rigidity-holding unit maintains the rigidity of the top plate at the imaging position to be higher than its rigidity at the imaging standby position. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] A diagram showing the external appearance of the medical imaging diagnostic device 1 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] A diagram showing the arrangement of the patient bed 20 when imaging subject P. [Figure 3] A diagram illustrating the internal structure and movement of bed 20. [Figure 4] A diagram illustrating the structure and movement of the gripping member 102. [Figure 5] A diagram illustrating the structure of a gripping member 102 in a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] A diagram illustrating the outline of the bed 20 in the second embodiment. [Figure 7] A diagram illustrating the structure and movement of the support member 300 in the second embodiment. [Figure 8] A diagram showing the structure of the support member 300 in the third embodiment. [Figure 9] A flowchart showing an example of processing in the control device 174. [Figure 10]A diagram for explaining the structure and movement of the support member 300 of the fourth embodiment. ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '062', ']'] [Figure 11] ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '063', ']'] A diagram for explaining the structure and movement of the X-link mechanism 50. ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '064', ']'] [Figure 12] ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '065', ']'] A diagram for explaining the structure of the support member 300 of a modification of the fourth embodiment. ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '066', ']'] [Figure 13] ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '067', ']'] A diagram for explaining the structure and movement of the support member 300 of the fifth embodiment. ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '068', ']'] [Figure 14] ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '069', ']'] A diagram for explaining the structure and movement of the bed 20 of the sixth embodiment. ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '070', ']'] [Figure 15] ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '071', ']'] A diagram for explaining the structure and movement of the bed 20 of a modification of the sixth embodiment. ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '072', ']'] [Figure 16] ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '073', ']'] A diagram for explaining the structure and movement of the bed 20 of the seventh embodiment. ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '074', ']'] [Figure 17] ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '075', ']'] A diagram for explaining the structure and movement of the bed 20 of the eighth embodiment. ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '076', ']'] [Figure 18] ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '077', ']'] A diagram for explaining the structure and movement of the bed 20 of the ninth embodiment. ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '078', ']'] ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '079', ']']

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '082', ']'] ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '083', ']'] Hereinafter, a bed for an image diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '084', ']']

[0009] ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '085', ']'] ["[", "0", "a", "000", "086", "]"] The bed for an image diagnostic apparatus according to the embodiment (hereinafter referred to as the bed) is applicable to a modality capable of generating medical image data used for image diagnosis related to radiotherapy. Examples of modalities for generating medical image data include, for example, an X-ray CT apparatus, a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus, a PET (Positron Emission Tomography) apparatus, a SPECT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography) apparatus, and the like. ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '087', ']']

[0010] ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '088', ']'] ['[', '0', 'a', '图面を参照しながら、実施形態の画像診断装置用寝台について説明する。', '089', ']'] (First Embodiment) ['[', '0', 'a', '000', '090', ']']FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the appearance of a medical imaging diagnostic apparatus 1 according to a first embodiment. The medical imaging diagnostic apparatus 1 includes, for example, a medical imaging mechanism 10 and a hospital bed 20. The medical imaging mechanism 10 collects raw data regarding a subject by imaging the subject according to an imaging principle corresponding to the type of modality device. The medical imaging mechanism 10 has a gantry 11 disposed in the vicinity of the hospital bed 20. The gantry 11 is equipped with a scanning mechanism.

[0011] The hospital bed 20 includes, for example, a top plate 21 and a support base 22. The support base 22 is installed on the floor surface and supports the top plate 21 so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and movable horizontally. A subject is placed on the top plate 21. The support base 22 supports the top plate 21. The support base 22 has, for example, a base 23 and an upper frame 30.

[0012] The base 23 is installed on the floor surface and supports the upper frame 30 and the top plate 21 so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and movable horizontally. The upper frame 30 may support the top plate 21 so as to be movable horizontally. In the following description, the vertical direction is defined as the Y direction, the longitudinal axis direction of the top plate 21 is defined as the Z direction, and the direction horizontally orthogonal to the Y direction and the Z direction is defined as the X direction. Also, the side of the top plate 21 on the medical imaging mechanism 10 side is defined as the front side, and the side opposite to the medical imaging mechanism 10 is defined as the rear side.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the positional relationship of the hospital bed 20 when imaging a subject P. FIG. 2 shows examples of a state in which the subject P is imaged and a state in which imaging is awaited. In FIG. 2, (a) shows the subject P placed on the top plate 21 at the imaging position. (c) shows the subject P placed on the top plate 21 at the imaging standby position. (b) shows the subject P placed on the top plate 21 between the imaging position and the imaging standby position. The imaging position is set at a position higher than the imaging standby position. The imaging position is set, for example, at a position higher than a specific height position.

[0014] When imaging a subject P, first, the subject P is placed on the top plate 21 in the shooting standby position. Next, the top plate 21 is raised to the same height as the imaging height position. After that, the top plate 21 is moved (advanced) toward the medical imaging mechanism 10 to position the top plate 21 on which the subject P is placed in the shooting position. In the following second to fifth embodiments, the appearance of the medical imaging diagnostic device 1 and the relationship between the shooting position and the shooting standby position are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 3 illustrates the internal structure and movement of the bed 20. A lower frame 40 is provided below the base 23 of the bed 20. The lower frame 40 is fixed to the floor and immovable. A vertical movement mechanism 100 and a weighing unit 200 are provided between the top plate 21 and the lower frame 40. The medical imaging diagnostic device 1 is equipped with a weighing function using the weighing unit 200.

[0016] The vertical movement mechanism 100 comprises a vertical movement member 101 and a gripping member 102. The vertical movement mechanism 100 moves the top plate 21 on which the subject P is placed relative to the base 23 between the shooting position and the shooting standby position. The vertical movement mechanism 100 is an example of a drive unit. The vertical movement member 101 is erected on the lower frame 40. The vertical movement member 101 is rod-shaped and extends along the vertical direction (Y direction). The gripping member 102 is provided on the lower surface of the top plate 21. The gripping member 102 is positioned above the vertical movement member 101.

[0017] The vertical movement mechanism 100 moves the top plate 21 up and down relative to the lower frame 40. The vertical movement member 101 is, for example, extendable and retractable. The vertical movement member 101 is, for example, configured to include a piston cylinder. The vertical movement member 101 may also be configured to include, for example, a worm gear or a rack and pinion mechanism. When the vertical movement member 101 extends, the top plate 21 rises as shown in (a), and when the vertical movement member 101 contracts, the top plate 21 lowers as shown in (b).

[0018] Figure 4 illustrates the structure and movement of the gripping member 102. The gripping member 102 comprises, for example, a first arm 110, a second arm 120, and a pivot pin 113. The gripping member 102 grips the upper end of the vertically moving member 101 with the first arm 110 and the second arm 120. By gripping the upper end of the vertically moving member 101, the gripping member 102 maintains a higher rigidity of the top plate 21 at the shooting position than at the shooting standby position. The gripping member 102 is an example of a rigidity-maintaining part.

[0019] In Figure 4, (a) shows the gripping member 102 gripping the vertically moving member 101, and (b) shows the gripping member 102 releasing the vertically moving member 101. The first arm 110 includes, for example, a first gripping claw 111 and a first claw support portion 112. The first gripping claw 111 is rod-shaped and extends vertically along the vertically moving member 101 when gripping the vertically moving member 101. The first claw support portion 112 is rod-shaped and is provided at the upper end of the first gripping claw 111. The first claw support portion 112 is inclined to descend from the upper end of the first gripping claw 111 toward the upper end of the vertically moving member 101 when the first gripping claw 111 is positioned to extend vertically.

[0020] The second arm 120 is equipped with a second gripping claw 121 and a second claw support 122, similar to the first gripping claw 111 and first claw support 112 of the first arm 110. The second arm 120 is arranged symmetrically with respect to the first arm 110, with the vertical moving member 101 as the axis of symmetry. The intermediate longitudinal positions of the first claw support 112 and the second claw support 122 are stopped by a pivot pin 113.

[0021] Both the first arm 110 and the second arm 120 are rotatable around the pivot pin 113. A torsion spring (not shown) is provided around the pivot pin 113. The lower ends of the first gripping claw 111 and the second gripping claw 121 of the first arm 110 and the second arm 120 are biased in a direction away from each other by the biasing force of the torsion spring.

[0022] When the vertical movement member 101 is extended, the extended vertical movement member 101 pushes upward the tips of the first claw support portion 112 and the second claw support portion 122 of the gripping member 102. As the first claw support portion 112 and the second claw support portion 122 are pushed upward, the first arm 110 and the second arm 120 receive a force that causes the lower ends of the first gripping claw 111 and the second gripping claw 121 to move closer to each other, against the biasing force of the torsion spring. The first arm 110 and the second arm 120 generate a gripping force from the first gripping claw 111 and the second gripping claw 121 due to the force received, and grip the vertical movement member 101. The rigidity of the top plate 21 is maintained at a high level by the gripping member 102 gripping the vertical movement member 101 and suppressing its movement. The movement of the vertical movement member 101 may be suppressed by means other than gripping by the gripping member 102. For example, a stopper that suppresses the movement of the vertically moving member 101 may be used.

[0023] Returning to Figure 3, the weighing unit 200 is erected on the lower frame 40. The weighing unit 200 is composed of, for example, a strain gauge. The weighing unit 200 comprises an elastic body and a strain gauge. The elastic body is elastically deformed by the load received from the top plate 21. The elastic body is, for example, made of metal.

[0024] The weighing unit 200 measures the strain generated in the elastic body when the test subject P is placed on the top plate 21 using a strain gauge. Based on the measured strain of the elastic body, the weighing unit 200 determines the weight of the test subject P. The weighing unit 200 is provided with a movable stroke of, for example, about 1 mm. The weighing unit 200 may be suspended from the upper frame 30, or it may be sandwiched in contact with the upper frame 30 and the lower frame 40.

[0025] The top plate 21, positioned in the shooting standby position, is supported by the weighing unit 200. When the top plate 21 is in the shooting standby position, it is lowered, and the vertical movement member 101 is released from being gripped by the gripping member 102. Therefore, the rigidity of the top plate 21 in the shooting standby position is kept lower than that of the top plate 21 in the shooting position. In other words, when the top plate 21 is in the shooting position, the vertical movement member 101 is gripped by the gripping member 102, and thus its rigidity is kept higher than that of the top plate 21 in the shooting standby position.

[0026] The procedure for examining a subject P in the medical imaging diagnostic device 1 of the first embodiment is as follows: First, the subject P is placed on the tabletop 21 located in the imaging standby position on the examination table 20. The tabletop 21 in the imaging standby position is positioned at a low height. Therefore, for example, the subject P can easily get onto the tabletop 21 on their own. In addition, when transferring a subject P who has been transported on a stretcher to the tabletop 21, the transfer can be easily performed.

[0027] In the first embodiment of the bed 20, the weight of the subject P placed on the bed 20 is measured by the weighing unit 200. The weighing unit 200 measures the weight of the subject P placed on the top plate 21 based on the strain generated in the elastic body on which the top plate 21 is mounted. Therefore, if the subject P is imaged at the shooting position while the weighing unit 200 is supporting the top plate 21, there is a concern that the image quality may deteriorate due to the top plate 21 bending or the subject P vibrating.

[0028] In this regard, in the first embodiment of the bed 20, when the top plate 21 is positioned in the shooting position, the vertical movement member 101 is gripped by the gripping member 102, and the rigidity of the top plate 21 is maintained at a higher level than when the top plate 21 is positioned in the shooting standby position. Therefore, image distortion due to deflection of the top plate 21 can be suppressed. Consequently, the deterioration of image quality captured by the medical imaging device can be suppressed.

[0029] Next, a modified example of the first embodiment will be described. Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the structure of the gripping member 102 of a modified example of the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, the vertically moving member 101 is gripped by the rod-shaped first arm 110 and second arm 120 of the gripping member 102, whereas the gripping member 102 of the modified example is provided with protrusions and indentations to assist in gripping the vertically moving member 101.

[0030] The sides of the gripping member 102 in the vertically moving member 101 that face the first arm 110 and the second arm 120, respectively, have a first recess 131 and a second recess formed therein. Furthermore, the side of the first arm 110 that faces the vertically moving member 101 is provided with a first projection 141 that protrudes toward the vertically moving member 101 and fits into the first recess 131. In addition, the side of the second arm 120 that faces the vertically moving member 101 is provided with a second projection 142 that protrudes toward the vertically moving member 101 and fits into the second recess 132.

[0031] When the vertically moving member 101 rises and the first arm 110 and second arm 120 of the gripping member 102 grip the vertically moving member 101, the first projection 141 fits into the first recess 131 and the second projection 142 fits into the second recess 132. As a result, the rigidity of the top plate 21, which is enhanced by the gripping member 102 gripping the vertically moving member 101, can be further increased.

[0032] (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the following embodiments, components and functions common to the previously described embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions may be omitted.

[0033] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the outline of the bed 20 of the second embodiment. The bed 20 of the second embodiment comprises a top plate 21 and an upper frame 30, similar to the first embodiment. Multiple support members 300, four in the second embodiment, are provided between the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30.

[0034] Figure 7 illustrates the structure and movement of the support member 300 in the second embodiment. In Figure 7, (a) shows the state in which the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30 are raised, and (b) shows the state in which the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30 are lowered. The support member 300 includes, for example, a rigidity holding mechanism 160 and a weighing unit 200. The weighing unit 200 is installed between the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30, in contact with both. The weighing unit 200 may be provided on either the top plate 21 or the upper frame 30, and may not be in contact with either the top plate 21 or the upper frame 30, but may be installed to make contact when the top plate 21 is lowered.

[0035] The rigidity-maintaining mechanism 160 comprises, for example, a movable rod 161 and an outer cylindrical portion 162. A notch 163 is formed in the movable rod 161. The rigidity-maintaining mechanism 160 further comprises a wedge member 164, a wedge rear end portion 165, a projection receiving portion 166, an inclined projection 167, and a spring 168. The movable rod 161 is provided on the lower surface of the top plate 21. The movable rod 161 is a rod-shaped member that extends in the vertical direction. The cross-sectional shape of the movable rod 161 is square. The cross-sectional shape of the movable rod 161 can be any shape, for example, a triangle, a circle, an ellipse, a rectangle, a regular polygon, etc.

[0036] The outer cylinder portion 162 is a cylindrical member with a cavity formed therein, the same cross-sectional shape as the movable rod 161. The cavity extends in the vertical direction. The movable rod 161 is inserted into the cavity of the outer cylinder portion 162. The movable rod 161 is movable (up and down) along the extending direction (vertical direction) of the outer cylinder portion 162.

[0037] A notch 163 is formed on one outer surface of the movable rod 161. The notch 163 has a triangular shape when viewed from the side, becoming narrower towards the inside. A through hole is formed on one outer surface of the outer cylinder portion 162 at the same height as the position where the notch 163 of the movable rod 161 is formed, connecting the notch 163 to the outside.

[0038] The wedge member 164 is plate-shaped and is provided to be movable in the front-rear direction. The wedge rear end 165 is provided at the rear end of the wedge member 164. The cross-sectional shape of the wedge rear end 165 is substantially the same as the shape of the notch 163 in the movable rod 161. Therefore, the wedge rear end 165 can be fitted into the notch 163 in the movable rod 161, which is positioned in a position that maintains high rigidity of the top plate 21 (hereinafter referred to as the rigidity-maintaining position). The rigidity-maintaining mechanism 160 is an example of a rigidity-maintaining part.

[0039] The rigidity-maintaining mechanism 160 presses the wedge member 164 against the movable rod 161 when the top plate 21 is raised, thereby suppressing the movement of the movable rod 161 and increasing the rigidity of the top plate 21. The rigidity-maintaining mechanism 160, including the wedge member 164, is an example of a wedge structure. The rigidity-maintaining mechanism 160 moves the wedge member 164 in the direction of the movable rod 161 as the top plate 21 and upper frame 30 rise, using the projection receiving portion 166 and the inclined projection 167. The rigidity-maintaining mechanism 160, including the projection receiving portion 166 and the inclined projection 167, is an example of a movable structure.

[0040] The projection receiving portion 166 is formed by cutting out a portion of the lower surface of the wedge member 164 at an intermediate position in the front-rear direction. The projection receiving portion 166 comprises a vertical surface extending in the vertical direction formed at the rear and an inclined surface that slopes downward as it moves from rear to front. The inclined projection 167 is able to enter the projection receiving portion 166.

[0041] The inclined projection 167 is provided on a base 41 fixed to the lower frame 40. The inclined projection 167 is positioned directly below the projection receiving portion 166 on the upper frame 30. The upper end surface of the inclined projection 167 is inclined to descend as it moves from rear to front. The inclined projection 167 is made capable of rising relative to the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30 as the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30 descend. The rear end of the inclined projection 167 is positioned approximately in front of the projection receiving portion 166 in the front-rear direction when the wedge rear end portion 165 is fitted into the notch 163.

[0042] The spring 168 is attached to the front end surface of the wedge member 164. The spring 168 biases the wedge member 164 rearward (towards the movable rod 161). The rear end portion 165 of the wedge is biased rearward and pushed into the notch 163 as the wedge member 164 receives the biasing force of the spring 168.

[0043] The bed of the second embodiment provides the same effects as the first embodiment. In the bed of the medical imaging diagnostic device of the second embodiment, when the top plate 21 is positioned at the imaging position, the top plate 21 is raised as shown in Figure 7(a). At this time, the rear end 165 of the wedge member 164 in the rigidity holding mechanism 160 is fitted into the notch 163 of the movable rod 161 which is in the rigidity holding position. As a result, the vertical movement of the movable rod 161 is suppressed and the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30 are fastened together, thereby increasing the rigidity of the top plate 21 by the rigidity holding mechanism 160. Consequently, image distortion due to deflection of the top plate 21 can be suppressed, and deterioration of the image quality captured by the medical imaging device can be suppressed.

[0044] As the top plate 21 moves from the shooting position to the shooting standby position, the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30 descend, and the wedge member 164 also descends along with the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30. As the wedge member 164 descends, the base 41 rises relative to the upper frame 30, and the inclined projection 167 also rises relative to the wedge member 164. As the inclined projection 167 rises relative to the wedge member 164, the inclined projection 167 enters the projection receiving portion 166 formed on the wedge member 164.

[0045] As the inclined projection 167 enters, the upper surface of the inclined projection 167 comes into contact with the lower surface of the projection receiving portion 166, and a force acts to move the wedge member 164 forward against the biasing force of the spring 168. This force causes the wedge member 164 to move forward, and as shown in Figure 7(b), the wedge rear end 165 of the wedge member 164 is pulled out of the notch 163, releasing the fastening between the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30, thereby reducing the rigidity of the top plate 21. As a result of releasing the fastening between the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30, the weight of the subject can be measured.

[0046] When the top plate 21 moves from the shooting standby position to the shooting position, the rigidity holding mechanism 160 moves in the opposite direction, thereby increasing the rigidity of the top plate 21. Therefore, simply by moving the top plate 21 from the shooting standby position to the shooting position, the rigidity of the top plate 21 in the shooting position can be increased.

[0047] (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment will be described. Figure 8 shows the structure of the support member 300 of the third embodiment. The third embodiment differs from the second embodiment mainly in the configuration of the support member 300. The support member 300 of the third embodiment includes a measuring unit 200 similar to that of the second embodiment. The support member 300 of the third embodiment further includes a rigidity-holding structure 170 in place of the rigidity-holding mechanism 160 of the second embodiment.

[0048] The rigidity-holding structure 170 includes, for example, a movable rod 161 and an outer cylinder portion 162, similar to the rigidity-holding mechanism 160 of the second embodiment, with a notch 163 formed in the movable rod 161. Furthermore, the rigidity-holding structure 170 includes, for example, a wedge member 171, a wedge rear end portion 172, a motor 173, and a control device 174. The wedge member 171 differs from the wedge member 164 of the second embodiment in that it does not have a projection receiving portion 166. In the third embodiment, the inclined projection that was provided on the base portion 41 in the second embodiment is also not provided.

[0049] The motor 173 moves the wedge member 171 in the forward and backward directions (towards the movable rod 161 and away from the movable rod 161). The motor 173 is an example of a drive source. The drive source may be other than the motor 173, for example, a piston cylinder or linear mechanism that utilizes hydraulic pressure.

[0050] The control device 174 software-controls the motor 173 and moves the wedge member 171 toward the movable rod 161 when the top plate 21 moves to the shooting position. The control device 174 includes an input interface, an output interface, a processing circuit, etc. The input interface is not limited to those equipped with physical operating components such as a mouse or keyboard. For example, an electrical signal processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device provided separately from the device and outputs this electrical signal to a control circuit is also included as an example of an input interface.

[0051] Processing circuits, for example, realize these functions by having a hardware processor execute a program stored in a memory device (storage circuit). A hardware processor refers to circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), and programmable logic devices (e.g., Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD) or Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD), Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)). Instead of storing the program in a memory device, the hardware processor may be configured to directly incorporate the program into its circuitry. In this case, the hardware processor realizes its functions by reading and executing the program incorporated into the circuitry. A hardware processor is not limited to being configured as a single circuit; it may be configured as a single hardware processor by combining multiple independent circuits to realize each function. Alternatively, multiple components may be integrated into a single hardware processor to realize each function. The memory device may be a non-temporary (hardware) storage medium. Alternatively, multiple components may be integrated into a single hardware processor to realize each function.

[0052] The control of the motor 173 by the control device 174 will be described below. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of processing in the control device 174. First, the control device 174 determines whether or not the top plate 21 is in a raised position (step S101). If it determines that the top plate 21 is in a raised position, the control device 174 determines that the movable rod 161 is in a rigidity-holding position and operates the motor 173 so that the rear end 172 of the wedge member 171 enters the notch 163 (step S103).

[0053] Next, the control device 174 determines whether or not the top plate 21 has been lowered (step S105). If it determines that the top plate 21 has not been lowered, the control device 174 returns to step S101. If it determines that the top plate 21 has been lowered, the control device 174 determines that the movable rod 161 is not in the rigidity-holding position and operates the motor 173 so that the rear wedge end 172 of the wedge member 171 is removed from the notch 163 (step S107).

[0054] In step S101, if it is determined that the top plate 21 is not in a raised position, the control device 174 determines that the movable rod 161 is not in a rigid holding position and operates the motor 173 so that the rear wedge end 172 of the wedge member 171 is removed from the notch 163 (step S109).

[0055] Next, the control device 174 determines whether or not the top plate 21 has risen (step S111). If it determines that the top plate 21 has not risen, the control device 174 returns to step S101. If it determines that the top plate 21 has risen, the control device 174 determines that the movable rod 161 is in the rigidity-holding position and operates the motor 173 so that the rear end 172 of the wedge member 171 enters the notch 163 (step S113).

[0056] The bed of the third embodiment provides the same effects and advantages as the second embodiment described above. Furthermore, in the bed of the third embodiment, the wedge member 171 is moved by a motor 173 controlled by a control device 174. Therefore, the mechanism for moving the wedge member 171 can be simplified.

[0057] Even in beds other than those of the third embodiment, the rigidity of the top plate 21 may be maintained at a high level by software-controlling the drive source, such as a motor, with a control device. In this case, for example, the drive source may be controlled at the following timings. For example, after giving an instruction to measure weight using an input interface, the control device may activate the drive source and move the wedge member 171 so that the rigidity of the top plate 21 is reduced, and the weight of the subject P placed on the top plate 21 in the inspection standby position may be measured. Alternatively, when the top plate 21 is in the inspection standby position, the wedge member may be moved so that the rigidity of the top plate 21 is reduced when measuring weight. Furthermore, if there is an instruction to measure the weight of the subject regardless of the height position of the top plate 21, the wedge member 171 may be moved so that the fastening of the top plate 21 is released, thereby reducing the rigidity of the top plate 21 and measuring the weight of the subject. In addition, when the measurement of the subject's weight is completed, the wedge member 171 may be moved so that the top plate 21 is refastened, thereby increasing the rigidity of the top plate 21.

[0058] Alternatively, the height and sliding position of the top plate 21 may be detected by a position sensor or the like, and when it is confirmed that the top plate 21 is not in the shooting position or is in the shooting standby position, the control device may activate the drive source and move the wedge member so that the rigidity of the top plate 21 is reduced. Alternatively, position sensors may be provided on the driving members in other embodiments, and when it is confirmed that the bed is not in the shooting position or is in the shooting standby position based on their respective positions, the control device may activate the drive source and move the wedge member so that the rigidity of the top plate 21 is reduced.

[0059] (Fourth embodiment) Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the structure and movement of the support member 300 in the fourth embodiment. In the fourth embodiment, a support member 300 is provided between the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30, comprising a rigidity holding mechanism 500 and a weighing section 200.

[0060] The upper frame 30 shown in Figure 10(a) moves up and down by an X-link mechanism 50. The X-link mechanism 50 will now be described. Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating the structure and movement of the X-link mechanism 50. The X-link mechanism 50 has two links, for example, a first link 51 and a second link 52, located below the top plate 21. The first link 51 and the second link 52 are formed by pin-jointing their respective approximate central positions. The lower ends of the first link 51 and the second link 52 are slidably attached to the lower frame 40. The upper ends of the first link 51 and the second link 52 are slidably attached to the upper frame 30.

[0061] For example, if the upper ends of the first link 51 and the second link 52 in the X-link mechanism 50 move away from each other, as shown in Figure 11(b) from the state shown in Figure 11(a), the upper frame 30 will descend and move closer to the lower frame 40. As the upper frame 30 descends, the top plate 21 supported by the upper frame 30 also descends. As the top plate 21 descends, it moves from the shooting position to the shooting standby position.

[0062] Returning to Figure 10, the rigidity-holding mechanism 500 includes, for example, a movable part 501, a pressing part 502, a rigidity-granting mechanism 503, and a release mechanism 504. Furthermore, a guide groove 31 is formed in the longitudinal direction of the upper frame 30. The first link 51 in the X-link mechanism 50 moves relative to the upper frame 30 in the longitudinal direction of the upper frame 30 along the guide groove 31. The rigidity-holding mechanism 500 is an example of a rigidity-holding part.

[0063] The movable part 501 is attached, for example, to the end (upper end) of the first link 51. The movable part 501 is movable along the guide groove 31 together with one end of the first link 51. The pushing part 502 is formed, for example, at the end of the guide groove 31, protruding inward from the guide groove 31. The movable part 501 is an example of a movable element.

[0064] The pressing portion 502 is designed to be vertically movable relative to the upper frame 30. As shown in Figure 10(b), when the movable portion 501 moves along the guide groove 31 to the end of the guide groove 31 and comes into contact with the pressing portion 502, further movement of the movable portion 501 pushes up the pressing portion 502, causing it to move upward relative to the upper frame 30.

[0065] The rigidity-granting mechanism 503 comprises, for example, a movable rod having a notch similar to that of the rigidity-holding mechanism 160 in the second embodiment, and a wedge member that fits into the notch. The wedge member fits into the notch formed in the movable rod when the pushing portion 502 is pushed up by the moving portion 501, thereby granting rigidity to the top plate 21.

[0066] The release mechanism 504 includes, for example, a projection receiving portion and an inclined projection similar to the projection receiving portion 166 and inclined projection 167 in the second embodiment. The inclined projection and projection receiving portion have a shape that moves the wedge member away from the movable rod when the pressing portion 502 descends and the inclined projection comes into contact with the projection receiving portion. The rigidity-maintaining mechanism 500 maintains high rigidity of the top plate 21 by suppressing the movement of the movable rod through the movement of a movable portion 501 provided at the tip of the first link of the first link 52, which narrows as the top plate 21 rises.

[0067] The bed of the fourth embodiment provides the same effects as the first embodiment described above. Furthermore, in the bed of the fourth embodiment, the upper frame 30 and the top plate 21 supported by the upper frame 30 are moved up and down using the X-link mechanism 50 to move between the shooting position and the shooting standby position. Even in a bed using such an X-link mechanism 50, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of the image quality of the images captured by the medical imaging device.

[0068] (Modification of the fourth embodiment) Next, a modified example of the fourth embodiment will be described. Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the structure of the support member 300 of the modified example of the fourth embodiment. Figure 12 shows a view of the bed from above. In the support member 300 of the modified example of the fourth embodiment, a rigidity-holding mechanism 510 is provided instead of the rigidity-holding mechanism 500 in the fourth embodiment. The rigidity-holding mechanism 510 comprises a movable rod 161 and an outer cylinder portion 162 similar to the rigidity-holding mechanism 160 in the second embodiment. The movable rod 161 is provided on the lower surface of the top plate 21 (see Figure 7), and the outer cylinder portion 162 is interposed between the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30. The outer cylinder portion 162 is positioned to the right of the guide groove 31 formed in the upper frame 30, shifted in a direction perpendicular to both the vertical direction and the direction of movement of the top plate 21 (the X direction in Figure 1, hereinafter referred to as the left-right direction).

[0069] The rigidity-holding mechanism 510 includes, for example, a movable part 511, a push-in part 512, a wedge member 513, a wedge rear end 514, a projection receiving part 515, an inclined projection 516, and a spring 517. The movable part 511 is attached, for example, to the end (upper end) of the first link 51 and is movable along the guide groove 31 together with one end of the first link 51. The rigidity-holding mechanism 510 is an example of a rigidity-holding part.

[0070] The push-in portion 512 is movable in the left-right direction. When the movable portion 511 moves along the guide groove 31 to the end of the guide groove 31 and comes into contact with the push-in portion 512, the push-in portion 512 is pushed in by the further movement of the movable portion 511 and moves to the right relative to the upper frame 30.

[0071] The wedge member 513 is plate-shaped and is provided to be movable in the front-rear direction. The wedge rear end 514 is provided at the rear end of the wedge member 513. The shape of the wedge rear end 514 is substantially the same as the shape of the notch 163. Therefore, similar to the second embodiment, the wedge rear end 514 can be fitted into the notch 163 of the movable rod 161 which is positioned in a rigidity-maintaining position.

[0072] The projection receiving portion 515 is formed by cutting out a section of the left side surface of the wedge member 513 at an intermediate position in the front-rear direction. The projection receiving portion 515 comprises a vertical surface extending in the vertical direction formed at the rear and an inclined surface that slopes to the right as it moves from front to rear. The inclined projection 516 is able to enter the projection receiving portion 515.

[0073] The inclined projection 516 is positioned to the left of the projection receiving portion 515 in the guide groove 31. The right end surface of the inclined projection 516 is inclined to the right as it moves from front to rear. The inclined projection 516 is movable in the left-right direction relative to the top plate 21 as the top plate 21 descends. The rear end of the inclined projection 516 is positioned approximately in front of the projection receiving portion 515 in the front-rear direction, with the wedge rear end 514 fitted into the notch 163.

[0074] The spring 517 is attached to the front end surface of the wedge member 513 and biases the wedge member 513 backward. The rear end portion 514 of the wedge is pushed backward and into the notch 163 as the wedge member 513 receives the biasing force of the spring 517.

[0075] In the modified bed of the fourth embodiment, when the top plate 21 is lowered by the X-link mechanism 50, the movable part 511 moves forward and pushes the push-in part 512 to the right. When the push-in part 512 is pushed to the right, the inclined projection 516 is also pushed to the right. When the inclined projection 516 is pushed to the right, the inclined projection 516 enters the projection receiving part 515 formed on the wedge member 513.

[0076] As the inclined projection 516 enters, the right side of the inclined projection 516 comes into contact with the inclined surface of the projection receiving portion 515, and a force acts to move the wedge member 513 forward against the biasing force of the spring 168. This force causes the wedge member 513 to move forward, and the rear end portion 514 of the wedge is pulled out of the notch 163, reducing the rigidity of the top plate 21.

[0077] When the top plate 21 moves from the shooting standby position to the shooting position, the rigidity holding mechanism 510 moves in the opposite direction, thereby increasing the rigidity of the top plate 21. Therefore, simply by moving the top plate 21 from the shooting standby position to the shooting position, the rigidity of the top plate 21 in the shooting position can be increased.

[0078] (Fifth embodiment) Next, a fifth embodiment will be described. Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating the structure and movement of the support member 300 in the fifth embodiment. In the fifth embodiment, a support member 300 comprising a rigidity holding mechanism 600 and a weighing section 200 is provided between the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30.

[0079] As shown in Figure 13(a), the upper frame 30 moves up and down by a parallel link mechanism 60. The parallel link mechanism 60 includes parallel links, such as a first parallel link 61 and a second parallel link 62, located below the top plate 21. The lower ends of the first parallel link 61 and the second parallel link 62 are pin-connected to the lower frame 40. The upper ends of the first parallel link 61 and the second parallel link 62 are pin-connected to the upper frame 30. In the parallel link mechanism 60, the first parallel link 61 and the second parallel link 62 swing in a parallel state, causing the upper frame 30 and the top plate 21 to move up and down relative to the lower frame 40.

[0080] The rigidity-maintaining mechanism 600 includes, for example, a fitting portion 601, a fitting receiving portion 602, and a rotational force transmission portion 603. The fitting portion 601 is provided on the upper surface of the upper frame 30. The fitting receiving portion 602 is provided on the lower surface of the top plate 21, directly above the fitting portion 601. The fitting portion 601 can be fitted into the fitting receiving portion 602.

[0081] The rotational force transmission unit 603 is provided on the pivot pins that constitute the pin joints provided at the mounting positions of the first parallel link 61 and the second parallel link 62 to the upper frame 30. When the parallel link mechanism 60 is rotated in the direction that raises the upper frame 30, the rotational force transmission unit 603 pushes the fitting portion 601 upward, as shown in Figure 13(b). The fitting portion 601 is pushed upward by the operation of the rotational force transmission unit 603 and engages with the fitting receiving portion 602. The engagement of the fitting portion 601 and the fitting receiving portion 602 provides rigidity to the top plate 21. The rigidity holding mechanism 600 maintains high rigidity of the top plate 21 by the operation of the rotational force transmission unit 603 provided at the tips of the first parallel link 61 and the second parallel link.

[0082] The bed of the fifth embodiment provides the same effects as the first embodiment described above. Furthermore, in the bed of the fifth embodiment, the upper frame 30 and the top plate 21 supported by the upper frame 30 are moved up and down using a parallel link mechanism 60 to move between the shooting position and the shooting standby position. Even in a bed using such a parallel link mechanism 60, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of the image quality of the images captured by the medical imaging device.

[0083] (Sixth embodiment) Next, a sixth embodiment will be described. Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating the structure and movement of the bed 20 in the sixth embodiment. In the sixth embodiment, the bed 20 comprises a first holding member 700 and a second holding member 800 positioned between the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30. The first holding member 700 holds the top plate 21 in the imaging position, and the second holding member 800 holds the top plate 21 in the second imaging standby position. In the sixth embodiment, unlike the first to fifth embodiments, the imaging standby position is located at a position horizontally moved away from the medical imaging mechanism 10 (see Figure 1).

[0084] In Figure 14, (a) to (c) show the top plate 21 in the shooting position, with (a) showing a side view of the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30, (b) showing a view of the top plate 21 from below, and (c) showing a view of the upper frame 30 from above. (d) to (f) show the top plate 21 in the shooting standby position, with (d) showing a side view of the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30, (e) showing a view of the top plate 21 from below, and (f) showing a view of the upper frame 30 from above.

[0085] As shown in Figure 14(a), the first holding member 700 is provided on the upper frame 30. The first holding member 700 holds the top plate 21 in the shooting position. The second holding member 800 comprises an upper second holding member 801 provided on the lower surface of the top plate 21 and a lower second holding member 802 provided on the upper surface of the upper frame 30. The second holding member 800 holds the top plate in the shooting standby position. The first holding member 700 and the second holding member 800 are examples of rigid holding parts.

[0086] The arrangement positions of the multiple (4) upper second retaining members 801 shown in Figure 14(b) and the arrangement positions of the multiple (4) lower second retaining members 802 shown in Figure 14(c) are the same. When the top plate 21 is in the shooting position, the multiple upper second retaining members 801 are positioned away from the multiple lower second retaining members 802, and the upper second retaining members 801 and the lower second retaining members 802 are positioned at opposite ends of the array.

[0087] When the top plate 21 moves from the shooting position to the shooting standby position, the top plate 21 retracts relative to the upper frame 30. When the top plate 21 is positioned in the shooting standby position, the multiple upper second holding members 801 of the second holding member 800 are each mounted on the multiple lower second holding members 802.

[0088] The rear lower surface of the upper second holding member 801 and the front upper surface of the lower second holding member 802 have inclined surfaces that become lower towards the front. As a result, as the top plate 21 moves from the shooting position to the shooting standby position, the rear lower surface of the upper second holding member 801 and the front upper surface of the lower second holding member 802 come into contact, allowing the upper second holding member 801 to move smoothly over the lower second holding member 802.

[0089] With the upper second holding member 801 mounted on the lower second holding member 802, the second holding member 800 holds the top plate in the shooting standby position with lower rigidity than the top plate 21 in the shooting position. In the shooting standby position, the top plate 21 is located above the shooting position. The top plate 21 is also positioned directly above the first holding member 700, but is held away from the first holding member 700 by the second holding member 800. Therefore, the holding of the top plate 21 by the first holding member 700 is released, and the top plate 21 is held by the second holding member 800.

[0090] The bed 20 of the sixth embodiment provides the same effects as the first embodiment described above. Furthermore, in the bed 20 of the sixth embodiment, the top plate 21 moves in parallel to move between the shooting position and the shooting standby position. Even in a bed 20 in which the top plate 21 moves in parallel to move between the shooting position and the shooting standby position, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of the image quality captured by the medical imaging device.

[0091] (Modified version of the sixth embodiment) Next, a modified version of the sixth embodiment will be described. The bed 20 of the modified version of the sixth embodiment differs from the bed 20 of the sixth embodiment mainly in the length of the top plate 21. Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating the structure and movement of the bed 20 of the modified version of the sixth embodiment. The length of the top plate 21 in the bed 20 of the modified version of the sixth embodiment is shorter than the length of the top plate 21 in the bed 20 of the sixth embodiment. As shown in Figure 15(a), the top plate 21 is held by the first holding member 700 when placed in the shooting position, and the upper second holding member 801 and the lower second holding member 802 of the second holding member 800 are separated.

[0092] When the top plate 21 moves to the shooting standby position, as shown in Figure 15(b), the upper second holding member 801 of the second holding member 800 is mounted on the lower second holding member 802, and the top plate 21 is held by the second holding member 800. Also, the top plate 21 is no longer directly above the first holding member 700.

[0093] The modified bed 20 of the sixth embodiment provides the same effects as the sixth embodiment described above. Furthermore, in the modified bed 20 of the sixth embodiment, the top plate 21 is shorter, and when the top plate 21 is positioned in the shooting standby position, the top plate 21 is positioned away from the position directly above the first holding member 700. Even in a bed 20 with such a short top plate 21, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of image quality of images captured by the medical imaging device.

[0094] (Seventh Embodiment) Next, a seventh embodiment will be described. Figure 16 is a diagram illustrating the structure and movement of the bed 20 in the seventh embodiment. In the seventh embodiment, the bed 20 comprises a first holding member 710 and a second holding member 810 positioned between the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30. The first holding member 710 holds the top plate 21 in the shooting position, and the second holding member 810 includes a weighing unit and holds the top plate 21 in a state where weighing by the weighing unit is possible. The first holding member 710 holds the top plate 21 when moving the top plate 21 from the shooting standby position to the shooting position.

[0095] In the seventh embodiment, the top plate 21, which is in the shooting standby position, is transported to the shooting position by a bed drive mechanism such as a screw or belt provided on the upper frame 30. The bed drive mechanism is an example of a horizontal movement mechanism. Figure 16 illustrates the operation of the bed 20 in the shooting standby position before it is transported to the shooting position.

[0096] Figure 16(a) shows a side view of the top plate 21 before transport, (b) shows a side view of the top plate 21 during transport, and (c) shows a bottom view of the top plate 21 before transport. The first holding member 710 is positioned further from the medical imaging mechanism 10 than the second holding member 810. The first holding member 710 may be positioned closer to the medical imaging mechanism 10 than the second holding member 810.

[0097] The first retaining member 710 comprises an upper first retaining member 711 provided on the lower surface of the top plate 21 and a lower first retaining member 712 provided on the upper surface of the upper frame 30. The arrangement positions of the multiple (2) upper first retaining members 711 shown in Figure 16(b) and the arrangement positions of the multiple lower first retaining members 712 shown in Figure 16(c) are identical to each other.

[0098] In the state shown in Figure 16(a), the upper first holding member 711 is positioned away from the plurality of lower first holding members 712, and the upper first holding member 711 and the lower first holding member 712 are positioned apart. In this state, the top plate 21 is held by the second holding member 810. From this state, as shown in (b), the lower first holding member 712 moves forward, so that the plurality of upper first holding members 711 on the first holding member 700 are each mounted on the plurality of lower first holding members 712, and the top plate 21 rises. As the top plate 21 rises, it separates from the second holding member 810 and is held by the first holding member 710.

[0099] The lower first holding member 712 is provided with a gripping member 715 as shown in Figure 16(d). The gripping member 715 comprises a first gripping claw 716 and a second gripping claw 717, similar to the gripping member 102 in the first embodiment (see Figure 4). As shown in the modified example of the first embodiment in Figure 5, projections may be provided at the tips of the arms of the first gripping claw 716 and the second gripping claw 717, and recesses may be formed on the side surface of the upper first holding member 711 into which the projections fit.

[0100] As the lower first holding member 712 moves forward, the claw support portions of the first gripping claw 716 and the second gripping claw 717 are pushed into the upper first holding member 711, and the gripping member 715 grips the upper first holding member 711. The top plate 21 is then transported to the imaging position by the bed drive mechanism. At the imaging position, the upper first holding member 711 is gripped by the gripping member 715, which provides high rigidity to the top plate 21. The bed drive mechanism moves the top plate 21, which is held by the first holding member 710, to the imaging position.

[0101] The bed 20 of the seventh embodiment provides the same effects as the sixth embodiment described above. Furthermore, in the bed 20 of the seventh embodiment, the top plate 21 is held by the gripping member 715 at the shooting position. Therefore, by moving the top plate 21 horizontally, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of image quality of the image captured by the medical imaging device as it moves from the shooting standby position to the shooting position.

[0102] (Eighth embodiment) Next, an eighth embodiment will be described. Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating the structure and movement of the bed 20 in the eighth embodiment. In Figure 17, (a) is a view of the top plate 21 of the bed 20 from below, and (b) is a view of the bed 20 from the side. In the eighth embodiment, the bed 20 comprises a first holding member 720 and a second holding member 820 positioned between the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30. The first holding member 710 holds the top plate 21 in the shooting position. Two second holding members 820 are provided between the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30, and include a weighing unit, which holds the top plate 21 in a state where weighing by the weighing unit is possible.

[0103] Between the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30, a plurality of first holding members 720 are provided, with five in the eighth embodiment. Each first holding member 720 comprises a wedge receiving portion 721, a wedge member 722, a spring 723, and a wire rod 724. The first holding member 720 holds the top plate 21 in the shooting position. Further between the top plate 21 and the upper frame 30, a horizontal movement mechanism 730 is provided. The horizontal movement mechanism 730 comprises a plate member 731, a chain belt 732, and a connecting member 733.

[0104] The wedge receiving portion 721 is erected on the upper frame 30. A fitting recess with a roughly triangular cross-section is formed on the rear end surface of the wedge receiving portion 721. The wedge member 722 has a roughly triangular cross-section at its front end. The cross-sectional shape of the front end of the wedge member 722 is the same as the cross-sectional shape of the fitting recess formed in the wedge receiving portion 721. Therefore, the wedge member 722 is fitted into the fitting recess of the wedge receiving portion 721.

[0105] The spring 723 is attached to the rear end face of the wedge member 722. The spring 723 takes a reaction force from the plate member 731 via the wire rod 724, biasing the wedge member 722 forward and pushing the wedge member 722 in the direction of pushing into the fitting recess. One end of the wire rod 724 is attached to the rear end of the spring 723, and the other end is attached to the plate member 731.

[0106] The plate member 731 is erected on the upper frame 30. The plate member 731 moves in the front-rear direction on the upper frame 30. The chain belt 732 is connected to a motor (not shown). By driving the motor, the chain belt 732 rotates, causing the top plate 21 and the plate member 731 to move horizontally forward and backward. The connecting member 733 is provided on the chain belt 732 and transmits the driving force of the chain belt 732 to the plate member 731. The wedge member 722 moves horizontally in conjunction with the horizontal movement of the top plate 21 by the horizontal movement mechanism 730.

[0107] In the eighth embodiment of the bed 20, when the chain belt 732 is rotated, the top plate 21 and the plate member 731 are advanced, and the force of the plate member 731 is transmitted to the wedge member 722 via the wire rod 724 and spring 723. At this time, the biasing force of the spring 723 is increased, and the force that pushes the wedge member 722 into the fitting recess of the wedge receiving portion 721 increases. As a result, the rigidity of the top plate 21 is maintained at a high level as the wedge member 722 is pushed into the fitting recess of the wedge receiving portion 721, and the top plate 21 is transported together with the plate member 731 to the shooting position.

[0108] The bed 20 of the eighth embodiment provides the same effects as the sixth embodiment described above. Furthermore, in the bed 20 of the eighth embodiment, the top plate 21 is held by the first holding member 720 at the shooting position, and in the first holding member 720, the wedge member 722 is strongly pressed into the fitting recess of the wedge receiving portion 721 by the biasing force of the spring 723 or the like. Therefore, the rigidity of the top plate 21 can be maintained at a high level, and as the top plate 21 moves horizontally, the deterioration of the image quality captured by the image diagnostic device that moves from the shooting standby position to the shooting position can be suppressed.

[0109] (Ninth embodiment) Next, a ninth embodiment will be described. Figure 18 is a diagram illustrating the structure and movement of the bed 20 of the ninth embodiment. In Figure 18, (a) shows the state in which the top plate 21 is positioned at the shooting position, and (b) shows the state in which the top plate 21 is positioned at the shooting standby position. The bed 20 of the ninth embodiment includes a first holding member 750 and a second holding member 850.

[0110] A horizontal movement mechanism 900 is provided at the rear end of the top plate 21. The horizontal movement mechanism 900 has wheels 910. The wheels 910 are attached to the rear end of the top plate 21. The horizontal movement mechanism 900 rotates the wheels 910 to move the top plate 21 horizontally. The first holding member 750 is, for example, a rail on which the wheels 910 are not mounted when the top plate 21 is in the shooting standby position, and are mounted when the top plate 21 is in the shooting position. The rail is made of, for example, steel.

[0111] The second holding member 850 is equipped with a weighing section. Therefore, when the wheel 910 is placed on the first holding member 750, the rigidity of the top plate 21 is higher than when the wheel 910 is mounted on the second holding member 850. The top plate 21 is movable as the wheel 910 travels on the first holding member 750 and the second holding member 850, moving horizontally from the shooting position to the shooting standby position.

[0112] The bed 20 of the ninth embodiment provides the same effects as the sixth embodiment described above. Furthermore, in the bed 20 of the ninth embodiment, the top plate 21 is held by the first holding member 750 when it is positioned at the shooting position, and held by the second holding member 850 when it is positioned at the shooting standby position. Therefore, by moving the top plate 21 horizontally, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of image quality of the image captured by the medical imaging device that moves from the shooting position to the shooting standby position.

[0113] According to at least one embodiment described above, by having a top plate on which a subject can be placed, a weighing unit equipped with an elastic body that measures the weight of the subject placed on the top plate based on the strain generated in the elastic body, a drive unit that moves the top plate on which the subject is placed between a shooting position and a shooting standby position, and a rigidity holding unit that maintains the rigidity of the top plate at the shooting position to be higher than the rigidity at the shooting standby position, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of image quality captured by an image diagnostic device equipped with a weight measurement function.

[0114] While several embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0115] 1…Medical imaging diagnostic equipment 10…Medical Imaging Mechanism 11… Stand 20...Bed 21... Tabletop 22...Support stand 23…Base 30…Upper frame 31… Guide groove 40…Lower frame 50...X-link mechanism 51…First Link 52…Second Link 60…Parallel link mechanism 61…First parallel link 62…Second parallel link 100...Vertical movement mechanism 101,105...Vertical movement member 102,715… Gripping member 110...First Arm 111,716...1st gripping claw 112...First claw support part 113... Rotating pin 120... Second Arm 121,717…Second gripping claw 122...Second claw support part 131...First recess 132...Second recess 141...1st protrusion 142…Second protrusion 160,500,510,600…Rigidity retention mechanism 161...Movable rod 162... Outer cylinder part 163... Notch 164,171,513,722…Wedge member 165,172,514...Wedge rear end 166,515…Protrusion receiving part 167,516…Slanted protrusion 168,517,723... Spring 170…Rigidity retention structure 173...motor 174...Control device 200...Measuring part 300...Support member 501, 511… Mobile unit 502... Push-up part 503... Rigidity-enhancing mechanism 504...Release mechanism 512... Push-in section 601...Matching part 602...Matching receiver 603... Rotational force transmission section 700, 710, 720, 750… First retaining member 711... Upper first retaining member 712...Lower first retaining member 721...Wedge receiving part 724... Wire rod 730,900…Horizontal movement mechanism 731...Plate component 732... Chain belt 733...Connecting component 800, 810, 820, 850… Second retaining member 801... Upper second retaining member 802...Lower second retaining member 910...Wheel P...Subject

Claims

1. A top plate on which the subject can be placed, A drive unit that moves the top plate on which the subject is placed between the shooting position and the shooting standby position, A weighing unit equipped with an elastic body, which measures the weight of the object placed on the top plate based on the strain generated in the elastic body, It comprises a holding part that supports the top plate, The weighing unit supports the top plate when measuring the weight of the subject in the shooting standby position. The holding part supports the top plate when photographing the subject at the shooting position. A bed for a medical imaging device.

2. The aforementioned shooting position is positioned higher than the aforementioned shooting standby position. The drive unit includes a vertical movement mechanism that moves the top plate up and down using a vertical movement member. A bed for an imaging diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned vertical movement mechanism pushes the top plate up from below to raise the top plate. A bed for an imaging diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The holding portion includes a gripping member that grips the upper end of the vertically moving member and supports the top plate, A bed for an imaging diagnostic apparatus according to claim 3.

5. The gripping member is provided with a projection that protrudes in the direction of the vertically moving member. A recess into which the projection fits is formed in the vertically moving member. A bed for an imaging diagnostic apparatus according to claim 4.

6. The holding part supports the top plate by pushing a wedge member into a notch formed in a movable rod provided on the top plate when the top plate is raised. A bed for an imaging diagnostic apparatus according to claim 3.

7. The holding portion further includes a moving structure that moves the wedge member in the direction of the movable rod as the top plate rises. A bed for a medical imaging apparatus according to claim 6.

8. The holding unit further comprises a drive source for moving the wedge member and a control device for controlling the drive source. The control device moves the wedge member toward the movable rod when the top plate moves to the shooting position. A bed for a medical imaging apparatus according to claim 6.

9. The vertical movement mechanism includes a parallel link mechanism having a parallel link positioned below the top plate, and the oscillation of the parallel link causes the top plate to move up and down. The holding portion suppresses the movement of the vertical movement mechanism by the operation of a movable element provided on at least one of the ends of the parallel link. A bed for an imaging diagnostic apparatus according to claim 3.

10. The aforementioned shooting position is located at a position horizontally moved from the aforementioned shooting standby position. The aforementioned retaining part is When the top plate is moved horizontally from the shooting standby position to the shooting position, the top plate is supported by, A bed for an imaging diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

11. The holding unit comprises a first holding member that supports the top plate in the shooting position and a second holding member that supports the top plate in the shooting standby position. A bed for a medical imaging apparatus according to claim 10.

12. The above-mentioned top plate is further provided with a horizontal movement mechanism for moving it horizontally, The horizontal movement mechanism moves the top plate, which is supported by the holding part, to the shooting position. A bed for a medical imaging apparatus according to claim 10.

13. The above-mentioned top plate is further provided with a horizontal movement mechanism for moving it horizontally, The aforementioned retaining part is A wedge member that moves horizontally in conjunction with the horizontal movement of the top plate by the horizontal movement mechanism, The wedge receiving portion comprises a wedge receiving portion having a fitting recess into which the wedge member is fitted, A bed for a medical imaging apparatus according to claim 10.

14. The system further comprises a horizontal movement mechanism having wheels attached to the top plate, the wheels rotating to move the top plate horizontally, The holding portion includes a rail on which the wheels are not mounted when the top plate is in the shooting standby position, and on which the wheels are mounted when the top plate is in the shooting position. A bed for a medical imaging apparatus according to claim 10.

Images