Mobile X-ray imaging apparatus and its control method

Abstract

To provide means which improves a positioning operation for moving an x-ray tube to an imaging position in a mobile x-ray radiographic device.SOLUTION: In positioning the x-ray tube performed in imaging with the mobile x-ray radiographic device, the order, operation timing, and duration of an operation applied to each mechanism such as a horizontal mechanism, a vertical mechanism, a rotation mechanism, etc. for moving the x-ray tube are recorded. Information related with the recorded operation is evaluated and presented with the information. The start / finish of the recording is performed by an operation of a start button / finish button by an operator or automatically with a predetermined operation as a trigger.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a mobile X-ray imaging apparatus that moves to a location (such as a hospital room) where the subject is located and performs imaging. In particular, in a mobile X-ray imaging apparatus, the present invention relates to a technique for assisting a positioning operation for arranging an X-ray tube and a detector at appropriate positions with respect to the subject.

Background Art

[0002] A mobile X-ray imaging apparatus is a device that makes rounds in a hospital, moves to a hospital room bed, and performs X-ray imaging. It is a device in which an X-ray generator that generates X-rays, a control device, a rechargeable battery, etc. are mounted on a mobile cart. This type of mobile X-ray imaging apparatus has a mechanism for movably supporting the X-ray generator in order to position the X-ray generator such as an X-ray tube at an arbitrary imaging position. Specifically, as such a mechanism, there are a support mechanism that supports the X-ray generator so as to be extendable in the horizontal direction and movable up and down, a rotation mechanism of a support column, etc. Further, there are some that connect the X-ray generator and an arm portion that supports it with a rotatable connection portion, and have a structure for storing the X-ray generator by extending and bending the connection portion.

[0003] With such a mechanism, the mobile X-ray imaging apparatus maintains a compact form as much as possible during movement, and during imaging, operates each mechanism to position the X-ray generator at an appropriate position with respect to the imaging site of the patient. This positioning operation is usually manually performed by a technician or a doctor (hereinafter referred to as an operator) who performs imaging.

[0004] In the positioning operation, it is necessary to appropriately operate a plurality of support mechanisms and rotation mechanisms as described above. However, since these movements are intricately intertwined, it is difficult for an inexperienced operator to perform appropriate positioning, which requires a lot of time until imaging and also increases the burden on the subject. In addition, if the positioning is not appropriately performed, it also affects the image quality of the captured image, such as the desired site not being appropriately included in the imaging range.

[0005] As a technology to support such positioning operations, Patent Document 1 discloses a method of displaying a guide for positioning operations. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2018-33487 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] The guide display disclosed in Patent Document 1 displays the movable distance each time the operator changes the position of the X-ray generator. This technology can reduce ineffective imaging due to improper positioning, but this technology does not guide the positioning operation itself. Positioning operations vary depending on the location of the subject, the area to be photographed, and the shooting technique, such as which area to photograph and at what angle. Therefore, the sequence in which to move multiple mechanical parts must be performed by the operator each time according to the technique, making it difficult to accumulate skills and not leading to an improvement in proficiency. Furthermore, even if the device is set in the correct position, it may take a long time for the operator to perform the positioning operation, which can be burdensome for both the operator and the patient.

[0008] The present invention aims to provide a technology that can contribute to improving the skill level of operators performing positioning operations. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] To solve the above problems, the mobile X-ray imaging apparatus of the present invention is equipped with a function to record each operation performed by the operator during positioning and to present the results.

[0010] In other words, the mobile X-ray imaging apparatus of the present invention comprises an X-ray generating unit including an X-ray tube, a support mechanism that movably supports the X-ray tube and has a plurality of mechanical parts, an operating unit that receives commands from an operator, a trolley on which the X-ray generating unit and the support mechanism are mounted, and a control unit, and further comprises a recording unit that records the operations performed on each mechanical part from the time the trolley moves to the imaging position after the control unit has received imaging conditions until the start of imaging.

[0011] Furthermore, the control method for a mobile X-ray imaging apparatus of the present invention is a control method for positioning support, and includes the steps of: receiving imaging conditions via the operation unit of the mobile X-ray imaging apparatus; recording operations performed between the time the mobile X-ray imaging apparatus moves to a predetermined position and the time of imaging accompanied by X-ray irradiation in a recording device; and presenting the operations recorded in the recording device, along with an evaluation index for the operations and the received imaging conditions, via an output device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present invention, by recording and presenting the operations required for positioning for each procedure, including their sequence and duration, operators and physicians can utilize the presented records to improve their operational skills in order to perform proper positioning in a short amount of time. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] Diagram showing the overall configuration of a mobile X-ray imaging system. [Figure 2] This diagram illustrates the rotational movement of the X-ray tube and X-ray diaphragm. [Figure 3] Diagram showing the configuration of the sensor and control unit in the mechanical section. [Figure 4] Figure 1 shows the orientation of the mobile X-ray imaging device during movement. [Figure 5] Functional block diagram showing the configuration of the control unit in Embodiment 1 [Figure 6] A diagram showing an example configuration of the operating terminal in Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] Diagram showing the recording process flow of Embodiment 1 [Figure 8] Figure showing an example display of recorded content [Figure 9] Functional block diagram showing the configuration of the control unit according to Embodiment 2 [Figure 10] Figure showing the flow of the recording process according to Embodiment 2 [Figure 11] Figure showing an example configuration of the operation terminal according to Embodiment 3 [Figure 12] Figure showing the flow of the recording process according to Embodiment 3 [Figure 13] Figure showing an example configuration of the operation terminal according to Embodiment 4 [Figure 14] Figure showing the flow of the recording process according to Embodiment 4 [Figure 15] Figure showing an example display of recorded content

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments of the mobile X-ray imaging apparatus of the present invention will be described.

[0015] [[ID=…]] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an embodiment of a mobile X-ray imaging apparatus (hereinafter simply abbreviated as an X-ray imaging apparatus) 10 to which the present invention is applied. This X-ray imaging apparatus 10 generally includes an X-ray generation unit 110 that generates X-rays, a support mechanism 120 having a plurality of mechanism parts for moving the X-ray generation unit, an X-ray image processing unit that receives an X-ray signal from an X-ray detector 20 that detects X-rays generated from the X-ray generation unit 110 and transmitted through a subject 50 and generates an X-ray image, and a control unit 130 including a control unit 133 that controls the X-ray generation unit 110, an operation unit 140 for an operator to operate each mechanism part of the support mechanism 120 or input commands and data necessary for imaging to the control unit 133, and a cart 150 on which the above-described respective parts are mounted.

[0016] The cart 150 includes a pedestal 152 provided with wheels 151 and a housing (main body) 153 fixed on the pedestal 152. Inside the housing 153, in addition to a motor, a battery, and a charging circuit which are the drive source 121 of the mechanism part 120 and the cart 150, the above-described control unit 130 and the like are housed.

[0017] The X-ray generating unit 110 includes an X-ray tube 111 that generates X-rays to irradiate the subject 50, an X-ray diaphragm 112 that limits the X-ray irradiation area irradiated from the X-ray tube 111, and a high-voltage generating unit 115 that supplies power to the X-ray tube 111.

[0018] The support mechanism 120 includes, as its main mechanism, an arm 123 that supports the X-ray generating unit 110 (X-ray tube 111 and X-ray diaphragm 112) and moves it horizontally relative to the floor, and a support column 124 that supports the arm 123 and moves it vertically relative to the floor. The mechanism also includes a mechanism that allows the horizontal position of the X-ray tube 111 to be changed by extending or retracting the arm 123 horizontally, a mechanism that moves the arm 123 vertically relative to the support column 124, or a mechanism that rotates the arm 123 around the support column 124. The mechanism further includes a mechanism that rotates the X-ray tube 111 about a horizontal axis perpendicular to the long axis of the arm 123 as shown by the arrow in the figure, a mechanism that rotates it about a vertical axis as shown in Figure 2, and a mechanism that rotates the X-ray diaphragm 112 about a horizontal axis.

[0019] Hereinafter, the various mechanical parts included in the support mechanism 120 will be collectively referred to as the mechanical parts 120. The operation of these mechanical parts 120 and the trolley 150 may be performed by an operator moving them manually, or by using electric power such as a motor. In the latter case, the operator can operate the mechanical parts 120 via the operation switches or operation unit 140 provided on each mechanical part. The mechanisms of the mechanical parts 120 can be those provided in conventional mobile X-ray imaging devices, for example, as described in Patent Document 1, and therefore a detailed explanation will be omitted in this specification.

[0020] Furthermore, the mechanisms described above are merely examples, and the X-ray imaging apparatus of the present invention may include mechanisms other than those exemplified, or may not include any of the exemplified mechanisms.

[0021] The mechanism unit 120 and the trolley 150 are equipped with sensors that detect their movement or the position determined by that movement, and the signals corresponding to the movement of each mechanism unit detected by the sensors are sent to the motion detection sensor unit 125.

[0022] Known position sensors such as encoders and potentiometers are used as sensors, and for example, as shown in Figure 3, include a vertical position sensor 125A that detects the vertical position of the X-ray tube, a horizontal position sensor 125B that detects the horizontal position, a rotational position sensor 125C that detects the rotational position, and a travel sensor 125D that detects the movement (presence or absence, amount of movement) of the trolley 150. The vertical position sensor 125A detects the vertical position of the arm 123 on the support column 124. The horizontal position sensor 125B detects the position of the X-ray tube 111 in the axial direction of the arm 123. The rotational position sensor 125C detects the rotational position of the arm, i.e., the X-ray tube 111, with the support column 124 as its axis. Although not shown in Figure 3, there are sensors that detect the rotational position of the X-ray tube 111 with respect to the horizontal axis, the rotational position with respect to the vertical axis, and the rotational position of the X-ray diaphragm 112. The motion detection sensor unit 125 detects the amount of movement of the X-ray tube based on the amounts detected by each of these sensors and sends it to the control unit 133.

[0023] The control unit 133 controls various parts in conjunction with the shooting process, and also acquires and records information about operations performed on the mechanism unit 120 based on the amount of movement detected by the motion detection sensor unit 125 in response to the operation of the mechanism unit 120. For this reason, the control unit 130 is equipped with a recording unit 131, as shown in Figure 3, and the control unit 133 controls the recording to the recording unit 131. A detailed explanation will follow later.

[0024] The control unit 140 is a device operated by the operator to operate the X-ray generator 110, the control unit 133, and the trolley 150, and optionally the mechanism unit 120. It is installed in a location easily accessible to the operator, such as on top of the trolley housing (truck body) 153 of the trolley 150. The control unit 140 may also include a portable operation terminal 140A.

[0025] The control unit 140 may include an exposure button operated by the operator regarding the operation of the X-ray generator 110, a condition setting unit for inputting imaging conditions such as X-ray conditions, and buttons operated by the control unit regarding recording (recording operation buttons). It may also include a display unit for displaying X-ray images after imaging and GUIs necessary for operation. The specific configuration of the control unit 140 will be described in detail in the embodiments described later.

[0026] In an X-ray imaging apparatus 10 with such a configuration, for example, when imaging a subject 50 lying on a bed with an X-ray detector 20 set on it, first, the X-ray imaging apparatus 10 is moved to the hospital room or other location where the subject 50 is located using a trolley 150, placed in a predetermined position, and then secured with brakes (not shown) provided on the wheels 151 or the like.

[0027] While the X-ray imaging apparatus 10 is moving, as shown in Figure 4, the arm 123 is in a position (standby position) rotated around the support column 124 so that the X-ray tube 111 is positioned above the housing 153 of the trolley 150, and is detachably fixed to the upper part (catch part 155) of the housing 153 of the trolley 150. When the X-ray imaging apparatus 10 is positioned in the predetermined location, the operator releases the arm 123 from its fixed position on the trolley 150, and then positions the X-ray tube 111 in the imaging position by operating the control unit 140. This operation is called positioning.

[0028] Positioning varies depending on the relative positions of the X-ray imaging device 10 and the subject 50, as well as the area of ​​the subject to be imaged. Typically, the X-ray tube 111 is positioned directly above the subject 50 by rotating and extending (horizontally moving) the arm 123, and the X-ray tube 111 is brought closer to the imaging position by vertically moving the arm 123. Further adjustments are made to the position of the X-ray tube 111 in relation to the imaging area to ensure it is in a suitable position for imaging. During this process, the position of the trolley may be changed as needed. After this positioning is complete, imaging is performed by operating the exposure button on the control unit 140.

[0029] As mentioned above, proper and rapid positioning is required in X-ray imaging, but the skill of this depends on the operator. If proper positioning is not performed, images that reliably capture areas important for diagnosis cannot be obtained, and if the positioning time is prolonged, the burden on the patient increases. The X-ray imaging apparatus 10 of this embodiment is equipped with a function to record the above-mentioned positioning, thereby evaluating the operator's positioning and using it as a guide for subsequent procedures.

[0030] Therefore, as shown in Figure 3, the control unit 130 is equipped with a recording unit 131, which records the movement of the mechanism performed by the operation unit 140 from the time the X-ray imaging device 10 is positioned at the imaging location until imaging is completed. The record of operations can be linked to the person who performed the operation (operator), the X-ray conditions at the time of imaging, etc. For this reason, the control unit 133 may further be equipped with a reception unit 132 that receives information such as X-ray conditions and operator information.

[0031] The control unit 133 may also display information related to the recorded operation on a display device during or after the operation. The display device may be a display device independent of the X-ray imaging device 10, or it may be the display unit of the operation unit 140 or the operation terminal 140A if the operation terminal 140A has a display unit.

[0032] By checking the operation information displayed on the display device, the operator can use the information to improve their subsequent positioning if it is their own operation information, or if it is information from past data, they can use it as a guide or reference to perform efficient positioning.

[0033] In this embodiment, it is not essential to display the contents recorded by the recording unit 131 on the display device; the contents can be stored in the memory, accumulated as statistical data, and analyzed.

[0034] The following describes specific embodiments of methods for recording, starting, and ending positioning operations.

[0035] <Embodiment 1> This embodiment is characterized by providing a recording start button and an end button on the operation unit (operation terminal) 140, and recording and analyzing positioning operations by operating these buttons.

[0036] Figure 5 shows the configuration of the X-ray imaging apparatus of this embodiment. As shown in the figure, the X-ray imaging apparatus of this embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, includes a control unit 130 with functions related to the operation of the mechanical parts (functions enclosed in rectangles), a control unit 133 and a recording unit 131 for recording positioning operations. The control unit 133 includes a reception unit 132 that receives information from the motion detection sensor unit 125 and an evaluation unit 137 that evaluates the contents recorded in the recording unit 131. The operation unit 140 includes an exposure button 141 and a recording operation button 143 that instructs the recording unit 131 to start and stop recording. The recording unit 131 starts or stops recording the operation information received by the reception unit 132, triggered by the operation of the operation button. Note that, as shown by the dotted arrow in the figure, there is also a mode in which the recording unit 131 starts recording directly when the recording operation button 143 is operated.

[0037] As an example of the operation unit 140 of this embodiment, Figure 6 shows an example configuration of an operation terminal 140A equipped with a recording start button and a recording end button. As shown in the figure, the operation terminal 140A includes a display unit 145, an exposure button 141, a condition setting unit 142 for setting X-ray conditions (procedure selection button 142A), and a recording operation unit for performing recording operations (recording operation buttons 143: recording start button 143A, recording end button 143B). In addition to the exposure button 141, the buttons for the condition setting unit 142, and the buttons for the recording operation unit 143, the operation unit 140 may also have operation buttons for moving the trolley 150 and, in some cases, operation buttons for operating other mechanical parts. These may be provided only on the operation unit 140 on the trolley 150, or they may be provided on the operation terminal 140A.

[0038] The display unit 145 displays the results of a series of positioning operations that were actually performed. In addition, past positioning examples and X-ray images may be displayed. The condition setting unit 142 includes a procedure selection button 142A. By operating the procedure selection button 142A, for example, multiple procedure options are displayed in a drop-down format, and the operator can select a predetermined procedure from the displayed options. Alternatively, buttons corresponding to multiple procedures may be provided in advance, and the desired procedure may be selected by operating any of them. By selecting a procedure, the X-ray conditions determined by the procedure (type of X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube, X-ray irradiation dose) are determined, and the X-ray conditions corresponding to the selected procedure are set. The set X-ray conditions are also sent to the recording unit 131, and recorded in association with the positioning operation information recorded by the recording unit 131.

[0039] Next, the recording process flow in the X-ray imaging apparatus of this embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 7. Here, we will use the case where various operations are performed using the operation terminal 140A as an example.

[0040] After moving the X-ray imaging device 10 to the imaging location, and before starting positioning, the operator enters their information, such as their name and ID, in the condition setting unit 142 of the operating terminal 140A (S1), and then selects a procedure by operating the procedure selection button 142A (S2). Next, they operate the recording start button 143A.

[0041] The control unit 133 receives the operator's operation via the reception unit 132 and starts recording by the recording unit 131 (S3). The recording unit 131 records the operation of each mechanism and the X-ray generating unit 110 and its duration, which are performed via the operation terminal 140A. Specifically, as shown in Figure 5, when the reception unit 132 receives the position information detected by each sensor (up / down position sensor, horizontal position sensor, rotation position sensor, and travel sensor) received by the motion detection sensor unit 125, the recording unit 131 receives the time during which the position information changes, i.e., the duration during which the operation of each mechanism continues, and records it as the duration for each sensor. In addition, if the X-ray exposure button 141 is pressed, that information is also passed to the recording unit 131 via the reception unit 132 and recorded.

[0042] The recording unit 131 records a series of actions performed by positioning, linking them to the operator information (S1) and the selected procedure (S2) received in advance, and continues recording until the operator presses the recording end button 143B (S4).

[0043] When the recording stop button 143B is pressed (S5), recording ends (S6), and the control unit 133 displays the recorded content of the series of positioning operations recorded by the recording unit 131 on the display unit 145, along with operator information, procedure, and evaluation (S7, S8). A typical and simple evaluation is the time required for positioning. In this case, the evaluation unit 137 calculates the total time as an evaluation index by summing the duration of operations for each sensor, including the idle time when operations are stopped. In addition to the total time, other evaluation criteria may be calculated by extracting, for example, the trajectory of the X-ray tube or the number of repetitions of similar operations from the positioning record. However, if the number of repetitions is large or the trajectory of the X-ray tube to the target position is long, the total time will be long as a result, so the total time is sufficient as an evaluation index.

[0044] Figure 8 shows an example of the display shown on the display unit 145. In this example, the operation of each mechanism recorded by the recording unit 131 is shown in a chart, and along with the imaging procedure, the positioning process (sequence and the time required for each) performed up to the time of final X-ray exposure is displayed, and the total time required for positioning is displayed as an evaluation value. The process is shown along the time axis, with the timing and duration of each operation for the movement of the mechanism support column 124 and arm 123 (up and down movement, horizontal movement, rotational movement), the movement of the trolley 150 (traveling movement), the movement of the X-ray tube (tube) 111 and X-ray diaphragm 112, and exposure.

[0045] The total time required for positioning calculated by the evaluation unit 137 directly serves as an evaluation of the operator if the skill of positioning is assessed by time. By reviewing the chart of each movement performed during positioning and the time required for positioning, the operator can identify areas for improvement in the sequence of movements, such as whether there were any unnecessary movements or trial and error, and use this as a guideline when performing similar procedures in the future. Although not shown in Figure 8, if past data has been accumulated, the average positioning time for similar procedures may be displayed as a baseline value. Such a display can help increase motivation for improving one's own positioning operations.

[0046] The evaluation (S7) and display (S8) may be performed by the operator immediately after the X-ray imaging is completed, or they may be performed retrospectively. If the evaluation and display are performed retrospectively, the recording results and evaluation results held by the recording unit 131 are displayed on the display unit 145 or display device in accordance with the reading operation performed via the operation unit 140. The recording results and evaluation results can also be saved to an external storage device (including databases and clouds) that can be connected to the control unit 133, rather than to the recording unit 131 (memory) within the control unit 133, and it is possible to save numerous positioning records performed for multiple procedures to these external storage devices and process them statistically.

[0047] According to this embodiment, by recording positioning operations and displaying the operations performed during that time as a chart, it is possible to retrospectively evaluate not only the length of time the operator spent on each operation, but also how much time was spent on each operation and in what order the positioning was performed. The accumulation of this information can contribute to operator training and improvement of skill level. In particular, since the duration and order in which each mechanism's operation is performed are shown in chart form, inefficiencies and wasted effort in the operation are visualized, and problems are clarified. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, by displaying the time required for positioning as an evaluation result, an objective evaluation of positioning can be performed.

[0048] Furthermore, while the specific positioning techniques and procedures that require particular attention vary depending on the procedure, acquiring positioning information for each procedure allows for analysis of each procedure and enables appropriate evaluation for each procedure.

[0049] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, since the start and end of recording are triggered by the operation of the recording start button and the recording end button, respectively, positioning can be managed autonomously, eliminating unnecessary recording and allowing for efficient use of memory.

[0050] <Embodiment 2> This embodiment is characterized by the fact that recording can be started and stopped by predetermined operations performed by the operator, without the use of a recording start button and a recording stop button. Examples of operator operations that control the start and end of recording include moving the X-ray generator 110 from the standby position and returning the X-ray generator 110 to the standby position, and the start / end of recording is controlled by triggers at the time these operations are performed.

[0051] Figure 9 shows an example configuration of the control unit of this embodiment. In Figure 9, elements having the same function as in Figure 5 are indicated by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted. As shown in Figure 9, in this embodiment, the recording start button and recording end button provided on the operation unit of Embodiment 1 are omitted, and the detection signal from the sensor 156 provided on the catch unit 155 (Figure 4) is input to the control unit 133 (recording unit 131). The following will describe this embodiment focusing on the differences from Embodiment 1. Note that, as shown by the dotted arrow in the figure, there is also a mode in which the detection signal from the catch sensor 156 is sent directly to the recording unit 131, and the recording unit 131 starts recording.

[0052] As shown in Figure 4, generally, in a mobile X-ray imaging device, while the trolley is being moved, the rotational position of the arm 123 is such that the X-ray tube 111 and the X-ray diaphragm 112 are located on the upper part of the main body 153, and the arm 123 rests on the upper part of the catch part 155 located on the upper part of the main body 153.

[0053] The catch unit 155 is equipped with a sensor (not shown) that detects the presence or absence of the arm 123. When the arm 123 detaches from the catch unit 155 and when the arm 123 returns to the catch unit 155, it emits a detection signal and sends it to the recording unit 131. Alternatively, instead of sending it directly to the recording unit 131, it may be configured to send it to the motion detection sensor unit 125 and then to the recording unit 131 via the receiving unit 132.

[0054] Figure 10 shows the operation flow of the control unit (recording unit) during positioning of the X-ray imaging apparatus of this embodiment in this configuration. In Figure 10, the same processes as in Figure 7 are indicated by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0055] After the operator inputs information (S1) and selects a procedure (S2), when the arm 123 is released from the catch unit 155 by the operation of the arm 123 (S31), the recording unit 131 starts recording (S4) and continues recording until the exposure button 141 is pressed and exposure, i.e., imaging, is performed by the X-ray tube 111. If the arm 123 is operated and returned to the catch unit 155 after the exposure button 141 is pressed (S52), recording ends (S6). On the other hand, if the arm 123 is not operated even if the exposure button 141 is pressed, recording continues (return to S4).

[0056] The evaluation (S7) and display (S8) after recording completion are the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0057] According to this embodiment, even if the operator forgets to press the recording start button or recording stop button, recording can be automatically started and stopped depending on whether the X-ray tube is in standby mode or not. This allows the operator to concentrate on imaging without being distracted by recording operations and prevents recording omissions.

[0058] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the operator determines the start and end of recording, so recording is performed regardless of the number of exposures. However, according to this embodiment, when multiple exposures are performed, unnecessary recording between exposures can be avoided, and efficient recording (memory usage) can be achieved.

[0059] <Embodiment 3> In this embodiment, processing is added when the "loss image" button is pressed to avoid wasting recordings. Loss image processing is the process of discarding the image data and retaking the image in cases such as when the X-ray detector 20 is positioned at an inappropriate angle or grid setting, or when the subject makes unexpected movements, even though exposure has been performed. As shown in Figure 11, a loss image button 144 is provided on the 140 operation unit (operation terminal 140A). When this loss image button 144 is pressed, the control unit 133 may be configured to display that the image has been lost on the display unit 145, etc., or it may be configured to discard the X-ray image data according to the operator's instructions.

[0060] In this embodiment, the recording unit 131 also performs processing in response to the operation of the photo loss button 144. Figure 11 shows a case where the operation unit 140 is equipped with a recording operation unit 143, which includes a recording start button 143A and a recording end button 143B. However, recording may also be triggered by the detection signal from the catch unit 155, in which case the buttons on the recording operation unit 143 are omitted. In other words, the recording start and end in this embodiment may adopt either the configuration of Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2 (Figure 5 or Figure 9). The processing of this embodiment will be described below, focusing on the differences from Embodiments 1 and 2.

[0061] Figure 12 shows the processing flow of this embodiment.

[0062] After the operator has entered their information (S1) and selected the procedure (S2), if the recording start button 143A is pressed (S3), the recording unit 131 starts recording (S4). Subsequently, if the recording end button 143B is pressed without the image loss button 144 being pressed (S6), recording ends, and evaluation and display are performed as in Embodiment 1 (S7, S8). On the other hand, if the image loss button 144 is operated before the recording end button 143B is pressed (S55), recording starts anew (returning to S4). The information recorded in the recording unit 131 up to that point may be retained or deleted as necessary.

[0063] Furthermore, if the start and end of recording (S3, S6) are controlled by the presence or absence of a detection signal from the catch unit 155, as in Embodiment 2, a configuration may be adopted, as in Embodiment 2, to control the temporary suspension or termination of recording based on the presence or absence of multiple exposures.

[0064] According to this embodiment, by discarding records in the event of photo loss, unnecessary recording can be prevented, and only useful positioning information can be recorded.

[0065] <Embodiment 4> In Embodiment 1, the evaluation of the positioning operation was performed based on the total time required for positioning. However, in this embodiment, the appropriateness of the positioning is evaluated using X-ray images in addition to, or instead of, the total time.

[0066] The evaluation using X-ray images may be performed based on X-ray images generated by the X-ray image processing unit 135, or it may be performed according to the operator's instructions. In the latter case, for example, as shown in Figure 13, an image quality evaluation button 143C is added to the recording operation unit 143. Note that the image loss button is omitted in Figure 13, but an image loss button may be added as in Figure 11.

[0067] Figure 14 shows the processing flow of the control unit 133 in this embodiment. As shown in Figure 14, the process of starting recording from the input after acquisition, ending the recording, and evaluating the total time (total time) is the same as in the embodiment shown in Figure 7. However, in this embodiment, when the image quality evaluation button 143C is operated (S9), the X-ray image obtained with the positioning to be evaluated is displayed on the display unit 145, and a GUI is displayed for the evaluator to select the image evaluation result (for example, A, B, C). The evaluator looks at the displayed X-ray image and checks, for example, whether the imaging area is displayed in the center of the image at the desired size. If the positioning is not appropriate, the imaging area may be biased or partially missing on the screen, or the image may be distorted due to a bad angle with the X-ray detector, resulting in an image that is insufficient as a diagnostic image. The evaluator judges the image degradation caused by such positioning and selects the evaluation result.

[0068] This allows a third party, such as a doctor or an experienced radiologist, to retrospectively evaluate the skill of the positioning performed by the operator, and use this evaluation to improve positioning.

[0069] The control unit 133 adds the evaluator's evaluation results and displays them on the chart of recorded positioning operations. Figure 15 shows an example of the display. In this example, a column for image quality is added and an image quality of "A" is displayed. However, the system may also accept comments in addition to the selection of evaluation results, in which case the evaluator's comments will be displayed along with the selected evaluation result.

[0070] Although the rotation of the X-ray tube 111 and the X-ray diaphragm 112 is not shown in Figure 15, the operation of these mechanisms may also be recorded and displayed, as in Embodiment 1 (the display example in Figure 8).

[0071] According to this embodiment, in addition to an objective evaluation of total time, by obtaining and displaying practical evaluation results from doctors, radiologists, etc., information that will be useful for future positioning can be obtained.

[0072] Although several embodiments of the mobile X-ray imaging apparatus of the present invention have been described above, the main point of the present invention is the addition of a function for recording positioning, and the manner of recording information, the method of displaying the recorded information, and the method of using the recorded information are not limited to these embodiments and can be modified in various ways.

[0073] For example, it is possible to record numerous positioning operations performed for each procedure on a separate processing unit or storage medium from the mobile X-ray imaging device, calculate and present the standard total positioning time for each procedure from these accumulated records, or present the positioning operation deemed optimal based on X-ray images and other evaluation items when actually performing the procedure. Alternatively, such past data can be used as a reference when less experienced operators are learning. This can lead to further improvements in positioning techniques.

[0074] In addition to presenting the recorded information in a chart showing the operating timing and duration for each mechanism, various other methods of presentation are possible, such as graphically showing the X-ray tube's position from start to finish in addition to the chart. [Explanation of symbols]

[0075] 10: Mobile X-ray imaging device, 20: X-ray detector, 50: Subject, 110: X-ray generator, 111: X-ray tube, 112: X-ray diaphragm, 115: High voltage generator, 120: Support mechanism (mechanism part), 123: Support part (arm part), 124: Support column part, 125: Motion detection sensor part, 130: Control unit, 131: Recording unit, 132: Reception unit, 133: Control unit, 135: X-ray Image processing unit, 137: Evaluation unit, 140: Operation unit, 140A: Operation terminal, 141: Exposure button, 142: Condition setting unit, 143: Recording operation button (recording operation unit), 143A: Recording start button, 143B: Recording end button, 143C: Image quality evaluation button, 144: Image loss button, 145: Display unit, 150: Trolley, 151: Wheels, 152: Base, 153: Housing (main unit)

Claims

1. The system comprises an X-ray generating unit including an X-ray tube, a support mechanism that movably supports the X-ray tube and has multiple mechanical parts, an operating unit that receives commands from an operator, a trolley on which the X-ray generating unit and the support mechanism are mounted, and a control unit. The mechanism includes an arm that supports the X-ray tube and a catch that detachably fixes the arm. After the control unit receives the shooting conditions, it further includes a recording unit that records the operations performed on each mechanism from the time the trolley moves to the shooting position until the start of shooting. The recording unit is characterized in that it starts recording when the arm is removed from the catch unit and stops recording when the arm is fixed to the catch unit.

2. The system comprises an X-ray generating unit including an X-ray tube, a support mechanism that movably supports the X-ray tube and has multiple mechanical parts, an operating unit that receives commands from an operator, a trolley on which the X-ray generating unit and the support mechanism are mounted, and a control unit. The control unit includes a photo loss button that is operated when X-ray exposure is not performed correctly. After the control unit receives the shooting conditions, it further includes a recording unit that records the operations performed on each mechanism from the time the trolley moves to the shooting position until the start of shooting. The recording unit is characterized in that it stops recording when the image loss button is operated and discards the record of the operation during the shooting.

3. A mobile X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The recording unit is characterized by recording the operations performed on each of the aforementioned mechanical parts in association with the received imaging conditions.

4. A mobile X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The recording unit is characterized by recording at least one of the sequence of operations of each mechanism, the amount of operation, and the time required for the operation.

5. A mobile X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The control unit is characterized by comprising an evaluation unit that calculates the total time required for the operation from the operation information recorded by the recording unit.

6. A mobile X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The aforementioned operating unit is characterized by receiving an evaluation of the X-ray image generated by the imaging and presenting it as an evaluation index.

7. A mobile X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The recording unit is characterized by displaying the recorded operation information on a display device.

8. A mobile X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 7, A mobile X-ray imaging apparatus characterized in that the control unit displays, along with the operation information, past data of operation information previously recorded by the recording unit, which includes past shooting conditions that are the same as or similar to the shooting conditions received by the recording unit, on the display device.

9. A control method for a mobile X-ray imaging device for positioning support, The steps include receiving imaging conditions via the operating unit of the mobile X-ray imaging device, The steps include recording in a recording device the operations performed on the mechanism of the mobile X-ray imaging apparatus after it has moved to a predetermined position and before imaging accompanied by X-ray irradiation, The steps include presenting the operations recorded in the recording device, along with evaluation indicators for the operations and accepted shooting conditions, via an output device, The control method is characterized in that the mechanism includes an arm that supports an X-ray tube and a catch that detachably fixes the arm, and the recording step starts recording when an operation is performed to remove the arm from the catch, and ends recording when an operation is performed to fix the arm to the catch.

10. A control method for a mobile X-ray imaging device for positioning support, The steps include receiving imaging conditions via the operating unit of the mobile X-ray imaging device, The steps include recording in a recording device the operations performed between the time the mobile X-ray imaging apparatus moves to a predetermined position and the time of imaging accompanied by X-ray irradiation, The steps include presenting the operations recorded in the recording device, along with evaluation indicators for the operations and accepted shooting conditions, via an output device, The aforementioned control unit includes a photo loss button that is pressed when X-ray exposure is not performed correctly. The control method is characterized in that the recording step stops recording when the photo loss button is operated and discards the record of the operation during that shooting.

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