Radiographic imaging apparatus, radiographic imaging system, control method for radiographic imaging apparatus, and program

Abstract

A radiographic imaging apparatus 110 that performs radiographic imaging of a subject by detecting incident radiation comprises: a detection unit 250 that detects a motion given to the radiographic imaging apparatus 110; and a control unit 210 that controls an operation related to radiographic imaging according to the type of the motion detected by the detection unit 250.

Description

Radiographic apparatus, radiographic system, control method for radiographic apparatus, and program

[0001] The present invention relates to a radiographic apparatus, a radiographic system, a control method for a radiographic apparatus, and a program.

[0002] Currently, as an imaging device used for medical imaging diagnosis and non-destructive inspection by radiation such as X-rays, a radiographic apparatus using a flat panel detector (FPD) formed of a semiconductor material has become widespread. Such a radiographic apparatus is used as a radiographic system that combines a radiation generating device that generates radiation, a control device that controls the radiographic apparatus and the radiation generating device, and the like.

[0003] When performing radiographic imaging in the above-described radiographic system, the operator controls the radiographic apparatus and the radiation generating device by operating, for example, an input device communicably connected to the control device. At this time, the position where radiographic imaging is performed varies depending on the imaging protocol including the imaging technique, and there are cases where the distance between the position where radiographic imaging is performed and the position where the input device is operated is large. In this case, the operator needs to move back and forth between the position where radiographic imaging is performed and the position where the input device is operated, which is a factor that reduces the imaging efficiency in radiographic imaging. In this regard, Patent Document 1 describes a technique for controlling a radiographic apparatus by operating a switch provided in the radiographic apparatus.

[0004] Japanese Patent No. 6800684

[0005] However, as in the technique described in Patent Document 1, assigning many functions by operating one switch complicates the operation by the operator, and more switches need to be provided to realize control of more functions. Here, a radiographic apparatus generally requires a structure excellent in waterproofness and airtightness. However, when providing many switches as described above, it becomes necessary to consider waterproofness and airtightness for each switch, and as a result, the manufacturing cost of the radiographic apparatus increases.

[0006] This invention has been made in view of these problems, and aims to avoid complicated operations by the radiographer when performing radiography, and to reduce the manufacturing cost of radiography equipment.

[0007] The present invention relates to a radiographic imaging apparatus that detects incident radiation and performs radiographic imaging of a subject, and comprises a detection means for detecting motion applied to the radiographic imaging apparatus, and a control means for controlling the operation related to radiographic imaging according to the type of motion detected by the detection means.

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to avoid complicated operations performed by the radiographer when performing radiography, and to reduce the manufacturing cost of the radiography equipment.

[0009] This figure shows an example of the schematic configuration of a radiography system according to the first embodiment. This figure shows an example of the schematic configuration of a radiography device according to the first embodiment. This figure shows an example of the schematic configuration of a control device according to the first embodiment. This figure shows an example of a motion setting management table showing the relationship between the type of motion detected by the radiography device according to the first embodiment and the processing (control) of the device when that motion is detected. This flowchart shows an example of the processing procedure for tap detection in the control method of the radiography device according to the first embodiment. This flowchart shows an example of the processing procedure for attitude detection in the control method of the radiography device according to the first embodiment. This figure shows an example of the schematic configuration of a radiography system according to the second embodiment. This figure shows an example of a motion setting management table showing the relationship between the type of motion detected by the radiography device according to the second embodiment and the processing (control) of the device and the interlocking processing (interlocking control) of other devices when that motion is detected. This flowchart shows an example of the processing procedure in the control method of the radiography system according to the second embodiment. This figure shows an example of a motion setting management table showing the relationship between the type of motion detected by the radiography device according to the third embodiment and the processing (control) of the device and the interlocking processing (interlocking control) of other devices when that motion is detected.

[0010] The embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments described below do not limit the scope of the present invention as defined in the claims. Furthermore, not all of the features described in each embodiment are essential to the present invention, and the features may be combined in any way.

[0011] (First Embodiment) First, the first embodiment will be described.

[0012] Figure 1 shows an example of a schematic configuration of the radiography system 100 according to the first embodiment. In the following description, the radiography system 100 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 1 will be referred to as "radiography system 100-1".

[0013] The radiography system 100-1 includes a radiography device 110, a radiation generator 120, an exposure switch 130, a synchronization control device 140, a control device 150, an access point 160, an input device 170, and a display device 180.

[0014] The radiography apparatus 110 is a radiography apparatus that detects incident radiation and performs radiography of the subject H. Specifically, in the example shown in Figure 1, the radiography apparatus 110 is operated by the radiographer S to perform radiography of the subject H placed on the imaging stand K1 (a supine stand in the example shown in Figure 1). The radiography apparatus 110 then acquires a radiographic image of the subject H.

[0015] The radiation generator 120 is a radiation generator that irradiates a subject H with radiation based on the control of the control device 150 and the synchronization control device 140. This radiation generator 120 is configured to include, for example, a radiation tube that accelerates electrons with high voltage and collides them with an anode. In this embodiment, the radiation generated by the radiation generator 120 may be any of alpha rays, beta rays, gamma rays, X-rays, or neutron rays.

[0016] When the photographer S takes a radiographic image of the subject H, he sets up the radiographic imaging device 110 and the radiation generator 120 in the desired positions. Specifically, the photographer S positions the radiographic imaging device 110 and the radiation generator 120 facing each other with the subject H in between.

[0017] The exposure switch 130 is a switch operated by the photographer S when irradiating the subject H with radiation from the radiation generator 120 to perform radiography.

[0018] The synchronization control device 140 includes a circuit for mediating communication and monitors the status of the radiography apparatus 110 and the radiation generator 120. For example, the synchronization control device 140 controls the synchronization of radiation irradiation from the radiation generator 120 and radiography of the subject H by the radiography apparatus 110. The synchronization control device 140 may also have a built-in HUB or the like for connecting multiple network devices.

[0019] The control device 150 is a device that controls the entire radiography system 100-1 and performs various processing tasks. For example, the control device 150 controls the operation of the radiography apparatus 110, controls the display of radiographic images acquired by the radiography apparatus 110 on the display device 180, and performs control based on imaging condition information input via the input device 170. The control device 150 also performs processing to enable wireless communication with the radiography apparatus 110 and various setting processes such as setting operations related to radiography.

[0020] The access point 160 is a radio relay device that exchanges information with the radiography device 110 via wireless communication.

[0021] The input device 170 is a device that inputs various types of information operated and input by the user (for example, the photographer S) to the control device 150.

[0022] The display device 180 is a display device that displays various information (including images and data) on the display screen 181 based on the control of the control device 150.

[0023] Figure 2 shows an example of a schematic configuration of the radiography apparatus 110 according to the first embodiment.

[0024] As shown in Figure 2, the radiography apparatus 110 includes a control unit 210, a storage unit 220, an input unit 230, a radiography imaging unit 240, a detection unit 250, a communication unit 260, and a bus 270.

[0025] The control unit 210 is a control means that controls the entire radiography apparatus 110 and performs various processing tasks. For example, the control unit 210 may be composed of a processor such as a CPU. Alternatively, for example, the control unit 210 controls the entire radiography apparatus 110 and performs various processing tasks by executing a program stored in the memory unit 220.

[0026] The memory unit 220 is a storage means that stores programs and various information (including images and data) necessary for the control unit 210 to perform overall control and various processing of the radiography apparatus 110. The memory unit 220 is also a storage means that stores various information (including images and data) obtained by the control unit 210 as a result of performing overall control and various processing of the radiography apparatus 110.

[0027] The input unit 230 is an input means that receives input from, for example, the photographer S, and inputs the received input information to the control unit 210.

[0028] The radiation imaging unit 240 is a radiation imaging means that detects incident radiation (including radiation that has passed through the subject H) and performs radiation imaging of the subject H. This radiation imaging unit 240 may be composed of a flat panel detector (FPD).

[0029] The detection unit 250 is a detection means for detecting motion applied to the radiography apparatus 110. The detection unit 250 includes at least one sensor as a sensor 251 for detecting motion applied to the radiography apparatus 110, which is an acceleration sensor for detecting acceleration and an angular velocity sensor for detecting angular velocity. Furthermore, the detection unit 250 may further include a position detection sensor as a sensor 251 for detecting the position of the radiography apparatus 110.

[0030] In this embodiment, the detection unit 250 includes a configuration in which it detects, as motion given to the radiography apparatus 110, at least a tapping motion given to the radiography apparatus 110 (specifically, a light tapping motion by the radiographer S with a finger, etc.) based on the detection signal of the sensor 251. For example, if the detection unit 250 includes a three-axis (XYZ axis) acceleration sensor as the sensor 251, it detects the tapping motion given to the radiography apparatus 110 when an acceleration above a predetermined threshold and below a predetermined pulse width is detected in the three-axis acceleration sensor. Alternatively, for example, if the sensor 251 includes a three-axis (XYZ axis) angular velocity sensor, the tapping motion given to the radiography apparatus 110 can be detected by using angular velocity instead of the acceleration of the three-axis acceleration sensor described above. Furthermore, the sensor 251 may include the three-axis acceleration sensor, the three-axis angular velocity sensor, and a position detection sensor, and this sensor 251 may be used to detect the tapping motion given to the radiography apparatus 110.

[0031] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the detection unit 250 includes a configuration in which it detects at least the posture change operation applied to the radiography apparatus 110 as motion applied to the radiography apparatus 110 based on the detection signal of the sensor 251. For example, if the detection unit 250 includes a three-axis (XYZ axis) angular velocity sensor as the sensor 251, it detects the posture change operation applied to the radiography apparatus 110 based on the detection results of the angular velocity in the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions of the three-axis angular velocity sensor. Alternatively, if the sensor 251 includes a three-axis (XYZ axis) acceleration sensor, it is possible to detect the posture change operation applied to the radiography apparatus 110 by using acceleration instead of the angular velocity of the three-axis angular velocity sensor described above. Furthermore, the sensor 251 may include the three-axis angular velocity sensor, the three-axis acceleration sensor, and a position detection sensor, and this sensor 251 may be used to detect the posture change operation applied to the radiography apparatus 110.

[0032] The communication unit 260 is a communication means that communicates with an external device (for example, the control device 150 shown in Figure 1).

[0033] Bus 270 is a bus that connects the control unit 210, storage unit 220, input unit 230, radiation imaging unit 240, detection unit 250, and communication unit 260 to each other.

[0034] Figure 3 shows an example of a schematic configuration of the control device 150 according to the first embodiment.

[0035] As shown in Figure 3, the control device 150 includes a control unit 310, a storage unit 320, an input unit 330, a communication unit 340, and a bus 350.

[0036] The control unit 310 is a control means that controls the entire control device 150 and performs various processing tasks. For example, the control unit 310 may be composed of a processor such as a CPU. Alternatively, for example, the control unit 310 controls the entire control device 150 and performs various processing tasks by executing a program stored in the storage unit 320.

[0037] The memory unit 320 is a storage means that stores programs and various information (including images and data) necessary for the control unit 310 to perform overall control and various processing of the control device 150. The memory unit 320 is also a storage means that stores various information (including images and data) obtained by the control unit 310 as a result of performing overall control and various processing of the control device 150.

[0038] The input unit 330 is an input means that receives input from the user (for example, the photographer S) and inputs the received input information to the control unit 310. Note that this input unit 330 can be replaced by the input device 170 shown in Figure 1, in which case the input unit 330 can be omitted.

[0039] The communication unit 340 is a communication means for communicating with an external device (for example, the radiography device 110 shown in Figure 1).

[0040] Bus 350 is a bus that connects the control unit 310, the storage unit 320, the input unit 330, and the communication unit 340 to each other via communication.

[0041] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a motion setting management table 400 that shows the relationship between the types of motion detected by the radiation imaging apparatus 110 according to the first embodiment and the processing (control) of the apparatus itself when that motion is detected. Specifically, in the motion setting management table 400 shown in FIG. 4, "motion number", "motion definition", and "processing (control)" are associated and set. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the motion setting management table 400 shown in FIG. 4 is stored and managed in the storage unit 320 of the control device 150. However, for example, the radiation imaging apparatus 110 may acquire it from the control device 150 and store it in the storage unit 220.

[0042] In "Motion Number: 1" in FIG. 4, when the detection unit 250 detects one tap within the tap detection time, which is the first predetermined time, the imaging protocol stored in the control device 150 and displayed on the display device 180 is selected as the processing (control) of the radiation imaging apparatus 110.

[0043] In "Motion Number: 2" in FIG. 4, when the detection unit 250 detects two taps within the tap detection time, which is the first predetermined time, the state of the radiation imaging apparatus 110 is transitioned to the imaging preparation state as the processing (control) of the radiation imaging apparatus 110.

[0044] In "Motion Number: 3" in FIG. 4, when the detection unit 250 detects three taps within the tap detection time, which is the first predetermined time, the state of the radiation imaging apparatus 110 is transitioned to the standby state as the processing (control) of the radiation imaging apparatus 110.

[0045] In "Motion Number: 4" in FIG. 4, when the detection unit 250 detects a posture change within the range of 30 ± 5° within the posture change time, which is the second predetermined time, the power supply of the radiation imaging apparatus 110 is turned on as the processing (control) of the radiation imaging apparatus 110.

[0046] In "Motion Number: 5" in FIG. 4, when the detection unit 250 detects a posture change within the range of 90 ± 5° within the posture change time, which is the second predetermined time, the power supply of the radiation imaging apparatus 110 is turned off as the processing (control) of the radiation imaging apparatus 110.

[0047] In the motion setting management table 400 shown in FIG. 4, as the types of motions detected by the detection unit 250, it includes different numbers of taps at the tap detection time which is the first predetermined time (motion numbers: 1 to 3). Also, in the motion setting management table 400 shown in FIG. 4, as the types of motions detected by the detection unit 250, it includes different angles of posture change at the posture change time which are respectively the second predetermined time (motion numbers: 4 to 5).

[0048] The control unit 210 of the radiation imaging apparatus 110 constitutes control means for controlling operations related to radiation imaging according to the types of motions detected by the detection unit 250 in accordance with the settings of the motion setting management table 400 shown in FIG. 4. Specifically, in the present embodiment, the control unit 210 of the radiation imaging apparatus 110 controls the operations of the radiation imaging apparatus 110 according to the types of motions detected by the detection unit 250 in accordance with the settings of the motion setting management table 400 shown in FIG. 4.

[0049] Also, as shown in FIG. 1, the display device 180 associates the type of motion given to the radiation imaging apparatus 110 with the operations related to radiation imaging (that is, in the present embodiment, the content of the motion setting management table 400 shown in FIG. 4) and displays it on the display screen 181. Thereby, the photographer S can accurately operate the radiation imaging apparatus 110 according to the progress situation.

[0050] It is assumed that the "motion number", "motion definition", and "processing (control)" in the motion setting management table 400 shown in FIG. 4 can be edited in the control device 150. For example, it is assumed that the control unit 310 of the control device 150 can freely set the tap detection time, the number of taps, the posture change time, the posture change angle in the "motion definition", and the operations of the radiation imaging apparatus 110 in the "processing (control)". In this case, the control unit 310 of the control device 150 constitutes setting means for setting the motion setting management table 400 shown in FIG. 4 (that is, the operations related to radiation imaging according to the types of motions detected by the detection unit 250 of the radiation imaging apparatus 110).

[0051] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure for tap detection in the control method of the radiography apparatus 110 according to the first embodiment.

[0052] First, in step S101 of Figure 5, the control unit 210 of the radiography apparatus 110 determines whether or not a tap operation has occurred on the radiography apparatus 110 based on the detection result of the detection unit 250 (sensor 251). If the control unit 210 determines in step S101 of Figure 5 that there has been no tap operation on the radiography apparatus 110 (S101 / No), it remains in standby mode in step S101.

[0053] Furthermore, in step S101 of Figure 5, if the control unit 210 determines that a tap operation has occurred with respect to the radiography device 110 (S101 / Yes), the process proceeds to step S102.

[0054] When the process proceeds to step S102 in Figure 5, the control unit 210 of the radiography apparatus 110 starts timing a timer that measures the tap detection time, which is the first predetermined time defined in the "motion definition" in Figure 4, and sets the number of taps to 1.

[0055] Next, in step S103 of Figure 5, the control unit 210 of the radiography apparatus 110 determines whether the tap detection time, which is the first predetermined time defined in the "motion definition" of Figure 4, has elapsed since the timer started counting in step S102.

[0056] In step S103 of Figure 5, if the control unit 210 determines that the tap detection time, which is the first predetermined time defined in the "motion definition" of Figure 4, has not elapsed since the timer started counting in S102 (S103 / No), the process proceeds to step S104.

[0057] When the process proceeds to step S104 in Figure 5, the control unit 210 of the radiography apparatus 110 determines whether or not a tap operation occurred on the radiography apparatus 110 based on the detection result of the detection unit 250 (sensor 251). If the control unit 210 determines in step S104 of Figure 5 that no tap operation occurred on the radiography apparatus 110 (S104 / No), the process returns to step S103.

[0058] Furthermore, in step S104 of Figure 5, if the control unit 210 determines that a tap operation has occurred on the radiography device 110 (S104 / Yes), the process proceeds to step S105. When the process proceeds to step S105 of Figure 5, the control unit 210 of the radiography device 110 updates the tap count by adding 1. After the processing in step S105 of Figure 5 is completed, the process returns to step S103.

[0059] Furthermore, in step S103 of Figure 5, if the control unit 210 determines that the tap detection time, which is the first predetermined time defined in the "motion definition" of Figure 4, has elapsed since the timer started counting in S102 (S103 / Yes), the process proceeds to step S106.

[0060] When the process proceeds to step S106 in Figure 5, the control unit 210 of the radiography apparatus 110 terminates the timer that measures the tap detection time, which is the first predetermined time defined in the "motion definition" in Figure 4.

[0061] Next, in step S107 of Figure 5, the control unit 210 of the radiography apparatus 110 determines whether the number of taps at the time the timer ends in S106 matches the number of taps defined in the "motion definition" of Figure 4. Specifically, in this embodiment, if the number of taps at the time the timer ends in S106 is 1, 2, or 3, it is determined to match the number of taps defined in the "motion definition" of Figure 4. If, in step S107 of Figure 5, the control unit 210 determines that the number of taps at the time the timer ends in S106 does not match the number of taps defined in the "motion definition" of Figure 4 (S107 / No), the process returns to step S101.

[0062] Furthermore, in step S107 of Figure 5, if the control unit 210 determines that the number of taps at the time the timer in S106 has finished counting matches the number of taps defined in the "motion definition" in Figure 4 (S107 / Yes), the process proceeds to step S108.

[0063] When the process proceeds to step S108 in Figure 5, the control unit 210 of the radiography apparatus 110 performs the "processing (control)" shown in Figure 4 for the motion in which the number of taps was determined to match in S107. For example, if it is determined in S107 that the number of taps matches at 1, the control unit 210 performs processing (control) to select the imaging protocol stored in the control device 150 and displayed on the display device 180, based on the "processing (control)" in Figure 4. Also, for example, if it is determined in S107 that the number of taps matches at 2, the control unit 210 performs processing (control) to transition the state of the radiography apparatus 110 to the imaging preparation state, based on the "processing (control)" in Figure 4. Also, for example, if it is determined in S107 that the number of taps matches at 3, the control unit 210 performs processing (control) to transition the state of the radiography apparatus 110 to the standby state, based on the "processing (control)" in Figure 4.

[0064] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure for attitude detection in the control method of the radiography apparatus 110 according to the first embodiment.

[0065] First, in step S201 of Figure 6, the control unit 210 of the radiography apparatus 110 performs a process to detect posture 1, which is the current posture of the radiography apparatus 110, based on the detection result of the detection unit 250 (sensor 251).

[0066] Next, in step S202 of Figure 6, the control unit 210 of the radiography apparatus 110 waits for the posture change time, which is the second predetermined time defined in "Motion Definition" of Figure 4, to elapse.

[0067] Next, in step S203 of Figure 6, the control unit 210 of the radiography apparatus 110 performs a process to detect posture 2, which is the posture of the radiography apparatus 110 after the posture change time, which is a second predetermined time, has elapsed, based on the detection result of the detection unit 250 (sensor 251).

[0068] Next, in step S204 of Figure 6, the control unit 210 of the radiography apparatus 110 first calculates the change in posture (in this embodiment, the angle of change in posture), which is the difference between posture 1 detected in step S201 and posture 2 detected in step S203. Then, the control unit 210 of the radiography apparatus 110 determines whether the angle of change in posture calculated in S204 based on posture 1 detected in S201 and posture 2 detected in S203 is within the range of the angle of change in posture defined in the "motion definition" of Figure 4. In step S204 of Figure 6, if the control unit 210 determines that the angle of change in posture calculated in S204 is not within the range of the angle of change in posture defined in the "motion definition" of Figure 4 (S204 / No), the process returns to step S201.

[0069] Furthermore, in step S204 of Figure 6, if the control unit 210 determines that the attitude change angle calculated in S204 is within the range of the attitude change angle defined in "Motion Definition" of Figure 4 (S204 / Yes), the process proceeds to step S205.

[0070] When the process proceeds to step S205 in Figure 6, the control unit 210 of the radiography apparatus 110 performs the "processing (control)" shown in Figure 4 for the motion in which the attitude change angle was determined to be within the range and match in S204. For example, if it is determined in S204 that the attitude change angle is within the range of 30 ± 5°, the control unit 210 performs the processing (control) to turn on the power of the radiography apparatus 110 based on the "processing (control)" in Figure 4. Also, for example, if it is determined in S204 that the attitude change angle is within the range of 90 ± 5°, the control unit 210 performs the processing (control) to turn off the power of the radiography apparatus 110 based on the "processing (control)" in Figure 4. When the processing in step S205 in Figure 6 is completed, the process returns to step S201.

[0071] The radiography apparatus 110 according to the first embodiment described above is a radiography apparatus that detects incident radiation and performs radiography of a subject H, and has the following configuration. The radiography apparatus 110 according to the first embodiment has a detection unit 250, which is a detection means for detecting motion applied to the radiography apparatus 110. The radiography apparatus 110 according to the first embodiment also has a control unit 210, which is a control means for controlling operations related to radiography according to the type of motion detected by the detection unit 250. Specifically, in the first embodiment, the control unit 210 controls the operation of the radiography apparatus 110 according to the type of motion detected by the detection unit 250 ("Processing (Control)" in Figure 4).

[0072] With this configuration, it is possible to avoid complicated operations by the radiographer S when performing radiography (for example, complicated operation of switches provided on the radiography apparatus 110), and the manufacturing cost of the radiography apparatus 110 can be reduced.

[0073] In the first embodiment described above, the control unit 210 is shown as controlling the operation of the radiography apparatus 110 according to the type of motion detected by the detection unit 250. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. In the present invention, the control unit 210 is also applicable in which it controls operations related to radiography other than the operation of the radiography apparatus 110 according to the type of motion detected by the detection unit 250. For example, an operation related to radiography other than the operation of the radiography apparatus 110 is an operation that transitions the screen displayed on the display device 180 according to the type of motion detected by the detection unit 250. Another example of an operation related to radiography other than the operation of the radiography apparatus 110 is an operation that prepares the communication environment of the radiography system 100 (for example, an operation that establishes communication between each device when the motion of the radiographer S checking into the radiography room is detected).

[0074] (Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the description of the second embodiment below, matters common to the first embodiment described above will be omitted, and matters that differ from the first embodiment described above will be described.

[0075] Figure 7 shows an example of the schematic configuration of the radiography system 100 according to the second embodiment. In the following description, the radiography system 100 according to the second embodiment shown in Figure 7 will be referred to as "radiography system 100-2". Also, in Figure 7, the same reference numerals are used for components that are the same as those shown in Figure 1, and their detailed explanations are omitted.

[0076] The radiography system 100-2 includes a plurality of radiography devices 110-1 and 110-2, a radiation generator 120, an exposure switch 130, a synchronization control device 140, a control device 150, an access point 160, an input device 170, and a display device 180.

[0077] Specifically, the first radiography apparatus 110-1 shown in Figure 7 corresponds to the radiography apparatus 110 shown in Figure 1, and the second radiography apparatus 110-2 shown in Figure 7 is a radiography apparatus 110 added to the radiography system 100-1 shown in Figure 1. In the radiography system 100-2 shown in Figure 7, the second radiography apparatus 110-2 is installed in a predetermined position on the standing frame K2.

[0078] Here, the schematic configurations of the first radiography apparatus 110-1 and the second radiography apparatus 110-2 according to the second embodiment shown in Figure 7 are the same as the schematic configuration of the radiography apparatus 110 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 2. Also, the schematic configuration of the control device 150 according to the second embodiment shown in Figure 7 is the same as the schematic configuration of the control device 150 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 3.

[0079] Figure 8 shows an example of a motion setting management table 800 that shows the relationship between the type of motion detected by the radiography apparatus 110 according to the second embodiment and the processing (control) of the apparatus itself and the interlocking processing (interlocking control) of other apparatuses when that motion is detected. Specifically, in the motion setting management table 800 shown in Figure 8, "motion number," "motion definition," "processing (control)," and "interlocking processing (interlocking control)" are associated and set. Specifically, the motion setting management table 800 shown in Figure 8 has "interlocking processing (interlocking control)" added to the motion setting management table 400 shown in Figure 4 in order to control the operation of other radiography apparatuses 110. In this embodiment, the motion setting management table 800 shown in Figure 8 is assumed to be stored and managed in the storage unit 320 of the control device 150, but for example, the radiography apparatus 110 may acquire it from the control device 150 and store it in the storage unit 220.

[0080] In "Motion Number: 1" in Figure 8, when the detection unit 250 of the radiography apparatus 110 detects one tap within the tap detection time, the device selects the imaging protocol stored in the control unit 150 and displayed on the display device 180 as its own processing (control).

[0081] In "Motion Number 2" of Figure 8, when the detection unit 250 of the radiography apparatus 110 detects two taps within the tap detection time, the apparatus transitions to a state ready for imaging as part of its own processing (control). Furthermore, in "Motion Number 2" of Figure 8, when two taps are detected within the tap detection time, the apparatus transitions to a standby state as part of the linked processing (linked control) of the radiography apparatus 110 of another apparatus via the control device 150.

[0082] In "Motion Number: 3" in Figure 8, when the detection unit 250 of the radiography apparatus 110 detects three taps within the tap detection time, the apparatus transitions to a standby state as part of its processing (control).

[0083] In "Motion Number 4" in Figure 8, when the detection unit 250 of the radiography apparatus 110 detects a change in posture within the range of 30 ± 5° in posture change time, the apparatus itself is powered ON as part of its processing (control). Furthermore, in "Motion Number 4" in Figure 8, when a change in posture within the range of 30 ± 5° in posture change time is detected, the apparatus is powered OFF as part of the linked processing (linked control) of the radiography apparatus 110 of another apparatus via the control device 150.

[0084] In "Motion Number: 5" in Figure 8, when the detection unit 250 of the radiography apparatus 110 detects a change in posture within the range of 90 ± 5° in terms of posture change time, the apparatus itself is turned OFF as part of its processing (control).

[0085] In this embodiment, the tap detection time described in the "Motion Definition" of Figure 8 corresponds to the first predetermined time. Also, the posture change time described in the "Motion Definition" of Figure 8 corresponds to the second predetermined time.

[0086] In the motion setting management table 800 shown in Figure 8, the types of motion detected by the detection unit 250 include different numbers of taps during the first predetermined time, which is the tap detection time (motion numbers: 1 to 3). In addition, the motion setting management table 800 shown in Figure 8 also includes different angles of posture change during the second predetermined time, which is the posture change time (motion numbers: 4 to 5).

[0087] The control unit 210 of the radiography apparatus 110 is configured as a control means that controls the operation related to radiography according to the type of motion detected by the detection unit 250, according to the settings of the motion setting management table 800 shown in Figure 8. Specifically, in this embodiment, the control unit 210 of the radiography apparatus 110 controls the operation of its own device (and in some cases the operation of other devices) according to the type of motion detected by the detection unit 250, according to the settings of the motion setting management table 800 shown in Figure 8.

[0088] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 7, the display device 180 associates the type of motion given to the radiography apparatus 110 with the operation related to radiography (i.e., the contents of the motion setting management table 800 shown in Figure 8 in this embodiment) and displays them on the display screen 182. This makes it possible for the radiographer S to operate the radiography apparatus 110 appropriately according to the progress.

[0089] The "motion number," "motion definition," "processing (control)," and "interlocking processing (interlocking control)" in the motion setting management table 800 shown in Figure 8 are editable by the control device 150. For example, the control unit 310 of the control device 150 can freely set the tap detection time, number of taps, posture change time, posture change angle, etc. in the "motion definition." Furthermore, for example, the control unit 310 of the control device 150 can also freely set the operation of the radiography device 110 in "processing (control)" and the operation of other radiography devices 110 in "interlocking processing (interlocking control)." In this case, the control unit 310 of the control device 150 constitutes a setting means for setting the motion setting management table 800 shown in Figure 8 (i.e., the operation related to radiography according to the type of motion detected by the detection unit 250 of the radiography device 110).

[0090] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure in the control method for the radiography system 100 according to the second embodiment. Specifically, Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure in the control method for the radiography system 100-2, which includes the first radiography apparatus 110-1, the control device 150, and the second radiography apparatus 110-2 shown in Figure 7.

[0091] In Figure 9, steps S301, S302, and S303 show the processing steps when the first radiography apparatus 110-1 detects a predetermined motion. Also in Figure 9, steps S304, S305, and S306 show the processing steps when the second radiography apparatus 110-2 detects a predetermined motion.

[0092] First, we will explain the processing steps S301 to S303 in Figure 9, which occur when the first radiography device 110-1 detects a predetermined motion.

[0093] In step S301 of Figure 9, the detection unit 250 of the first radiography apparatus 110-1 detects one of the motions defined in "Motion Definition" of Figure 8. Then, the control unit 210 of the first radiography apparatus 110-1 performs the processing (control) of its own device as defined in "Processing (Control)" of Figure 8, according to the type of motion detected by the detection unit 250. For example, in step S301 of Figure 9, if the detection unit 250 of the first radiography apparatus 110-1 detects a motion with motion number 2 in Figure 8, the control unit 210 of its own device transitions the state of its own device to the state of preparation for imaging as the processing (control) of its own device. After that, the control unit 210 of the first radiography apparatus 110-1 performs control to transmit the state of its own device and the contents of "Interlocking Processing (Interlocking Control)" of Figure 8 to the control device 150 via the communication unit 260.

[0094] Next, in step S302 of Figure 9, the control unit 310 of the control device 150 performs control to receive the status of the first radiography apparatus 110-1 and the contents of the "interlocking process (interlocking control)" in Figure 8 from the first radiography apparatus 110-1 via the communication unit 340. Then, the control unit 310 of the control device 150 updates the status information of the first radiography apparatus 110-1 based on the received status information of the first radiography apparatus 110-1. Furthermore, if the "interlocking process (interlocking control)" in Figure 8 that was received is set, the control unit 310 of the control device 150 performs control to transmit the contents of the "interlocking process (interlocking control)" to the second radiography apparatus 110-2 via the communication unit 340.

[0095] Next, in step S303 of Figure 9, the control unit 210 of the second radiography apparatus 110-2 receives the contents of the "interlocking process (interlocking control)" in Figure 8 from the control device 150 via the communication unit 260. The control unit 210 of the second radiography apparatus 110-2 then performs processing (control) based on the received contents of the "interlocking process (interlocking control)" in Figure 8. For example, if the control unit 210 of the second radiography apparatus 110-2 receives the "interlocking process (interlocking control)" with motion number 2 in Figure 8, it transitions the state of its own device to a standby state. After that, the control unit 210 of the second radiography apparatus 110-2 transmits the state of its own device to the control device 150 via the communication unit 260. The control unit 310 of the control device 150 then updates the state information of the second radiography apparatus 110-2 based on the received state information of the second radiography apparatus 110-2.

[0096] Next, we will explain steps S304 to S306 in Figure 9, which are processing steps when the second radiography device 110-2 detects a predetermined motion.

[0097] In step S304 of Figure 9, the detection unit 250 of the second radiography apparatus 110-2 detects one of the motions defined in "Motion Definition" of Figure 8. Then, the control unit 210 of the second radiography apparatus 110-2 performs the processing (control) of its own apparatus as defined in "Processing (Control)" of Figure 8, according to the type of motion detected by the detection unit 250.

[0098] For example, in step S304 of Figure 9, if the detection unit 250 of the second radiography apparatus 110-2 detects motion with motion number 4 in Figure 8, the control unit 210 of the apparatus turns on the power of the apparatus as part of its processing (control). Subsequently, the control unit 210 of the second radiography apparatus 110-2 performs control to transmit the status of the apparatus and the contents of the "interlocking process (interlocking control)" in Figure 8 to the control device 150 via the communication unit 260.

[0099] Next, in step S305 of Figure 9, the control unit 310 of the control device 150 performs control to receive the status of the second radiography device 110-2 and the contents of the "interlocking process (interlocking control)" in Figure 8 from the second radiography device 110-2 via the communication unit 340. Then, the control unit 310 of the control device 150 updates the status information of the second radiography device 110-2 based on the received status information of the second radiography device 110-2. Furthermore, if the "interlocking process (interlocking control)" in Figure 8 that was received is set, the control unit 310 of the control device 150 performs control to transmit the contents of the "interlocking process (interlocking control)" to the first radiography device 110-1 via the communication unit 340.

[0100] Next, in step S306 of Figure 9, the control unit 210 of the first radiography apparatus 110-1 receives the contents of the "interlocking process (interlocking control)" in Figure 8 from the control device 150 via the communication unit 260. The control unit 210 of the first radiography apparatus 110-1 then performs processing (control) based on the received contents of the "interlocking process (interlocking control)" in Figure 8. For example, if the control unit 210 of the first radiography apparatus 110-1 receives the "interlocking process (interlocking control)" with motion number 4 in Figure 8, it turns off the power to its own device. After that, the control unit 210 of the first radiography apparatus 110-1 transmits the status of its own device to the control device 150 via the communication unit 260. The control unit 310 of the control device 150 then updates the status information of the first radiography apparatus 110-1 based on the received status information of the first radiography apparatus 110-1.

[0101] In the radiography system 100-2 according to the second embodiment, the control device 150 controls the operation of the second radiography device 110-2 according to the type of motion detected by the detection unit 250 of the first radiography device 110-1 (S301 to 303 in Figure 9). Also, in the radiography system 100-2 according to the second embodiment, the control device 150 controls the operation of the first radiography device 110-1 according to the type of motion detected by the detection unit 250 of the second radiography device 110-2 (S304 to 306 in Figure 9).

[0102] With this configuration, for example, it is possible to control the operation of other radiography equipment 110 that is not being used for radiography, thereby enabling the construction of a radiography system 100-2 that reduces power consumption and wear and tear on the other radiography equipment 110.

[0103] (Third Embodiment) Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the description of the third embodiment below, matters common to the first and second embodiments described above will be omitted, and matters that differ from the first and second embodiments described above will be explained.

[0104] The schematic configuration of the radiography system according to the third embodiment is the same as the schematic configuration of the radiography system 100-2 according to the second embodiment shown in Figure 7. The schematic configurations of the first radiography apparatus 110-1 and the second radiography apparatus 110-2 according to the third embodiment shown in Figure 7 are the same as the schematic configuration of the radiography apparatus 110 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 2. Furthermore, the schematic configuration of the control device 150 according to the third embodiment shown in Figure 7 is the same as the schematic configuration of the control device 150 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 3.

[0105] In the radiography system 100-2 according to the third embodiment, the control unit 210 of the radiography apparatus 110 controls the operation related to radiography according to the type of motion detected by the detection unit 250 for each of the multiple imaging protocols in radiography.

[0106] Figure 10 is a diagram showing an example of a motion setting management table 1000 that shows the relationship between the type of motion detected by the radiography apparatus 110 according to the third embodiment and the processing (control) of the apparatus itself and the linked processing (linked control) of other apparatuses when that motion is detected. In the motion setting management table 1000 shown in Figure 10, a "motion number," "motion definition," "processing (control)," and "linked processing (linked control)" are set for each of the multiple imaging protocols (imaging protocols 1 and 2 in Figure 10). In this embodiment, the motion setting management table 1000 shown in Figure 10 is assumed to be stored and managed in the storage unit 320 of the control device 150, but for example, the radiography apparatus 110 may acquire it from the control device 150 and store it in the storage unit 220. In addition, the radiography apparatus 110 acquires the imaging protocol information used for radiography from the control device 150.

[0107] Specifically, in the motion setting management table 1000 shown in Figure 10, imaging protocol 1 is an imaging protocol in which the radiographer S performs radiography with the radiography device 110 in a handheld (free) state. Also, in the motion setting management table 1000 shown in Figure 10, imaging protocol 2 is an imaging protocol in which radiography is performed with the radiography device 110 mounted on the standing stand K2. Below, we will describe the motion settings when imaging protocol 1 uses the first radiography device 110-1 and imaging protocol 2 uses the second radiography device 110-2.

[0108] In the imaging protocol 1 (free) shown in Figure 10, the first radiography apparatus 110-1 may come into contact with the subject H or the examination table when preparing for radiography. As a result, the aforementioned contact by the first radiography apparatus 110-1 may be detected as a tapping operation, potentially leading to unintended processing. Taking this into consideration, in this embodiment, the imaging protocol 1 (free) in Figure 10 does not set the detection of motion due to tapping operations as a "motion definition," but only the detection of motion due to changes in posture is set. With this setting, the imaging protocol 1 (free) can perform processing (control) of its own device and other devices based on the detection of motion due to changes in posture without causing malfunctions due to the detection of tapping operations.

[0109] In the imaging protocol 1 (free) in Figure 10, the "motion numbers" are "1-1", "1-2", "1-3", and so on. Specifically, in "motion number: 1-1" in Figure 10, when the detection unit 250 of the first radiography apparatus 110-1 detects a change in posture within the range of 45 ± 5° in posture change time, the apparatus itself transitions to a state ready for imaging as part of its own processing (control). Furthermore, in "motion number: 1-1" in Figure 10, when a change in posture within the range of 45 ± 5° in posture change time is detected, the second radiography apparatus 110-2, via the control device 150, transitions to a standby state as part of its linked processing (linked control). Also, in "motion number: 1-2" in Figure 10, when the detection unit 250 of the first radiography apparatus 110-1 detects a change in posture within the range of 90 ± 5° in posture change time, the apparatus itself transitions to a standby state as part of its own processing (control). Furthermore, in "Motion Number: 1-3" of Figure 10, when the detection unit 250 of the first radiography apparatus 110-1 detects a change in posture within the range of 180 ± 5° in posture change time, the apparatus itself is powered ON as part of its processing (control). In addition, in "Motion Number: 1-3" of Figure 10, when a change in posture within the range of 180 ± 5° in posture change time is detected, the second radiography apparatus 110-2 is powered OFF as part of its interlocking processing (interlocking control) via the control device 150.

[0110] In the imaging protocol 2 (standing stand) shown in Figure 10, the second radiography device 110-2 is often used continuously while mounted on the standing stand K2. Taking this into consideration, in this embodiment, in the imaging protocol 2 (standing stand) shown in Figure 10, the "motion definition" does not include detection of motion due to changes in posture, but only detection of motion due to tapping.

[0111] In the imaging protocol 2 (standing stand) in Figure 10, the "motion numbers" are "2-1", "2-2", "2-3", "2-4", and so on. Specifically, in "motion number: 2-1" in Figure 10, when the detection unit 250 of the second radiography apparatus 110-2 detects one tap within the tap detection time, the imaging protocol is selected as the processing (control) of the apparatus itself. The imaging protocol selected here is the imaging protocol stored in the control device 150 and displayed on the display device 180. Furthermore, in "motion number: 2-2" in Figure 10, when the detection unit 250 of the second radiography apparatus 110-2 detects two taps within the tap detection time, the apparatus itself transitions to the imaging preparation state as the processing (control) of the apparatus itself. In addition, in "motion number: 2-2" in Figure 10, when two taps are detected within the tap detection time, the first radiography apparatus 110-1 is transitioned to the standby state as the interlocking processing (interlocking control) via the control device 150. Furthermore, in "Motion Number 2-3" of Figure 10, when the detection unit 250 of the second radiography apparatus 110-2 detects three taps within the tap detection time, the device itself transitions to a standby state as part of its own processing (control). Also, in "Motion Number 2-4" of Figure 10, when the detection unit 250 of the second radiography apparatus 110-2 detects four taps within the tap detection time, the device itself turns on its power as part of its own processing (control). Moreover, in "Motion Number 2-4" of Figure 10, when four taps are detected within the tap detection time, the power of the first radiography apparatus 110-1 is turned OFF as part of the interlocking processing (interlocking control) of the control device 150.

[0112] In the third embodiment, the control unit 210 of the radiography apparatus 110 controls the radiography operations of its own apparatus according to the type of motion detected by the detection unit 250 for each of the multiple imaging protocols ("Processing (Control)" in Figure 10). Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the control unit 210 of the radiography apparatus 110 controls the radiography operations of other apparatuses according to the type of motion detected by the detection unit 250 for each of the multiple imaging protocols ("Interlocking Processing (Interlocking Control)" in Figure 10).

[0113] With this configuration, the operation of the radiography apparatus 110 can be controlled for each of the multiple imaging protocols used in radiography. This makes it possible to construct a radiography system 100-2 that can control the operation of the radiography apparatus 110 by detecting motion suitable for various usage modes of the radiography apparatus 110.

[0114] (Other Embodiments) The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and by having one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that implements one or more functions.

[0115] This program and a computer-readable storage medium storing said program are included in the present invention.

[0116] The embodiments of the present invention described above are merely examples of how the invention can be implemented, and the technical scope of the invention should not be interpreted as being limited by them. In other words, the present invention can be implemented in various forms without departing from its technical concept or its main features.

[0117] This embodiment includes the following configurations, methods, and programs.

[0118] [Configuration 1] A radiography apparatus that detects incident radiation and performs radiography of a subject, comprising: detection means for detecting motion given to the radiography apparatus; and control means for controlling the operation related to radiography according to the type of motion detected by the detection means.

[0119] [Configuration 2] The radiography apparatus according to Configuration 1, characterized in that the control means controls the operation of the radiography apparatus according to the type of motion.

[0120] [Configuration 3] The radiography apparatus according to Configuration 1 or 2, characterized in that the detection means detects at least the operation of a tap given to the radiography apparatus as the motion.

[0121] [Configuration 4] The radiography apparatus according to Configuration 3, characterized in that the type of motion includes a different number of taps in a first predetermined time.

[0122] [Configuration 5] The radiography apparatus according to Configuration 1 or 2, characterized in that the detection means detects at least the motion of a change in posture applied to the radiography apparatus as the motion.

[0123] [Configuration 6] The radiography apparatus according to Configuration 5, characterized in that the type of motion includes different angles of the posture change during a second predetermined time.

[0124] [Configuration 7] The radiography apparatus according to any one of Configurations 1 to 6, characterized in that the control means controls the operation related to radiography for each of the multiple imaging protocols in the radiography according to the type of motion.

[0125] [Configuration 8] The radiography apparatus according to any one of Configurations 1 to 7, characterized in that the detection means includes at least one sensor from among an acceleration sensor and an angular velocity sensor as a sensor for detecting the motion.

[0126] [Configuration 9] A radiography system characterized by comprising: a radiography apparatus described in any one of Configurations 1 to 8; and a control device for controlling the radiography apparatus.

[0127] [Configuration 10] The radiography system according to Configuration 9, further comprising a display device that displays the type of motion and the operation related to radiography in association with each other.

[0128] [Configuration 11] The radiography system according to configuration 9 or 10, further comprising another radiography device different from the radiography device, wherein the control device controls the operation of the other radiography device according to the type of motion detected by the detection means of the radiography device.

[0129] [Configuration 12] The radiography system according to any one of Configurations 9 to 11, characterized in that the control device has setting means for setting operations related to radiography according to the type of motion detected by the detection means of the radiography apparatus.

[0130] [Method 1] A method for controlling a radiographic apparatus that detects incident radiation and performs radiographic imaging of a subject, comprising: a detection step for detecting motion given to the radiographic apparatus; and a control step for controlling the operation related to radiographic imaging according to the type of motion detected in the detection step.

[0131] [Program 1] A program for causing a computer to function as one of the means of the radiography apparatus described in any one of configurations 1 to 8.

[0132] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following claims are attached to make the scope of the invention public.

[0133] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2025-006939, filed on 17 January 2025, and all of its contents are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A radiography apparatus for detecting incident radiation and performing radiography of a subject, comprising: detection means for detecting motion given to the radiography apparatus; and control means for controlling the operation related to radiography according to the type of motion detected by the detection means.

2. The radiography apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means controls the operation of the radiography apparatus according to the type of motion.

3. The radiography apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the detection means detects at least the operation of a tap applied to the radiography apparatus as the motion.

4. The radiography apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that the type of motion includes a different number of taps in a first predetermined time.

5. The radiography apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the detection means detects at least the motion of a change in posture applied to the radiography apparatus as the motion.

6. The radiography apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that the type of motion includes different angles of the change in posture during a second predetermined time.

7. The radiography apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means controls the operation related to radiography for each of the multiple imaging protocols in the radiography according to the type of motion.

8. The radiography apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the detection means includes at least one sensor selected from an acceleration sensor and an angular velocity sensor as a sensor for detecting the motion.

9. A radiography system comprising: a radiography apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8; and a control device for controlling the radiography apparatus.

10. The radiography system according to claim 9, further comprising a display device that displays the type of motion and the operation related to radiography in association.

11. The radiography system according to claim 9, further comprising another radiography device different from the radiography device, wherein the control device controls the operation of the other radiography device according to the type of motion detected by the detection means of the radiography device.

12. The radiography system according to claim 9, characterized in that the control device has setting means for setting operations related to radiography according to the type of motion detected by the detection means of the radiography apparatus.

13. A control method for a radiographic apparatus that detects incident radiation and performs radiographic imaging of a subject, comprising: a detection step for detecting motion given to the radiographic apparatus; and a control step for controlling the operation related to radiographic imaging according to the type of motion detected in the detection step.

14. A program for causing a computer to function as one of the means of a radiographic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

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