Radiography apparatus, radiography system, radiography method, and program

Abstract

To improve convenience for an engineer with a simple configuration and reduce a burden in selecting a lighting field in imaging using a detection device mounted with an automatic exposure control (AEC) function inside.SOLUTION: A radiographic apparatus includes: display control means for displaying, in a display unit, a candidate of a lighting field for executing automatic exposure control in a radiation detection device for picking up a radiation image by detecting a radiation; and acquisition means for acquiring information at least including information on the shape of the radiation detection device, the number of arrangements of the lighting field in the radiation detection device, a site to be imaged, and past imaging information. The display control means displays, in the display unit, the candidate of the lighting field determined on the basis of the information acquired by the acquisition means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a radiation imaging apparatus that performs AEC control, a radiation imaging system, a radiation imaging method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Radiation imaging apparatuses using a sensor panel that detects radiation such as X-rays are widely used in fields such as industry and medicine. In recent years, multifunctionalization of radiation imaging apparatuses has been studied. As one of them, incorporating a function of monitoring radiation irradiation has been studied. With this function, for example, it becomes possible to detect the timing when radiation irradiation from a radiation source is started, the timing when radiation irradiation should be stopped, and the radiation irradiation dose or the integrated irradiation dose. By detecting the integrated irradiation dose of the radiation that has passed through the subject and stopping the radiation irradiation by the radiation source when the detected integrated irradiation dose reaches an appropriate amount, automatic exposure control (Automatic Exposure Control: AEC) is also possible. Generally, when performing automatic exposure amount control using an FPD (Flat Panel Detector), a plate-shaped AEC sensor separate from the FPD is arranged so as to be sandwiched between the subject and the FPD. The AEC sensor measures the dose of radiation that has passed through the subject in a radiation detection region (light collection field) that monitors radiation at one or more predetermined locations, and controls the stop of X-ray irradiation when a predetermined dose is reached.

[0003] Imaging using a separate AEC sensor is difficult to carry around the FPD and the AEC sensor, so imaging with a stationary installation such as upright or lying position imaging is common. When an AEC function is incorporated inside the FPD, it becomes portable like a conventional FPD, and AEC imaging is possible in positions other than upright and lying positions. On the other hand, since the positional relationship between the subject and the FPD becomes an arbitrary installation or an unintended installation, it becomes impossible to appropriately control the exposure. As a result, a radiation image with an appropriate density cannot be obtained, and there is a risk of re-imaging.

[0004] Therefore, Patent Document 1 discloses a method for fixing the light field to a single point in the center of the FPD by attaching and detaching it from a stand used for stationary shooting such as standing and lying-down positioning, and a method for limiting the selection candidates. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-162971 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] However, the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 lacks versatility in AEC imaging in positions other than standing and lying down, as it relies on central fixation and a limited selection of candidates. Furthermore, Patent Document 1 assumes the use of only one FPD equipped with AEC functionality, and does not consider cases where multiple FPDs equipped with AEC functionality exist.

[0007] In particular, when there are multiple FPDs equipped with AEC functionality, the location and number of light-gathering fields differ for each FPD, resulting in variations in the light-gathering fields that need to be set. Furthermore, displaying all possible light-gathering field selection patterns complicates the workflow, making it time-consuming for the operator to select the correct field.

[0008] Thus, when there are multiple FPDs equipped with AEC functionality, it is necessary to display a selection of light-gathering field options according to the imaging purpose of each FPD, but this necessity had not been considered.

[0009] In view of the above-mentioned problems, one of the objectives of this invention is to improve the ease of use for technicians and reduce the burden of selecting the light field in imaging using a detection device equipped with an internal AEC function, with a simple mechanism.

[0010] Furthermore, not limited to the aforementioned objectives, the effects and benefits derived from each configuration shown in the embodiments for carrying out the invention described later, which cannot be obtained by conventional art, can also be considered as another objective of the disclosure in this specification. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] The radiography apparatus according to the present invention includes a display control means that displays candidates for a light-gathering field for automatic exposure control in a radiation detection device that captures radiographic images by detecting radiation, and information regarding the shape of the radiation detection device, the number of light-gathering fields in the radiation detection device, the area to be photographed, and past photographic information, at least one The system includes an acquisition means for acquiring information, and the display control means is The display unit displays the currently set daylight field information, and based on the displayed daylight field information, an instruction to display a candidate daylight field has been given. Candidates for the daylighting field determined based on the information obtained by the acquisition means. To represent It is characterized by demonstrating. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present invention, in imaging using a detection device equipped with an internal AEC function, it is possible to improve the ease of use for the technician and reduce the burden of selecting the light field with a simple mechanism. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of a radiography system in the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of a detection device in the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the light field arrangement in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of a radiography apparatus in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of an association table held in the storage unit in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This flowchart shows an example of controlling the display of candidate light fields in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing an example of a display unit in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart showing an example of control of the light reception field candidate display in the second embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing an example of a radiation imaging apparatus in the second embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a flowchart showing an example of control of the light reception field candidate display in the third embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing an example of a radiation imaging apparatus in the third embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a flowchart showing an example of control of the light reception field candidate display in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a flowchart showing an example of control of the light reception field candidate display in the fifth embodiment.

Embodiments for Carrying out the Invention

[0014] [First Embodiment] The first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a radiation imaging system according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the radiation imaging system of the present embodiment includes a radiation imaging apparatus 1 and a HIS (Hospital Information System) 11 that manages the progress of an examination.

[0015] In addition, the radiation imaging system of the present embodiment includes a RIS (Radiology Information System) 12 that transmits an examination order to the radiation imaging apparatus 1. [[ID=3,6]]Furthermore, in the radiation imaging system of the present embodiment, a PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication Systems) 13 that manages radiation images and a printer 14 that prints out radiation images are connected.

[0016] HIS11 is a hospital management system that includes a server for managing accounting information. When performing radiography, the operator enters the examination instructions via the HIS11 terminal (input unit). HIS11 then transmits the request information to the radiology department of the hospital that is requesting the radiography. This request information is called an examination order. The examination order includes the name of the requesting department, the examination ID, the examination items, and patient information (subject information) regarding the subject (subject).

[0017] When the radiology department receives an examination order from RIS12, it adds imaging information related to radiography (such as identification information of the examination item (examination ID), imaging site information, imaging direction information, and procedure information) to the examination order and transmits it to the radiography device 1. The radiography device 1 performs radiography according to the received examination order. The radiography device 1 acquires the captured radiographic image, generates examination information that associates the radiographic image with the examination order, and outputs it along with the radiographic image.

[0018] PACS13 is a server primarily intended for image management. High-resolution monitors connected to PACS13 are used for image review, detailed post-processing, and diagnostic work on radiographic images. In this way, radiographic images acquired by radiography device 1 are transmitted to PACS13.

[0019] Furthermore, the examination information (image ID and date and time of shooting, etc.) from the radiography device 1 is transmitted to HIS11. The information transmitted to HIS11 is used not only for managing the progress of the examination but also for accounting processing after the examination.

[0020] The radiography device 1, HIS 11, RIS 12, PACS 13, and printer 14 are connected via a network 15, which is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network).

[0021] Each of these devices includes one or more computers. A computer is equipped with, for example, a main control means such as a CPU, and storage means such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory). A computer may also be equipped with communication means such as a network card, and input / output means such as a keyboard, display, and touch panel. These components are electrically connected by a bus or the like, and controlled by the main control means executing a program stored in the storage means.

[0022] As shown in Figure 1, the imaging room 50 is equipped with a radiography apparatus 1 for performing radiography. The imaging room 50 is also equipped with a radiation generator 4 for generating radiation, a detection device 7 for capturing radiographic images by detecting radiation that has passed through the subject 10, and an imaging table 16.

[0023] The radiography apparatus 1 comprises a display unit 2 that displays radiographic images and various information, an operation unit 3 that is operated by the operator, and a control unit 5 that controls each component.

[0024] The radiation generator 4 controls the radiation generator 6 by setting the radiation imaging conditions in the radiation generator 6. The radiation generator 6 functions as a radiation source that emits radiation. The radiation generator 6 is implemented, for example, by a radiation tube and irradiates the subject 10 (for example, a specific part of the subject) with radiation.

[0025] The radiation generating unit 6 can irradiate a desired irradiation range with radiation. A diaphragm (not shown) for shielding radiation is installed on the irradiation surface of the radiation generating unit 6. The operator can adjust the irradiation range of the radiation emitted from the radiation generating unit 6 by controlling the diaphragm for shielding radiation.

[0026] The radiography system is equipped with a detection device 7 that detects radiation emitted from the radiation generating unit 6. The detection device 7 detects the radiation that has passed through the subject 10 and outputs image data corresponding to the radiation. This image data can also be referred to as a radiographic image.

[0027] Specifically, the detection device 7 detects the radiation that has passed through the subject 10 as an electric charge equivalent to the amount of transmitted radiation. The detection device 7 may use a direct conversion sensor that directly converts radiation into electric charge, such as a-Se, or an indirect sensor that uses a scintillator such as CsI and a photoelectric conversion element such as a-Si.

[0028] Figure 2 shows the detection device 7. As shown in Figure 2, the detection device 7 has a radiation detector 100. The radiation detector 100 has the function of detecting irradiated radiation. The radiation detector 100 has multiple pixels arranged to form multiple rows and multiple columns. In the following description, the area in the radiation detector 100 where multiple pixels are arranged will be referred to as the detection area.

[0029] The plurality of pixels include imaging pixels 101 for acquiring radiation images or radiation irradiation information (hereinafter referred to as detection pixels in this invention, as the use for acquiring radiation irradiation information will be explained), and correction pixels 121 for removing dark current components and crosstalk components. The detection pixels 101 may be used only for acquiring radiation images, or only for acquiring radiation irradiation information. Furthermore, they may be used for either acquiring radiation images or acquiring radiation irradiation information, or they may be used simultaneously for both acquiring radiation images and acquiring radiation irradiation information.

[0030] The detection pixel 101 includes a first conversion element 102 that converts radiation into an electrical signal, and a first switch 103 positioned between the column signal line 106 and the first conversion element 102. The first conversion element 102 consists of a scintillator that converts radiation into light and a photoelectric conversion element that converts light into an electrical signal. The scintillator is generally formed in a sheet shape to cover the detection area and is shared by multiple pixels. Alternatively, the first conversion element 102 consists of a conversion element that directly converts radiation into light.

[0031] The first switch 103 includes a thin-film transistor (TFT) whose active region is made of a semiconductor such as amorphous silicon or polycrystalline silicon (preferably polycrystalline silicon). The area where the detection pixels 101 and correction pixels 121 for acquiring radiation irradiation information are located is positioned at any location within the detection region of the detection device 7. For example, similar to a conventional separate AEC sensor, it may be arranged in multiple regions as shown by A to C, K to O, and AA to AI in Figures 3(a), 3(b), and 3(c).

[0032] The detection device 7 has a plurality of column signal lines 106 and a plurality of drive lines 104. Each column signal line 106 corresponds to one of the plurality of columns in the detection area. Each drive line 104 corresponds to one of the plurality of rows in the detection area. Each drive line 104 is driven by a drive circuit 221.

[0033] The first electrodes of the first conversion element 102 and the second conversion element 122 are connected to the first main electrodes of the first switch 103 and the second switch 123, and the second electrodes of the first conversion element 102 and the second conversion element 122 are connected to the bias wire 108. Here, one bias wire 108 extends in the column direction and is commonly connected to the second electrodes of multiple conversion elements 102 and 122 arranged in the column direction.

[0034] The bias wire 108 receives a bias voltage Vs from the element power supply circuit 226. The bias voltage Vs is supplied from the element power supply circuit 226. The power control unit 301 consists of a battery, a DC-DC converter, etc. The power control unit 301 includes the element power supply circuit 226 and generates power for analog circuits and power for digital circuits that perform drive control and communication.

[0035] The second main electrodes of the first switches 103 of multiple detection pixels 101 constituting one column and the second switches 123 of the correction pixels 121 are connected to a single column signal line 106. The control electrodes of the first switches 103 of multiple detection pixels 101 constituting one row and the second switches 123 of the correction pixels 121 are connected to a single drive line 104. The multiple column signal lines 106 are connected to a readout circuit 222. Here, the readout circuit 222 includes multiple detection units 132, a multiplexer 134, and an analog-to-digital converter (hereinafter referred to as AD converter) 136.

[0036] Each of the multiple column signal lines 106 is connected to a corresponding detection unit 132 among the multiple detection units 132 of the readout circuit 222. Here, one column signal line 106 corresponds to one detection unit 132. The detection unit 132 includes, for example, a differential amplifier. The multiplexer 134 selects the multiple detection units 132 in a predetermined order and supplies the signals from the selected detection units 132 to the AD converter 136. The AD converter 136 converts the supplied signals into digital signals and outputs them.

[0037] The signal processing unit 224 outputs information indicating radiation exposure to the detection device 7 based on the output of the readout circuit 222 (AD converter 136). Specifically, the signal processing unit 224 performs, for example, characteristic correction processing to remove dark current components and crosstalk components of the detection device 7 using correction pixels, radiation exposure detection, and calculation of radiation exposure dose and integrated radiation dose.

[0038] The imaging device control unit 225 controls the drive circuit 221 and the readout circuit 222, etc., based on information from the signal processing unit 224 and control commands from the control device 310.

[0039] Furthermore, the detection device 7 is a portable cassette-type detection device and is transported along with the radiation generator 4 to the imaging room 50 where the examination is performed. Depending on the size of the subject and the area being scanned, detection devices 7a and 7b of different sizes are used to perform the radiography.

[0040] The detection device 7 can add information (image ID, date and time of capture, and transfer status of image data) to the image data and transfer it to the radiography device 1 along with the image data.

[0041] The display unit 2 is implemented, for example, as a liquid crystal display, and displays various information to the operator (for example, a radiographer or a doctor). The operation unit 3 includes an input unit 28 and a designation unit 29, and operates the processing in the radiography apparatus 1. The operation unit 3 is composed of, for example, a mouse or operation buttons, and inputs various instructions from the operator to each component. The display unit 2 and the operation unit 3 may be implemented as an integrated touch panel.

[0042] The control unit 5 of the radiography apparatus 1 is connected to the detection device 7 via a wireless LAN. Image data and control signals are transmitted and received between the control unit 5 and the detection device 7. In other words, image data stored in the detection device 7 by radiography is output (transferred) to the control unit 5 via wireless LAN.

[0043] The radiography system of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to Figure 4. The radiography apparatus 1 includes a control unit 5 that performs image processing on the radiographic images output from the detection devices 7a and 7b and generates an image. The control unit 5 has application functions that operate on a computer. The control unit 5 controls the operation of the detection devices 7a and 7b, and also outputs radiographic images to the display unit 2 and outputs a graphical user interface (GUI).

[0044] The control unit 5 includes a communication unit 20 that communicates with the detection devices 7a and 7b, a management unit 21 that manages the status of the detection devices 7a and 7b, and a storage unit 22 that stores radiation images output from the detection devices 7a and 7b, and various information such as inspection orders output from external devices such as RIS.

[0045] The communication unit 20 includes a connection detection unit 30, an information acquisition unit 31, and an image acquisition unit 32.

[0046] The connection detection unit 30 detects the communication connection and disconnection between the radiography apparatus 1 and the detection devices 7a and 7b. The information acquisition unit 31 receives information stored in the detection devices 7a and 7b (for example, information related to radiographic images such as the area being photographed, information related to the shape of the detection devices such as the size of the detection devices, and information related to the light field). In other words, the information acquisition unit 31 acquires information such as information related to radiographic images, information related to the shape of the detection devices such as their size, and information related to the light field from the detection devices 7a and 7b, which take radiographic images by detecting radiation.

[0047] Furthermore, the information acquired by the information acquisition unit 31 does not necessarily have to be all of the information related to the radiation image, the shape of the detection device such as its size, and the light-gathering field; it is sufficient if it includes at least one of the following pieces of information: the number of light-gathering fields. In other words, the information acquisition unit 31 is an example of an acquisition means that acquires at least one piece of information from the following: information related to the shape of the detection device, the number of light-gathering fields in the detection device, the area to be photographed, and past photographic information. In addition, the information related to the shape of the detection device may be expressed as a standardized size such as full size, half size, or large four-panel size, or as a numerical value expressed as width or thickness. It may also be information that represents a shape such as a square or rectangle. In the following description, as an example, the information related to the shape of the detection device will be described as the size of the detection device.

[0048] The management unit 21 manages the information acquired by the communication unit 20. This information is also stored in the detection device information storage unit and displayed on the display unit 2.

[0049] The light field information storage unit 33 stores, for example, a table that associates the size of the detection device with the light field pattern information, as shown in Figure 5(a), and a list of candidate light field settings corresponding to the light field pattern, as shown in Figure 5(d). The light field information storage unit 33 may also store the candidate light field settings in order of priority. This priority may be determined based on pre-configured cases or the frequency of use in shooting.

[0050] The light field candidate management unit 35, for example, compares the size of the detection device acquired from the information acquisition unit 31 with a table of detection device sizes and light field pattern information stored in the light field information storage unit 33, and selects a light field pattern.

[0051] Next, the control unit 5 displays candidate light fields on the display unit 2 based on the selected light field pattern and the number of light fields of the detection device, using the table in Figure 5(d). In other words, the control unit 5 corresponds to an example of a display control means that displays candidate light fields on the display unit for automatic exposure control in a radiation detection device that captures radiation by detecting it.

[0052] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the radiography system of this embodiment. Figure 7 shows the display configuration of the display unit 2 of the radiography system of the present invention. The display unit 2 includes a radiographic image display unit 201, a patient information display unit 202, an imaging information display unit 203, a light field information display unit 204, an examination hold instruction unit 205, and an examination completion instruction unit 206.

[0053] The imaging information display unit 203 includes imaging protocols (207a, 207b, and 207c in Figure 7) that display the imaging area and detection device information to be used in the examination.

[0054] The light field information display unit 204 includes a light field display unit 208 that displays location information of the light field of the connected detection device 7.

[0055] The radiography apparatus 1 and the detection device 7a are connected by wire or wireless connection (S101). The connection detection unit 30 detects the communication connection between the radiography apparatus 1 and the detection device 7a. When the connection detection unit 30 detects the communication connection with the detection device 7a, the information acquisition unit 31 acquires information about the detection device (S102). In response to the connection detection, the management unit 21 acquires information about the detection device 7a via the information acquisition unit 31. The information about the detection device includes information such as the size of the detection device and the number of light-gathering fields.

[0056] The information acquisition unit 31 acquires information about the detection device, such as the size of the detection device and the number of light fields arranged, as information about the detection device. In this embodiment, the size of the detection device is full size, and the number of light fields arranged is 5. The management unit 21 acquires the currently set light field information and displays it on the display unit 2 (S103). In Figure 7(a), the light field display unit 208 shows that the light field of the detection device 7a is set to 2 points on the top edge.

[0057] Furthermore, the light field display unit 208, which displays the current light field position information of the detection device 7a, functions as an operation unit for issuing instructions to display other light field selection candidates. For example, the light field display unit 208 is displayed as a button, and touching it displays a screen for displaying other light field candidates.

[0058] If you want to change the light field setting before irradiation, you can instruct the light field display unit 208 to display the candidate light field (Yes in S104).

[0059] When the light field display unit 208 issues an instruction to display a candidate light field, the light field candidate management unit 35 selects a light field pattern based on the relationship table Figure 5(a) of the size of the detection device and the position of the light field, which is stored in the light field information storage unit 33, and the size of the detection device acquired by the information acquisition unit 31. If the detection device is full-size or half-size, select a two-field pattern and prioritize extracting candidates for the two-field pattern (S107). If the detection device is large four-field, select a one-field pattern and prioritize extracting candidates for the one-field pattern (S108). If the detection device is any other size, do not make any special selection and extract all candidates (S109).

[0060] The light field candidate management unit 35 then displays the extracted light field candidates as display items on the light field candidate display unit 211 in Figure 7(b).

[0061] The daylight field candidates 212a to 212d displayed on the daylight field candidate display unit 211 function as an operation unit for selecting a daylight field. For example, daylight field candidates 212a to 212d are displayed as buttons, and touching them sends an instruction to the detection device to set a new daylight field position, thereby changing the setting (Yes in S112).

[0062] Next, imaging is performed using a different detection device 7b. 207c in Figure 7(c) is displayed as a button, and touching it instructs the system to connect to the detection device 7b (S101). When 207c is selected, the connection detection unit 30 detects a communication connection between the radiography apparatus 1 and the detection device 7b (S102). In response to the connection detection, the management unit acquires information about the detection device 7b via the information acquisition unit 31.

[0063] The information acquisition unit 31 acquires information regarding the size of the detection device and the number of light-gathering fields as information about the detection device. In this embodiment, the detection device 7b is large, with 4 large light-gathering fields and 9 light-gathering fields. The management unit 21 acquires the currently set light-gathering field position information and displays it on the display unit 2 (S103). In Figure 7(c), the light-gathering field display unit 208 shows that the light-gathering field of the detection device 7b is set to one point at the top left edge.

[0064] If you want to change the light field setting before shooting, indicate this on the light field display unit 208 (Yes in S104).

[0065] When a display instruction is given in the light field display unit 208, the light field candidate management unit 35 consults the relationship table between the size of the detection device and the light field location held in the light field information storage unit 33, and selects a light field candidate based on the size of the detection device acquired by the information acquisition unit 31. Since the size of the detection device is four sizes, one light field group is selected and the light field candidates are extracted, prioritizing items with one light field (S107).

[0066] The light field candidate management unit 35 then displays the extracted light field candidates on the light field candidate display unit 211 in Figure 7(d).

[0067] In this way, by displaying a selection of light-gathering field candidates that are appropriate for the purpose of the photograph, based on the size of the detection device, it becomes possible to easily change the light-gathering field, which can become a vast number depending on the number of light-gathering fields arranged.

[0068] Furthermore, in this embodiment, even when setting the initial daylight field information in step S103, the management unit 21 may automatically select the daylight field candidate with the highest priority from among the candidates extracted in steps S105 to S109.

[0069] [Second Embodiment] This is an example of extracting candidate light-gathering fields based on the number of light-gathering fields of the detection device in the control unit 5 having the configuration described in the first embodiment. Note that the processing other than that of the light-gathering field candidate management unit 35 is the same and is therefore omitted.

[0070] The processing of the light field candidate management unit 35 according to the embodiment will be explained according to the flowchart in Figure 8. Steps S101 to S103 are the same as in the first embodiment, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0071] If you want to change the light field setting before shooting, indicate this on the light field display unit 208 (Yes in S104).

[0072] When a display instruction is given by the light field display unit 208, the light field candidate management unit 35 selects a light field candidate based on the relationship table Figure 5(a) of the number of light fields and light field locations of the detection device held in the light field information storage unit 33, and the number of light fields of the detection device acquired by the information acquisition unit 31. In other words, the information acquisition unit 31 in the second embodiment corresponds to an example of an acquisition means that acquires information including at least the number of light fields. If the number of light fields of the detection device is 5, 2 light field groups are selected and light field candidates are extracted, prioritizing items with 2 light fields (S107). If the number of light fields is 9, 1 light field group is selected and light field candidates are extracted, prioritizing items with 1 light field (S108). If the number of light fields is 3 or any other, all candidates are extracted without any special selection (S109).

[0073] The light field candidate management unit 35 then displays the extracted light field candidates on the light field candidate display unit 211 in Figure 7(b).

[0074] [Third Embodiment] Figure 9 shows an embodiment in which a control unit 5 having the configuration described in the first embodiment extracts a candidate light-collecting field based on newly stored imaging area information in the imaging area information storage unit 34. Note that the processing other than that of the imaging area information storage unit 34 and the light field candidate management unit 35 is the same and will therefore be omitted.

[0075] The processing of the imaging area information storage unit 34 and the light field candidate management unit 35 according to the embodiment will be explained according to the flowchart in Figure 10.

[0076] The radiography apparatus 1 and the detection device 7a are connected by wire or wireless connection (S301). The connection detection unit 30 detects the communication connection between the radiography apparatus 1 and the detection device 7a. When the connection detection unit 30 detects the communication connection with the detection device 7a, the information acquisition unit 31 acquires information about the detection device (S302). In response to the connection detection, the management unit acquires information about the detection device 7a via the information acquisition unit 31. The information about the detection device includes information such as the imaging area and the number of light-gathering fields. The information acquisition unit 31 acquires information regarding the imaging area and the number of light-gathering fields (S303).

[0077] The control unit 21 displays the currently set light field position information on the display unit 2 (S304). Figure 7(a) shows that the light field display unit 208 is set to the two upper points of the light field of the detection device 7a.

[0078] Furthermore, the imaging information display unit 203 includes imaging protocols (207a, 207b, and 207c in Figure 7(a)) that display the imaging area and detection device information to be performed during the examination. In Figure 7(a), it is shown that the currently selected imaging protocol is 207a. The imaging protocols are categorized into eight patterns according to the imaging area: head, chest, abdomen, pelvis, spine, upper limbs, lower limbs, and unspecified. In this embodiment, there are eight categories, but they may be further subdivided.

[0079] Next, the light field display unit 208, which displays the current light field position information of the detection device 7a, functions as an operation unit for issuing instructions to display other light field selection candidates. For example, the light field display unit 208 is displayed as a button, and touching it displays a screen for displaying other light field candidates.

[0080] If you want to change the light field setting before shooting, indicate this on the light field display unit 208 (Yes in S305).

[0081] When a display instruction is given in the light field display unit 208, the light field candidate management unit 35 selects a light field pattern from the relationship table of imaging area categories and light field positions held in the imaging area information storage unit 34, Figure 5(c). Next, based on the table in Figure 5(d), the display unit 2 displays a candidate light field based on the selected light field pattern and the number of light fields of the detection device acquired by the information acquisition unit 31.

[0082] Based on the number of light-gathering fields of the detection device acquired by the information acquisition unit 31, candidate light-gathering field patterns are selected. If the imaging category of the selected protocol is chest, a 2-light-gathering field pattern is selected and candidate light-gathering fields are extracted, prioritizing items with two light-gathering fields (S307). If the imaging category is not chest, a 1-light-gathering field pattern is selected and candidate light-gathering fields are extracted, prioritizing items with one light-gathering field (S308). If the number of light-gathering fields is three or otherwise, all candidates are extracted without any special selection (S309).

[0083] The light field candidate management unit 35 then displays the extracted light field candidates on the light field candidate display unit 211 in Figure 7(b).

[0084] [Fourth Embodiment] Figure 11 shows an embodiment in which a control unit 5, having the configuration described in the third embodiment, extracts a candidate light field based on newly stored shooting history information in the shooting history information storage unit 36. Note that the processing other than the shooting history information storage unit 36 ​​and the candidate light field management unit 35 is the same and is therefore omitted.

[0085] The processing of the shooting history information storage unit 36 ​​and the light field candidate management unit 35 according to the embodiment will be explained according to the flowchart in Figure 12.

[0086] Each time imaging is performed with the radiography system, the light field candidate management unit 35 stores the detection device information, imaging site information, and the number of times the corresponding light field pattern has been used in the imaging history information storage unit 36 ​​(S402).

[0087] Subsequently, as in the third embodiment, after steps S301 to S304 have been performed, if the light field setting is to be changed before shooting, a display instruction is given on the light field display unit 208 (Yes in S305).

[0088] When a display instruction is given in the light field display unit 208, the light field candidate management unit 35 prioritizes extracting the most frequently used light field patterns based on the frequency of previously used light field patterns for each detection device size or shooting area, which are stored in the shooting history information storage unit 36 ​​(S403).

[0089] Then, the light field candidate management unit 35 displays the extracted light field candidates on the light field candidate display unit 211 in Figure 7(b) (S309). Steps S310 onward are the same as in the third embodiment, so the explanation is omitted.

[0090] [Fifth Embodiment] In the light field candidate management unit 35 having the configuration described in the fourth embodiment, an embodiment in which the light field is automatically selected when selecting a shooting protocol will be described according to the flowchart in Figure 13.

[0091] The processing of the shooting history information storage unit 36 ​​and the light field candidate management unit 35 in the embodiment will be explained according to the flowchart in Figure 13.

[0092] Each time imaging is performed with the radiography system, the light field candidate management unit 35 stores the detection device information, imaging site information, and the number of times the corresponding light field pattern has been used in the imaging history information storage unit 36 ​​(S402).

[0093] The radiography apparatus 1 and the detection device 7a are connected by wire or wireless connection (S501). The connection detection unit 30 detects the communication connection between the radiography apparatus 1 and the detection device 7a. When the connection detection unit 30 detects the communication connection with the detection device 7a, the information acquisition unit 31 acquires information about the detection device (S502). In response to the connection detection, the management unit acquires information about the detection device 7a via the information acquisition unit 31. The information about the detection device includes information such as the size of the detection device and the number of light-gathering fields. The light-gathering field candidate management unit 35 acquires information about at least one of the size of the detection device and the number of light-gathering fields as information about the detection device.

[0094] The light field candidate management unit 35 extracts the most frequently used light field pattern based on the frequency of previously used light field patterns for each detection device size or imaging area, which is stored in the imaging history information storage unit 36 ​​(S503). Then, the light field candidate management unit sets the extracted light field pattern as the light field to be used now (S505).

[0095] [Other embodiments] The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and by having one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit that implements one or more functions.

[0096] A processor or circuit may include a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessing unit (MPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or a field-programmable gateway (FPGA). It may also include a digital signal processor (DSP), a dataflow processor (DFP), or a neural processing unit (NPU).

[0097] The radiography system in each of the embodiments described above may be implemented as a single device, or as a combination of multiple devices that can communicate with each other to perform the above-described processing; both are included in the embodiments of the present invention. The above-described processing may also be performed using a common server device or group of servers. The multiple devices constituting the radiography system only need to be able to communicate at a predetermined communication rate, and do not need to be located in the same facility or in the same country.

[0098] Embodiments of the present invention include a configuration in which a software program that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiment is supplied to a system or device, and the computer of the system or device reads and executes the code of the supplied program.

[0099] Therefore, the program code installed on the computer to implement the processing according to the embodiment is itself one of the embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, based on the instructions contained in the program read by the computer, the operating system running on the computer may perform part or all of the actual processing, and the functions of the above-described embodiment can also be realized through that processing.

[0100] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications (including organic combinations of each embodiment) are possible based on the spirit of the present invention, such as being applicable not only to still image shooting but also to video shooting, and these are not excluded from the scope of the present invention. In other words, all configurations that combine the above-described embodiments are also included in the embodiments of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0101] 1. Radiography System 2 Display section 3 Control section 4. Radiation Generating Devices 5. Control Unit 6. Radiation-generating parts 7. Detection device 11 HIS 12 RIS 13 PACS 14 Printers 15 Network 16 Shooting platform 20 Communications Department 21 Management Department 22 Memory section 30 Connection detection unit 31 Information Acquisition Department 32 Image acquisition unit 33 Light field information storage section 34 Image location information storage unit 35 Uikono Candidate Management Department 201 Radiation Image Display Unit 202 Patient information display section 203 Shooting Information Display Unit 204 Light field information display section 205 Inspection Hold Instruction Unit 206 Inspection completion instruction unit 208 Lighting field display section 211 Lighting field candidate display area

Claims

1. A radiation detection device that captures radiation images by detecting radiation includes a display control means that displays candidates for the light-gathering field on a display unit for automatic exposure control, An acquisition means for acquiring at least one piece of information from among the following: information regarding the shape of the radiation detection device, the number of light-gathering fields in the radiation detection device, the area to be photographed, and past photographic information. Equipped with, The radiography apparatus is characterized in that the display control means displays information about the currently set light field on the display unit, and displays the candidate light field determined based on the information acquired by the acquisition means based on the display information about the light field that has been instructed to display a candidate light field.

2. The acquisition means acquires information regarding the shape of the radiation detection device, The radiography apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the display control means displays on the display unit at least one of the following patterns: a first pattern in which one candidate light field for automatic exposure control is selected from among the arranged light fields based on the shape information, and a second pattern in which two candidate light fields for automatic exposure control are selected from among the arranged light fields.

3. The radiography apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the display control means includes information on the size of the radiation detection device, displays the second pattern when the size of the radiation detection device is full size or half size, and displays the first pattern when the size of the radiation detection device is large quarter size.

4. The radiography apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the display control means displays at least one of the following patterns on the display unit: a first pattern in which one candidate light field for automatic exposure control is selected from the arranged light fields based on information on the number of light fields arranged; and a second pattern in which two candidate light fields for automatic exposure control are selected from the arranged light fields.

5. The radiography apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that the display control means displays the first pattern when the number of light-gathering fields is nine, and displays the second pattern when the number of light-gathering fields is five.

6. The acquisition means acquires information about the area to be photographed, The radiography apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the display control means displays at least one of the following patterns on the display unit: a first pattern in which one candidate light field for automatic exposure control is selected from among the arranged light fields based on the information of the imaging area, and a second pattern in which two candidate light fields for automatic exposure control are selected from among the arranged light fields.

7. The radiography apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that the display control means displays the second pattern when the imaging area is the chest, and displays the first pattern when the imaging area is other than the chest.

8. The acquisition means acquires the past shooting information, The radiography apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the display control means displays on the display unit at least one of the following patterns: a first pattern in which one candidate light field for automatic exposure control is selected from among the arranged light fields based on the past shooting information, and a second pattern in which two candidate light fields for automatic exposure control are selected from among the arranged light fields.

9. The acquisition means acquires, as past imaging information, information on the shape of the radiation detector, the number of light-gathering fields, and at least one of the imaging area in past imaging, and information on candidate light-gathering fields selected in the imaging. The radiography apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that the display control means prioritizes displaying on the display unit candidates for light-gathering fields that are frequently used, from among candidates for light-gathering fields corresponding to at least one piece of information from previously taken images, such as information about the shape of the radiation detector, the number of light-gathering fields arranged, and the imaging area.

10. The system further comprises a light field management means for managing a table that associates information relating to the shape of the radiation detection device, the number of light fields arranged in the radiation detection device, and at least one of the imaging area to be photographed with the pattern of the light field. The radiography apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the display control means displays on the display unit a candidate for the light field determined based on the information acquired by the acquisition means and a table managed by the light field management means.

11. The radiation imaging apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that the light-gathering field management means manages candidates for light-gathering fields, determined based on information regarding the shape of the radiation detection device, the number of light-gathering fields in the radiation detection device, and information on at least one of the imaging area to be photographed, and the pattern of the light-gathering field, in order of increasing priority.

12. The radiation imaging apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the light field management means automatically sets the most frequently used light field as the light field to be used from among the candidates for light fields determined based on information regarding the shape of the radiation detection device, the number of light fields arranged in the radiation detection device, and information on at least one of the imaging area to be photographed, and the pattern of the light field.

13. A radiography system including a radiation detection device that detects radiation and generates a radiographic image, and a radiography device that communicates with the radiation detection device and performs operation control, The radiation detection device includes a display control means that displays candidates for the light field for which automatic exposure control is performed on a display unit, An acquisition means for acquiring at least one piece of information from among the following: information regarding the shape of the radiation detection device, the number of light-gathering fields in the radiation detection device, the area to be photographed, and past photographic information. Equipped with, The radiography system is characterized in that the display control means displays information about the currently set light field on the display unit, and displays the candidate light field determined based on the information acquired by the acquisition means based on the display information about the light field that has been instructed to display a candidate light field.

14. A display control step in a radiation detection device that captures radiation images by detecting radiation, which displays candidates for the light-gathering field on a display unit for automatic exposure control, An acquisition step to acquire at least one piece of information from among the following: information regarding the shape of the radiation detection device, the number of light-gathering fields in the radiation detection device, the area to be photographed, and past photographic information. Equipped with, The radiography method is characterized in that the display control step displays information about the currently set light field on the display unit, and displays the candidate light field determined based on the information acquired in the acquisition step, based on the display information about the light field indicating that a display instruction for the candidate light field has been given.

15. A program for causing a computer to execute the radiography method described in claim 14.

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