Patent Description:
In medical treatment, clinical diagnosis has a large part in treating patients, and the development of medical technologies contributed greatly to accurate clinical diagnosis. Dependency of patient treatment on clinical diagnosis is predicted to increase more and more in future.

Accordingly, image diagnostic apparatuses, such as Computer Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and an X-ray imaging apparatus, became essential equipment in modern medical treatment.

Recently, a wireless X-ray input apparatus has been introduced to conveniently control the image diagnostic apparatuses. However, the wireless X-ray input apparatus needs to recognize a user's inputs accurately when carried by the user.

For example, a wireless X-ray input device is known from document <CIT>.

It is an aspect of the present disclosure to provide an X-ray input apparatus capable of exactly reflecting an operator's intention to perform calibration control, an X-ray imaging apparatus including the X-ray input apparatus, and a method of controlling the X-ray input apparatus.

It is another aspect of the present disclosure to provide an X-ray input apparatus capable of performing calibration control, an X-ray imaging apparatus including the X-ray input apparatus, and a method of controlling the X-ray input apparatus.

In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, an X-ray input apparatus comprises a body configured to be accommodated in a holder of an X-ray imaging apparatus; a touch sensor disposed on an outer circumferential surface of the body, the touch sensor configured to sense a touch; a radiation button disposed on a top of the body, and configured to receive a control command from an operator; and an input controller configured to perform calibration control while the body is accommodated in the holder, thereby deciding a capacitance threshold value of the touch sensor.

The X-ray input apparatus further comprises a position sensor configured to sense a position of the X-ray input apparatus.

The input controller may perform the calibration control when an output of the position sensor represents that the X-ray input apparatus is accommodated in the holder.

The input controller may perform the calibration control when the body is accommodated in the holder, and the radiation button is pressed.

The radiation button may comprise a one-step button configured to receive an X-ray radiation preparation command, and a two-step button configured to receive an X-ray radiation command, the one-step button outputs a first signal when a predetermined pressure is applied on the one-step button, and wherein the two-step button outputs a second signal when predetermined pressure is applied on the two-step button.

When the body is accommodated in the holder, and the first signal is output from the radiation button, the input controller may perform the calibration control.

When the body is accommodated in the holder, the input controller may receive a capacitance value of the touch sensor, and may perform the calibration control based on the capacitance value of the touch sensor.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, an X-ray input apparatus comprises a body configured to be accommodated in a holder of an X-ray imaging apparatus; a touch sensor disposed on an outer circumferential surface of the body, the touch sensor configured to sense a touch; an environment sensor disposed at an area of the body, the environment sensor configured to sense surrounding environment information; a radiation button disposed on a top of the body, the radiation button configured to receive a control command from an operator; and an input controller configured to perform calibration control when an output of the environment sensor is out of a reference range, thereby deciding a capacitance threshold value of the touch sensor.

The environment sensor may comprise at least one of a temperature sensor or a humidity sensor.

The environment sensor may sense the surrounding environment information at predetermined time periods.

The input controller may reset the reference range when the calibration control is performed.

If an output of the environment sensor is different by a reference value or more from surrounding environment information sensed when the calibration control was previously performed, the input controller may determine that the output of the environment sensor is out of the reference range.

When the output of the environment sensor is out of the reference range, and the body is accommodated in the holder, the input controller may perform the calibration control.

When the output of the environment sensor is out of the reference range, and an output of the touch sensor exceeds the capacitance threshold value, the input controller may perform the calibration control.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, an X-ray input apparatus comprises a body configured to be accommodated in a holder of an X-ray imaging apparatus; a touch sensor disposed on an outer circumferential surface of the body, the touch sensor configured to sense a touch; a radiation button disposed on a top of the body, the radiation button configured to receive a control command from an operator; a calibration button disposed on one surface of the body, the calibration button configured to receive a control command from the operator; and an input controller configured to perform calibration control when the calibration button and the radiation button are pressed, thereby deciding a capacitance threshold value of the touch sensor.

The radiation button may comprise a one-step button configured to receive an X-ray radiation preparation command, and a two-step button configured to receive an X-ray radiation command, the one-step button outputs a first signal when predetermined pressure is applied on the one-step button, and wherein the two-step button outputs a second signal when predetermined pressure is applied on the two-step button.

The calibration button may output a third signal when pressure is applied on the calibration button, and the wherein input controller may perform the calibration control in response to the first signal being output from the radiation button and the third signal being output from the calibration button.

The input controller is further configured to perform the calibration control when the calibration button and the radiation button are pressed and an output of the touch sensor exceeds the capacitance threshold value.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, an X-ray imaging apparatus comprise an X-ray input apparatus comprising a body, a holder configured to accommodate the X-ray apparatus, a touch sensor disposed on an outer circumferential surface of the body, the touch configured to sense a touch, a radiation button disposed on a top of the body, the radiation button configured to receive a control command from an operator, an input controller configured to perform calibration control while the body is accommodated in the holder, thereby deciding a capacitance threshold value of the touch sensor, an X-ray source configured to generate X-rays and to irradiate the X-rays, a high-voltage generator configured to apply a high voltage to the X-ray source, and a main controller configured to transmit at least one of an X-ray radiation preparation signal or an X-ray radiation signal to the high-voltage generator according to a control command input to the radiation button.

The X-ray imaging apparatus may further comprise a position sensor configured to sense a position of the X-ray input apparatus.

When the body is accommodated in the holder, and the radiation button is pressed, the input controller may perform the calibration control.

The X-ray input apparatus may further comprise an input communication device configured to communicate with the holder, and the holder may further comprise a holder communication device configured to communicate with the X-ray input apparatus; and a holder controller configured to transmit, when the holder communication device receives the operator's control command from the X-ray input apparatus, the operator's control command to the main controller.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of controlling an X-ray input apparatus, the X-ray input apparatus including a body configured to be accommodated in a holder, a radiation button disposed on a top of the body, and configured to receive a control command from an operator, and a touch sensor disposed on an outer circumferential surface of the body, the method comprises sensing a position of the body; determining whether the body is accommodated in the holder, based on the sensed position of the body; and performing calibration control when the body is accommodated in the holder, thereby deciding a capacitance threshold value of the touch sensor.

The performing of the calibration control may comprise performing the calibration control when the body is accommodated in the holder and the radiation button is pressed.

The performing of the calibration control may comprise receiving a capacitance value of the touch sensor when the body is accommodated in the holder, and performing the calibration control based on the received capacitance value of the touch sensor.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, computer-readable recording medium storing a program for executing an X-ray radiation control method, the X-ray radiation control method comprises controlling a touch screen of a mobile device to display an X-ray radiation preparation button for receiving an X-ray radiation preparation command, and an X-ray radiation button for receiving an X-ray radiation command; transmitting an X-ray radiation preparation signal to an X-ray imaging apparatus, when a touch made on an area corresponding to the X-ray radiation preparation button is sensed; transmitting an X-ray radiation signal to the X-ray imaging apparatus, when a touch made on an area corresponding to the X-ray radiation button is sensed; and transmitting neither the X-ray radiation preparation signal nor the X-ray radiation signal, when a touch made on the remaining area except for the areas corresponding to the X-ray radiation preparation button and the X-ray radiation button is sensed.

The X-ray input apparatus and the control method thereof according to the present disclosure can expect the following effects.

First, by performing calibration control only when the X-ray input apparatus is accommodated in the holder, accuracy in operation of the X-ray input apparatus may be improved.

Also, by performing calibration control on the touch sensor when a preparation signal for each of a plurality of input devices is output, accuracy in operation of the X-ray input apparatus may be improved.

Also, by performing calibration control on the touch sensor based on sensor value information of the sensor installed in the X-ray input apparatus, it is possible to perform automatic calibration control on the touch sensor without a user's separate operation.

Although a few embodiments of the present disclosure have been shown and described, it would be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes may be made in these embodiments without departing from the scope defined in the claims.

Hereinafter, an X-ray input apparatus and a control method thereof according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

The X-ray input apparatus according to the present disclosure may be carried by an operator, and the operator can control an X-ray imaging apparatus using the X-ray input apparatus in a wireless fashion.

Hereinafter, for convenience of description, a configuration of an X-ray imaging apparatus that underlies the present disclosure will be briefly described, and then the X-ray input apparatus according to the present disclosure will be described.

<FIG> illustrates an outer appearance of a general X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM>, and <FIG> illustrates an outer appearance of a mobile X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, in the general X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM>, an X-ray source <NUM> and an X-ray detector <NUM> may be fixed in predetermined space. The X-ray source <NUM> may be connected to an arm <NUM> installed on the ceiling of an examination room, and the X-ray detector <NUM> may be connected to a housing <NUM> fixed on the floor of the examination room.

The arm <NUM> connected to the X-ray source <NUM> can extend vertically to move the X-ray source <NUM> vertically with respect to the floor. The X-ray detector <NUM> may also be movable vertically along the housing <NUM>. That is, in the general X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM>, the X-ray source <NUM> and the X-ray detector <NUM> may be movable only in a predetermined direction in the predetermined space.

Referring to <FIG>, in the mobile X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM>, an X-ray source <NUM> and an X-ray detector <NUM> may be movable freely in arbitrary 3Dimensional (3D) space. More specifically, the X-ray source <NUM> may be installed in a movable main body <NUM> through a support arm 111a, and the support arm 111a may be connected to a support frame 111b in such a way to be rotatable in an up-down direction. The support frame 111b may be connected to one side of the main body <NUM> in such a way to be rotatable horizontally. As a result, the support arm 111a may be rotatable, and accordingly, an angle of the support arm 111a may change so that the X-ray source <NUM> can move freely. Also, the X-ray detector <NUM> of the mobile X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM> may be a portable X-ray detector, and accordingly, the X-ray detector <NUM> may also be positioned at an arbitrary location in the 3D space.

In one side of the main body <NUM>, a holder <NUM> may be disposed to accommodate an X-ray input apparatus <NUM> therein. When an operator does not use the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>, the operator can put the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> in the holder <NUM> to keep the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>. When the operator uses the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>, the operator can take the X-ray input apparatus120 out of the holder <NUM> to use the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>.

Hereinafter, a structure of the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> will be described, and then operations of the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> and the X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM> will be described in detail.

<FIG> illustrates a control block diagram of an X-ray input apparatus according to an embodiment, <FIG> illustrates a structure of an X-ray input apparatus according to an embodiment, <FIG> illustrates an example of a grip area of an X-ray input apparatus, and <FIG> illustrates the X-ray input apparatus of <FIG> when the X-ray input apparatus is accommodated in a holder.

Referring to <FIG>, the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> may include a position sensor 123a for detecting a position of the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>, a touch sensor <NUM> for sensing a touch, a radiation button <NUM> for receiving an X-ray radiation command, an input controller <NUM> for controlling operations of the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>, and an input communication device <NUM> for transmitting/receiving signals through communication with the holder <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> may include a body <NUM> that can be accommodated in the holder <NUM>, and a grip area <NUM> formed on an outer circumferential surface of the body <NUM>, wherein the radiation button <NUM> may be disposed on a top of the body <NUM>.

The grip area <NUM> may be gripped by a user who uses the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>, particularly, who operates the radiation button <NUM> while carrying the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>. For example, the grip area <NUM> may be positioned at a center area in z-axis direction of the body <NUM>, or the grip area <NUM> may be positioned adjacent to the radiation button <NUM>.

The touch sensor <NUM> may be driven in a capacitive method.

The touch sensor <NUM> may be disposed along an outer circumferential surface of the grip area <NUM>. The touch sensor <NUM> may be in the form of a touch sensor surrounding the outer circumferential surface of the body <NUM>, or may be in the form of a plurality of touch sensors arranged at regular intervals.

The touch sensor <NUM> may be positioned at any location as long as the operator's hand can contact the touch sensor <NUM> when the operator grips the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>.

If the touch sensor <NUM> is positioned on the grip area <NUM>, as described above, the touch sensor <NUM> may sense the operator's touch when the operator grips the body <NUM>. If the touch sensor <NUM> senses the operator's touch, the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> may determine that the operator has gripped the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>.

Also, in the grip area <NUM>, an engraved pattern H formed in the shape of fingers may be formed for the operator to be able to easily grip the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Also, the engraved pattern H may guide the operator to grip the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> at an appropriate position.

The touch sensor <NUM> may be formed in the remaining area of the grip area <NUM> except for the engraved pattern H, or may be formed in a predetermined area of the grip area <NUM> including the engraved pattern H. When the touch sensor <NUM> is formed in the remaining area of the grip area <NUM> except for the engraved pattern H, the touch sensor <NUM> may be formed in the rear surface of the grip area <NUM> that is opposite to the engraved pattern H.

If the touch sensor <NUM> is formed in the rear surface of the grip area <NUM> that is opposite to the engraved pattern H, the touch sensor <NUM> can collect touch input information immediately when the operator grips the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>, and accordingly, it is possible to improve the input accuracy of an X-ray radiation command and a calibration control command.

However, the touch sensor <NUM> may be not necessarily disposed in the rear surface of the grip area <NUM> that is opposite to the engraved pattern H. That is, the touch sensor <NUM> may be positioned at any area which the operator's hand contacts when the operator grips the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> on the engraved pattern H, and the location relationship between the engraved pattern H and the touch sensor <NUM> is not limited thereto.

Referring to <FIG>, the position sensor 123a may be disposed at one area of the body <NUM> to collect information about whether the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM>.

For example, the position sensor 123a may be disposed at a lower area of the body <NUM> of the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>. However, the location of the position sensor 123a is not limited to this, and the position sensor 123a may be positioned at any location where the position sensor 123a can sense whether the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM>.

The position sensor 123a may include at least one of a magnetic field sensor, a limit switch, an optical sensor, and an ultrasonic sensor. For example, if the position sensor 123a includes a magnetic field sensor, a magnet may be disposed at an area of the holder <NUM> corresponding to the position sensor 123a.

Also, if the position sensor 123a includes an optical sensor or an ultrasonic sensor, the position sensor 123a may include a sender for sending light (for example, infrared light or visible light) or ultrasonic waves, and a receiver for receiving light or ultrasonic waves reflected from an inner wall of the holder <NUM>. Also, the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> may include the receiver, and the sender may be installed in the holder <NUM>. However, the kind of the position sensor 123a is not limited to the above-described examples.

A reference value representing that the body <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM> may have been stored in advance according to the kind of the position sensor 123a. The reference value may have been stored as a predetermined reference range.

The input controller <NUM> may compare an output of the position sensor 123a to the reference value to determine whether the body <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates views for describing an operation in which an X-ray input apparatus receives a control command from an operator.

Referring to <FIG>, the radiation button <NUM> may be disposed on the top of the body <NUM>. The radiation button <NUM> may be in the form of a two-step switch protruding from the top of the body <NUM>. The radiation button <NUM> may include a one-step button 124a for receiving a ready command, and a two-step button 124b for receiving a radiation command.

A ready command and a radiation command input through the radiation button <NUM> may be used in a process for deciding a control command for the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> or the X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM>, together with touch information input to the touch sensor <NUM> or location information collected from the position sensor 123a.

The operator may grip the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> on the grip area <NUM>. For example, the operator may grip the grip area <NUM> with the operator's four fingers except for the operator's thumb. When the operator grips the grip area <NUM>, the operator's hand may contact the touch sensor <NUM> disposed on the grip area <NUM>, and accordingly, the touch sensor <NUM> may sense the operator's touch. In this state, the operator may press the radiation button <NUM> protruding from the top of the body <NUM> to input a control command.

If the operator presses the radiation button <NUM> to set a ready state when the operator's touch is sensed by the touch sensor <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, a ready command instructing preheating for irradiating X-rays may be input. For example, the operator may apply pressure being in a range of first threshold pressure to second threshold pressure on the one-step button 124a for receiving a ready command, to input a first command. The first command may be an X-ray radiation preparation command. In this example, the entire or a part of the one-step button 124a may be inserted into the inside of the two-step button 124b.

Then, as shown in <FIG>, if the operator further applies pressure on the radiation button <NUM> to set a radiation state when the operator's touch is sensed by the touch sensor <NUM> and the radiation button <NUM> is pressed to set the ready state, a radiation command for actually radiating X-rays may be input. For example, the operator may apply pressure that is higher than or equal to the second threshold pressure, on the radiation button <NUM> to thus input a second command, wherein the second command may be an X-ray radiation command. In this example, the entire or a part of the two-step button 124b may be inserted into the inside of the body <NUM>.

The first threshold pressure may be equal to or lower than the second threshold pressure. That is, after the one-step button 124a is inserted into the inside of the two-step button 124b to input the X-ray radiation preparation command, the same pressure may continue to be applied to input an X-ray radiation command, or higher pressure may be applied than that applied when the X-ray radiation preparation command is input, to input an X-ray radiation command.

In various embodiments, an X-ray radiation command may be input after an X-ray radiation preparation command is input. That is, X-rays may be irradiated after an X-ray radiation preparation command is input.

Hereinafter, calibration control of the touch sensor <NUM> will be described.

<FIG> illustrates a graph showing a capacitance threshold value that is set by calibration control of an X-ray imaging apparatus according to an embodiment.

Calibration control of the touch sensor <NUM> may be performed to decide a capacitance threshold value of the touch sensor <NUM> based on a capacitance threshold reference value of the touch sensor <NUM>. The capacitance reference value may be a capacitance value measured when no external contact is made on the touch sensor <NUM>, and the capacitance threshold value may be a capacitance value based on which a change in capacitance caused by external stimulus is recognized as an operator's touch stimulus. That is, when no external contact is made on the touch sensor <NUM>, a capacitance value exceeding the capacitance threshold value may be measured, and when an external contact is made on the touch sensor <NUM>, a capacitance value that is equal to or smaller than the capacitance threshold value may be measured.

Since the capacitance reference value of the touch sensor <NUM> depends on a surrounding environment such as temperature and humidity, touch sensitivity of the touch sensor <NUM> may also depend on the surrounding environment. Accordingly, the capacitance threshold value of the touch sensor <NUM> may be changed through calibration control of the touch sensor <NUM>. A process of resetting a capacitance threshold value based on a changed capacitance reference value of the touch sensor <NUM> is called calibration control of the touch sensor <NUM>.

As seen in the graph of <FIG>, the input controller <NUM> may receive an output value of the touch sensor <NUM>, and use the output value of the touch sensor <NUM> as a capacitance reference vale C1. The output value of the touch sensor <NUM> to be used as the capacitance reference value C1 may be a value measured when calibration control is performed, or a value measured when a calibration control command is input. Or, the output value of the touch sensor <NUM> to be used as the capacitance reference value C1 may be a value measured at any time between when a calibration control command is input and when calibration control is performed.

A minimum value D of changes in capacitance that may be caused by a contact may have been stored in advance, and the input controller <NUM> may decide a capacitance threshold value T1 based on the capacitance reference value C1 and the minimum value D of changes in capacitance. For example, the input controller <NUM> may decide a value obtained by subtracting the minimum value D of changes in capacitance from the capacitance reference value C1, as the capacitance threshold value T1.

If calibration is performed normally according to the above-described operations, the capacitance threshold value T1 may be decided as a value between the capacitance reference value C1 and a capacitance minimum value Cmin that is caused by the operator's touch.

Hereinafter, a method in which an operator inputs a calibration control command will be described.

Referring again to <FIG>, the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> according to an embodiment may perform calibration control when the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM>. Accordingly, the input controller <NUM> may perform calibration control when an output from the position sensor 123a represents that the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM>.

As described above, the input controller <NUM> may have already stored a reference value representing that the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM>. If an output of the position sensor 123a is identical to the reference value, the input controller <NUM> may determine that the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM>.

Meanwhile, if calibration control is performed when a touch is made on the touch sensor <NUM>, a smaller capacitance reference value C1 may be measured than when no contact is made on the touch sensor <NUM>, and as a result, a calibration error may occur so that a smaller capacitance threshold value T1 is decided than when no contact is made on the touch sensor <NUM>. In one or more embodiments, the capacitance threshold value T1 may be smaller than the capacitance minimum value Cmin.

However, the capacitance threshold value being set to an abnormally small value due to a calibration error can be prevented if calibration control is performed only while the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM>, like the above-described embodiment. Accordingly, the input accuracy of a calibration control command can be improved compared to when calibration control is performed regardless of whether the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM>.

Furthermore, by additionally using an output of the touch sensor <NUM> to determine whether to perform calibration control, the accuracy of calibration control can also be improved. In this example, the input controller <NUM> may perform calibration control, when the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM> and an output of the touch sensor <NUM> exceeds the capacitance threshold value.

<FIG> illustrates a view for describing another example in which an X-ray input apparatus according to an embodiment receives a calibration control command.

Referring to the example of <FIG>, an operator may press the radiation button <NUM> to input a calibration control command, when the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM>.

More specifically, if the operator presses the radiation button <NUM> without contacting the touch sensor <NUM> to set a ready state when the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM>, it may be determined that a calibration control command is input, and calibration control may be performed.

When pressure that is higher than or equal to the first threshold pressure and lower than the second threshold pressure is applied on the radiation button <NUM> so that a first command is input, the radiation button <NUM> may transfer a first signal to the input controller <NUM>. The first signal may be a signal representing that the radiation button <NUM> has been pressed to set a ready state, or a signal representing that pressure between the first threshold pressure and the second threshold pressure has been applied.

Also, when pressure that is equal to or higher than the second threshold pressure is applied on the radiation button <NUM> so that a second command is input, the radiation button <NUM> may transfer a second signal to the input controller <NUM>. The second signal may be a signal representing that the radiation button <NUM> has been pressed to set a radiation state, or a signal representing that pressure between the second threshold pressure and third threshold pressure has been applied.

When an output of the position sensor 123a represents that the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM>, and a first signal has been input from the radiation button <NUM>, the input controller <NUM> may determine that a calibration control command has been input.

Additionally, the input controller <NUM> may further determine whether an output of the touch sensor <NUM> exceeds the capacitance threshold value, that is, whether no touch input is received by the touch sensor <NUM>. When the touch sensor <NUM> receives no touch input, the input controller <NUM> may determine that a calibration control command has been input.

If pressing the radiation button <NUM> of the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>, accommodated in the holder <NUM>, is a calibration control command is input, like the current example, a user's intention can be more definitely reflected, thereby reducing unnecessary calibration.

If the input controller <NUM> determines that the calibration control command is input, the input controller <NUM> may perform calibration control according to the above-described operation.

When an output value of the touch sensor <NUM> is equal to or smaller than the capacitance threshold value, the input controller <NUM> determines that an X-ray radiation preparation command or an X-ray radiation command is input, based on a signal output from the radiation button <NUM>.

More specifically, when an output value of the touch sensor <NUM> is equal to or smaller than the capacitance threshold value, the input controller <NUM> may determine that an X-ray radiation preparation command is input if the first signal is output from the radiation button <NUM>, and that an X-ray radiation command is input if the second signal is output from the radiation button <NUM>.

The input controller <NUM> uses an output from the position sensor 123a. The input controller <NUM> determines that an X-ray radiation preparation command or an X-ray radiation command is input, when an output of the position sensor 123a represents that the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> has not been accommodated in the holder <NUM>.

When an X-ray radiation preparation command is input, the input controller <NUM> may transmit an X-ray radiation preparation signal to the holder <NUM> through the input communication device <NUM>, and when an X-ray radiation command is input, the input controller <NUM> may transmit an X-ray radiation signal to the holder <NUM> through the input communication device <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a control block diagram of an X-ray input apparatus according to another embodiment, <FIG> illustrates an outer appearance of the X-ray input apparatus shown in <FIG>, and <FIG> illustrates a control block diagram of an X-ray input apparatus further including a position sensor.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, an X-ray input apparatus <NUM> according to another embodiment may include an environment sensor 223b for acquiring surrounding environment information, a touch sensor <NUM>, a radiation button <NUM>, an input controller <NUM>, and an input communication device <NUM>. The environment sensor 223b may be disposed at an area of a body <NUM> of the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>.

The input controller <NUM> may perform calibration control automatically when surrounding environment information acquired by the environment sensor 223b satisfies a calibration condition. The calibration control has been described above in the embodiment of the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>.

The environment sensor 223b may include at least one of a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor. Accordingly, the surrounding environment information acquired by the environment sensor 223b may include temperature information or humidity information.

The environment sensor 223b may sense surrounding environment information in real time or at predetermined time intervals, and transfer the sensed surrounding environment information to the input controller <NUM>.

The input controller <NUM> may determine whether to perform calibration control, based on an output of the environment sensor 223b. More specifically, the input controller <NUM> may perform calibration control when the surrounding environment information received from the environment sensor 223b satisfies the calibration condition.

For example, when the temperature information or the humidity information included in the surrounding environment information is out of a reference range, the controller <NUM> may determine that the calibration condition is satisfied. The reference range may be set to a range of given values, or the reference range may be reset whenever calibration is performed.

When the temperature information or the humidity information is in a reference range, a use environment of the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> may be assumed to be an environment in which constant temperature and constant humidity are maintained. When a situation in which the environment cannot be maintained occurs, calibration control may be performed to reset a capacitance threshold value. Also, surrounding environment information may be collected periodically even after calibration control is performed, and if the collected temperature or humidity is included out of the reference range, calibration control may be again performed to reset the changed capacitance threshold value.

When the temperature information or the humidity information are out of a reference range, whenever the input controller <NUM> performs calibration control, temperature or humidity information when the calibration control is performed may be stored, and a reference range may be reset based on the stored temperature or humidity information. If surrounding environment information measured after calibration control is performed is different by a reference value or more from the stored surrounding environment information, it may be determined that the calibration condition is satisfied. In this case, calibration control may be again performed to reset the capacitance threshold value. Temperature or humidity information measured when the calibration control is again performed may also be stored.

According to the current embodiment, by performing calibration control only when calibration control is needed due to a change in surrounding environment, any unnecessary operation can be prevented.

Except for the operation of determining whether to perform calibration control based on an output of the environment sensor 223b, the operation of the touch sensor <NUM> disposed on the grip area <NUM> to sense an operator's touch, the operation of the radiation button <NUM> disposed on the top of the body <NUM> to receive a ready command and a radiation command, and the related operation of the input controller <NUM> may be the same as the corresponding operations of the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> according to the above-described embodiment, and accordingly, detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

Meanwhile, as shown in <FIG>, the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> according to the other embodiment may further include a position sensor 223a for sensing whether the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM>.

Like the position sensor 123a according to the above-described embodiment, the position sensor 223a may include at least one of a magnetic field sensor, a limit switch, an optical sensor, and an ultrasonic sensor. Also, the above descriptions about the position sensor 123a can be applied to the position sensor 223a according to the current embodiment.

The input controller <NUM> may determine whether the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM>, based on an output of the position sensor 223a. If the input controller <NUM> determines that the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM>, the input controller <NUM> may determine whether to perform calibration control based on surrounding environment information received from the environment sensor 223b. That is, the input controller <NUM> may perform calibration control when the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> has been accommodated in the holder <NUM> and the surrounding environment information is out of a reference range.

Also, whether the surrounding environment information is out of the reference range may be first determined, or whether the surrounding environment information is out of the reference range and whether the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> has been accommodated in the holder <NUM> may be simultaneously determined. In other words, whether the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> has been accommodated in the holder <NUM> and whether the surrounding environment information is out of the reference range may be determined, and the order of the determinations is not limited.

Also, by including a condition in which no operator contacts the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> in calibration control conditions, the accuracy of calibration control can be improved. The input controller <NUM> may perform calibration control, when an output of the environment sensor 223b is out of a reference range, and an output of the touch sensor <NUM> exceeds a capacitance threshold value.

The operation in which the input controller <NUM> determines whether to perform calibration control based on surrounding environment information has been described above with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>.

According to the current embodiment, by including a condition in which the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> has been accommodated in the holder <NUM> and a condition in which a change in environment occurs in the calibration control conditions, calibration control may be performed as necessary, and when an operator uses the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>, no calibration control may be performed, thereby improving the accuracy of calibration control.

<FIG> illustrates a control block diagram of an X-ray input apparatus according to still another embodiment, <FIG> illustrates an outer appearance of the X-ray input apparatus of <FIG>, and <FIG> illustrates a view for describing an operation in which the X-ray input apparatus according to the still another embodiment receives a calibration control command.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, an X-ray input apparatus <NUM> according to still another embodiment may include a touch sensor <NUM>, a radiation button <NUM>, an input controller <NUM>, an input communication device <NUM>, and a calibration button <NUM> provided on an upper area of an outer circumferential surface of a body <NUM>.

The calibration button <NUM> may be implemented as a button protruding from a surface of the body <NUM>, or as a touch switch.

As shown in <FIG>, an operator may input a calibration command by pressing the calibration button <NUM> and the radiation button <NUM> simultaneously.

If a contact is made on the calibration button <NUM> or if the calibration button <NUM> is pressed, the calibration button <NUM> may generate a third signal, and transfer the third signal to the input controller <NUM>. The third signal may be a signal representing that an operator's input is received, that is, a signal representing that a contact is made on the calibration button <NUM> or that the calibration button <NUM> is pressed.

If the input controller <NUM> receives the third signal from the calibration button <NUM>, and receives a first signal from the radiation button <NUM>, the input controller <NUM> may determine that a calibration command is input, and perform calibration control. That is, according to the current embodiment, the input controller <NUM> may determine that a calibration command is input, when the radiation button <NUM> and the calibration button <NUM> are pressed simultaneously or when a contact is made simultaneously on the radiation button <NUM> and the calibration button <NUM>.

By performing calibration control when a signal is input through a combination of the radiation button <NUM> and the calibration button <NUM>, unintended calibration can be prevented. However, the function of the calibration button <NUM> is not limited to this, and the calibration button <NUM> may provide additional functions according to a designer's intention.

Hereinafter, operations of the X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM> including the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> described above will be described in detail.

<FIG> illustrates a control block diagram of an X-ray imaging apparatus according to an embodiment.

Referring to <FIG>, the X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM> may include an input device <NUM> for receiving a command for controlling the X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM> from an operator, a holder communication device <NUM> disposed in the inside of the holder <NUM> and configured to receive data from the input device <NUM>, a holder controller <NUM> for converting the data received from the input device <NUM> to a control signal, a main controller <NUM> for controlling overall operations of the X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM>, an X-ray source <NUM> for generating X-rays and irradiating the X-rays, and a high-voltage generator <NUM> for applying high-voltage energy to the X-ray source <NUM>.

Also, the X-ray source <NUM> may include an X-ray tube <NUM> for receiving high-voltage energy generated by the high-voltage generator <NUM> and for generating X-rays and irradiating the X-rays, and a collimator <NUM> for guiding a path of the X-rays irradiated by the X-ray tube <NUM>.

An operator may input a command for irradiating X-rays through the input device <NUM>. The input device <NUM> may include at least one of a switch, a keyboard, a trackball, or a touch screen, or may be provided in the form of a foot switch or a foot pedal.

Also, the input device <NUM> may be provided in the form of a mobile X-ray input apparatus to which a command can be input when an operator grips the input device <NUM> with the operator's hand and presses a button with the operator's thumb. The X-ray input apparatus may be provided in the form of a two-step switch. The X-ray input apparatus may be the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> according to the above-described embodiment.

As described above, when an output from at least one among the position sensors 123a or 223a, the environment sensor 223b, the calibration button <NUM>, the touch sensor <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>, and the radiation button <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> represents an input of a calibration control command or satisfies a calibration condition, the input controller <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> may perform calibration control based on an output of the touch sensor <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>.

When an output value of the touch sensor <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> is greater than or equal to a capacitance threshold value T1, the input controller <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> may determine that an X-ray radiation preparation command or an X-ray radiation command is input, based on a signal output from the radiation button <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>. Hereinafter, an operation that is performed when an X-ray radiation preparation command or an X-ray radiation command is input will be described.

If a first signal or a second signal is received from the radiation button <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> when an output of the touch sensor <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> is greater than or equal to the capacitance threshold value T1, the input controller <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> may transmit an X-ray radiation preparation command or an X-ray radiation signal to the holder communication device <NUM> through the input communication device <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>.

The input communication device <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> may transfer a signal generated by the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> to the holder <NUM> through a wireless communication method. The input communication device <NUM> may include at least one of a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) module and a short-range communication module. In the present disclosure, the input communication device <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> may be a WLAN module or a short-range communication module. However, when the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> is connected to the holder <NUM> in a wired fashion, the input communication device <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> may use wired Ethernet.

The WLAN module may support IEEE1002.11x of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).

The short-range communication module may be a communication module that supports at least one of various wireless communication methods, such as Bluetooth, Bluetooth low energy, Zigbee communication, Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Wireless-Fidelity (Wi-Fi), Wi-Fi Direct, Ultra Wideband (UWB), Near Field Communication (NFC), and the like. However, the input communication device <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> is not limited to the above-mentioned examples, and other communication methods well-known to those skilled in the art may be used.

The holder controller <NUM> may transfer the X-ray radiation preparation signal or the X-ray radiation signal to the main controller <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates and example in which the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> transfers an X-ray radiation preparation signal or an X-ray radiation signal to the holder controller <NUM>. However, according to some embodiments, the input controller <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> may transfer the X-ray radiation preparation signal or the X-ray radiation signal directly to the main controller <NUM>.

The main controller <NUM> may include at least one memory to store programs for performing the above-described operations and operations which will be described later, and at least one processor to execute the stored programs. Also, the processor included in the main controller <NUM> may be divided according to operations to be executed. For example, the processor may include a processor for controlling components for X-ray radiation, and a processor for processing image signals transferred from the X-ray detector <NUM>. When the main controller <NUM> includes a plurality of processors and a plurality of memories, the processors and the memories may be integrated into a single chip, or may be physically divided.

If the main controller <NUM> receives an X-ray radiation preparation signal from the holder controller <NUM>, the main controller <NUM> may input an X-ray radiation preparation signal to the high-voltage generator <NUM>.

If the high-voltage generator <NUM> receives the X-ray radiation preparation signal, the high-voltage generator <NUM> may start preheating, and if preheating is completed, the high-voltage generator <NUM> may output a ready signal to the main controller <NUM>.

If the main controller <NUM> receives the ready signal from the high-voltage generator <NUM>, and receives an X-ray radiation signal from the holder controller <NUM>, the main controller <NUM> may input an X-ray radiation signal to the high-voltage generator <NUM>. If the high-voltage generator <NUM> receives the X-ray radiation signal from the main controller <NUM>, the high-voltage generator <NUM> may generate a high voltage, and apply the high voltage to the X-ray tube <NUM>. The X-ray tube <NUM> may generate X-rays, and radiate the X-rays. The X-rays radiated from the X-ray tube <NUM> and then passed through the collimator <NUM> may be radiated to an object.

The X-rays radiated from the X-ray tube <NUM> and then passed through the collimator <NUM> may penetrate the object, and then be radiated to the X-ray detector <NUM>. The X-ray detector <NUM> may detect the radiated X-rays, and convert the detected X-rays to an electrical signal. The electrical signal converted from the X-rays passed through the object may become an X-ray image signal of the object.

The X-ray detector <NUM> may be a portable type X-ray detector that can be carried by a user and that can be connected to the X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM> through wireless communication. The X-ray detector <NUM> may be included in the X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM> as a component of the X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM>, or the X-ray detector <NUM> may be manufactured and sold separately from the X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM>.

The X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM> may further include a main communication device <NUM> for communicating with the X-ray detector <NUM>. The main communication device <NUM> may be a communication module that supports at least one of various wireless communication methods, such as WLAN, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Wi-Fi Direct, UWB, IrDA, BLE, NFC, and the like.

The X-ray detector <NUM> may transmit the X-ray image signal of the object to the main communication device <NUM>, and the main communication device <NUM> may transfer the X-ray image signal to the main controller <NUM>.

Meanwhile, if the main controller <NUM> receives an X-ray radiation preparation signal from the holder controller <NUM>, the main controller <NUM> may transmit the X-ray radiation preparation signal to the X-ray detector <NUM>, as well as the high-voltage generator <NUM>, through the main communication device <NUM>. If the X-ray detector <NUM> receives the X-ray radiation preparation signal, the X-ray detector <NUM> may prepare to detect X-rays. When the X-ray detector <NUM> is ready to detect X-rays, the X-ray detector <NUM> may transmit a ready signal to the main communication device <NUM>. However, the operation of transmitting the ready signal to the main communication device <NUM> may be omitted.

If the main controller <NUM> receives the ready signal from the high-voltage generator <NUM> and the X-ray detector <NUM>, and receives the X-ray radiation signal from the holder controller <NUM>, the main controller <NUM> may transfer the X-ray radiation signal to the high-voltage generator <NUM>. As described above, if the high-voltage generator <NUM> receives the X-ray radiation signal, the high-voltage generator <NUM> may apply a high voltage to the X-ray source <NUM> to generate X-rays.

<FIG> illustrates a control block diagram of a mobile device that can perform functions of the X-ray input apparatus according to the embodiment, and <FIG> and <FIG> show examples of screens that can be displayed on the mobile device.

All or some of operations that are performed by the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> according to the above-described embodiment may be performed by a mobile device, such as a smart phone, a tablet PC, and Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), including a touch screen.

Referring to <FIG>, a mobile device <NUM> may include a touch screen <NUM>, a controller <NUM>, and a communication device <NUM>, and the touch screen <NUM> may include a display <NUM>, and a touch panel <NUM> disposed on a front surface of the display <NUM>.

The touch screen <NUM> may perform a function of a display apparatus to provide a user with visual information, and a function of an input apparatus to receive commands from a user. The function of the display apparatus may be performed by the display <NUM>, and the function of the input apparatus may be performed by the touch panel <NUM>.

The controller <NUM> may include at least one memory to store programs for performing operations which will be described later, and at least one processor to execute the stored programs.

The controller <NUM> may control overall operations of the mobile device <NUM>. Accordingly, operations that are performed by the communication device <NUM> and the touch screen <NUM> may be controlled by the controller <NUM>, unless otherwise noted.

Operations that are identical to, similar to, or related to operations of the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>, among operations that are performed by the controller <NUM>, may be performed by executing a related program or a related application installed on the mobile device <NUM>. In the following embodiment, the related program or the related application is called an X-ray radiation control program.

The X-ray radiation control program may control the touch screen of the mobile device <NUM> to display an X-ray radiation preparation button for receiving an X-ray radiation preparation command and an X-ray radiation button for receiving an X-ray radiation command. The X-ray radiation control program may execute an X-ray radiation control method for transmitting an X-ray radiation preparation signal to the X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM> if a touch made on an area corresponding to the X-ray radiation preparation button is sensed, transmitting an X-ray radiation signal to the X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM> if a touch made on an area corresponding to the X-ray radiation button is sensed, and transmitting neither an X-ray radiation preparation signal nor an X-ray radiation signal if a touch made on the remaining area except for the areas corresponding to the X-ray radiation preparation button and the X-ray radiation button is sensed.

The X-ray radiation control program may be an embedded application installed by default on the mobile device <NUM>, or a third party application received from external recording medium.

When the mobile device <NUM> receives the X-ray radiation control program from external recording medium, the mobile device <NUM> may download the X-ray radiation control program from an external server including computer-readable recording medium, and install the X-ray radiation control program to store the X-ray radiation control program in the memory included in the controller <NUM>, wherein a processor included in the controller <NUM> may execute the stored program to perform the X-ray radiation control method. An embodiment of the X-ray radiation control method that is executed by the mobile device <NUM> will be described in more detail, later.

The communication device <NUM> may be a wireless communication module that can perform wireless communication with an external device. For example, the wireless communication module may be at least one of a WLAN module and a short-range communication module. The short-range communication module may be a communication module that supports at least one of various wireless communication methods, such as Bluetooth, Bluetooth low energy, Zigbee communication, IrDA, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, UWB, NFC, and the like.

When the mobile device <NUM> executes the X-ray radiation control program, the controller <NUM> may control the touch screen <NUM> to display a ready button 520a for receiving an X-ray radiation preparation command and a radiation button 520b for receiving an X-ray radiation command, as shown in the example of <FIG>.

A user may touch the ready button 520a or the radiation button 520b to input an X-ray radiation preparation command or an X-ray radiation command.

An output of the touch panel <NUM> may be transferred to the controller <NUM>, and the controller <NUM> may determine whether an X-ray radiation preparation command or an X-ray radiation command is input, based on the output of the touch panel <NUM>. Like the above-described embodiment of the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>, the controller <NUM> may determine that a touch input is received by the touch panel <NUM>, when the output of the touch panel <NUM> is smaller than or equal to a predetermined reference value, for example, a capacitance threshold value.

When the touch panel <NUM> senses a touch made on an area corresponding to the ready button 520a, that is, when an X-ray radiation preparation command is input, the controller <NUM> may control the communication device <NUM> to transmit the X-ray radiation preparation signal to the X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM>. For example, if the communication device <NUM> includes a Bluetooth communication module, the controller <NUM> may convert the X-ray radiation preparation signal to a Bluetooth packet, and transmit the Bluetooth packet to the X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM>.

Also, when the touch panel <NUM> senses a touch made on an area corresponding to the radiation button 520b, that is, when an X-ray radiation command is input, the controller <NUM> may control the communication device <NUM> to transmit the X-ray radiation command to the X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM>.

Meanwhile, if the touch panel <NUM> senses a touch made on the remaining area except for the areas corresponding to the ready button 520a and the radiation button 520b, the controller <NUM> may determine that neither an X-ray radiation preparation command nor an X-ray radiation command are input. In this example, although the ready button 520a or the radiation button 520b is touched, the controller <NUM> may transmit neither an X-ray radiation preparation signal nor an X-ray radiation signal to the X-ray imaging apparatus <NUM>. Thereby, when the touch screen <NUM> of the mobile device <NUM> receives an input made by mistake while a user does not intend to input an X-ray radiation preparation command or an X-ray radiation command, the controller <NUM> can prevent the high-voltage generator <NUM> from being preheated unnecessarily, or prevent X-rays from being radiated.

Also, the controller <NUM> may perform calibration control on the touch panel <NUM>. The calibration control has been described above in the embodiment of the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>.

The controller <NUM> may decide time at which calibration control is to be performed, based on an output value of the touch panel <NUM>. For example, the output value of the touch panel <NUM> may increase or decrease uniformly over the entire area according to a change in temperature. Accordingly, the controller <NUM> may monitor an output value of the touch panel <NUM> in real time or periodically, and when a change is generated in the output value of the touch panel <NUM> in such a way that the output value of the touch panel <NUM> increases or decreases uniformly over the entire area, the controller <NUM> may perform calibration control.

Alternatively, as shown in <FIG>, the touch screen <NUM> may display a calibration button 520c for receiving a calibration command from a user.

In this example, when the touch panel <NUM> senses a touch made on an area corresponding to the calibration button 520c, that is, when a calibration command is input, the controller <NUM> may perform calibration control.

Or, the controller <NUM> may decide time at which calibration control is to be performed, based on surrounding environment information, like the above-described embodiment of the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>. Hereinafter, the operation will be described with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a control block diagram of a mobile device that determines a calibration condition based on a change in surrounding environment.

Referring to <FIG>, the mobile device <NUM> may further include an environment sensor <NUM> for acquiring surrounding environment information.

The environment sensor <NUM> may be at least one of a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor. Accordingly, surrounding environment information acquired by the environment sensor <NUM> may include temperature information or humidity information.

The environment sensor <NUM> may sense surrounding environment information in real time or periodically, and transfer the sensed surrounding environment information to the controller <NUM>.

If the controller <NUM> determines that surrounding environment information received from the environment sensor 223b satisfies the calibration condition, the controller <NUM> may perform calibration control. For example, if temperature information or humidity information included in the surrounding environment information is out of a predetermined reference range, the controller <NUM> may determine that the calibration condition is satisfied. The reference range may be set to a range of given values, or the reference range may be reset whenever calibration is performed.

Hereinafter, a method of controlling the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>, according to an aspect, will be described. The above-described embodiments of the X-ray input apparatuses <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> may be applied to the method of controlling the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>. Accordingly, the descriptions given above with reference to <FIG> may be applied to the method of controlling the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> according to an embodiment which will be described below, unless otherwise noted.

<FIG> and <FIG> are flowcharts showing a method of controlling an X-ray input apparatus according to an embodiment, and the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> according to the above-described embodiment may be applied to the method of controlling the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> according to the current embodiment.

According to the method of controlling the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, a position of the body <NUM> may be sensed, in operation <NUM>. The position of the body <NUM> may be sensed by the position sensor 123a disposed at one area of the body <NUM>, and the position sensor 123a may include at least one of a magnetic field sensor, a limit switch, an optical sensor, and an ultrasonic sensor. For example, if the position sensor 123a includes a magnetic field sensor, a magnet may be disposed at an area of the holder <NUM> corresponding to the position sensor 123a.

Then, it may be determined whether the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM>, based on the sensed position of the body <NUM>, in operation <NUM>. A reference value representing that the body <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM> may have been stored in advance according to the kind of the position sensor 123a. The reference value may have been stored as a predetermined reference range. The input controller <NUM> may compare an output from the position sensor 123a to the reference value to determine whether the body <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM>.

If the input controller <NUM> determines that the body <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM> ("YES" in operation <NUM>), the input controller <NUM> may receive an output of the touch sensor <NUM>, and perform calibration control based on the output of the touch sensor <NUM>, in operation <NUM>. Referring again to <FIG>, the received output of the touch sensor <NUM> may be used as a capacitance reference value C1, and a capacitance threshold value T1 may be decided based on a pre-stored minimum value D of changes in capacitance and the capacitance reference value C1 to thereby perform calibration control.

Meanwhile, the input controller <NUM> may additionally use an output of the touch sensor <NUM> to determine whether to perform calibration control. In this example, when the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM> and an output of the touch sensor <NUM> exceeds the capacitance threshold value T1, the input controller <NUM> may perform calibration control.

Also, in order to further improve the input accuracy of a calibration control command, as shown in <FIG>, the input controller <NUM> may determine whether the radiation button <NUM> is pressed, in operation 612a. When the input controller <NUM> determines that the radiation button <NUM> is pressed ("YES" in operation 612a), the input controller <NUM> may determine that a calibration control command is input. For example, when pressure that is higher than or equal to first threshold pressure and lower than second threshold pressure is applied on the radiation button <NUM> so that a first signal is output from the radiation button <NUM>, the input controller <NUM> may determine that the radiation button <NUM> is pressed, so that a calibration control command is input.

<FIG> and <FIG> are flowcharts illustrating a method of controlling an X-ray input apparatus, according to another embodiment. The X-ray input apparatus <NUM> according to the other embodiment as described above may be applied to the method of controlling the X-ray input apparatus, according to the current embodiment.

According to the method of controlling the X-ray input apparatus, as shown in <FIG>, surrounding environment information may be acquired, in operation <NUM>. The surrounding environment information may be acquired by the environment sensor 223b disposed on one area of the body <NUM>, and the environment sensor 223b may include at least one of a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor. Accordingly, the acquired surrounding environment information may include at least one of temperature information and humidity information.

Then, it may be determined whether an automatic calibration condition is satisfied, based on the surrounding environment information, in operation <NUM>. For example, if the surrounding environment information is out of a reference range, it may be determined that an automatic calibration condition is satisfied, and calibration control may be automatically performed. The reference range may be set to a range of given values, or the reference range may be reset whenever calibration is performed. The reference range for determining an automatic calibration condition has been described above in detail in the embodiment of the X-ray input apparatus <NUM>.

If the automatic calibration condition is satisfied ("YES" in operation <NUM>), an output of the touch sensor <NUM> may be received, in operation <NUM>, and calibration control may be performed based on the output of the touch sensing portion <NUM>, in operation <NUM>.

Also, a condition in which the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM> may be added in the automatic calibration condition. In this example, as shown in <FIG>, it may be determined whether the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM>, based on the position of the body <NUM>, in operation 622a. If it is determined that the body <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM> ("YES" in operation 622a), an output of the touch sensor <NUM> may be received, and calibration control may be performed based on the output of the touch sensor <NUM>, in operation <NUM>.

According to another example, an operator's non-contact may be added in the automatic calibration condition. In this example, when an output of the environment sensor 223b is out of a reference range and an output of the touch sensor <NUM> exceeds a capacitance threshold value, the input controller <NUM> may perform calibration control.

In <FIG>, whether the surrounding environment information is out of the reference range may be first determined, however, the method of controlling the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is not limited to this. In other words, the order of a determination on whether the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> is accommodated in the holder <NUM> and a determination on whether surrounding environment information is out of the reference range is not limited.

<FIG> illustrates a process of controlling an X-ray input apparatus, according to still another embodiment. The X-ray input apparatus <NUM> according to the above-described embodiment may be applied to the method of controlling the X-ray input apparatus, according to the current embodiment.

According to the method of controlling the X-ray input apparatus <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, when an operator's input is received by the radiation button <NUM> and the calibration button <NUM> ("YES" in operation <NUM>), it may be determined that a calibration control command is input, and calibration control may be performed, in operation <NUM>.

According to the current embodiment, the operator may input a calibration command by pressing the calibration button <NUM> and the radiation button <NUM> simultaneously. If a contact is made on the calibration button <NUM> or if the calibration button <NUM> is pressed, the calibration button <NUM> may generate a third signal and transfer the third signal to the input controller <NUM>. If the input controller <NUM> receives the third signal from the calibration button <NUM> and receives a first signal from the radiation button <NUM>, the input controller <NUM> may determine that a calibration command is input.

Additionally, the input controller <NUM> may additionally use an output of the touch sensor <NUM> to determine whether to perform calibration control. In this example, when the input controller <NUM> receives the third signal from the calibration button <NUM> and receives the first signal from the radiation button <NUM>, the input controller <NUM> may perform calibration control if the output of the touch sensor <NUM> exceeds a capacitance threshold value.

In the X-ray input apparatus, the X-ray imaging apparatus including the same, and the method of controlling the X-ray input apparatus according to the above-described embodiments, by performing calibration control only when a user intends to perform calibration control or when calibration control is needed, it is possible to prevent calibration control from being performed unnecessarily and inaccurately.

Claim 1:
An X-ray input apparatus (<NUM>) for controlling an X-ray imaging apparatus (<NUM>) including a holder (<NUM>), the X-ray input apparatus (<NUM>) comprising:
a body (<NUM>) configured to be accommodated in the holder (<NUM>);
a touch sensor (<NUM>) disposed on an outer circumferential surface of the body, the touch sensor configured to sense a touch;
a position sensor (123a) configured to sense a position of the X-ray input apparatus;
a radiation button (<NUM>) disposed on a top of the body, the radiation button configured to receive a control command from an operator; and
an input controller (<NUM>) configured to:
perform calibration control while the body is accommodated in the holder, thereby deciding a capacitance threshold value of the touch sensor, and
determine that an X-ray radiation preparation command or an X-ray radiation command is input based on a signal output from the radiation button (<NUM>), when an output value of the touch sensor (<NUM>) is equal to or smaller than the capacitance threshold value, and when an output of the position sensor represents that the X-ray input apparatus (<NUM>) is not accommodated in the holder (<NUM>).