JP2010046211A - Optical system adjusting method for multi-tube x-ray ct apparatus, its apparatus and optical system adjusting program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To perform alignment adjustment in Z axis directions of each other of a plurality of optical systems in a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus. <P>SOLUTION: A path X-ray rp from a first X-ray tube 10-1 is detected by a path X-ray detector 22 in a second X-ray detector 11-2, a deviation amount d<SB>30</SB>between the first X-ray tube 10-1 and the second X-ray detector 11-2 is measured on the basis of a path X-ray detection signal pp outputted from the path X-ray detector 22, the second X-ray detector 11-2 is moved in a Z<SB>2</SB>axial direction according to the deviation amount d<SB>30</SB>, and the first X-ray tube 10-1 and the second X-ray detector 11-2 are aligned. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an optical system adjustment method and apparatus for a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus including a plurality of X-ray tubes, and an optical system adjustment program.

  In the single tube X-ray CT apparatus, an X-ray tube that outputs X-rays and an X-ray detector that detects X-rays transmitted through a subject are arranged to face each other. The X-ray tube is provided with an upper slit and a lower slit as an X-ray diaphragm mechanism, and a wedge as an attenuation mechanism (filter). The upper slit and the lower slit are arranged immediately below the X-ray tube. A wedge is also arranged directly under the X-ray tube. The upper slit restricts the FAN angle direction and the cone angle direction of X-rays output from the X-ray tube. The lower slit limits the cone angle direction and determines the slice width. The wedge mainly limits X-rays in the FAN angular direction.

  In such a single-tube X-ray CT apparatus, for example, an error occurs in the processing state of the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector and in the arrangement position of the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector in the assembly process of the X-ray tube. For this reason, in the single tube X-ray CT apparatus, alignment adjustment between the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector is performed. Since the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector are a pair, alignment adjustment among the X-ray tube, the lower slit, and the X-ray detector aligns the X-ray tube with the lower slit as a reference. FIG. 9 shows a configuration diagram of an optical system of the X-ray CT apparatus. The optical system 1 includes a pair of X-ray tubes 1a and an X-ray detector 1b. The X-ray tube 1 a and the X-ray detector 1 b rotate and move on a circular orbit 3 centered on the rotation center 2.

  The alignment adjustment between the X-ray tube 1a and the X-ray detector 1b is performed according to a work flowchart shown in FIG. An alignment pin is arranged at the rotation center 2. The alignment adjustment is performed in step # 1 by determining whether or not the overload process (OLP) is, for example, 40 to 60%, that is, whether the X-ray tube 1a is operating at a load of, for example, 40 to 60%. If the load is not operating, the process proceeds to step # 2 where the X-ray tube 1a is warmed up.

If the X-ray tube 1a is operating at a load of 40 to 60%, for example, the process proceeds to step # 3, and the X-ray tube 1a is moved in the Z-axis direction. In this case, compared with the X-ray detection signals p ₁ and the reference position s ₁ output from the X-ray detector 1b as shown in FIG. 11, the deviation amount between the X-ray detection signals p ₁ and the reference position s ₁ d ₁ is measured.
Next, at step # 4, it is determined whether the deviation amount d ₁ is within the allowable range (e.g., ± 0.10 mm), the result of this determination, unless the deviation amount d ₁ is within the allowable range, step Moving to # 5, the X-ray tube 1a is moved in the Z-axis direction, and alignment adjustment in the Z-axis direction is performed. The Z-axis direction is also referred to as a body axis direction, a bed feeding direction, a bed longitudinal direction, and a front-rear direction.

Results of the determination, if it is within the deviation amount _{d 1} is the allowable range, the flow proceeds to step # 6, again, overload process (OLP) whether, for example 40% to 60%, that is, X-ray tube 1a for example It is determined whether it is operating at a load of 40 to 60%. If it is not operating at such a load, the process proceeds to step # 7, where the X-ray tube 1a is warmed up.
If the X-ray tube 1a is operating at a load of 40 to 60%, for example, the process proceeds to Step # 8, and the X-ray tube 1a is moved in the X-axis direction (left-right direction). In this case, compared with the X-ray detection signal p ₂ and the reference position s ₂ output from the X-ray detector 1b as shown in FIG. 12, the deviation amount between the X-ray detection signal p ₂ and the reference position s ₂ d ₂ is measured.

Next, at step # 9, the deviation amount d ₂ is determined whether or not within the allowable range (e.g., ± 0.05 mm), the result of this determination, if not within tolerance displacement amount d _2, step Moving to # 10, the X-ray tube 1a is moved in the X-axis direction, and alignment adjustment in the X-axis direction is performed.
Result of the above determination, if it is within the deviation amount d ₂ is the allowable range, the alignment adjustment is completed.
In recent years, a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus has been used. This multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus includes a plurality of X-ray tubes, and includes a plurality of optical systems including pairs of X-ray tubes and X-ray detectors. In such a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus, each alignment between each pair of X-ray tubes for each optical system, the lower slit, and the X-ray detector must be performed. Further, in the multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus, it is necessary to adjust the alignment in the Z-axis direction between the optical systems. That is, it is necessary to align the centers of the slices acquired by the optical systems. However, at present, there is no method for adjusting the alignment of the Z-axis directions between the optical systems.
JP 2006-271723 A

  An object of the present invention is to provide an optical system adjustment method and apparatus for a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus capable of adjusting the alignment of a plurality of optical systems in the Z-axis direction, and an optical system adjustment program.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an optical system adjustment method for a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus having at least two optical systems in which an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector are paired. A first step of adjusting each alignment between the X-ray tube and each X-ray detector, and X-rays output from the X-ray tube of one of the at least two optical systems as X-rays of the other optical system A second step of detecting by a detector and adjusting alignment between one optical system and the other optical system based on the X-ray detection result; and an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector in the other optical system. And an optical system adjustment method for a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus having a third step of performing alignment adjustment.

  According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an optical system adjusting apparatus for a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus having at least two optical systems in which an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector are paired. A first means for adjusting each alignment between the X-ray tube and each X-ray detector, and an X-ray output from the X-ray tube of one of the at least two optical systems is converted to an X-ray of the other optical system; A second means for detecting alignment by the detector and adjusting alignment between the one optical system and the other optical system based on the X-ray detection result; and an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector in the other optical system. And an optical system adjusting device of a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus comprising a third means for adjusting alignment.

  According to the nineteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an optical system adjustment program for a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus, which is executed by a computer and has at least two optical systems in which an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector are paired. Each alignment adjustment between each X-ray tube and each X-ray detector in the optical system is executed, and the X-rays output from the X-ray tube of one of the at least two optical systems are converted to the X of the other optical system. Detected by a line detector, based on the X-ray detection result, the alignment adjustment between one optical system and the other optical system is executed, and the alignment adjustment between the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector in the other optical system is performed. It is an optical system adjustment program of the multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus to be executed.

  The present invention can provide an optical system adjustment method and apparatus for a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus capable of adjusting the alignment of a plurality of optical systems in the Z-axis direction, and an optical system adjustment program.

Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 shows a configuration diagram of an optical system adjustment device of a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus. The apparatus is provided with a first optical system (main optical system) 10 and a second optical system (sub optical system) 11. The first optical system 10 includes a first X-ray tube 10-1 and a first X-ray detector 10-2. The second optical system 11 includes a second X-ray tube 11-1 and a second X-ray detector 11-2. Each of the first optical system 10 and the second optical system 11 rotates and moves on a circular orbit 14 centered on the rotation center 13. Each of the first X-ray detector 10-2 and the second X-ray detector 11-2 includes a plurality of X-ray detection elements arranged in the vertical and horizontal directions. The first optical system 10 _has an axial X ₁ Y 1 _{Z 1,} the second optical system 11 _has an axial X ₂ Y 2 _{Z 2.}

The first X-ray tube 10-1 is provided with an upper slit and a lower slit as an X-ray diaphragm mechanism and a wedge as an attenuation mechanism (filter). FIG. 2 shows a configuration diagram of the wedge 15. The wedge 15 is used at the time of alignment adjustment between the first optical system 10 and the second optical system 11. The wedge 15 limits the fan angle direction of the X-ray r ₁ output from the first X-ray tube 10-1. Path site This wedge 15, through the second part r _p of X-ray r ₁ in the X-ray detector 11-2 of another second optical system 11 and the first optical system 10 to which it belongs An X-ray pass hole 16 is provided. The X-ray path hole 16 is output from the first X-ray tube 10-1, the outer angular direction than the original FAN angle direction of the X-ray _{r 1} that is incident on the first X-ray detector 10-1 It is provided along. Therefore, the wedge 15 passes a part (hereinafter referred to as “pass X-ray”) rp of the X-ray r ₁ output from the first X-ray tube 10-1 and passes through the second X-ray of the second optical system 11. The light is incident on one end of the detector 11-2.

  The second X-ray tube 11-1 is also provided with an upper slit and a lower slit as an X-ray diaphragm mechanism, and a wedge as an attenuation mechanism (filter). This wedge may also be provided with an X-ray pass hole similar to the wedge 15 shown in FIG. The wedge 15 is used at the time of alignment adjustment. When acquiring CT image data of a subject such as a human body using a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus, the wedge 15 is replaced with a normal wedge in which the X-ray pass hole 16 is not provided.

A first alignment measurement unit 17 is provided in the first X-ray detector 10-2. The first alignment measurement unit 17, the X-ray detection signal _{p 10} output from the first X-ray detector 10-2 type, move the first X-ray tube 10-1 _{Z 1} axial direction when brought into, comparing the first 1 X-ray detection signal _{p 10} is outputted from the X-ray detector 10-2 and the reference position _{s 10} as shown in FIG. 3, X-ray detection signal _{p 10} and the reference position s _The amount of deviation d ₁₀ from ₁₀ is measured. This deviation d ₁₀ is sent to the display unit 18.
The first alignment measurement unit 17, the X-ray detection signal _{p 10} output from the first X-ray detector 10-2 type, a first X-ray tube 10-1 to _{X 1} axial direction when the moved, first by comparing the X-ray detection signal p ₁₀ and the reference position s ₁₁ output from the X-ray detector 10-2, X-ray detection signal p ₁₀ and the reference position as shown in FIG. 4 measuring the displacement amount _{d 11} and s _11. This deviation d ₁₁ is sent to the display unit 18.

A first alignment adjusting mechanism 19 is provided in the first X-ray tube 10-1 and the first X-ray detector 10-2. The first alignment adjusting mechanism 19, not within the measured displacement amount _{d 10} is the allowable range when the first X-ray tube 10-1 is moved in the _{Z 1} axial direction (e.g., ± 0.10 mm) in the first X-ray tube 10-1 moves to the _{Z 1} axial direction, the alignment adjustment to _{Z 1} axial direction.
Further, the first alignment adjusting mechanism 19 within the measured displacement amount _{d 11} is the allowable range when moving the first X-ray tube 10-1 to _{X 1} axial direction (e.g., ± 0.05 mm) if, the first X-ray tube 10-1 moves to the _{X 1} axis direction, the alignment adjustment to _{the X 1} axis direction.

On the other hand, the second alignment measurement unit 20 is provided in the second X-ray detector 11-2. The second alignment measuring section 20, the X-ray detection signal _{p 20} outputted from the second X-ray detector 11-2 type, move the second X-ray tube 11-1 _{Z 2} axial direction when brought into, compared with the second X-ray detection signal _{p 20} it is outputted from the X-ray detector 11-2 and the reference position _{s 20} as shown in FIG. 5, X-ray detection signal _{p 20} and the reference position s _The amount of deviation d ₂₀ from ₂₀ is measured. The deviation d ₂₀ is sent to the display unit 18.
Further, the second alignment measurement unit 20 receives the X-ray detection signal _{p 20} outputted from the second X-ray detector 11-2, a second X-ray tube 11-1 _{X 2} axial direction when the moved, comparing the X-ray detection signal p ₂₀ and the reference position s ₂₁ output from the second X-ray detector 11-2 as shown in FIG. 6, X-ray detection signal p ₂₀ and the reference position A deviation amount d ₂₁ from s ₂₁ is measured. The displacement amount _{d 21} is sent to the display unit 18.

A second alignment adjusting mechanism 21 is provided in the second X-ray tube 11-1 and the second X-ray detector 11-2. The second alignment adjusting mechanism 21, if not within the measured displacement amount d ₂₀ is the allowable range when the second X-ray tube 11-1 is moved in the Z ₂ axial direction, the second X-ray the tubes 11-1 moves to the _{Z 2} axial direction, the alignment adjustment to the _{Z 2} axial direction.
The second alignment adjusting mechanism 21, if not within the measured displacement amount d ₂₁ is the allowable range when moving the second X-ray tube 11-1 X ₂ axial direction, the second X move the line pipe 11-1 _{X 2} axial direction, the alignment adjustment for the _{X 2} axis direction.

  The second X-ray detector 11-2 has a path X-ray detector 22 as another optical system detector. The path X-ray detector 22 is output from the first X-ray tube 10-1 of the first optical system 10 different from the second optical system 11 and passes through the X-ray path hole 16. The line rp is detected and a path X-ray detection signal pp is output. The path X-ray detector 22 is provided at one end of the second X-ray detector 11-2. The path X-ray detector 22 is provided integrally with the second X-ray detector 11-2. The path X-ray detector 22 may use a plurality of X-ray detection elements at the end of the existing second X-ray detector 11-2. The path X-ray detector 22 may be provided separately from the second X-ray detector 11-2 and dedicated to the detection of the path X-ray rp.

The path alignment measurement unit 23 outputs the path X-ray rp output from the first X-ray tube 10-1 and passed through the X-ray pass hole 16 by the path X-ray detector 22 in the second X-ray detector. A path X-ray detection signal pp at the time of detection is input, and a deviation amount d ₃₀ between the path X-ray detection signal pp and the reference alignment position s ₃₀ is measured as shown in FIG. The deviation d ₃₀ is sent to the display unit 18.

Here, if not within the allowable range shift amount d ₃₀ is the first alignment adjusting mechanism 19, the second X-ray detector 11-2 moves to the Z ₂ axial direction, the first X-ray tube performing 10-1 and the second X-ray detector 11-2 mutual _{Z 1} axial direction and _{Z 2} axial and combined Komu alignment adjusted.

The display unit 18 is composed of a liquid crystal display, for example. The display unit 18 includes a shift amount d ₁₀ and a shift amount d ₁₁ measured by the first alignment measurement unit 17, a shift amount d ₂₀ and a shift amount d ₂₁ measured by the second alignment measurement unit 20, and a path alignment. The shift amount d ₃₀ measured by the measurement unit 23 is displayed on the liquid crystal display.

Next, the alignment adjustment of the optical system of the multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus by the apparatus configured as described above will be described with reference to the alignment adjustment work flowchart shown in FIG.
The alignment adjustment of the first optical system 10 is performed in step # 20, and the alignment adjustment of the second optical system 11 is performed in step # 21. Each alignment of these optical systems 10 and 11 is performed according to the work flowchart shown in FIG.

For alignment adjustment of the first optical system 10, an alignment pin is arranged at the rotation center 13, and in step # 1, it is determined whether the X-ray tube 10-1 is operating at a load of 40 to 60%, for example. If the load is not operating, the process proceeds to step # 2 where the X-ray tube 10-1 is warmed up. If the X-ray tube 10-1 is operated at 40% to 60% of the load for example, the flow proceeds to step # 3, the X-ray tube 10-1 is moved to the _{Z 1} axial direction by the first alignment adjusting mechanism 19. At this time, the first alignment measurement unit 17 compares the X-ray detection signal p ₁₀ and the reference position s ₁₀ output from the X-ray detector 10-2 as shown in FIG. 3, X-ray detection signal p the displacement amount _{d 10} between ₁₀ and the reference position _{s 10} is measured. The displacement amount d ₁₀ is displayed on the liquid crystal display of the display unit 18.

Next, at step # 4, you are determined whether the deviation amount _{d 10} is within the allowable range (e.g., ± 0.10 mm), the result of this determination, unless the deviation amount _{d 10} is within the allowable range, step # moves to 5, a first alignment adjusting mechanism 19 moves the X-ray tube 10-1 _{Z 1} axial direction, the alignment adjustment to _{Z 1} axial direction. Result of the above determination, if it is within the allowable range displacement amount d _10, moves to step # 6, again, it is determined whether the X-ray tube 10 - is operating at 40% to 60% of the load for example, such loading If not, the process proceeds to step # 7 where the X-ray tube 10-1 is warmed up.

If the X-ray tube 10-1 is operated at 40% to 60% of the load for example, the flow proceeds to step # 8, the X-ray tube 10-1 by the first alignment adjusting mechanism 19 _{X 1} axial direction (horizontal direction) Move to. At this time, the first alignment measurement unit 17 compares the X-ray detection signal p ₁₀ and the reference position s ₁₁ output from the X-ray detector 10-2 as shown in FIG. 4, X-ray detection signal p A deviation amount d ₁₁ between ₁₀ and the reference position s ₁₁ is measured. The displacement amount d ₁₁ is displayed on the liquid crystal display of the display unit 18.

Next, at step # 9, the deviation amount _{d 11} is determined whether it is within the allowable range (e.g., ± 0.05 mm), the result of this determination, unless the deviation amount _{d 11} is within the allowable range, the 1 of the alignment adjusting mechanism 19 proceeds to step # 10, to move the X-ray tube 10-1 to _{X 1} axial direction, the alignment adjustment to _{the X 1} axis direction. As a result of the above determination, if the deviation d ₁₁ is within the allowable range, the alignment adjustment ends.

In alignment adjustment of the second optical system 11, an alignment pin is disposed at the rotation center 13, and in step # 1, it is determined whether the X-ray tube 11-1 is operating at a load of 40 to 60%, for example. If the load is not operating, the process proceeds to step # 2 where the X-ray tube 11-1 is warmed up. If the X-ray tube 11-1 is operated at 40% to 60% of the load for example, the flow proceeds to step # 3, the X-ray tube 11 - is moved to the _{Z 2} axial direction by the second alignment adjusting mechanism 21. In this case, the second alignment measurement unit 23 compares the X-ray detection signal p ₂₀ and the reference position s ₂₀ output from the X-ray detector 11-2 as shown in FIG. 5, X-ray detection signal p A deviation amount d ₂₀ between ₂₀ and the reference position s ₂₀ is measured. The displacement amount d ₂₀ is displayed on the liquid crystal display of the display unit 18.

Next, at step # 4, it is determined whether the deviation amount _{d 20} is within the allowable range (e.g., ± 0.10 mm), the result of this determination, if not within tolerance displacement amount _{d 20,} step # moves to 5, X-ray tube 11 - the second alignment adjusting mechanism 21 is moved in the _{Z 2} axial direction, the alignment adjustment to the _{Z 2} axial direction is performed. If the deviation d ₂₀ is within the allowable range as a result of the above determination, the process proceeds to step # 6 to determine again whether the X-ray tube 11-1 is operating at a load of 40 to 60%, for example. If not, the process proceeds to step # 7 where the X-ray tube 11-1 is warmed up. If the X-ray tube 11 - is operating at 40% to 60% of the load for example, the flow proceeds to step # 8, the X-ray tube 11 - the second alignment adjusting mechanism 21 _{X 2} axial direction (horizontal direction) Move to. In this case, the second alignment measurement unit 23 compares the X-ray detection signal p ₂₀ and the reference position s ₂₁ output from the X-ray detector 11-2 as shown in FIG. 6, X-ray detection signal p A deviation amount d ₂₁ between ₂₀ and the reference position s ₂₁ is measured. The deviation d ₂₁ is displayed on the liquid crystal display of the display unit 18.

Next, at step # 9, the deviation amount _{d 21} is determined whether it is within the allowable range (e.g., ± 0.05 mm), the result of this determination, unless the deviation amount _{d 21} is within the allowable range, step # moves to 10, X-ray tube 11 - the second alignment adjusting mechanism 21 is moved in the _{X 2} axis direction, the alignment adjustment to the _{X 2} axis direction is performed. As a result of the above determination, if the deviation d ₂₁ is within the allowable range, the alignment adjustment is finished.

  When the alignment adjustment of the first optical system 10 is completed, in step # 22, it is determined whether the X-ray tube 10-1 of the optical system 10 is operating at a load of 40 to 60%, for example. If not, the process proceeds to step # 23 where the X-ray tube 10-1 is warmed up. If the X-ray tube 10-1 is operating at a load of 40 to 60%, for example, the process proceeds to step # 24, and alignment adjustment between the first optical system 10 and the second optical system 11 is performed.

The alignment adjustment between the first optical system 10 and the second optical system 11 is performed by using the first alignment adjustment mechanism 19 to emit X-rays from the first X-ray tube 10-1 in the first optical system 10. It is output, and to move the first X-ray tube 10-1 _{Z 1} axial direction. The X-rays output from the first X-ray tube 10-1 pass through the X-ray pass hole 16 provided in the wedge 15 as shown in FIG. The light enters the path X-ray detector 22 provided at one end of 11-2. The path X-ray detector 22 detects a path X-ray rp that has passed through the X-ray path hole 16 and outputs a path X-ray detection signal pp.

Path alignment measurement unit 23 inputs the path X-ray detection signals pp output from the path for X-ray detector 22, the deviation of the path X-ray detection signals pp and the reference alignment position s ₃₀ as shown in FIG. 7 measuring the amount _{d 30.} The deviation d ₃₀ is displayed on the liquid crystal display of the display unit 18.

Next, in step # 25, if not within the allowable range shift amount _{d 30} is the second alignment adjusting mechanism 21, in step # 26, the second X-ray detector 11-2 _{Z 2} axial direction move, Komu combined with each other in the Z-axis direction and Z ₂ axial direction of Z ₁ axial direction and the second optical system 11 of the first optical system 10. Thereby, the 1st X-ray tube 10-1 and the 2nd X-ray detector 11-2 are aligned.

  Returning to step # 22 again, it is determined whether or not the X-ray tube 10-1 is operating at a load of, for example, 40 to 60%. -1 warm-up is performed. If the X-ray tube 10-1 is operating at a load of 40 to 60%, for example, the process proceeds to step # 24, and again the first X-ray tube 10-1 and the second X-ray detector 11-2 Alignment measurements between are performed.

If the deviation d ₃₀ between the first X-ray tube 10-1 and the second X-ray detector 11-2 is within the allowable range as a result of the alignment measurement, the process proceeds to step # 27, and the second For example, it is determined whether the X-ray tube 11-1 of the optical system 11 is operating at a load of 40 to 60%, for example. Warm up is performed. If the X-ray tube 11-1 is operating at a load of 40 to 60%, for example, the process proceeds to step # 29, and the alignment measurement of the second optical system 11 is performed.

In the alignment measurement of the second optical system 11, the X-ray tube 11-1 is moved in the Z ₂ axis direction by the second alignment adjustment mechanism 21. In this case, the second alignment measurement unit 23 compares the second X-ray detection signal p ₂₀ is outputted from the X-ray detector 11-2 and the reference position s ₂₀ as shown in FIG. 5, X-ray A deviation amount d ₂₀ between the detection signal p ₂₀ and the reference position s ₂₀ is measured. The displacement amount d ₂₀ is displayed on the liquid crystal display of the display unit 18.

Next, in Step # 30, it is determined whether the deviation amount _{d 20} is within the allowable range (e.g., ± 0.10 mm), the result of this determination, if not within tolerance displacement amount _{d 20,} the 2 of the alignment adjusting mechanism 21, in step # 31, the second X-ray tube 11 - is moved to the _{Z 2} axial direction, the alignment adjustment to the _{Z 2} axial direction is performed.

As described above, according to the first embodiment, the path X-ray rp output from the first X-ray tube 10-1 and passed through the X-ray path hole 16 of the wedge 15 is converted into the second X-ray detector. The first X-ray tube 10-1 and the second X-ray are detected by the path X-ray detector 22 in 11-2 and based on the path X-ray detection signal pp output from the path X-ray detector 22. the displacement amount _{d 30} between the detector 11-2 is measured, in accordance with the deviation amount _{d 30} a second X-ray detector 11-2 moves to the _{Z 2} axial direction, the first X-ray tube 10 1 and the second X-ray detector 11-2 are aligned. Accordingly, the first optical system 10 and the second optical system 11 can be aligned with each other between the Z ₁ axis direction of the _first optical system 10 and the Z ₂ axis direction of the second optical system 11. Can be easily adjusted in a short time. However, the centers of the slices acquired by the first optical system 10 and the second optical system 11 can be aligned, and CT can be performed at high speed using the first optical system 10 and the second optical system 11. Image data can be acquired.

  Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment as it is, and can be embodied by modifying the constituent elements without departing from the scope of the invention in the implementation stage. In addition, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining a plurality of components disclosed in the embodiment. For example, some components may be deleted from all the components shown in the embodiment. Furthermore, constituent elements over different embodiments may be appropriately combined.

In the first embodiment, the case where the second optical system 11 is aligned with respect to the first optical system 10 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The optical system 11 may be adjusted in alignment. In this case, a wedge having an X-ray pass hole is disposed in the second X-ray tube 11-1, and a path X-ray detector is provided at one end of the first X-ray detector 10-2. Then, the path X-ray output from the second X-ray tube 11-1 and passing through the X-ray path hole of the wedge is detected by the path X-ray detector in the first X-ray detector 10-2. The amount of deviation between the second X-ray tube 11-1 and the first X-ray detector 10-2 is measured based on the path X-ray detection signal output from the X-ray detector, and the amount of deviation is measured. the first X-ray detector 10-2 moves to the _{Z 1} axial direction, aligning the second X-ray tube 11 - the first X-ray detector 10-2 in accordance.

The alignment adjustment between the first optical system 10 and the second optical system 11 includes the alignment of the second optical system 11 with respect to the first optical system 10 and the first optical system with respect to the second optical system 11. You may make it perform both alignment with 10 alignment. That is, as described in the first embodiment, the wedge 15 provided with the X-ray pass hole 16 is arranged in the first X-ray tube 10-1, and the second X-ray detector 11-2. A path X-ray detector 22 is provided at one end of the X-ray tube, and a path X-ray rp output from the first X-ray tube 10-1 and passing through the X-ray path hole 16 of the wedge 15 is converted into a second X-ray detector. The first X-ray tube 10-1 and the second X-ray are detected by the path X-ray detector 22 in 11-2 and based on the path X-ray detection signal pp output from the path X-ray detector 22. the displacement amount _{d 30} between the detector 11-2 is measured, in accordance with the deviation amount _{d 30} a second X-ray detector 11-2 moves to the _{Z 2} axial direction, the first X-ray tube 10 1 and the second X-ray detector 11-2 are aligned.

At the same time, a wedge having an X-ray pass hole is disposed in the second X-ray tube 11-1, and a path X-ray detector is provided at one end of the first X-ray detector 10-2. Path X-rays output from the second X-ray tube 11-1 and passed through the X-ray path hole of the wedge are detected by the path X-ray detector in the first X-ray detector 10-2, and the path X-rays are detected. Based on the path X-ray detection signal output from the detector, the amount of deviation between the second X-ray tube 11-1 and the first X-ray detector 10-2 is measured, and the first amount is determined according to this amount of deviation. the X-ray detector 10-2 moves to the _{Z 1} axial direction, aligning the second X-ray tube 11 - the first X-ray detector 10-2.

  Thereby, by performing both alignment of the alignment of the 2nd optical system 11 with respect to the 1st optical system 10, and the alignment of the 1st optical system 10 with respect to the 2nd optical system 11, it can raise the precision of alignment. .

The path X-ray detector 22 is not limited to being provided at one end of the second X-ray detector 11-2, but may be provided at the other end. In this case, the X-ray pass hole 16 is provided in the wedge 15 so that the pass X-ray is incident on the other end of the second X-ray detector 11-2.
In the first embodiment, the alignment between the two optical systems of the first optical system 10 and the second optical system 11 has been described. However, the first embodiment also applies to the alignment between two or more optical systems. Is possible.
First and alignment adjustment of the first X-ray tube 10-1 by the alignment adjusting mechanism 19 for Z ₁ axial direction by moving the Z ₁ axial direction, the second X-ray tube according to the second alignment adjusting mechanism 21 11-1 the alignment adjustment for the X ₂ axis direction by moving the X ₂ axis direction, is intended to include also manual adjustment by each operator.

The block diagram which shows 1st Embodiment of the optical system adjustment apparatus of the multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus which concerns on this invention. The block diagram of the wedge in the apparatus. It shows a Z ₁ axial alignment of the first optical system in the apparatus. It shows the X ₁ axial alignment of the first optical system in the apparatus. It shows a Z ₂ axial alignment of the second optical system in the apparatus. It shows the X ₂ axial alignment of the second optical system in the apparatus. The figure which shows the deviation | shift amount of the Z-axis direction of the 1st and 2nd optical system in the same apparatus. The flowchart of the alignment adjustment in the same apparatus. The block diagram which shows the optical system of a single tube X-ray CT apparatus. The flowchart of the alignment adjustment in the same apparatus. The figure which shows the alignment adjustment of the Z-axis direction in the same apparatus. The figure which shows the alignment adjustment of the X-axis direction in the same apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

  10: first optical system (main optical system), 11: second optical system (sub optical system), 10-1: first X-ray tube, 10-2: first X-ray detector, 11 -1: second X-ray tube, 11-2: second X-ray detector, 13: rotation center, 14: orbit, 15: wedge, 16: X-ray pass hole, 17: first alignment measurement unit , 18: display unit, 19: first alignment adjustment mechanism, 20: second alignment measurement unit, 21: second alignment adjustment mechanism, 22: path X-ray detector, 23: path alignment measurement unit.

Claims (20)

In an optical system adjustment method for a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus having at least two optical systems comprising an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector as a pair,
A first step of performing each alignment adjustment between each X-ray tube and each X-ray detector in the at least two optical systems;
The X-ray output from the X-ray tube of one of the at least two optical systems is detected by the X-ray detector of the other optical system, and the one is based on the X-ray detection result. A second step of adjusting the alignment between the optical system of the second optical system and the other optical system;
A third step of performing alignment adjustment between the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector in the other optical system;
A method for adjusting an optical system of a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus, comprising:   In the first step, the respective X-ray tubes and the respective X-ray detectors in the at least two optical systems are adjusted for alignment in the Z-axis direction and the X-axis direction, respectively. Item 5. A method for adjusting an optical system of a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus according to Item 1. In the second step, the X-ray tube of the one optical system is moved in the Z-axis direction, and the X-ray output from the X-ray tube of the one optical system is transferred to the other optical system. Detected by an X-ray detector,
Whether the X-ray detector of the other optical system is displaced with respect to the X-ray tube of the one optical system based on the X-ray detection result of the X-ray detector of the other optical system Determining whether or not the position is shifted, the alignment adjustment of the X-ray detector of the other optical system in the Z-axis direction,
The method of adjusting an optical system of a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1. The second step inputs an X-ray detection signal output from the X-ray detector of the other optical system, measures an alignment position of the other optical system with respect to the one optical system,
It is determined whether or not the amount of deviation of the alignment measurement position from the reference alignment position is within an allowable range. If the amount of deviation is not within the allowable range, the X-ray detector of the other optical system is Adjust the alignment in the axial direction,
The method of adjusting an optical system of a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1. Each X-ray tube restricts the X-ray in the fan angle direction, and forms a path portion for passing the X-ray to the X-ray detector of the optical system different from the optical system to which the X-ray tube belongs. Using each damping member made,
The second step includes outputting the X-ray output from the X-ray tube of one of the at least two optical systems and passing through the path portion to the X-ray detector of the other optical system. And adjusting the alignment of the X-ray detector in the other optical system with respect to the X-ray tube in the one optical system based on the X-ray detection result.
The method of adjusting an optical system of a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1.   The optical of the multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the X-ray output from the X-ray tube passes through the path region and enters one end of the X-ray detector. System adjustment method.   The alignment adjustment of the other optical system with respect to the one optical system is performed by moving the X-ray detector in the other optical system in the Z-axis direction and moving the X-ray detector to the X in the one optical system. 6. The method of adjusting an optical system of a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the alignment is adjusted to the tube.   The multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the third step adjusts the alignment of the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector in the other optical system in the Z-axis direction. Optical system adjustment method. A first optical system comprising a pair of a first X-ray tube and a first X-ray detector, and a second optical system comprising a pair of a second X-ray tube and a second X-ray detector. In an optical system adjustment method of a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus having an optical system,
Adjusting the alignment of the first X-ray tube and the first X-ray detector in the first optical system in the Z-axis direction and the X-axis direction;
Adjusting the alignment of the second X-ray tube and the second X-ray detector in the second optical system in the Z-axis direction and the X-axis direction;
At least the first X-ray tube is formed with a path portion that restricts the X-ray in the fan angle direction and passes the X-ray output from the first X-ray tube to the second X-ray detector. The X-rays output from the first X-ray tube and passed through the path portion are detected by the second X-ray detector, and the first X-ray tube and the first X-ray tube are detected. Measure the alignment position with the X-ray detector of 2,
It is determined whether or not the amount of deviation of the alignment measurement position from the reference alignment position is within an allowable range. If the amount of deviation is not within the allowable range, the second X-ray detector is moved in the Z-axis direction. Move and adjust the alignment with respect to the first X-ray tube;
If the amount of deviation is within the allowable range, the second X-ray tube is moved in the Z-axis direction to adjust the alignment of the second X-ray tube and the second X-ray detector.
An optical system adjustment method for a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus. In an optical system adjustment apparatus of a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus having at least two optical systems formed by pairing an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector,
First means for adjusting each alignment between each X-ray tube and each X-ray detector in the at least two optical systems;
The X-ray output from the X-ray tube of one of the at least two optical systems is detected by the X-ray detector of the other optical system, and the one is based on the X-ray detection result. A second means for adjusting the alignment between the optical system of the second optical system and the other optical system;
A third means for adjusting the alignment between the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector in the other optical system;
An optical system adjustment apparatus for a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus. Alignment measuring means for inputting each X-ray detection signal output from each X-ray detector and measuring an alignment position of the other optical system with respect to at least the one optical system,
The alignment measuring means notifies the amount of deviation of the alignment position with respect to a reference alignment position based on the measurement result of the alignment position. If the amount of deviation is not within an allowable range, the X-ray detection of the other optical system is performed. Informing that the device is aligned in the Z-axis direction,
The optical system adjusting apparatus for a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 10. Each X-ray tube is provided with an attenuation member that restricts the X-ray in the fan angle direction,
Each attenuation member is formed with a path portion through which the X-ray passes through the X-ray detector of the optical system different from the optical system to which the attenuation member belongs.
The optical system adjusting apparatus for a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 10.   Each of the X-ray detectors includes a separate optical system detector that detects the X-rays output from the X-ray tube of the optical system different from the optical system to which the X-ray detector belongs. The optical system adjustment apparatus of the multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 10.   The multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the separate optical system detector is provided integrally with the X-ray detector or separately from the X-ray detector. Optical system adjustment device.   15. The optical system adjustment device for a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the separate optical system detector is provided integrally at an end of the X-ray detector. Alignment measuring means for inputting each X-ray detection signal output from each X-ray detector and measuring an alignment position of the other optical system with respect to at least the one optical system,
The alignment measuring means moves the X-ray tube of the one optical system in the Z-axis direction, and at this time, outputs the X-ray that has been output from the X-ray tube of the one optical system and passed through the path portion. Detecting by the X-ray detector of the other optical system and measuring the alignment position of the X-ray tube of the one optical system and the X-ray detector of the other optical system,
Based on the measurement result of the alignment position, a deviation amount of the alignment position with respect to a reference alignment position is notified, and if the deviation amount is not within an allowable range, the X-ray detector of the other optical system is moved in the Z-axis direction. To inform the X-ray tube of the one optical system to adjust the alignment,
The optical system adjusting apparatus of a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 12. The one optical system includes a first X-ray tube and a first X-ray detector,
The other optical system has a second X-ray tube and a second X-ray detector,
The alignment measurement unit measures an alignment position between the first X-ray tube and the second X-ray detector, and whether or not a deviation amount of the alignment measurement position with respect to a reference alignment position is within an allowable range. If the amount of deviation is not within the allowable range, the second X-ray detector is aligned in the Z-axis direction.
The optical system adjusting apparatus for a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 16. If the amount of deviation of the alignment measurement position with respect to the reference alignment position is within the allowable range, the alignment measurement means may include the second X-ray tube and the second X-ray detector in the other optical system. Adjusting the alignment in the Z-axis direction with
The optical system adjusting device for a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 17. In an optical system adjustment program for a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus, which is executed by a computer and has at least two optical systems comprising an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector as a pair,
Performing each alignment adjustment between each X-ray tube and each X-ray detector in the at least two optical systems;
The X-ray output from the X-ray tube of one of the at least two optical systems is detected by the X-ray detector of the other optical system, and the one is based on the X-ray detection result. Alignment adjustment of the other optical system and the other optical system is performed,
Executing alignment adjustment between the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector in the other optical system;
An optical system adjustment program for a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus. A first optical system that is executed by a computer and includes a pair of a first X-ray tube and a first X-ray detector, and a pair of a second X-ray tube and a second X-ray detector. An optical system adjustment program for a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus having a second optical system comprising:
Adjusting the alignment of the first X-ray tube and the first X-ray detector in the first optical system in the Z-axis direction and the X-axis direction;
Adjusting the alignment of the second X-ray tube and the second X-ray detector in the second optical system in the Z-axis direction and the X-axis direction;
At least the first member using an attenuation member that restricts the X-ray in the fan angle direction and has a path portion through which the X-ray output from the first X-ray tube passes through the second X-ray detector. The X-ray output from one X-ray tube and passing through the path portion is detected by the second X-ray detector, and the first X-ray tube and the second X-ray detector are aligned. Let me measure the position,
It is determined whether or not the amount of deviation of the alignment measurement position from the reference alignment position is within an allowable range. If the amount of deviation is not within the allowable range, the second X-ray detector is moved in the Z-axis direction. Execute alignment adjustment,
If the amount of deviation is within the allowable range, the second X-ray tube and the second X-ray detector are adjusted in the Z-axis direction.
An optical system adjustment program for a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus.

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