Apparatus, operating method of apparatus, and computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon program for executing operating method

Abstract

An operating method of an apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may comprise the steps of: measuring a reference irradiation field for an effective reception surface; measuring a first irradiation field as X-rays are irradiated, after the positions of two collimators are moved toward the center of the reference irradiation field by a first distance from a reference position of the reference irradiation field; measuring a second irradiation field as the X-rays are irradiated, after the positions of the two collimators are moved toward the center of the reference irradiation field by a second distance from the reference position of the reference irradiation field, the second distance being greater than the first distance; and determining whether the difference between the second distance and the first distance matches the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field.

Description

A computer-readable recording medium on which a device, a method of operating the device, and a program for executing the method of operating are recorded.

[0001] The present invention relates to a device, and more specifically, to a device for determining whether an effective surface of water and an irradiation field coincide.

[0002] The X-ray irradiation field can represent the X-ray exposure area, and the effective reception area can represent the area where X-rays can be detected through an X-ray detector.

[0003] International certification standards for digital X-ray evaluation devices require a method to evaluate the consistency between the X-ray irradiation field and the effective receiving plane.

[0004] Conventional methods for evaluating alignment include using an irradiation field measuring tool equipped with an X-ray reactive material and a recording camera. In this method, the X-ray reactive material is coated onto the irradiation field measuring tool, and the luminescence phenomenon of the X-ray reactive material is captured using a camera. Subsequently, alignment between the irradiation field and the effective image surface is determined through visual inspection by the user.

[0005] Another conventional method for evaluating consistency determined the alignment between the irradiation field and the effective image plane using a separate digital X-ray detector. In this method, X-rays are irradiated after positioning a separate detector, which is larger than the X-ray detector attached to the system, at the boundary of the active area of ​​the X-ray detector. Subsequently, the user employs a qualitative method of visually identifying the irradiation field in the 2D projection image acquired by the X-ray irradiation.

[0006] However, when following conventional consistency evaluation methods, a separate tool is required for measurement, making the measurement setup cumbersome, and since the judgment is made qualitatively by humans, there was a problem with insufficient accuracy in determining consistency.

[0007] The purpose of the present disclosure may be to provide a method for evaluating the consistency between the X-ray irradiation field and the effective receiving plane without the need for a separate irradiation field measurement tool.

[0008] The purpose of the present disclosure may be to evaluate the consistency between the X-ray irradiation field and the effective image plane, which is an item of the IEC 60601-2-54 certification standard, without the need for a separate irradiation field measurement tool.

[0009] The purpose of the present disclosure may be to accurately determine whether the effective receiving plane and the irradiation field coincide, whether the X-ray generator is fixed or moved.

[0010] A method of operation of an apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a step of measuring a reference irradiation field for an effective water surface; a step of measuring a first irradiation field as X-rays are irradiated after the positions of two collimators are moved by a first distance toward the center of the reference irradiation field relative to the reference position of the reference irradiation field; a step of measuring a second irradiation field as X-rays are irradiated after the positions of the two collimators are moved by a second distance greater than the first distance toward the center of the reference irradiation field relative to the reference position of the reference irradiation field; and a step of determining whether the difference between the second distance and the first distance and the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field are matched.

[0011] An apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a step of measuring a reference irradiation field for an effective water surface, measuring a first irradiation field as X-rays are irradiated after the positions of two collimators are moved by a first distance toward the center of the reference irradiation field relative to a reference position of the reference irradiation field, measuring a second irradiation field as X-rays are irradiated after the positions of the two collimators are moved by a second distance greater than the first distance toward the center of the reference irradiation field relative to a reference position of the reference irradiation field, and one or more processors that determine whether the difference between the second distance and the first distance and the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field are matched.

[0012] In a computer-readable recording medium having a program recorded thereon for executing a method of operation of a device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the method of operation may include the step of measuring a reference irradiation field for an effective receiving surface; the step of measuring a first irradiation field as X-rays are irradiated after the positions of two collimators are moved by a first distance toward the center of the reference irradiation field relative to the reference position of the reference irradiation field; the step of measuring a second irradiation field as X-rays are irradiated after the positions of the two collimators are moved by a second distance greater than the first distance toward the center of the reference irradiation field relative to the reference position of the reference irradiation field; and the step of determining whether the difference between the second distance and the first distance matches the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field.

[0013] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the alignment between the effective receiving surface and the irradiation field can be determined without the need for a separate detector in addition to the X-ray detector, thereby reducing costs and eliminating the need for complex setup procedures, which can greatly improve convenience.

[0014] In addition, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, whether the effective water surface and the irradiation field coincide can be automatically determined by the operation of the system. Accordingly, the coincidence between the effective water surface and the irradiation field is quantitatively measured, thereby minimizing human error caused by visual identification by the user.

[0015] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating a conventional tomosynthesis system.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining an X-ray imaging device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a method for taking X-ray images through on / off control for each of a plurality of X-ray sources according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIGS. 4 and 5 are drawings for explaining a method of taking X-ray images using an X-ray imaging device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining an X-ray generator in which a plurality of X-ray sources are arranged in a two-dimensional array form according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a plurality of projection data obtained by an X-ray imaging device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an X-ray imaging device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an evaluation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIGS. 10 to 12 are drawings illustrating a process for determining whether the effective receiving surface and the X-ray irradiation field coincide when the position of the X-ray generator is fixed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIGS. 13 to 16 are drawings related to a method for automatically measuring an irradiation field according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIGS. 17 to 20 are drawings illustrating a process for determining whether the effective receiving plane and the X-ray irradiation field coincide when the position of the X-ray generator is moved according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIGS. 21 to 24 are drawings illustrating a process for determining whether the effective receiving plane and the X-ray irradiation field coincide when the position of the X-ray generator is moved according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Identical or similar components regardless of drawing symbols will be assigned the same reference number, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted. The suffixes "module" and "part" for components used in the following description are assigned or used interchangeably solely for the ease of drafting the specification and do not inherently possess distinct meanings or roles. Furthermore, in describing embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of related prior art could obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, such detailed description will be omitted. Additionally, the attached drawings are intended only to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification; the technical concept disclosed in this specification is not limited by the attached drawings, and it should be understood that they include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the concept and technical scope of this disclosure.

[0028] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but said components are not limited by said terms. These terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0029] When it is stated that one component is "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, there may also be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is stated that one component is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0030] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating a conventional tomosynthesis system.

[0031] In a conventional tomosynthesis system (10), an X-ray generator (101) rotates about 20 to 50 degrees around a predetermined rotation axis while irradiating X-rays onto an object (102). An X-ray detector (103) can generate an electrical signal corresponding to the dose of transmitted X-rays.

[0032] When the X-ray generator (101) rotates and moves to irradiate the object to be photographed (102) with X-rays, the projected X-rays are detected by the X-ray detector (103), and multiple projection data (106, 107, 108) can be generated.

[0033] Based on the first plane (Plane 1) and second plane (Plane 2) of the object to be photographed (102), each first point (104) and second point (105) can be projected by X-rays emitted by an X-ray generator (101) and mapped to each of the plurality of projection data (106, 107, 108).

[0034] The first point (104) and the second point (105), which are mapped to each of the multiple projection data (106, 107, 108), may be mapped differently from each other due to the variation in the angle of incidence caused by the rotational movement of the X-ray generator (101). Therefore, an additional step of reconstructing a 2D or 3D X-ray tomographic image of the object to be photographed (102) based on the multiple projection data (106, 107, 108) is required.

[0035] FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining an X-ray imaging device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] The X-ray imaging device (20) includes an X-ray generator (210) in which a plurality of X-ray sources (211, 212, 213, 214, 215) are arranged. The plurality of X-ray sources (211, 212, 213, 214, 215) are turned on or off to emit X-rays and irradiate X-rays onto an object to be imaged (220).

[0037] The X-ray detector (230) can generate an electrical signal corresponding to the dose of transmitted X-rays. The X-ray source may also emit X-rays using an electric field method.

[0038] The X-ray imaging device (20) may have a horizontal movement method rather than the rotational movement of the conventional tomosynthesis system (10). For example, the X-ray imaging device (20) may be controlled to emit X-rays in the order of a first X-ray source (212), a second X-ray source (213), and a third X-ray source (214).

[0039] Meanwhile, based on the first plane (Plane 1) and second plane (Plane 2) of the object to be photographed (220), each first point (240) and second point (250) can be mapped to each of the plurality of projection data (260, 270, 280) and photographed.

[0040] In this case, the first point (240) and the second point (250) can be mapped to each of the multiple projection data (260, 270, 280) due to horizontal movement through turning on or off each of the multiple X-ray sources (211, 212, 213, 214, 215) of the X-ray generator (210).

[0041] Therefore, an additional step of reconstructing a 2D or 3D X-ray tomographic image of the object (220) based on multiple projection data (260, 270, 280) is required.

[0042] In this case, unlike the conventional tomosynthesis system (10) of Fig. 1, a tomographic image must be generated by reconstructing multiple projection data to reflect the characteristics of the X-ray sources operating horizontally on or off.

[0043] FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining a method of taking a plurality of X-ray images by controlling the on / off of a plurality of X-ray sources according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] The X-ray imaging device (20) can control the on or off of each of the plurality of X-ray sources included in the X-ray generator (210) to perform X-ray imaging of an object to be photographed in a horizontal movement manner in a first direction (u).

[0045] The X-ray generator (210) operates at least one X-ray source for a predetermined time (e.g., several msec to several hundred msec) while maintaining a spacing between the X-ray sources that are turned on so that the X-ray distributions irradiated onto the X-ray detector (230) do not overlap. Meanwhile, the X-ray generator (210) can turn on or off the X-ray sources one by one individually when the X-ray distributions overlap.

[0046] The X-ray imaging device (20) can control only some of the X-ray sources to be turned on so that the X-rays emitted from the turned-on X-ray sources do not overlap with the images of the objects to be photographed. For example, the X-ray imaging device (20) can turn on the first X-ray source (311), the second X-ray source (312), and the third X-ray source (313) among the plurality of X-ray sources included in the X-ray generator (210) to photograph the objects to be photographed.

[0047] After that, the X-ray imaging device (20) may turn on the fourth X-ray source (314), the fifth X-ray source (315), and the sixth X-ray source (311) to photograph the object. Additionally, the X-ray imaging device (20) may sequentially turn on the seventh X-ray source (317), the eighth X-ray source (318), and the ninth X-ray source (319) to photograph the object.

[0048] The X-ray imaging device (20) can simultaneously send a predetermined signal to an X-ray detector (230) when one or more X-ray sources are turned on, and acquire and store projection data each time each X-ray source is turned on.

[0049] FIGS. 4 and 5 are drawings for explaining a method of taking X-ray images using an X-ray imaging device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 4, an X-ray imaging device (20) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can take an X-ray image of an object (220) while the X-ray generator (210) or the X-ray detector (230) moves horizontally in a second direction (v).

[0051] Referring to FIG. 5, in another embodiment of the present disclosure, an X-ray imaging device (20) can take X-ray images while the X-ray generator (210) or X-ray detector (230) is fixed and the object to be photographed (220) moves horizontally in a second direction (v).

[0052] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining an X-ray generator in which a plurality of X-ray sources are arranged in a two-dimensional array form according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] A plurality of X-ray sources (211) of an X-ray generator (210) can be arranged in a two-dimensional array form. The X-ray imaging device (20) can take X-ray images by controlling each of the plurality of X-ray sources (211) to turn on or off in a first direction (u) or a second direction (v). Accordingly, an object to be photographed can be photographed with the same effect as an X-ray generator in which a plurality of X-ray sources are arranged in a one-dimensional line form moving horizontally.

[0054] Meanwhile, FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a plurality of projection data acquired by an X-ray imaging device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] The plurality of projection data (700) may be X-ray projection images in which each of the plurality of X-ray sources of the X-ray generator (210) is sequentially turned on or off in the first direction (u), or the X-ray generator (210) moves horizontally in the second direction (v) and the emitted X-rays are detected by the X-ray detector (230) and projected.

[0056] The X-ray imaging device (20) can reconstruct a 2D or 3D X-ray image, which is a cross-sectional image of an object to be photographed, based on a plurality of projection data (700).

[0057] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an evaluation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] The evaluation device (800) may include an X-ray generator (810), a collimator (830), an X-ray detector (850), a display (860), a memory (870), and a processor (890).

[0059] The X-ray generator (810) may include a plurality of X-ray sources. The plurality of X-ray sources may be arranged in a one-dimensional line form or in a two-dimensional array form.

[0060] The X-ray generator (810) can be referred to as a tube.

[0061] The X-ray generator (810) can be moved by the control of the processor (890). One or more motors (not shown) may be provided for moving the X-ray generator (810).

[0062] The above X-ray generator (210) may be an example of an X-ray generator (810).

[0063] The collimator (830) can guide the X-rays output from the X-ray generator (810). By guiding the X-rays of the collimator (830) toward the effective receiving surface, the diffusion of X-rays can be prevented.

[0064] The collimator (830) can be moved in the up / down / left / right directions. One or more motors (not shown) may be provided for the movement of the collimator (830).

[0065] The collimator (830) may be provided in multiple numbers. The collimator (830) may have a rectangular shape, but this is merely an example and may have various shapes.

[0066] The X-ray detector (850) can generate an electrical signal corresponding to the dose of transmitted X-rays. The X-ray detector (850) can generate an electrical signal to generate projection data.

[0067] The above X-ray detector (230) may be an example of an X-ray detector (850).

[0068] The display (860) can display information processed by the processor (890).

[0069] The memory (870) can store programs for each signal processing and control within the processor (890), and can store signal-processed images, audio, or data signals, etc. The memory (870) can store multiple projection data.

[0070] The processor (890) can control the movement of the X-ray generator (210) or the X-ray detector (850), or control the on or off of each of the multiple X-ray sources of the X-ray generator (810).

[0071] The processor (890) can store multiple projection data generated from the X-ray detector (850) in memory (870).

[0072] The processor (890) can reconstruct multiple projection data into a 2D or 3D X-ray image, which is a tomographic image of an object to be photographed. For example, the processor (890) can generate a 2D or 3D X-ray tomographic image by applying a predetermined reconstruction algorithm based on multiple projection data.

[0073] The processor (890) may be provided in multiple units. The processor (890) may be a hardware processor such as a chip.

[0074] The evaluation device (800) may include only one or more processors (890).

[0075] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operation of an evaluation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] Referring to FIG. 9, the processor (890) of the evaluation device (800) can measure a reference irradiation field for an effective water surface (S901).

[0077] In one embodiment, the reference irradiation field may be an X-ray irradiation area corresponding to a part or the entire area of ​​the effective receiving surface.

[0078] In one embodiment, when the position of the X-ray generator (810) is fixed, the entire area of ​​the effective receiving surface can correspond to the reference irradiation field.

[0079] In one embodiment, when the position of the X-ray generator (810) is moved, the processor (890) may have a portion of the effective surface of the X-ray correspond to a reference irradiation field.

[0080] The reference field can have a rectangular shape.

[0081] The processor (890) can measure the first irradiation field after the position of the collimator (830) is moved by a first distance toward the center of the reference irradiation field relative to the reference position of the reference irradiation field (S903).

[0082] The processor (890) can control the position of the collimator (830) so that the collimator (830) is moved a first distance toward the center of the reference irradiation field relative to the reference position of the reference irradiation field. After the position of the collimator (830) is moved a first distance, the processor (890) can output X-rays through the X-ray generator (810). The reference position may be the edge of the reference irradiation field, but this is merely an example and may be a point of the reference irradiation field.

[0083] The processor (890) can acquire a projection image based on the X-rays detected by the X-ray detector (850) and can measure a first irradiation field from the acquired first projection image.

[0084] The first distance may be in the range of 2mm to 3mm, but this is merely an example figure.

[0085] The processor (890) can measure the second irradiation field after the position of the collimator is moved to the center side of the reference irradiation field by a second distance greater than the first distance based on the reference position of the reference irradiation field (S905).

[0086] The processor (890) can control the position of the collimator (830) so that the collimator (830) is moved toward the center of the reference irradiation field by a second distance greater than the first distance relative to the reference position of the reference irradiation field. After the position of the collimator (830) is moved by the second distance, the processor (890) can output X-rays through the X-ray generator (810).

[0087] The processor (890) can acquire a projection image based on the X-rays detected by the X-ray detector (850) and can measure a second irradiation field from the acquired second projection image.

[0088] The second distance may be twice the first distance, but this is merely an example.

[0089] The processor (890) can determine whether the difference between the first distance and the second distance of the collimator (830) and the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field are matched (S907).

[0090] The processor (890) can determine that the difference between the first distance and the second distance of the collimator (830) matches the difference between the first distance and the second distance and the difference between the first and second distances when the difference between the first distance and the second distance matches the difference between the first and second distances.

[0091] The processor (890) may determine that the difference between the first distance and the second distance of the collimator (830) is matched with the difference between the first and second distances and the difference between the first and second distances when the difference between the first and second distances has a proportional relationship with the distance traveled in the x-axis direction and the distance traveled in the y-axis direction, respectively, between the first and second distances and the second distances. In another embodiment, the processor (890) may determine that the difference between the first and second distances and the difference between the first and second distances are matched when following [Equation 1].

[0092] [Mathematical Formula 1]

[0093] 1st Distance / 2nd Distance = (Difference between Reference Field and 1st Distance) / (Difference between Reference Field and 2nd Distance)

[0094] The processor (890) can determine that the effective receiving surface and the X-ray irradiation field match when the difference between the first distance and the second distance of the collimator (830) and the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field match.

[0095] When the processor (890) determines that the difference between the first distance and the second distance of the collimator (830) and the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field match, it can output a suitability judgment indicating that the effective receiving surface and the X-ray irradiation field match (S909).

[0096] The processor (890) can display a notification indicating a suitability judgment through the display (860) or output it through a speaker (not shown).

[0097] If the processor (890) determines that the difference between the first distance and the second distance of the collimator (830) and the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field do not match, it may output a non-compliance judgment indicating that the effective receiving surface and the X-ray irradiation field are inconsistent (S911).

[0098] The processor (890) can display a notification indicating a non-conformity judgment through the display (860) or output it through a speaker (not shown).

[0099] If the processor (890) is inconsistent with the effective receiving plane and the X-ray irradiation field, it can repeat from step S903.

[0100] The processor (890) can control the movement of the collimator (830) when the effective receiving plane and the X-ray irradiation field are mismatched. After controlling the movement of the collimator (830), the processor (890) can repeat the process from step S903.

[0101] The processor (890) can display a guide on the display (860) that guides the movement of the collimator when the effective receiving plane and the X-ray irradiation field are mismatched.

[0102] FIGS. 10 to 12 are drawings illustrating a process for determining whether the effective receiving surface and the X-ray irradiation field coincide when the position of the X-ray generator is fixed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0103] The effective water surface may be composed of a plurality of uniformly arranged pixels. The size of a single pixel may be 124 μm, but this is merely an example.

[0104] The first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) can be located between the X-ray generator (810) and the X-ray detector (850).

[0105] The first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) can be moved in a direction closer to each other or in a direction further apart from each other.

[0106] In the following, it is assumed that the error rate according to the driving precision of the collimator (830) is reflected according to the manufacturer's standards of the collimator (830).

[0107] Referring to Figure 10 (a), the situation of the actual shooting protocol is shown.

[0108] The X-ray generator (810) can generate X-rays, and the generated X-rays can have their irradiation field and diffusion controlled by the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2).

[0109] The processor (890) can measure the reference irradiation field (1010) using X-rays obtained through the X-ray detector (850) at the initial position (or reference position) where the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) have not moved.

[0110] The processor (890) can obtain a reference irradiation field (1010) by performing steps S1301 to S1307 of FIG. 13, which will be described later, at the initial position of the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (803-2).

[0111] In FIG. 10 (a), the effective receiving plane (1000) and the reference irradiation field (1010) of the X-ray may coincide. It is assumed that the x-axis length of the reference irradiation field (1010) is 158.72 mm and the y-axis length is 143.96 mm.

[0112] The processor (890) can display a first pop-up window (1110) showing the measurement result on the display (860) after measuring the reference irradiation field (1010), as shown in (a) of FIG. 11.

[0113] Referring to FIG. 10 (b), the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) can be moved in a direction that brings them closer to each other by a first distance relative to their initial positions.

[0114] The processor (890) can control the movement of each of the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) so that each of the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) comes closer to each other by a first distance. The first distance may be a distance corresponding to the size of 10 pixels.

[0115] The processor (890) can irradiate X-rays through the X-ray generator (810) after the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) are each moved closer to each other by a first distance.

[0116] Subsequently, the processor (890) can measure the first irradiation field (1020) of X-rays using X-rays detected through the X-ray detector (850). If the size of one pixel is 124 μm, the distance corresponding to 10 pixels is 1.24 mm. The irradiation field can be obtained by multiplying the pixel size by the number of pixels.

[0117] Based on the reference irradiation field (1010), the x-axis displacement is 1.24 mm x 2 (considering 2 collimators) = 2.48 mm, and the y-axis displacement is 1.24 mm x 2 = 2.48 mm. Accordingly, the x-axis length of the first irradiation field (1020) measured is 158.72 - 2.48 = 156.24 mm, and the y-axis length is 143.96 - 2.48 = 141.48 mm.

[0118] That is, when each of the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) is moved first by a first distance from the initial position, the first movement range of the first irradiation field (1020) can be measured as shown in FIG. 12.

[0119] When the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) are each moved by a first distance from their initial positions, the processor (890) can obtain a first irradiation field (1020) by performing steps S1301 to S1307 of FIG. 13, which will be described later.

[0120] The processor (890) can display a second pop-up window (1120) showing the measurement result on the display (860) after measuring the first irradiation field (1020), as illustrated in (b) of FIG. 11.

[0121] Referring to FIG. 10 (c), the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) can each be moved closer to each other by a second distance relative to their initial positions. The second distance may be twice the first distance. That is, the second distance may be a distance corresponding to the size of 20 pixels.

[0122] The processor (890) can control the movement of each of the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) so that each of the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) moves closer to each other by a second distance.

[0123] The processor (890) can irradiate X-rays through the X-ray generator (810) after the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) are each moved closer to each other by a second distance.

[0124] Afterward, the processor (890) can measure the second irradiation field (1030) of X-rays using X-rays detected through the X-ray detector (850). If the size of one pixel is 124 μm, the distance corresponding to 20 pixels is 2.48 mm. The irradiation field can be obtained by multiplying the pixel size by the number of pixels.

[0125] Based on the reference irradiation field (1010), the x-axis displacement is 2.48 mm x 2 (considering 2 collimators) = 4.96 mm, and the y-axis displacement is 2.48 mm x 2 = 4.96 mm. Accordingly, the x-axis length of the second irradiation field (1030) measured is 158.72 - 4.96 = 153.76 mm, and the y-axis length is 143.96 - 4.96 = 139.00 mm.

[0126] That is, when each of the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) is moved a second distance from the initial position, the second movement range of the second irradiation field (1030) can be measured as shown in FIG. 12.

[0127] When the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) are each moved a second distance from their initial positions, the processor (890) can obtain a second irradiation field (1030) by performing steps S1301 to S1307 of FIG. 13, which will be described later.

[0128] The processor (890) can display a third pop-up window (1130) showing the measurement result on the display (860) after the measurement of the second irradiation field (1030), as illustrated in (c) of FIG. 11.

[0129] The processor (890) can evaluate that the effective receiving plane and the X-ray irradiation field are aligned when the difference between the x-axis length of the first irradiation field (1020) and the x-axis length of the second irradiation field (1030), and the difference between the y-axis length of the first irradiation field (1020) and the y-axis length of the second irradiation field (1030), respectively, correspond to the difference between the second distance and the first distance.

[0130] In this way, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the alignment between the effective receiving surface and the irradiation field can be automatically determined without the need for a separate detector other than the X-ray detector (850), thereby reducing costs.

[0131] In addition, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, whether the effective water surface and the irradiation field coincide can be automatically determined by the operation of the system. Accordingly, the coincidence between the effective water surface and the irradiation field is quantitatively measured, thereby minimizing human error caused by visual identification by the user.

[0132] FIGS. 13 to 16 are drawings related to a method for automatically measuring an irradiation field according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0133] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an automatic field measurement method performed according to the execution of an automatic field measurement program installed in an evaluation device (800).

[0134] Referring to FIG. 13, the processor (890) of the evaluation device (800) can measure the LSB (Least Significant Bit) profiles of the x and y axes of the original image corresponding to the active area where X-rays are irradiated (S1301).

[0135] LSB can represent the intensity (or value) of each index (or pixel). The intensity can represent the resolution of each pixel constituting the active area.

[0136] The LSB profile may be a profile representing the intensity of X-rays according to the index of each axis.

[0137] The x-axis LSB profile is a profile representing the intensity of X-rays according to the coordinates of the x-axis, and the y-axis LSB profile may be a profile representing the intensity of X-rays according to the coordinates of the y-axis.

[0138] Referring to FIG. 14, an original image (1400) corresponding to an irradiation field expressed through the x-axis and y-axis is shown. The original image (1400) can be expressed within the entire area of ​​the X-ray detector (850).

[0139] Each coordinate of the original image (1400) can be represented by an intensity. In FIG. 14, each coordinate of the x-axis and y-axis can be represented by an index, and the distance between each index can be the size of one pixel.

[0140] The original image (1400) may represent a portion of the total image based on X-rays detected by the X-ray detector (850). An LSB profile may be measured along each of the first line (1410) in the x-axis direction and the second line (1430) intersecting the first line (1410).

[0141] FIG. 15 (a) is a graph showing an x-axis LSB profile corresponding to a first line (1410) in the x-axis direction, and FIG. 15 (b) is a graph showing a y-axis LSB profile corresponding to a second line (1430) in the y-axis direction.

[0142] Each graph can show the trend of X-ray intensity values ​​(LSB) according to the index of each axis.

[0143] Again, Figure 13 is explained.

[0144] The processor (890) can obtain the maximum LSB of each x-axis and y-axis based on the measured LSB profiles of each x-axis and y-axis (S1303).

[0145] The maximum x-axis LSB can be the value of the greatest X-ray intensity on the x-axis. The maximum y-axis LSB can be the value of the greatest X-ray intensity on the y-axis.

[0146] Referring to Fig. 15 (a), the maximum x-axis LSB may be 2433 at the point where the x-axis index (or coordinate) is 1115.

[0147] Referring to Fig. 15 (b), the maximum y-axis LSB may be 2429 at the point where the y-axis index (or coordinate) is 1032.

[0148] Again, Figure 13 is explained.

[0149] The processor (890) can calculate the start point and end point for each of the x and y axes based on each acquired maximum LSB (S1305).

[0150] The processor (890) can obtain the LSB of the region where the x-axis maximum LSB is collimated based on the x-axis maximum LSB as a first threshold value (a level considering dark noise). The processor (890) can calculate the x-axis start point and end point having intensity values ​​smaller than the first threshold value. The intensity values ​​of the x-axis start point and end point, respectively, can correspond to the intensity values ​​measured when no X-rays are detected.

[0151] The processor (890) can obtain the LSB of the collimated region of the y-axis maximum LSB based on the y-axis maximum LSB as a second threshold value (a level considering dark noise). The processor (890) can calculate the start point and end point of the y-axis having intensity values ​​smaller than the second threshold value. The intensity values ​​of the start point and end point of the y-axis, respectively, can correspond to the intensity values ​​measured when no X-rays are detected.

[0152] Referring to Fig. 15 (a), the index value corresponding to the starting point of the x-axis is 322, and the index value corresponding to the ending point of the x-axis is 1601.

[0153] Referring to Fig. 15 (b), the index value corresponding to the starting point of the y-axis is 181, and the index value corresponding to the ending point of the y-axis is 1341.

[0154] The processor (890) can obtain an illumination field based on the number of pixels and the size of the pixels between the calculated start point and end point (S1307).

[0155] Acquiring the investigation field can mean acquiring the x-axis length and the y-axis length.

[0156] The processor (890) can calculate the x-axis length of the field of view by multiplying the number of pixels and the size of the pixels between the starting point and the ending point of the x-axis.

[0157] Assume the size of a single pixel is 124μm.

[0158] The x-axis range of the irradiation field is (1601-322)≈1580, and the x-axis length is 1580 x 124μm = 158.72mm.

[0159] The processor (890) can calculate the y-axis length of the field of view by multiplying the number of pixels and the size of the pixels between the starting point and the ending point of the y-axis.

[0160] The y-axis range of the irradiation field is (1341-181)≈1161, and the y-axis length is 1161 x 124μm = 143.96mm.

[0161] That is, the x-axis length of the field of investigation is 158.72 mm, and the y-axis length is 143.96 mm.

[0162] The processor (890) can sequentially display the following first to fourth pop-up windows (1610 to 1640) on the display (860) according to the operation of the investigation automatic measurement program.

[0163] The processor (890) can display a first pop-up window (1610) on the display (860) including the value of the maximum x-axis LSB and the corresponding x-axis index value, the value of the maximum y-axis LSB and the corresponding y-axis index value, as shown in FIG. 16 (a).

[0164] As shown in FIG. 16 (b), the processor (890) can display a second pop-up window (1620) on the display (860) including an X-ray intensity value 245 corresponding to the start point of the x-axis, an index value 322 of the x-axis corresponding to the intensity value 245, an X-ray intensity value 252 corresponding to the end point of the x-axis, an index value 1601 of the x-axis corresponding to the intensity value 252, an x-axis range of the irradiation field 1280, and an x-axis length of the irradiation field 158.72 mm.

[0165] As shown in FIG. 16 (c), the processor (890) can display a third pop-up window (1630) on the display (860) including an X-ray intensity value 257 corresponding to the start point of the y-axis, an index value 181 of the y-axis corresponding to the intensity value 257, an X-ray intensity value 265 corresponding to the end point of the y-axis, an index value 1341 of the y-axis corresponding to the intensity value 265, a y-axis range 1161 of the irradiation field, and a y-axis length 143.96 mm of the irradiation field.

[0166] After that, the processor (890) can display a fourth pop-up window (1640) on the display (860) including an x-axis length of 158.72 mm and a y-axis length of 143.96 mm of the irradiation field, as shown in (d) of FIG. 16.

[0167] The processor (890) can obtain a first irradiation field (1020) by moving the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (803-2) by a first distance from the initial position, and then performing steps S1301 to S1307 of FIG. 13.

[0168] The processor (890) can obtain a second irradiation field (1030) by moving the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (803-2) by a second distance from the initial position, and then performing steps S1301 to S1307 of FIG. 13.

[0169] The processor (890) can determine whether the difference between the second distance and the first distance matches the difference between the first irradiation field (1020) and the second irradiation field (1030).

[0170] The processor (890) can evaluate that the effective surface of the irradiation and the irradiation field match if the difference between the second distance and the first distance matches the difference between the first irradiation field (1020) and the second irradiation field (1030).

[0171] The processor (890) can evaluate that the effective surface and the irradiation field are inconsistent if the difference between the second distance and the first distance is inconsistent with the difference between the first irradiation field (1020) and the second irradiation field (1030).

[0172] As such, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, by using a code that reads the LSB value from an image, the location where the actual LSB converges to a specific value (boundary value of the irradiation field) is found, and the distance is calculated, thereby enabling quantitative identification while minimizing human error caused by visual identification.

[0173] FIGS. 17 to 20 are drawings illustrating a process for determining whether the effective receiving plane and the X-ray irradiation field coincide when the position of the X-ray generator is moved according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0174] Referring to FIG. 17 (a), it shows that X-ray generators (810) are arranged in an array. The array of X-ray generators (810) can be moved in a horizontal direction (or scan direction).

[0175] The processor (890) can measure the irradiation field at the position where X-rays are irradiated closest to the edge of the effective surface (1000) when the array of X-ray generators (810) is moved in a horizontal direction.

[0176] For example, the irradiation field can be measured at the position (1700) of the lower left edge of the effective surface (1000).

[0177] Referring to FIG. 17(b), an original image (1710) showing the irradiation field measured at the lower left edge of the effective water surface (1000) is shown.

[0178] The effective water surface may be composed of a plurality of uniformly arranged pixels. The size of a single pixel may be 124 μm, but this is merely an example.

[0179] The first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) can be located between the X-ray generator (810) and the X-ray detector (850).

[0180] The first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) can be moved in a direction closer to each other or in a direction further apart from each other.

[0181] In the following, it is assumed that the error rate according to the driving precision of the collimator (830) is reflected according to the manufacturer's standards of the collimator (830).

[0182] Referring to Fig. 18 (a), the situation of the actual shooting protocol is shown.

[0183] The X-ray generator (810) can generate X-rays while moving, and the generated X-rays can have their irradiation field and diffusion controlled by the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2).

[0184] The processor (890) can measure the reference irradiation field (1810) using X-rays obtained through the X-ray detector (850) at the initial position (or reference position) where the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) have not moved.

[0185] In FIG. 18 (a), the reference irradiation field (1810) of the X-ray may coincide with a portion of the effective receiving plane (1000). It is assumed that the x-axis length of the reference irradiation field (1810) is 108.38 mm and the y-axis length is 135.78 mm. The reference irradiation field (1810) can be measured through the embodiment of FIG. 13.

[0186] The processor (890) can display a first pop-up window (1910) showing the measurement result on the display (860) after measuring the reference irradiation field (1810), as illustrated in (a) of FIG. 19.

[0187] Referring to FIG. 18 (b), the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) can be moved in a direction that brings them closer to each other by a first distance relative to their initial positions.

[0188] The processor (890) can control the movement of each of the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) so that each of the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) comes closer to each other by a first distance. The first distance may be a distance corresponding to the size of 10 pixels.

[0189] The processor (890) can irradiate X-rays through the X-ray generator (810) after the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) are each moved closer to each other by a first distance.

[0190] Subsequently, the processor (890) can measure the first irradiation field (1820) of X-rays using X-rays detected through the X-ray detector (850). If the size of one pixel is 124 μm, the distance corresponding to 10 pixels is 1.24 mm. The irradiation field can be obtained by multiplying the pixel size by the number of pixels.

[0191] Based on the reference irradiation field (1810), the x-axis displacement is 1.24 mm x 2 (considering 2 collimators) = 2.48 mm, and the y-axis displacement is 1.24 mm x 2 = 2.48 mm. Accordingly, the x-axis length of the first irradiation field (1820) measured is 108.38 - 2.48 = 105.9 mm, and the y-axis length is 135.78 - 2.48 = 133.3 mm.

[0192] That is, when each of the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) is moved first by a first distance from the initial position, the first movement range of the first irradiation field (1820) can be measured as shown in FIG. 20.

[0193] The processor (890) can display a second pop-up window (1920) showing the measurement result on the display (860) after the measurement of the first irradiation field (1820), as illustrated in FIG. 19 (b).

[0194] Referring to FIG. 18 (c), the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) can each be moved closer to each other by a second distance relative to their initial positions. The second distance may be twice the first distance. That is, the second distance may be a distance corresponding to the size of 20 pixels.

[0195] The processor (890) can control the movement of each of the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) so that each of the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) moves closer to each other by a second distance.

[0196] The processor (890) can irradiate X-rays through the X-ray generator (810) after the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) are each moved closer to each other by a second distance.

[0197] Afterward, the processor (890) can measure the second irradiation field (1830) of X-rays using X-rays detected through the X-ray detector (850). If the size of one pixel is 124 μm, the distance corresponding to 20 pixels is 2.48 mm. The irradiation field can be obtained by multiplying the pixel size by the number of pixels.

[0198] Based on the reference irradiation field (1810), the x-axis displacement is 2.48 mm x 2 (considering 2 collimators) = 4.96 mm, and the y-axis displacement is 2.48 mm x 2 = 4.96 mm. Accordingly, the x-axis length of the second irradiation field (1030) measured is 108.38 - 4.96 = 103.42 mm, and the y-axis length is 135.78 - 4.96 = 130.82 mm.

[0199] That is, when each of the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) is moved a second distance from the initial position, the second movement range of the second irradiation field (1830) can be measured as shown in FIG. 20.

[0200] The processor (890) can display a third pop-up window (1930) showing the measurement result on the display (860) after the measurement of the second irradiation field (1830), as illustrated in (c) of FIG. 19.

[0201] The processor (890) can evaluate that the effective receiving plane and the X-ray irradiation field are aligned when the difference between the x-axis length of the first irradiation field (1820) and the x-axis length of the second irradiation field (1830), and the difference between the y-axis length of the first irradiation field (1820) and the y-axis length of the second irradiation field (1830), respectively, correspond to the difference between the second distance and the first distance.

[0202] FIGS. 21 to 24 are drawings illustrating a process for determining whether the effective receiving plane and the X-ray irradiation field coincide when the position of the X-ray generator is moved according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0203] Referring to FIG. 21 (a), it shows that X-ray generators (810) are arranged in an array. The array of X-ray generators (810) can be moved in a horizontal direction (or scan direction).

[0204] The processor (890) can measure the irradiation field at the position where X-rays are irradiated closest to the edge of the effective surface (1000) when the array of X-ray generators (810) is moved in a horizontal direction.

[0205] For example, the irradiation field can be measured at the location (2100) of the upper right edge of the effective surface (1000).

[0206] Referring to FIG. 21 (b), an original image (2110) showing the irradiation field measured at the upper right edge of the effective water surface (1000) is shown.

[0207] The effective water surface may be composed of a plurality of uniformly arranged pixels. The size of a single pixel may be 124 μm, but this is merely an example.

[0208] The first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) can be located between the X-ray generator (810) and the X-ray detector (850).

[0209] The first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) can be moved in a direction closer to each other or in a direction further apart from each other.

[0210] In the following, it is assumed that the error rate according to the driving precision of the collimator (830) is reflected according to the manufacturer's standards of the collimator (830).

[0211] Referring to Figure 22 (a), the situation of the actual shooting protocol is shown.

[0212] The X-ray generator (810) can generate X-rays while moving, and the generated X-rays can have their irradiation field and diffusion controlled by the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2).

[0213] The processor (890) can measure the reference irradiation field (2210) using X-rays obtained through the X-ray detector (850) at the initial position (or reference position) where the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) have not moved.

[0214] In FIG. 22 (a), the reference irradiation field (2210) of the X-ray may coincide with a portion of the effective receiving surface (1000). It is assumed that the x-axis length of the reference irradiation field (1810) is 90.15 mm and the y-axis length is 132.06 mm. The reference irradiation field (2210) can be measured through the embodiment of FIG. 13.

[0215] The processor (890) can display a first pop-up window (2310) showing the measurement result on the display (860) after measuring the reference irradiation field (2210), as shown in FIG. 23 (a).

[0216] Referring to FIG. 22 (b), the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) can be moved in a direction that brings them closer to each other by a first distance relative to their initial positions.

[0217] The processor (890) can control the movement of each of the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) so that each of the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) comes closer to each other by a first distance. The first distance may be a distance corresponding to the size of 10 pixels.

[0218] The processor (890) can irradiate X-rays through the X-ray generator (810) after the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) are each moved closer to each other by a first distance.

[0219] Subsequently, the processor (890) can measure the first irradiation field (2220) of X-rays using X-rays detected through the X-ray detector (850). If the size of one pixel is 124 μm, the distance corresponding to 10 pixels is 1.24 mm. The irradiation field can be obtained by multiplying the pixel size by the number of pixels.

[0220] Based on the reference irradiation field (2210), the x-axis displacement is 1.24 mm x 2 (considering 2 collimators) = 2.48 mm, and the y-axis displacement is 1.24 mm x 2 = 2.48 mm. Accordingly, the x-axis length of the first irradiation field (1820) measured is 90.15 - 2.48 = 87.67 mm, and the y-axis length is 132.06 - 2.48 = 129.58 mm.

[0221] That is, when each of the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) is moved first by a first distance from the initial position, the first movement range of the first irradiation field (1820) can be measured as shown in FIG. 24.

[0222] The processor (890) can display a second pop-up window (2320) showing the measurement result on the display (860) after measuring the first irradiation field (2220), as shown in FIG. 23 (b).

[0223] Referring to FIG. 22 (c), the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) can each be moved closer to each other by a second distance relative to their initial positions. The second distance may be twice the first distance. That is, the second distance may be a distance corresponding to the size of 20 pixels.

[0224] The processor (890) can control the movement of each of the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) so that each of the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) moves closer to each other by a second distance.

[0225] The processor (890) can irradiate X-rays through the X-ray generator (810) after the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) are each moved closer to each other by a second distance.

[0226] Afterward, the processor (890) can measure the second irradiation field (2230) of X-rays using X-rays detected through the X-ray detector (850). If the size of one pixel is 124 μm, the distance corresponding to 20 pixels is 2.48 mm. The irradiation field can be obtained by multiplying the pixel size by the number of pixels.

[0227] Based on the reference irradiation field (2210), the x-axis displacement is 2.48 mm x 2 (considering 2 collimators) = 4.96 mm, and the y-axis displacement is 2.48 mm x 2 = 4.96 mm. Accordingly, the x-axis length of the second irradiation field (2230) measured is 90.15 - 4.96 = 85.19 mm, and the y-axis length is 132.06 - 4.96 = 127.1 mm.

[0228] That is, when each of the first collimator (830-1) and the second collimator (830-2) is moved a second distance from the initial position, the second movement range of the second irradiation field (2230) can be measured as shown in FIG. 24.

[0229] The processor (890) can display a third pop-up window (2330) showing the measurement result on the display (860) after the measurement of the second irradiation field (2230), as illustrated in (c) of FIG. 23.

[0230] The processor (890) can evaluate that the effective receiving plane and the X-ray irradiation field are aligned when the difference between the x-axis length of the first irradiation field (2220) and the x-axis length of the second irradiation field (2230), and the difference between the y-axis length of the first irradiation field (2220) and the y-axis length of the second irradiation field (2230), respectively, correspond to the difference between the second distance and the first distance.

[0231] In this way, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, even when the X-ray generator (810) moves, whether the effective receiving surface and the irradiation field coincide can be automatically determined by the operation of the system.

[0232] Accordingly, the alignment between the effective surface and the irradiation field is quantitatively measured, which can minimize human error caused by the user's visual identification.

[0233] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the above-described method can be implemented as code that a processor can read on a medium on which a program is recorded. Examples of a medium that a processor can read include ROM, RAM, CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, optical data storage device, etc.

[0234] The above description is merely an illustrative explanation of the technical concept of the present invention, and those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains will be able to make various modifications and variations within the scope of the essential characteristics of the present invention.

[0235] Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed in this invention are intended to explain, not limit, the technical concept of the invention, and the scope of the technical concept of the invention is not limited by these embodiments.

[0236] The scope of protection of the present invention shall be interpreted by the claims below, and all technical ideas within an equivalent scope shall be interpreted as being included within the scope of rights of the present invention.

Claims

1. In the method of operating the device, Step of measuring the reference irradiation field for the effective surface of the water; A step of measuring the first irradiation field as X-rays are irradiated, after the positions of two collimators are moved by a first distance toward the center of the reference irradiation field based on the reference position of the reference irradiation field; A step of measuring the second irradiation field as the X-ray is irradiated, after the positions of the two collimators are moved toward the center of the reference irradiation field by a second distance greater than the first distance based on the reference position of the reference irradiation field; and A step of determining whether the difference between the second distance and the first distance and the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field are matched Method of operation of the device.

2. In Paragraph 1, A step of outputting a suitability judgment based on the difference between the second distance and the first distance and the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field being matched; and The method further includes the step of outputting an unsuitable judgment based on the fact that the difference between the second distance and the first distance and the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field do not match. Method of operation of the device.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned judgment step The method includes a step of determining whether the difference between the second distance and the first distance matches the difference between the x-axis length of the first irradiation field and the x-axis length of the second irradiation field, and the difference between the y-axis length of the first irradiation field and the y-axis length of the second irradiation field, respectively. Method of operation of the device.

4. In Paragraph 1, The method further includes the step of controlling the movement of the collimator based on the fact that the difference between the second distance and the first distance and the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field do not match. Method of operation of the device.

5. In Paragraph 1, The method further includes the step of outputting a guide that guides the movement of the collimator based on the fact that the difference between the second distance and the first distance and the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field do not match. Method of operation of the device.

6. In Paragraph 5, The above second distance is twice the above first distance Method of operation of the device.

7. In Paragraph 1, Each of the steps of measuring the above reference irradiation field, the above first irradiation field, and the above second irradiation field is A step of measuring the LSB (Least Significant Bit) profiles of the x and y axes of the original image corresponding to the active area irradiated with X-rays, Step of obtaining the maximum LSB of the x-axis and y-axis, respectively A step of calculating a start point and an end point for each of the x and y axes based on each acquired maximum LSB, and A step of acquiring an illumination field based on the number of pixels and pixel size between the calculated start and end points. Method of operation of the device.

8. In Paragraph 7, The step of acquiring the above-mentioned investigation field A step of obtaining the x-axis length by multiplying the number of pixels and the pixel size between the start and end points of the x-axis, and A step of obtaining the x-axis length by multiplying the number of pixels and the pixel size between the start and end points of the y-axis. Method of operation of the device.

9. In Paragraph 7, The above LSB profile is A profile representing the intensity values ​​for each axis index Method of operation of the device.

10. In Paragraph 1, The X-ray generator that irradiates the above X-rays is in a fixed position or is movable Method of operation of the device.

11. In the device, A method comprising: a step of measuring a reference irradiation field for an effective receiving surface; a step of measuring a first irradiation field as X-rays are irradiated after the positions of two collimators are moved by a first distance toward the center of the reference irradiation field relative to a reference position of the reference irradiation field; a step of measuring a second irradiation field as X-rays are irradiated after the positions of the two collimators are moved by a second distance greater than the first distance toward the center of the reference irradiation field relative to a reference position of the reference irradiation field; and one or more processors for determining whether the difference between the second distance and the first distance matches the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field. device.

12. In Paragraph 11, The above one or more processors Outputting a suitability judgment based on whether the difference between the second distance and the first distance matches the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field, and outputting an unsuitability judgment based on whether the difference between the second distance and the first distance matches the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field. device.

13. In Paragraph 11, The above one or more processors Determining whether the difference between the second distance and the first distance matches the difference between the x-axis length of the first irradiation field and the x-axis length of the second irradiation field, and the difference between the y-axis length of the first irradiation field and the y-axis length of the second irradiation field, respectively. device.

14. In Paragraph 11, X-ray generator that outputs the above X-rays; A plurality of collimators guiding the above X-rays; and X-ray detector further comprising for detecting X-rays guided by the plurality of collimators device.

15. A computer-readable recording medium having a program recorded thereon for executing a method of operating a device, The above method of operation Step of measuring the reference irradiation field for the effective surface, A step of measuring the first irradiation field as X-rays are irradiated, after the positions of two collimators are moved by a first distance toward the center of the reference irradiation field based on the reference position of the reference irradiation field. A step of measuring the second irradiation field as the X-ray is irradiated, after the positions of the two collimators are moved toward the center of the reference irradiation field by a second distance greater than the first distance based on the reference position of the reference irradiation field. A step of determining whether the difference between the second distance and the first distance and the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field are matched Recording media.

16. In Paragraph 15, The above method of operation A step of outputting a suitability judgment based on the difference between the second distance and the first distance and the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field being matched, and The method further includes the step of outputting an unsuitable judgment based on the fact that the difference between the second distance and the first distance and the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field do not match. Recording media.

17. In Paragraph 15, The above-mentioned judgment step The method includes a step of determining whether the difference between the second distance and the first distance matches the difference between the x-axis length of the first irradiation field and the x-axis length of the second irradiation field, and the difference between the y-axis length of the first irradiation field and the y-axis length of the second irradiation field, respectively. Recording media.

18. In Paragraph 15, The method further includes the step of controlling the movement of the collimator based on the fact that the difference between the second distance and the first distance and the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field do not match. Recording media.

19. In Paragraph 15, The method further includes the step of outputting a guide that guides the movement of the collimator based on the fact that the difference between the second distance and the first distance and the difference between the first irradiation field and the second irradiation field do not match. Recording media.

20. In Paragraph 15, Each of the steps of measuring the above reference irradiation field, the above first irradiation field, and the above second irradiation field is A step of measuring the LSB (Least Significant Bit) profiles of the x and y axes of the original image corresponding to the active area irradiated with X-rays, Step of obtaining the maximum LSB of the x-axis and y-axis, respectively A step of calculating a start point and an end point for each of the x and y axes based on each acquired maximum LSB, and A step of acquiring an illumination field based on the number of pixels and pixel size between the calculated start and end points. Recording media.

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