The Rules Add-in allows scripts to interact with the DICOM Server request/response pipeline. Healthcare facilities that need an automated method for moving DICOM objects can use the Rules Add-in and the Main PACS Framework Server (L20_PACS_SCP32). Typical uses of this add-in are to pre-fetch certain types of images (i.e. modality and performed procedure) to certain specialty workstations (radiology reading station, 3D Visualization station etc.) or to forward images to an on call radiologist or specialty department. Additionally, if DICOM datasets require special tags to be added before storing this can also be accomplished with the Rules Add-in.
The new Rules Add-In is a replacement for the DICOM Router Add-In. It has all the functionality of the previous add-in plus more options. It allows the user to write VB code that responds to events generated by the server. For instance, you can write a script that performs a specific action when a C-STORE request is received. The Rules Add-in also provides script functions for ready-made actions (route, move, caching, etc.).
The Rules Add-in provides the following configuration dialog:
The configuration dialog consists of three tabs.
Script - Provides script configuration options and adds scripting rules to the add-in.
Manual Resends - Provides configuration options for resending requests that have failed during a store or move operation.
Details - Displays version information about the Rules Add-in.
The Rules group allows you to add rules, delete rules and set the AE Title used during a C-MOVE-REQ. The following commands and actions are available from this group:
References - Adds DLL and namespace references available to all the scripts in the Rules Add-in.
When the reference button is clicked the following dialog is displayed:
References
Add an assembly reference
Delete the selected assembly reference
Namespaces
The Rule Definition group allows editing of the script for a specified rule. The following actions are available in this group:
Event - The event that will trigger the rule. The following events are available:
Active check box. Select to enable the execution of the script when a specific action occurs.
Detaches the editor from the dialog and creates a bigger form for editing the code.
Print the current source code.
Cut the selected text and add it to the clipboard.
Copy the selected text and add it to the clipboard.
Paste the text from the clipboard.
Undo the last edit.
Redo the last edit.
Compile the current source code. If there are errors they will appear in-line with the text.
Find toolbar controls searching for text in the script editor text box.
Add script specific references and namespaces.