X-ray imaging device and x-ray imaging method

Abstract

This X-ray imaging device (100, 110) comprises: a storage unit (3) that stores registered imaging information (30) containing a plurality of registered target positions (P); and a control unit (5) that performs control to move at least one of an X-ray imaging unit (2) and a top plate (11) to a set target position that has been set. The control unit (5) is configured to set a first-selected first target position (P1) as the set target position without receiving an input operation for starting a first mode after at least one of the X-ray imaging unit 2 and the top plate 11 has been moved to a last-selected second target position (P3).

Description

X-ray imaging device and X-ray imaging method

[0001] The present invention relates to an X-ray imaging apparatus and an X-ray imaging method.

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an X-ray imaging apparatus has been known, and such an X-ray imaging apparatus is disclosed, for example, in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-121942.

[0003] The aforementioned Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2022-121942 discloses an X-ray imaging device including a storage unit that stores sequence information (registered imaging information) in which multiple rotation positions are registered by associating the rotation positions (target positions) of the X-ray imaging unit with an order. The sequence information includes multiple pieces of information regarding the rotation positions of the arm. Each piece of information regarding the multiple rotation positions (target positions) is associated with information regarding the order in which the arm rotates. When X-ray imaging in a sequence mode based on the sequence information is started by a user's input operation, the initial rotation position included in the sequence information to which the arm will rotate and irradiate X-rays is identified, and the arm is rotated to the initial rotation position based on the user's pressing of a rotation instruction switch. Then, X-rays are irradiated from the X-ray source to the subject based on the user's pressing of an imaging instruction switch. Then, the target rotation position is automatically changed from the initial rotation position to the next rotation position. The target rotation position is sequentially changed up to the final rotation position included in the sequence information. Then, the arm is rotated to the final rotation position, and when X-rays are emitted at the final rotation position, X-ray imaging in the sequence mode is completed.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-121942

[0005] However, although not explicitly stated in JP 2022-121942 A, in the X-ray imaging device described therein, if the user wishes to perform X-ray imaging again in sequence from the first rotation position (initial first target position) included in the sequence information (registered imaging information) after the sequence mode has ended, it is believed that the user must perform an input operation to restart the sequence mode during treatment. However, performing an input operation to restart the sequence mode during treatment is time-consuming for the user. Therefore, it is desirable to reduce the number of input operations during treatment in order to reduce the user's workload.

[0006] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and one object of the present invention is to provide an X-ray imaging apparatus and an X-ray imaging method that can reduce the workload of the user by reducing the number of input operations during treatment.

[0007] An X-ray imaging apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention includes an X-ray imaging unit including an X-ray source for irradiating an object with X-rays, a detector facing the X-ray source for detecting the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source, and an arm for movably supporting the X-ray source and the detector, a tabletop on which the object lies, and a storage unit for storing registered imaging information in which a plurality of target positions from an initial first target position to a final second target position are registered by associating target positions and orders for moving at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop, based on the registered imaging information, and and a control unit that sets one of the target positions as a set target position and controls the movement of at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top plate to the set set target position, wherein the control unit is configured to set the initial first target position as the set target position without accepting the start input operation of the first mode by the first operation unit after at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top plate has moved to the final second target position as the set target position.

[0008] An X-ray imaging method according to a second aspect of the present invention includes the steps of: setting a final second target position in registered imaging information stored in a memory unit, in which a plurality of target positions from an initial first target position to a final second target position are registered by associating the target positions and orders to which at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top plate are to be moved; moving at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top plate to the final second target position as the set target position; and setting the initial first target position as the set target position without accepting a start input operation for a first mode, which includes a process of moving at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top plate from the initial first target position to the final second target position based on the registered imaging information after the movement of at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top plate to the final second target position as the set target position.

[0009] In the X-ray imaging apparatus according to the first aspect and the X-ray imaging method according to the second aspect, after the X-ray imaging unit has been moved to the final second target position as the set target position, the initial first target position is set as the set target position without receiving an input operation to start a first mode including a step of moving at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top from the initial first target position to the final second target position based on the registered imaging information. As a result, since the initial first target position is set as the set target position by the controller after at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top has been moved to the final second target position, the user does not need to perform an input operation to start the first mode after at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top has been moved to the final second target position. This reduces the number of input operations during treatment, thereby reducing the workload on the user.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of an X-ray imaging apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of an X-ray imaging apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram for explaining the imaging direction of an X-ray imaging unit. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the relative position of a bed and an X-ray imaging unit. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining registered imaging information. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display unit and an operation unit. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a target position displayed on the display unit. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining an example of a first mode. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining an example of a second mode. FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining control of X-ray imaging in the first mode (X-ray imaging method). FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of an X-ray imaging apparatus according to a first modified example.

[0011] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0012] (Configuration of X-ray Imaging Apparatus) The configuration of an X-ray imaging apparatus 100 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0013] The X-ray imaging device 100 repeatedly captures images of a target region from multiple angles and positions during treatment. For example, the X-ray imaging device 100 captures images of the interior of a subject 80 by irradiating X-rays onto the subject 80 with a medical device inserted therein. The X-ray imaging device 100 captures images (moving images) for confirming the state of the subject 80's internal body when performing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), for example. Percutaneous coronary intervention is a treatment for diseases such as angina pectoris and myocardial infarction caused by stenosis and blockage of the coronary arteries of the heart, using a device such as a stent to relieve the stenosis and blockage of blood vessels. The X-ray imaging device 100 sequentially captures images of the target region from multiple angles and positions based on multiple target positions P stored in the memory unit 3. The target region is not particularly limited and may be, for example, the abdomen or lower limbs.

[0014] As shown in FIG. 1, the X-ray imaging device 100 includes a bed 1, an X-ray imaging unit 2, a memory unit 3 (see FIG. 2), an image processing unit 4 (see FIG. 2), a control unit 5 (see FIG. 2), an operation unit 7, a drive unit 6, and a display unit 8.

[0015] The bed 1 includes a tabletop 11 on which the subject 80 lies and a base 12 that supports the bed 1 from below. The subject 80 lies on the tabletop 11 so that the longitudinal direction of the bed 1 (tabletop 11) is the same as the direction connecting the head and feet of the subject 80. In the state shown in FIG. 1 , the longitudinal direction of the bed 1 is defined as the X direction. The side on which the subject 80's head is placed is defined as the X1 side, and the side on which the subject's feet are placed is defined as the X2 side. The shorter side of the bed 1 (the left-right direction of the subject 80) perpendicular to the X direction is defined as the Y direction. When the subject 80 lies supine, the right hand side of the subject 80 is defined as the Y1 side, and the left hand side is defined as the Y2 side. The up-down direction of the bed 1 perpendicular to the X and Y directions is defined as the Z direction. The tabletop 11 side is defined as the Z1 side, and the base 12 side is defined as the Z2 side. The base 12 is provided on a part of the bottom side (Z2 side) of the bed 1.

[0016] The X-ray imaging unit 2 includes an X-ray source 21, a detector 22, and an arm 23. The X-ray source 21 includes an X-ray tube. The X-ray tube is configured to overheat an internal anode and cathode by passing a current through each of them, and to radiate X-rays when thermoelectrons emitted from the cathode collide with the anode by applying a voltage between the anode and cathode. The X-rays generated by the X-ray tube are irradiated toward the detector 22. The fluoroscopic amount (irradiation intensity) of the irradiated X-rays is determined according to the tube voltage applied to the X-ray tube by changing the tube voltage. The X-ray source 21 is also configured to send a signal to the control unit 5 while irradiating X-rays.

[0017] The detector 22 is, for example, a flat panel detector (FPD). The detector 22 is configured to receive X-rays irradiated by the X-ray source 21 and transmitted through the subject 80, and convert the received X-rays into electrical signals. The detector 22 has an imaging element having a plurality of pixels (sections) therein, detects the intensity of X-rays for each corresponding pixel, and converts X-ray information (detection signal) for each pixel into an electrical signal (digital data) as a pixel value. The X-ray information converted into an electrical signal is transmitted to the control unit 5.

[0018] The arm 23 has an arc-like shape. The X-ray source 21 is connected to one end of the arm 23, and the detector 22 is connected to the other end. The arm 23 is a so-called C-arm. The arm 23 positions the X-ray source 21 and the detector 22 so as to face each other across the subject 80 lying on the bed 1. Furthermore, since the base 12 of the bed 1 is provided only on a part of the top board 11, the arm 23 can be inserted into a part where the base 12 is not provided, and the X-ray source 21 can be positioned on the bottom side (Z2 side) of the bed 1. In this embodiment, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 is a single-plane type equipped with one arm 23.

[0019] The arm 23 is rotatably attached to an arm base 24. A rotation mechanism 61 for rotating the arm 23 is disposed inside the arm base 24.

[0020] FIG. 3A is a schematic diagram illustrating the imaging direction, as viewed from the side of the subject 80. FIG. 3B is a schematic diagram illustrating the imaging direction, as viewed from the foot side of the subject 80. The X-ray imaging unit 2 is configured to perform imaging from any combination of a direction in which X-rays are irradiated obliquely onto the subject 80 from one end (CRANIAL) or the other end (CAUDAL) in a longitudinal section along the longitudinal direction (X-direction) of the bed 1 on which the subject 80 is placed, as shown in FIG. 3A, and a right anterior oblique (RAO), frontal, and left anterior oblique (LAO) view of the subject 80 as shown in FIG. 3B. Note that the arm 23 is not shown in FIG. 3B.

[0021] As shown in Figure 4, the relative position of the X-ray imaging unit 2 with respect to the bed 1 varies depending on the region to be imaged. In Figure 4, the direction of the arrow indicates the direction in which the X-ray imaging unit 2 is inserted between the top board 11 of the bed 1 and the floor. The detector 22 is located at the tip of the arrow, which is on the subject 80 side, and the arm base 24 is located at the end of the arrow, opposite the tip. The HOME position refers to a position in which the arm 23 is arranged along the longitudinal direction (X direction) of the bed 1 when viewed from above. The MULTI position refers to a position in which the arm 23 is arranged obliquely from the head side (X1 side) of the subject 80 toward the foot side (X2 side) of the subject 80 and from the periphery of the longitudinal direction (X direction) of the bed 1 toward the subject 80. The SIDE position refers to a position in which the arm 23 is arranged along the transverse direction (Y direction) of the bed 1 from the side of the subject 80 toward the center when viewed from above. Furthermore, a position moved from the SIDE position toward the feet (X2 side) of the subject 80 is defined as the PERI position. For example, when imaging the subject 80 from the head to the chest, the HOME position is used. When imaging the lower limbs, the PERI position is used. When imaging the abdomen of the subject 80, the MULTI position or the SIDE position is used.

[0022] 2, registered photographing information 30 in which a plurality of target positions P are associated with an order is stored in the storage unit 3. The storage unit 3 is, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD) or a non-volatile memory.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 5 , the registered imaging information 30 associates the target positions P to which the X-ray imaging unit 2 is to be moved with the order, thereby registering multiple target positions P from a first target position P1 to a last target position P3. As an example, the registered imaging information 30 includes information on three target positions P: a first target position P1, a second target position P2, and a last target position P3. The registered imaging information 30 includes the rotation direction and rotation angle of the arm 23 at each target position P. The registered imaging information 30 registers the first target position P1 as the position to which the X-ray imaging unit 2 is to be moved first, the second target position P2 as the position to which the X-ray imaging unit 2 is to be moved second, and the last target position P3 as the position to which the X-ray imaging unit 2 is to be moved last. In the registered imaging information 30, information on the target positions P is arranged according to the order in which the X-ray imaging unit 2 is to be moved. A complete cycle of target positions P, from the first target position P1 to the last target position P3, is registered as the registered imaging information 30. The first target position P1 is an example of a "first target position" in the claims, and the last target position P3 is an example of a "second target position" in the claims.

[0024] The registered radiography information 30 is registered by the user before X-ray imaging, in which multiple target positions P are associated with an order. The user can associate multiple target positions P with the order in which radiography is to be performed, for example, by inputting via the operation unit 7 or the touch panel display unit 8, and store the associated information in the storage unit 3 as the registered radiography information 30. The multiple target positions P registered as the registered radiography information 30 may be selected by the user from multiple target positions P previously stored in the storage unit 3 as initial settings, or may be selected by the user from multiple target positions P registered by the user during past treatments and examinations and stored in the storage unit 3. Note that the number of registered radiography information 30 is not limited to one, and multiple pieces of registered radiography information 30 may be stored in the storage unit 3. Furthermore, the multiple pieces of registered radiography information 30 may be created by the user and stored in the storage unit 3, or may be stored in the storage unit 3 before shipping from the factory.

[0025] 2, the image processing unit 4 is configured by a processor such as a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). The image processing unit 4 is configured to generate an X-ray image based on the electrical signals transmitted from the detector 22.

[0026] The control unit 5 is configured with a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). By executing a program stored in the storage unit 3, the control unit 5 controls the rotation and movement of the arm 23 via the drive unit 6, controls the irradiation of X-rays by the X-ray source 21, and controls the display unit 8 to display a plurality of target positions P included in the registered imaging information 30.

[0027] The control unit 5 is also configured to execute a program stored in the storage unit 3 to set one of the target positions P as a set target position in accordance with the registered imaging information 30 and move the X-ray imaging unit 2 to the set set target position. The control unit 5 is also configured to set the first target position P1 as the set target position without accepting an input operation to start the first mode by the first operation unit 71 after the X-ray imaging unit 2 has moved to the last target position P3 as the set target position.

[0028] The X-ray imaging device 100 also has a first mode and a second mode, which are modes for sequentially imaging a target region from a plurality of angles and positions based on a plurality of target positions P included in the registered imaging information 30 stored in the storage unit 3. The control unit 5 is configured to be able to switch between the first mode and the second mode.

[0029] The first mode is a mode that includes a process in which the X-ray imaging unit 2 moves from the initial target position P1 to the final target position P3 based on the registered imaging information 30. In addition, the first mode is a mode in which, after the X-ray imaging unit 2 moves to the final target position P3 as the set target position, the initial target position P1 is set as the set target position without receiving an input operation to start the first mode by the first operation unit 71.

[0030] The second mode is a mode in which the X-ray imaging unit 2 moves from the first target position P1 to the last target position P3 based on the registered imaging information 30. The second mode is also a mode in which, after the X-ray imaging unit 2 moves to the last target position P3 as the set target position, setting of any one of the target positions P as the set target position is terminated.

[0031] Before starting X-ray imaging, the user can select either the first mode or the second mode by inputting via the first operation unit 71 or the fifth operation unit 75. The control unit 5 sequentially performs X-ray imaging at a plurality of target positions P in accordance with the registered imaging information 30, based on the mode selected by the user, either the first mode or the second mode.

[0032] 6, the operation unit 7 includes a first operation unit 71, a second operation unit 72, a third operation unit 73, a fourth operation unit 74, and a fifth operation unit 75. The operation unit 7 is disposed, for example, on the side (Y direction side) of the bed 1.

[0033] The first operation unit 71 accepts an input operation to start a first mode in which the X-ray imaging unit 2 is moved from an initial target position P1 to a final target position P3 based on the registered imaging information 30. When the first operation unit 71 is operated by the user, the control unit 5 controls the X-ray imaging unit 2 to start X-ray imaging in the first mode. The first operation unit 71 is provided on a touch panel display unit 8 that accepts user operations. The first operation unit 71 is, for example, an icon-type switch. Note that the first operation unit 71 may also be, for example, a push-button-type switch.

[0034] The second operation unit 72 accepts an input operation to terminate setting of any of the target positions P as set target positions. When the second operation unit 72 is operated by the user, the control unit 5 is configured to terminate setting of any of the target positions P as set target positions. The second operation unit 72 is provided on a touch panel display unit 8 that accepts user operations. The second operation unit 72 is, for example, an icon-type switch. Note that the second operation unit 72 may also be, for example, a push-button-type switch.

[0035] The third operation unit 73 accepts an operation to move the X-ray imaging unit 2 toward the target position P. When the third operation unit 73 is operated by the user, the control unit 5 controls the rotation mechanism 61 and the movement mechanism 62 to rotate or move the arm 23, thereby moving the X-ray imaging unit 2 toward the target position P. Note that if the operation of the third operation unit 73 is stopped, the control unit 5 stops control of moving the X-ray imaging unit 2 toward the target position P even if the X-ray imaging unit 2 has not reached the target position P. The third operation unit 73 is, for example, a push-button switch.

[0036] The fourth operation unit 74 accepts operations for X-ray imaging. When the fourth operation unit 74 is operated by the user, the control unit 5 controls the X-ray imaging unit 2 to image the subject 80. In other words, when the fourth operation unit 74 is operated, X-rays are irradiated from the X-ray source 21 to the subject 80. The fourth operation unit 74 is, for example, a push-button switch. The fourth operation unit 74 may also be, for example, a foot switch.

[0037] The fifth operation unit 75 accepts an input operation to start the second mode. When the fifth operation unit 75 is operated by the user, the control unit 5 controls the X-ray imaging unit 2 to start X-ray imaging in the second mode. The fifth operation unit 75 is provided on the touch panel display unit 8 that accepts operations by the user. The fifth operation unit 75 is, for example, an icon-type switch. Note that the fifth operation unit 75 may also be, for example, a push-button-type switch.

[0038] 1, the driving unit 6 includes a rotation mechanism 61 and a movement mechanism 62. As shown in Fig. 1, the rotation mechanism 61 rotates the arm 23 around the axis of a rotation shaft 611, which is a line extending in the longitudinal direction (X direction) of the bed 1 connecting the head and feet of the subject 80. The rotation mechanism 61 is also configured to be able to rotate the arm 23 in the circumferential direction of the arm 23. The rotation mechanism 61 includes, for example, a motor.

[0039] The movement mechanism 62 is attached to the arm base 24. The movement mechanism 62 can move the arm base 24 horizontally, thereby moving the arm 23 horizontally. The movement mechanism 62 includes a first rotation unit 621 provided on the floor surface 90, and a second rotation unit 622 that is rotatably held by the first rotation unit 621 and rotatably holds the arm base 24. The first rotation unit 621 includes a base shaft 623 and an intermediate shaft 624 provided at a position spaced apart from the base shaft 623. The second rotation unit 622 includes a horizontal rotation shaft 625.

[0040] The base shaft 623 and the intermediate shaft 624 are each a rotation shaft oriented in a direction perpendicular to the floor surface 90. The horizontal rotation shaft 625 is also a rotation shaft oriented in a direction perpendicular to the floor surface 90. This allows the movement mechanism 62 to horizontally move the arm base 24 and the arm 23 to a desired position by combining rotation about the axis of the base shaft 623, rotation about the axis of the intermediate shaft 624, and rotation about the axis of the horizontal rotation shaft 625.

[0041] The display unit 8 is provided on the side (Y direction side) of the bed 1. As shown in Fig. 6, the display unit 8 is a touch panel type liquid crystal monitor that accepts operations from the user. The display unit 8 is configured to function as the display unit 8 and as the operation unit 7 to which various operations by the photographer are input. The user can select either the first mode or the second mode, for example, by inputting operations to the touch panel.

[0042] As shown in Fig. 7 , the display unit 8 displays a plurality of target positions P included in the registered photographing information 30. The control unit 5 controls the display unit 8 to display the current target position P in a manner different from that of the other target positions P. In this case, the control unit 5 controls, for example, to surround the current target position P with a frame, to distinguish the current target position P from the other target positions P in color, or to blink the current target position P. Fig. 7 shows an example in which the current target position P is surrounded by a hatched frame.

[0043] The display unit 8 displays a plurality of target positions P included in the registered imaging information 30. Among the target positions P, 01, 02, and 03 indicate the order in which the X-ray imaging unit 2 is moved toward the target positions P. "01: RAO 40, CRA 20 (HOME)" displayed on the display unit 8 indicates that "the first target position P1 is a position where the arm 23 is rotated 40 degrees in the RAO direction and 20 degrees in the CRA direction from the initial position, and the relative position of the X-ray imaging unit 2 with respect to the bed 1 is the HOME position." "02: LAO 30, CRA 20 (HOME)" displayed on the display unit 8 indicates that "the second target position P2 is a position where the arm 23 is rotated 30 degrees in the LAO direction and 20 degrees in the CRA direction from the initial position, and the relative position of the X-ray imaging unit 2 with respect to the bed 1 is the HOME position." "03: LAO30, CAU30 (HOME)" displayed on the display unit 8 indicates that "the final target position P3 is a position where the arm 23 is rotated 30 degrees in the LAO direction and 30 degrees in the CAU direction from the initial position, and the relative position of the X-ray imaging unit 2 with respect to the bed 1 is the HOME position." Note that the state in which the X-ray source 21 and the detector 22 are positioned in the vertical direction with respect to the subject 80 is defined as the initial state of the arm 23, and the rotated position of the arm 23 in the initial state is defined as the initial position of the arm 23.

[0044] In Figure 7, as an example, the registered shooting information 30 includes three target positions P, so the three target positions P are displayed in order from top to bottom on the display unit 8. However, if the registered shooting information 30 includes four or more target positions P, the fourth and subsequent target positions P may be displayed in order below the third target position P on the display unit 8, or the fourth and subsequent target positions P may be displayed by scrolling on the display unit 8.

[0045] (Control of Setting of Target Position in First Mode) The control of setting of the target position P in the first mode by the control unit 5 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 8 . In the first mode, as shown in FIG. 8 , the control unit 5 sequentially sets the first target position P1 to the last target position Pn as set target positions according to the registered imaging information 30 without accepting an input operation by the user to set any of the target positions P as the set target position. After the last target position Pn is set as the set target position, the first target position P1 is repeatedly set as the set target position without accepting an input operation to start the first mode via the first operation unit 71. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5 , in the first mode, after the last target position P3 is set as the set target position, the first target position P1 is repeatedly set as the set target position based on the completion of X-ray imaging by the X-ray imaging unit 2 at the last target position P3 until an input operation to end the setting of any of the target positions P as the set target position is accepted via the second operation unit 72.

[0046] The control unit 5 starts X-ray imaging in the first mode when the first mode is selected by the user by an input operation via the first operation unit 71 before the start of X-ray imaging. In the first mode, the control unit 5 is configured to repeatedly set the first target position P1 as the set target position after moving the X-ray imaging unit 2 to the last target position P3 as the set target position, until an input operation to end the setting of any of the target positions P as the set target position is accepted via the second operation unit 72.

[0047] When the user selects the first mode via an input operation of the first operation unit 71, the control unit 5 sets the first target position P1 as the set target position in accordance with the registered photographing information 30.

[0048] While the user is operating the third operation unit 73, the control unit 5 moves the X-ray imaging unit 2 toward the initial target position P1 set as the set target position by rotating or moving the arm 23 via the rotation mechanism 61 and the movement mechanism 62. After the X-ray imaging unit 2 reaches the initial target position P1, the control unit 5 causes the X-ray imaging unit 2 to image the subject 80 based on the user's operation of the fourth operation unit 74.

[0049] After the X-ray imaging unit 2 moves to the first target position P1 as the set target position, the control unit 5 sets the second target position P2 as the set target position in accordance with the registered imaging information 30. In detail, after X-ray imaging is performed by the X-ray imaging unit 2 at the first target position P1 as the set target position, the control unit 5 determines whether or not the next target position P is registered in the registered imaging information 30. The second target position P2 is registered in the registered imaging information 30 as the next target position P. The control unit 5 determines that the next target position P is registered in the registered imaging information 30, and sets the second target position P2 as the set target position.

[0050] Similar to the process after the first target position P1 is set as the set target position, the control unit 5 moves the X-ray imaging unit 2 toward the second target position P2 set as the set target position based on the user's operation of the third operation unit 73. Then, at the second target position P2, the X-ray imaging unit 2 captures an image of the subject 80 based on the user's operation of the fourth operation unit 74.

[0051] After moving the X-ray imaging unit 2 to the second target position P2 as the set target position, the control unit 5 sets the final target position P3 as the set target position in accordance with the registered imaging information 30. Setting the final target position P3 as the set target position, and the movement of the X-ray imaging unit 2 and imaging by the X-ray imaging unit 2 after setting are similar to setting the second target position P2 as the set target position, and the movement of the X-ray imaging unit 2 and imaging by the X-ray imaging unit 2 after setting the set target position, and therefore will not be described here.

[0052] Then, after moving the X-ray imaging unit 2 to the final target position P3 as the set target position, the control unit 5 sets the first target position P1 as the set target position without accepting the input operation to start the first mode by the first operation unit 71.

[0053] In detail, after X-ray imaging is performed by the X-ray imaging unit 2 at the last target position P3 as the set target position, the control unit 5 determines whether or not a next target position P is registered in the registered imaging information 30. Since only three target positions P, namely the first target position P1, the second target position P2, and the last target position P3, are registered in the registered imaging information 30, a target position P next to the last target position P3 is not registered. The control unit 5 determines that a next target position P is not registered in the registered imaging information 30, and sets the first target position P1 in the registered imaging information 30 as the set target position.

[0054] In other words, after the X-ray imaging unit 2 has moved to the last target position P3 as the set target position, completing one cycle of movement to the target positions P, the control unit 5 sets the first target position P1 in the registered imaging information 30 as the set target position without accepting an input operation to start the first mode by the first operation unit 71.

[0055] Then, while the user is operating the third operation unit 73, the control unit 5 moves the X-ray imaging unit 2 toward the initial target position P1 set as the set target position by rotating or moving the arm 23 via the rotation mechanism 61 and the movement mechanism 62. After the X-ray imaging unit 2 reaches the initial target position P1, the control unit 5 causes the X-ray imaging unit 2 to image the subject 80 based on the operation of the fourth operation unit 74 by the user.

[0056] (Control of Setting of Target Position in Second Mode) Next, the control of setting of the target position P in the second mode by the control unit 5 will be described. In the second mode, as shown in Fig. 9 , the first target position P1 to the last target position Pn are set as the set target positions in order according to the registered imaging information 30 without receiving an input operation from the user to set any one of the target positions P as the set target position, and the setting of the set target positions is terminated after the last target position Pn in the registered imaging information 30 is set as the set target position. In this embodiment, the second mode is a mode in which the setting of any one of the target positions P as the set target position is terminated after the X-ray imaging unit 2 moves to the last target position P3 as the set target position.

[0057] In the second mode, after the X-ray imaging unit 2 has moved to the first target position P1 as the set target position, the control unit 5 sets the second target position P2 as the set target position in accordance with the registered imaging information 30. Furthermore, after the X-ray imaging unit 2 has moved to the second target position P2 as the set target position, the control unit 5 sets the last target position P3 as the set target position in accordance with the registered imaging information 30.

[0058] However, in the second mode, the last target position P3 is set as the set target position, and after imaging is performed at the last target position P3 as the set target position, setting of any of the target positions P as the set target position is terminated. That is, unlike the first mode, after the last target position P3 is set as the set target position, the first target position P1 is not set as the set target position. Therefore, in the second mode, if the user wants to perform X-ray imaging again in order from the first target position P1 in accordance with the registered imaging information 30 after moving the last target position P3 as the set target position, the user must again select the second mode by inputting an operation via the fifth operation unit 75.

[0059] (Control of X-ray imaging in first mode) The control of X-ray imaging in the first mode by the control unit 5 (X-ray imaging method) will be described with reference to Fig. 10. The order of the processing steps can be reversed or executed simultaneously as long as there is no mutual contradiction. When an input operation to end the setting of any of the target positions P as the set target position is accepted via the second operation unit 72 during or before or after the processing of any of steps S1 to S8, the control of X-ray imaging in the first mode by the control unit 5 ends.

[0060] In step S1, the control unit 5 determines whether the user has selected the first mode or the second mode through an input operation via the first operation unit 71 or the fifth operation unit 75. If the input operation for selecting the first mode is accepted by the first operation unit 71, the process proceeds to step S2. If the input operation for selecting the second mode is accepted by the fifth operation unit 75, the process proceeds to step S11 in FIG.

[0061] In step S2, the control unit 5 sets the first target position P1 as the set target position in accordance with the registered photographing information 30 stored in the storage unit 3. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S3.

[0062] In step S3, if an input operation regarding the movement of the X-ray imaging unit 2 via the third operation unit 73 is accepted (Yes in step S3), the processing proceeds to step S4, and if an input operation regarding the movement of the X-ray imaging unit 2 via the third operation unit 73 is not accepted (No in step S3), the processing proceeds to step S3.

[0063] In step S4, the control unit 5 moves the X-ray imaging unit 2 toward the set target position by rotating or moving the arm 23 via the rotating mechanism 61 and the moving mechanism 62. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S5.

[0064] In step S5, after reaching the set target position, if the control unit 5 has accepted an input operation regarding photographing the subject by the X-ray imaging unit 2 via the fourth operation unit 74 (Yes in step S5), the processing proceeds to step S6; if the control unit 5 has not accepted an input operation regarding photographing the subject by the X-ray imaging unit 2 via the fourth operation unit 74 (No in step S5), the processing proceeds to step S5.

[0065] In step S6, the control unit 5 causes the X-ray imaging unit 2 to image the subject 80 at the set target position. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S7.

[0066] In step S7, the control unit 5 determines whether or not the next target position P is registered in the registered photographing information 30. If the next target position P is registered in the registered photographing information 30 (Yes in step S7), the process proceeds to step S8, and if the next target position P is not registered in the registered photographing information 30 (No in step S7), the process proceeds to step S2.

[0067] That is, in step S7, if the next target position P is not registered in the registered shooting information 30 (No in step S7), the processing proceeds to step S2, and in step S2, the control unit 5 sets the first target position P1 registered in the registered shooting information 30 as the set target position without accepting the input operation to start the first mode by the first operation unit 71.

[0068] In step S8, the control unit 5 sets the next target position P registered in the registered photographing information 30 as the set target position. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S3.

[0069] (Control of X-ray imaging in second mode) The control of X-ray imaging in the second mode by the control unit 5 will be described with reference to Fig. 11. The order of the processing steps can be reversed or can be executed simultaneously as long as there is no contradiction between them.

[0070] In step S11, the control unit 5 sets the first target position P1 as the set target position in accordance with the registered photographing information 30 stored in the storage unit 3. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S12.

[0071] In step S12, if an input operation regarding the movement of the X-ray imaging unit 2 via the third operation unit 73 has been accepted (Yes in step S12), the processing proceeds to step S13; if an input operation regarding the movement of the X-ray imaging unit 2 via the third operation unit 73 has not been accepted (No in step S12), the processing proceeds to step S12.

[0072] In step S13, the control unit 5 moves the X-ray imaging unit 2 toward the set target position by rotating or moving the arm 23 via the rotating mechanism 61 and the moving mechanism 62. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S14.

[0073] In step S14, after reaching the set target position, if the control unit 5 has accepted an input operation regarding photographing the subject by the X-ray imaging unit 2 via the fourth operation unit 74 (Yes in step S14), the processing proceeds to step S15; if the control unit 5 has not accepted an input operation regarding photographing the subject by the X-ray imaging unit 2 via the fourth operation unit 74 (No in step S14), the processing proceeds to step S14.

[0074] In step S15, the control unit 5 causes the X-ray imaging unit 2 to image the subject 80 at the set target position. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S16.

[0075] In step S16, the control unit 5 determines whether or not the next target position P is registered in the registered photographing information 30. If the next target position P is registered in the registered photographing information 30 (Yes in step S7), the process proceeds to step S17, and if the next target position P is not registered in the registered photographing information 30 (No in step S16), the process ends.

[0076] In step S17, the control unit 5 sets the next target position P registered in the registered photographing information 30 as the set target position. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S12.

[0077] (Effects of this embodiment) In this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0078] In the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 and X-ray imaging method of this embodiment, after the X-ray imaging unit 2 has been moved to the final target position P3 as the set target position, the initial target position P1 is set as the set target position without receiving an input operation to start the first mode, which includes a step of moving the X-ray imaging unit 2 from the initial target position P1 to the final target position P3 based on the registered imaging information 30. As a result, the initial target position P1 is set as the set target position by the control unit 5 after the X-ray imaging unit 2 has been moved to the final target position P3, so the user does not have to perform an input operation to start the first mode after the X-ray imaging unit 2 has been moved to the final target position P3. This reduces the number of input operations during treatment, thereby reducing the workload on the user.

[0079] Furthermore, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 according to the above embodiment has the following configuration, thereby providing the following additional effects.

[0080] That is, in this embodiment, as described above, the control unit 5 is configured to set the initial target position P1 as the set target position in accordance with the registered imaging information 30, and after moving the X-ray imaging unit 2 to the initial target position P1, set the final target position P3 as the set target position in accordance with the registered imaging information 30, and after moving the X-ray imaging unit 2 to the final target position P3 as the set target position, set the initial target position P1 as the set target position without accepting an input operation to start the first mode via the first operation unit 71. As a result, after moving the X-ray imaging unit 2 to the initial target position P1, the control unit 5 sets the final target position P3 as the set target position in accordance with the registered imaging information 30, and after moving the X-ray imaging unit 2 to the final target position P3, the control unit 5 sets the initial target position P1 as the set target position without accepting an input operation to start the first mode. Therefore, after moving the X-ray imaging unit 2 to each of the target positions P, it is not necessary for the user to set the target position P as the set target position. Therefore, by further reducing the number of input operations during treatment, the workload on the user can be further reduced.

[0081] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the control unit 5 is configured to set the first target position P1 as the set target position based on the completion of X-ray imaging by the X-ray imaging unit 2 at the last target position P3 as the set target position. As a result, when X-ray imaging at the last target position P3 as the set target position is completed, the first target position P1 is automatically set as the set target position, which makes it possible to easily reduce the workload on the user.

[0082] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the control unit 5 is configured to determine whether or not a next target position P is registered in the registered imaging information 30 after X-ray imaging is performed by the X-ray imaging unit 2 at the set target position, and to set the first target position P1 as the set target position if the next target position P is not registered in the registered imaging information 30. As a result, the control unit 5 can return the set target position to the first target position P1 in the registered imaging information 30 after sequential imaging is performed at the target positions P registered in the registered imaging information 30, based on the determination result of whether or not the next target position P is registered in the registered imaging information 30.

[0083] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the control unit 5 is configured to be able to switch between a first mode in which the initial target position P1 is set as the set target position without receiving a first mode start input operation from the first operation unit 71 after the X-ray imaging unit 2 has moved to the final target position P3 as the set target position, and a second mode in which setting of any of the target positions P as the set target position is terminated after the X-ray imaging unit 2 has moved to the final target position P3 as the set target position. This allows appropriate switching between the first mode and the second mode depending on the content of the treatment, examination, etc.

[0084] Furthermore, as described above, this embodiment further includes the second operation unit 72 that accepts an input operation to end the setting of any of the target positions P as the set target positions, and the control unit 5 is configured to repeatedly set the first target position P1 as the set target position after moving the X-ray imaging unit 2 to the last target position P3 as the set target positions, until the input operation to end the setting of any of the target positions P as the set target positions is accepted by the second operation unit 72. This eliminates the need for the user to perform an input operation to start the first mode until the user performs an input operation to end the setting of any of the target positions P as the set target positions, thereby continuously reducing the workload on the user.

[0085] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the storage unit 3 stores the registered imaging information 30 in which a cycle of target positions P from the first target position P1 to the last target position P3 is registered, and the control unit 5 sets the first target position P1 as the set target position after the X-ray imaging unit 2 has moved to the last target position P3 in the registered imaging information 30 stored in the storage unit 3, thereby completing one cycle of movement to the target positions P. This does not require the first operation unit 71 to input a start of the first mode. As a result, even if the user wishes to repeatedly perform X-ray imaging from the first target position P1 to the last target position P3, the user only needs to register a cycle of target positions P from the first target position P1 to the last target position P3 as the registered imaging information 30. This further reduces the user's workload.

[0086] Furthermore, as described above, this embodiment further includes a third operation unit 73 that accepts an input operation for moving the X-ray imaging unit 2 to the target position P, and the control unit 5 is configured to set the initial target position P1 as the set target position without accepting an input operation for starting the first mode using the first operation unit 71 after moving the X-ray imaging unit 2 to the final target position P3 as the set target position, and then move the X-ray imaging unit 2 to the initial target position P1 based on acceptance of an input operation for moving the X-ray imaging unit 2 to the initial target position P1 using the third operation unit 73. As a result, the X-ray imaging unit 2 does not move until the user performs an input operation for moving the X-ray imaging unit 2. Therefore, when it is not necessary to move the X-ray imaging unit 2 to the initial target position P1 that has been repeatedly set, X-ray imaging can be completed without moving the X-ray imaging unit 2.

[0087] [Modifications] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the description of the above-mentioned embodiments, and further includes all modifications (modifications) within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0088] For example, in the above embodiment, the registered radiography information is configured to register multiple target positions from the first target position to the last target position by associating the target positions to which the X-ray imaging unit is to be moved with an order, and the control unit sets one of the target positions as a set target position and controls the X-ray imaging unit to move to the set set target position, and after the X-ray imaging unit moves to the last target position as the set target position, the control unit sets the first target position as the set target position without accepting an input operation to start the first mode using the first operation unit. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as in the first modified example, the registered radiography information may be configured to register multiple target positions from the first target position to the last target position by associating the target positions to which the top is to be moved with an order, and the control unit sets one of the target positions as the set target position and controls the top to move to the set set target position, and after the top moves to the last target position as the set target position, the control unit sets the first target position as the set target position without accepting an input operation to start the first mode using the first operation unit.

[0089] As shown in Figure 12, the X-ray imaging device 110 according to the first modified example includes a bed 1 (see Figure 1) including a top plate 11 (see Figure 1) on which a subject 80 (see Figure 1) lies, an X-ray imaging unit 2, a memory unit 3, an image processing unit 4, a control unit 5, an operation unit 7, a drive unit 6, a display unit 8, and a top plate moving mechanism 60.

[0090] The top moving mechanism 60 is configured to move the top 11 and change the position of the subject 80 with respect to the X-ray imaging unit 2, thereby changing the relative position of the X-ray imaging unit 2 with respect to the subject 80. The top moving mechanism 60 is equipped with motors and electromagnetic brakes (not shown) corresponding to the X, Y, and Z directions, respectively. The top 11 is configured to be movable in each of the X, Y, and Z directions by the top moving mechanism 60.

[0091] The storage unit 3 stores registered photographing information 30a in which a plurality of target positions are associated with an order. In the registered photographing information 30a, a plurality of target positions from the first target position to the last target position are registered by associating the target positions to which the tabletop 11 is to be moved with the order. The registered photographing information 30a includes the position of the tabletop 11 at each of the target positions. In the registered photographing information 30a, information on the target positions is arranged according to the order in which the tabletop 11 is to be moved. A complete cycle of target positions from the first target position to the last target position is registered as the registered photographing information 30a.

[0092] The operation unit 7 includes a top board operation unit (not shown), which accepts an operation to move the top board 11 toward a target position. Based on the acceptance of an input operation to move the top board 11 to the target position by the top board operation unit, the control unit 5 moves the top board 11 to the target position. The top board operation unit is an example of a "third operation unit" in the claims.

[0093] The control unit 5 controls the movement of the top 11 via the top movement mechanism 60 by executing the program stored in the storage unit 3. The control unit 5 is also configured to set one of the target positions as a set target position in accordance with the registered imaging information 30a by executing the program stored in the storage unit 3, and to move the top 11 to the set set target position. After the top 11 has moved to the last target position as the set target position, the control unit 5 is configured to set the first target position as the set target position without accepting an input operation to start the first mode by the first operation unit 71.

[0094] The control unit 5 is also configured to set the first target position as the set target position based on the completion of X-ray imaging by the X-ray imaging unit 2 at the last target position as the set target position. The control unit 5 is also configured to determine whether or not a next target position is registered in the registered imaging information 30a after X-ray imaging by the X-ray imaging unit 2 at the set target position, and to set the first target position as the set target position if the next target position is not registered in the registered imaging information 30a.

[0095] In addition, the control unit 5 is configured to be able to switch between a first mode in which the initial target position is set as the set target position without accepting an input operation to start the first mode by the first operating unit 71 after the top plate 11 has moved to the final target position as the set target position, and a second mode in which the setting of one of the target positions as the set target position is terminated after the top plate 11 has moved to the final second target position as the set target position.

[0096] Furthermore, the control unit 5 is configured to repeatedly set the initial target position as the set target position after the tabletop 11 has moved to the final target position as the set target position, until an input operation to end the setting of any of the target positions as the set target position is accepted by the second operation unit 72. Furthermore, after the tabletop 11 has moved to the final target position in the registered imaging information 30a stored in the storage unit 3, thereby completing one cycle of movement to the target positions, the control unit 5 sets the initial target position as the set target position without accepting an input operation to start the first mode by the first operation unit 71.

[0097] The other configurations of the X-ray imaging apparatus 110 according to the first modification are the same as those of the above embodiment. Also, the first modification can achieve the same effects as those of the above embodiment.

[0098] In the above embodiment, the registered radiography information associates the target positions to which the X-ray imaging unit is moved with the order, thereby registering multiple target positions from the first target position to the last target position, and in the above first modified example, the registered radiography information associates the target positions to which the top is moved with the order, thereby registering multiple target positions from the first target position to the last target position, but the present invention is not limited to this.For example, the registered radiography information may be configured to associate the target positions to which the X-ray imaging unit is moved and the target positions to which the top is moved with the order, thereby registering multiple target positions from the first target position to the last target position.

[0099] In the above embodiment, the registered photographing information includes information on three target positions: a first target position P1, a second target position P2, and a last target position P3. The control unit first sets the first target position P1 as the set target position, then sets the second target position P2 as the set target position, and finally sets the last target position P3 as the set target position. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the registered photographing information may include information on two target positions. In this case, the registered photographing information may include information on two target positions: a first target position P1 and a last target position P2. The control unit may first set the first target position P1 as the set target position, and finally set the last target position P2 as the set target position.

[0100] Furthermore, for example, the registered photographing information may include information on four or more target positions. For example, in the case where there are four registered photographing information, the registered photographing information may include information on four target positions: a first target position P1, a second target position P2, a third target position P3, and a final target position P4, and the control unit may be configured to first set the first target position P1 as the set target position, then set the second target position P2 as the set target position, then set the third target position P3 as the set target position, and finally set the final target position P4 as the set target position.

[0101] In the above embodiment, the control unit is configured to set the first target position as the set target position based on the completion of X-ray imaging by the X-ray imaging unit at the last target position as the set target position, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the control unit may be configured to set the first target position as the set target position based on the arrival of the X-ray imaging unit at the last target position in the registered imaging information.

[0102] In the above embodiment, the control unit is configured to determine whether a next target position is registered in the registered imaging information after X-ray imaging is performed by the X-ray imaging unit at the set target position, and if a next target position is not registered in the registered imaging information, to set the first target position as the set target position. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the control unit sets the last target position in the registered imaging information as the set target position as the target position of the X-ray imaging unit, after X-ray imaging is performed by the X-ray imaging unit at the last target position, the control unit may be configured to automatically set the first target position in the registered imaging information as the set target position as the target position of the X-ray imaging unit.

[0103] In the above embodiment, the storage unit stores registered radiography information that registers a full cycle of target positions from the initial first target position to the final second target position. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the registered radiography information may include two or more cycles of target positions, with one cycle consisting of the initial first target position and the final second target position. In this case, too, the control unit is configured to set the initial target position as the set target position after the X-ray radiography unit has moved two or more cycles to the final target position in the registered radiography information without accepting an input operation to start the first mode using the first operation unit.

[0104] In addition, while the above embodiment shows an example of a single-plane type having one arm, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a biplane type having two arms may be used. In this case, the target positions of each arm may be displayed side by side on the display unit as registered photographing information.

[0105] In the above embodiment, the operation unit and the display unit are provided on the side of the bed, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the operation unit and the display unit may be provided separately from the bed. Furthermore, the operation unit and the display unit may be provided on the side of the bed, and the operation unit and the display unit may be provided separately outside the imaging room.

[0106] Aspects It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the exemplary embodiments described above are examples of the following aspects.

[0107] (Item 1) An X-ray imaging device including an X-ray source that irradiates an object with X-rays, a detector that faces the X-ray source and detects the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source, and an arm that movably supports the X-ray source and the detector; a tabletop on which the object lies; a storage unit that stores registered imaging information in which a plurality of target positions from an initial first target position to a final second target position are registered by associating the target positions and the order to which at least one of the X-ray imaging device and the tabletop are to be moved; a first operation unit that accepts an input operation to start a first mode that includes a step of moving at least one of the X-ray imaging device and the tabletop from the initial first target position to the final second target position based on the registered imaging information; and a control unit that sets one of the target positions as a set target position and controls the movement of at least one of the X-ray imaging device and the tabletop to the set set target position, the control unit is configured to set the initial first target position as the set target position without accepting an input operation to start the first mode by the first operation unit after at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop moves to the final second target position as the set target position.

[0108] (Item 2) The X-ray imaging device according to Item 1, wherein the control unit is configured to: set the initial first target position as the set target position in accordance with the registered imaging information; after at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop moves to the first target position, set the second target position as the set target position in accordance with the registered imaging information; and after at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop moves to the final second target position as the set target position, set the initial first target position as the set target position without accepting an input operation to start the first mode by the first operation unit.

[0109] (Item 3) The X-ray imaging device according to Item 1 or 2, wherein the control unit is configured to set the initial first target position as the set target position based on completion of X-ray imaging by the X-ray imaging unit at the last second target position as the set target position.

[0110] (Item 4) The X-ray imaging device according to Item 3, wherein the control unit is configured to determine whether or not a next target position is registered in the registered imaging information after X-ray imaging is performed by the X-ray imaging unit at the set target position, and to set the initial first target position as the set target position if the next target position is not registered in the registered imaging information.

[0111] (Item 5) The X-ray imaging device according to any one of items 1 to 4, wherein the control unit is configured to be switchable between a first mode in which, after at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop has moved to the final second target position as the set target position, the initial first target position is set as the set target position without accepting an input operation to start the first mode by the first operation unit, and a second mode in which, after at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop has moved to the final second target position as the set target position, setting of one of the target positions as the set target position is terminated.

[0112] (Item 6) An X-ray imaging device according to any one of items 1 to 5, further comprising a second operation unit that accepts an input operation to terminate setting of any of the target positions as the set target positions, wherein the control unit is configured to repeatedly set the initial first target position as the set target position after moving at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop to the last second target position as the set target position, until the second operation unit accepts an input operation to terminate setting of any of the target positions as the set target position.

[0113] (Item 7) The X-ray imaging device according to any one of items 1 to 6, wherein the memory unit stores the registered imaging information in which a cycle of the target positions from the initial first target position to the final second target position is registered, and the control unit sets the initial first target position as the set target position without accepting an input operation to start the first mode by the first operation unit after the movement of at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop to the final second target position in the registered imaging information stored in the memory unit is completed.

[0114] (Item 8) The X-ray imaging device according to any one of items 1 to 7, further comprising a third operation unit that accepts an input operation for moving at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop to the target position, wherein the control unit is configured to, after moving at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop to the last second target position in the registered imaging information stored in the memory unit as the set target position, set the initial first target position as the set target position without accepting an input operation for starting the first mode by the first operation unit, and then move at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop to the initial first target position based on acceptance of an input operation by the third operation unit for moving at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop to the initial first target position.

[0115] (Item 9) An X-ray imaging method comprising the steps of: setting, as a set target position, the last second target position in registered imaging information stored in a memory unit, in which a plurality of target positions from an initial first target position to a final second target position are registered by associating the target positions and an order to which at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top plate are to be moved; moving at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top plate to the last second target position as the set target position; and setting the initial first target position as the set target position without accepting an input operation to start a first mode, which includes a process of moving at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top plate from the initial first target position to the last second target position based on the registered imaging information, after the movement of at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top plate to the last second target position as the set target position.

[0116] 2 X-ray imaging unit 3 Memory unit 5 Control unit 11 Tabletop 21 X-ray source 22 Detector 23 Arm 30 Registered imaging information 71 First operation unit 72 Second operation unit 73 Third operation unit 80 Subject 100, 110 X-ray imaging device P Target position P1 Initial target position (first target position) P3 Final target position (second target position)

Claims

1. An X-ray imaging unit including an X-ray source for irradiating a subject with X-rays, a detector facing the X-ray source for detecting X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source, and an arm for movably supporting the X-ray source and the detector; a tabletop on which the subject lies; a memory unit for storing registered imaging information in which a plurality of target positions from an initial first target position to a final second target position are registered by associating a target position and an order to which at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop is to be moved; a first operation unit for accepting an input operation for starting a first mode including a process of moving at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop from the initial first target position to the final second target position based on the registered imaging information; and a control unit for setting one of the target positions as a set target position and controlling the movement of at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop to the set set target position, an X-ray imaging device, wherein the control unit is configured to set the initial first target position as the set target position without accepting an input operation to start the first mode by the first operation unit after at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop moves to the final second target position as the set target position.

2. The X-ray imaging device of claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to: set the initial first target position as the set target position in accordance with the registered imaging information; after movement of at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop to the first target position, set the final second target position as the set target position in accordance with the registered imaging information; and after movement of at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop to the final second target position as the set target position, set the initial first target position as the set target position without accepting an input operation to start the first mode by the first operation unit.

3. The X-ray imaging device of claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to set the initial first target position as the set target position based on completion of X-ray imaging by the X-ray imaging unit at the last second target position as the set target position.

4. The X-ray imaging device of claim 3, wherein the control unit is configured to determine whether or not the next target position is registered in the registered imaging information after X-ray imaging is performed by the X-ray imaging unit at the set target position, and to set the initial first target position as the set target position if the next target position is not registered in the registered imaging information.

5. The X-ray imaging device of claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to be able to switch between a first mode in which the initial first target position is set as the set target position without accepting an input operation to start the first mode by the first operation unit after at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop has moved to the final second target position as the set target position, and a second mode in which setting of any of the target positions as the set target position is terminated after at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop has moved to the final second target position as the set target position.

6. The X-ray imaging device of claim 1, further comprising a second operation unit that accepts an input operation to end the setting of any of the target positions as the set target position, and the control unit is configured to repeatedly set the initial first target position as the set target position after moving at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop to the last second target position as the set target position, until an input operation to end the setting of any of the target positions as the set target position is accepted by the second operation unit.

7. The X-ray imaging device of claim 1, wherein the memory unit stores registered shooting information in which a cycle of target positions from the initial first target position to the final second target position is registered, and the control unit sets the initial first target position as the set target position without accepting an input operation to start the first mode by the first operation unit after one cycle of movement to the target positions is completed by moving at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the tabletop to the final second target position in the registered shooting information stored in the memory unit.

8. The X-ray imaging device of claim 1, further comprising a third operation unit that accepts an input operation for moving at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top plate to the target position, wherein the control unit is configured to, after moving at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top plate to the final second target position as the set target position, move at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top plate to the initial first target position based on acceptance of an input operation for moving at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top plate to the initial first target position in the third operation unit, without accepting an input operation for starting the first mode by the first operation unit, after setting the initial first target position as the set target position.

9. An X-ray imaging method comprising the steps of: setting, as a set target position, the last second target position in registered imaging information stored in a memory unit in which a plurality of target positions from an initial first target position to a final second target position are registered by associating the target positions and orders to which at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top plate are moved; moving at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top plate to the final second target position as the set target position; and setting the initial first target position as the set target position without accepting an input operation to start a first mode, which includes a process of moving at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top plate from the initial first target position to the final second target position based on the registered imaging information after the movement of at least one of the X-ray imaging unit and the top plate to the final second target position as the set target position.

Images