Method and system for an adjustable head holder

Abstract

The present invention is entitled "Methods and Systems for Adjustable Head Holders". The present invention provides various systems for adjustable tilt head holders. In one example, a system includes an adjustable tilt head holder for use with an imaging system, the adjustable head holder including a head support, a tilt adjustment mechanism having a plurality of locking positions arranged below a first end of the head support, an examination table mount extending from a second end of the head support, and a tilt adjustment rod extending from the examination table mount through the tilt adjustment mechanism, wherein the first end and the second end of the head support are located at opposite ends of the head support.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application incorporates by reference in its entirety for all purposes U.S. Design Application No. 29 / 731,209, entitled “HEADHOLDER,” filed concurrently with the present application. Technical Field

[0003] Embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein are directed to an adjustable tilt head holder having a locking mechanism. Background Art

[0004] The adjustable head holder can be used in a variety of environments. The adjustable head holder can be used during imaging scans to support and position the patient's head through a series of discrete angles. The ability to tilt the patient's head and maintain that position during the entire imaging scan is very important for image quality. In one example, the adjustable head holder can be used in a medical environment to adjust the position of the patient's head to avoid imaging dental implants and other devices that may produce image artifacts during medical imaging procedures. In addition, tilting the patient's head allows the radiation dose to sensitive anatomical structures (such as eyes) to be reduced by placing it outside the x-ray radiation beam. The adjustable head holder allows an imaging technician or operator to position the patient's head in such a way that, without the device, the patient will not be able to keep his / her head in a specific orientation during the scan. Other patients who benefit from the use of an adjustable head holder may often move unconsciously or may be hyperactive. Having a forced locking mechanism ensures that patients who are subject to the above conditions cannot change the tilt angle of the adjustable head holder by themselves. Another benefit of an adjustable head holder is that some positions in which the patient's head is positioned via the head holder may be uncomfortable without the support of the head holder. Summary of the invention

[0005] In one embodiment, a system includes an adjustable head holder for use with an imaging system, the adjustable head holder comprising a head support, a tilt adjustment mechanism having a plurality of locking positions disposed below a first end of the head support, a table mount extending from a second end of the head support, and a tilt adjustment rod extending from the table mount through the tilt adjustment mechanism, wherein the first end and the second end of the head support are located at opposite ends of the head support.

[0006] It should be understood that the above brief description is provided to introduce in a simplified form selected concepts that are further described in the detailed description. It is not meant to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, the scope of which is solely defined by the claims that follow the detailed description. Furthermore, the claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any disadvantages noted above or in any part of this disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The present disclosure will be better understood by reading the following description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0008] Figure 1 shows a pictorial view of an imaging system according to one embodiment;

[0009] Figure 2 shows a block schematic diagram of an exemplary imaging system according to one embodiment;

[0010] Figure 3A A first view of a first embodiment of an adjustable head holder is shown;

[0011] Figure 3B showing a second view of the first embodiment of the adjustable head holder;

[0012] Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figure 4C , Figure 4D and Figure 4E showing different views of the locking mechanism of a first embodiment of an adjustable head holder;

[0013] Figure 4F A ball joint of a first embodiment of an adjustable head holder is shown;

[0014] Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C Various positions of a first embodiment of an adjustable head holder are shown based on the position of a locking mechanism;

[0015] Fig. 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C shows adjustment of the locking mechanism of the first embodiment of the adjustable head holder from a first position to a second position;

[0016] Fig.6D A side view showing a locking mechanism of a first embodiment of an adjustable head holder;

[0017] Fig. 7A , Figure 7B , Figure 7C , Fig.7D , Fig. 7E and Figure 7F Components of a locking mechanism of a first embodiment of an adjustable head holder are shown;

[0018] Figure 8 A second embodiment of an adjustable head holder is shown;

[0019] Fig. 9 showing a mounting bracket configured to be coupled to a first embodiment or a second embodiment of an adjustable head holder;

[0020] Fig.10 shows a locking mechanism of a second embodiment of an adjustable head holder;

[0021] Fig.11 showing detailed views of the hinges of the first and second embodiments of the adjustable head holder; and

[0022] Fig.12 Side views of first and second embodiments of an adjustable head holder are shown.

[0023] Figures 3A to 12 Shown to scale, however other relative dimensions may be used if desired. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] The following description relates to an embodiment of an adjustable head holder. In one example, the adjustable head holder is for use in an imaging system such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 The CT imaging system shown in FIG. 1 is an adjustable tilt head holder. A first example of an adjustable head holder includes a bracket, a tongue-shaped insert, an angle block, a tilt rod, and a living hinge, such as Figure 3A and Figure 3B A first embodiment of the locking mechanism of the first embodiment of the adjustable head holder is shown in FIG. 4A to FIG. 4E The spherical joint about which the head can pivot is shown in Figure 4F Shown in. FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C Various positions of the head based on the adjustment of the first embodiment of the locking mechanism are shown. FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C The first embodiment of the locking mechanism is shown transitioning from a first position to a second position. Fig.6D A position indicator is shown arranged on the outside of a first embodiment of the locking mechanism. 7A to 7F The components of a first embodiment of a locking mechanism are shown. Figure 8A second embodiment of an adjustable head holder is shown, wherein the second embodiment of the adjustable head holder may be substantially similar to the first embodiment of the adjustable head holder, except that the second embodiment includes a locking mechanism that is different from the locking mechanism of the first embodiment of the adjustable head holder. Fig. 9 1 and 2. An examination table mount configured to receive an examination table is shown in FIG. Fig.10 A detailed view of a second embodiment of a locking mechanism that is different from the first embodiment of the locking mechanism is shown in FIG. Fig.11 Shown is a detailed view of a living hinge that may be included in each of the first and second embodiments of the adjustable head holder. Fig.12 A side view of an examination table is shown along with a tab that may be included in each of the first and second embodiments of the adjustable head holder.

[0025] In one example, during a computed tomography intracranial x-ray examination, a head holder can help a radiologist position the patient's head. The aforementioned examples include a fixed head holder for an axial head scan in a CT imaging system having a tilting gantry mechanism to avoid directing x-ray radiation to the patient's eyes. The head holder capable of tilting of the present disclosure ensures optimal positioning for neuroimaging in a CT imaging system, and adds more benefits when the gantry is fixed and cannot be tilted. The head holder capable of tilting can tilt the patient's head forward to align the brain anatomical structure with the scanner field of view. This minimizes the radiation dose exposed to the eye and can reduce image artifacts from dental implants. The head holder does not contain metal or sharp edge parts within the imaging range. This is achieved via a locking mechanism arranged directly below the head holder and beyond the imaging range of the patient's head or neck. The angle adjustment of the locking mechanism can be between 0 and 45 degrees, however, other ranges can also be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Pivoting can occur via a swivel joint, which actuates the switch of the locking mechanism via a single hand of the operator.

[0026] An adjustable head holder used during imaging scans to support and adjust the patient's head through a range of discrete angles. The adjustable head holder has a positive locking mechanism, meaning that once the patient's head is correctly positioned, the angle is locked in place and the patient cannot change the angle by lifting his / her head out of the head holder.

[0027] Figure 1 as well as Figures 3A to 12An exemplary configuration with relative positioning of various components is shown. In at least one example, if shown as directly contacting or directly coupling each other, such elements may be referred to as directly contacting or directly coupling, respectively. Similarly, in at least one example, elements adjacent to or adjacent to each other may be adjacent to or adjacent to each other, respectively. For example, components arranged to coplanarly contact each other may be referred to as coplanar contact. For another example, in at least one example, elements positioned to be spaced apart from each other and having only space therebetween without other components may be described and referenced as such. For another example, elements shown as being located above / below each other, located on opposite sides of each other, or located between the left / right sides of each other may be described and referenced as such relative to each other. In addition, as shown in the figure, in at least one example, the topmost element or point of an element may be referred to as the "top" of a component, and the bottommost element or point of an element may be referred to as the "bottom" of a component. As used herein, top / bottom, upper / lower, upper / lower may be relative to the vertical axis of the figure, and may be used to describe the positioning of elements relative to each other in the figure. Thus, in one example, an element shown as being located above other elements is vertically positioned above other elements. As another example, the shapes of elements shown in the figures may be referred to as having these shapes (e.g., such as being rounded, straight, planar, curved, rounded, chamfered, angled, etc.). In addition, in at least one example, elements shown as intersecting each other may be referred to as intersecting elements or intersecting each other. In addition, in one example, elements shown as being within another element or shown as being outside another element may be described and referred to as such.

[0028] Figure 1 An exemplary CT imaging system 100 configured for CT imaging is shown. Specifically, the CT imaging system 100 is configured to image a subject 112 (such as a patient, an inanimate object, one or more manufactured parts) and / or a foreign object (such as a dental implant, a stent, and / or a contrast agent present in the body). In one embodiment, the CT imaging system 100 includes a gantry 102, which in turn may also include at least one x-ray source 104 configured to project an x-ray radiation beam 106 (see Figure 2 ) for imaging a subject 112 lying on an examination table 114. Specifically, the x-ray source 104 is configured to project an x-ray radiation beam 106 toward a detector array 108 positioned on an opposite side of the gantry 102. Figure 1Only a single x-ray source 104 is depicted, but in certain embodiments, multiple x-ray sources and detectors may be employed to project multiple x-ray radiation beams 106 for acquisition of projection data at different energy levels corresponding to the patient. In some embodiments, the x-ray source 104 may implement dual energy gem spectrum imaging (GSI) by rapid peak kilovolt (kVp) switching. In some embodiments, the x-ray detector employed is a photon counting detector capable of distinguishing x-ray photons of different energies. In other embodiments, two sets of x-ray sources and detectors are used to generate dual energy projections, wherein one set of x-ray sources and detectors is set to low kVp and the other set to high kVp. It should therefore be understood that the methods described herein may be implemented with single energy acquisition techniques as well as dual energy acquisition techniques.

[0029] In certain embodiments, the CT imaging system 100 further includes an image processor unit 110 configured to reconstruct an image of a target volume of the subject 112 using an iterative or analytical image reconstruction method. For example, the image processor unit 110 may use an analytical image reconstruction method such as filtered back projection (FBP) to reconstruct an image of the target volume of the patient. As another example, the image processor unit 110 may use an iterative image reconstruction method (such as advanced statistical iterative reconstruction (ASIR), conjugate gradient (CG), maximum likelihood expectation maximization (MLEM), model-based iterative reconstruction (MBIR), etc.) to reconstruct an image of the target volume of the subject 112. As further described herein, in some examples, in addition to the iterative image reconstruction method, the image processor unit 110 may also use an analytical image reconstruction method (such as FBP).

[0030] In some CT imaging system configurations, an x-ray source projects a cone-shaped x-ray radiation beam that is collimated to lie in the XYZ plane of a Cartesian coordinate system and is often referred to as the "imaging plane". The x-ray radiation beam passes through an object being imaged, such as a patient or subject. The x-ray radiation beam, after being attenuated by the object, impinges upon an array of detector elements. The intensity of the attenuated x-ray radiation beam received at the detector array depends on the attenuation of the radiation beam by the object. Each detector element of the array produces a separate electrical signal that is a measurement of the x-ray beam attenuation at the detector location. The attenuation measurements from all detector elements are collected individually to produce a transmission profile.

[0031] In some CT imaging systems, a gantry is used to rotate the x-ray source and detector array around the object to be imaged in the imaging plane so that the angle at which the radiation beam intersects the object is constantly changing. A set of x-ray radiation attenuation measurements (e.g., projection data) from the detector array at one gantry angle is called a "view". A "scan" of an object includes a set of views made at different gantry angles or viewing angles during one rotation of the x-ray source and detector. It is conceivable that the benefits of the methods described herein are derived from medical imaging modalities other than CT, so as used herein, the term "view" is not limited to the use described above with respect to projection data from one gantry angle. The term "view" is used to mean a data acquisition whenever there are multiple data acquisitions from different angles (whether from CT, positron emission tomography (PET) or single photon emission CT (SPECT) acquisitions), and / or any other modality (including modalities yet to be developed) and their combination in fusion embodiments.

[0032] The projection data is processed to reconstruct an image corresponding to a two-dimensional slice acquired through the object, or in some examples where the projection data includes multiple views or scans, an image corresponding to a three-dimensional rendering of the object. A method for reconstructing an image from a set of projection data is known in the art as a filtered back projection technique. Transmission and emission tomography reconstruction techniques also include statistical iterative methods such as maximum likelihood expectation maximization (MLEM) and ordered subset expectation reconstruction techniques and iterative reconstruction techniques. The method converts the attenuation measurements from the scan into an integer called a "CT number" or "Hou's unit", which is used to control the brightness of the corresponding pixel on the display device.

[0033] To reduce the total scan time, a "helical" scan can be performed. To perform a "helical" scan, the patient is moved while data for a specified number of slices is acquired. Such systems produce a single spiral from a cone beam helical scan. The spiral mapped out by the cone beam produces projection data from which an image in each specified slice can be reconstructed.

[0034] As used herein, the phrase "reconstructing an image" is not intended to exclude embodiments of the invention in which data representing an image is generated rather than a visible image. Thus, as used herein, the term "image" broadly refers to both a visible image and data representing a visible image. However, many embodiments generate (or are configured to generate) at least one visible image.

[0035] In one example, the examination table 114 may include a head holder 116, which may be adjustable (e.g., tiltable). The aforementioned examples of tiltable head holders may be bulky, complex, or lack automatic adjustment features. In addition, the aforementioned examples require greater effort from the operator, and the process may become cumbersome and time consuming. In addition, the aforementioned examples may require the operator to use both hands to adjust the head holder. If the patient moves his head while positioned in the head holder of the aforementioned examples, the adjustment mechanism may become free and the position of the head holder may change. This may cause the patient to slide off the examination table and slide into the CT gantry.

[0036] In one example of the present disclosure, as follows, Figure 3A As described in more detail in the subsequent figures, the head holder may include a switch and an automatic locking mechanism disposed directly below the head holder. This configuration may allow the operator to adjust the head holder angle from either side of the patient examination table with a single hand. The locking mechanism may not rely on gravity to hold the head holder at a desired angle. The locking mechanism includes a spring-based configuration that prevents the patient from adjusting the head holder when moving his head when strapped.

[0037] Figure 2 Shows something like Figure 1 1. An exemplary imaging system 200 of the CT imaging system 100 of FIG. According to aspects of the present disclosure, the imaging system 200 is configured to image a subject 204 (eg, Figure 1 In one embodiment, the imaging system 200 includes a detector array 108 (see Figure 1 ). The detector array 108 also includes a plurality of detector elements 202 that together sense the x-ray radiation beam 106 that passes through a subject 204 (such as a patient) (see Figure 2 ) to collect corresponding projection data. Therefore, in one embodiment, the detector array 108 is manufactured in a multi-slice configuration including multiple rows of cells or detector elements 202. In such a configuration, one or more additional rows of detector elements 202 are arranged in a parallel configuration for collecting projection data.

[0038] In certain embodiments, the imaging system 200 is configured to traverse different angular positions around the subject 204 to collect the desired projection data. Thus, the gantry 102 and components mounted thereon can be configured to rotate about the rotation center 206 to collect, for example, projection data at different energy levels. Alternatively, in embodiments where the projection angle relative to the subject 204 changes over time, the mounted components can be configured to move along a generally curved line rather than along a section of a circle.

[0039] Thus, as the x-ray source 104 and the detector array 108 rotate, the detector array 108 collects data of the attenuated x-ray beam. The data collected by the detector array 108 then undergoes pre-processing and calibration to condition the data to represent the line integral of the attenuation coefficient of the scanned subject 204. The processed data is often referred to as a projection.

[0040] In some examples, individual detectors or detector elements 202 in detector array 108 may include photon counting detectors that register interactions of individual photons into one or more energy bins. It should be appreciated that the methods described herein may also be implemented using energy integrating detectors.

[0041] The acquired projection data sets may be used for base material decomposition (BMD). During BMD, the measured projections are converted into a set of material density projections. The material density projections may be reconstructed to form a pair or set of material density maps or images for each corresponding base material (such as bone, soft tissue, and / or contrast agent maps). The density maps or images may then be correlated to form a volume rendering of the base material (e.g., bone, soft tissue, and / or contrast agent) in the imaging volume.

[0042] Once reconstructed, the base material image produced by the imaging system 200 shows the internal features of the subject 204 represented by the density of the two base materials. The density image can be displayed to show these features. In traditional methods of diagnosing medical conditions (such as disease states), and more generally diagnosing medical events, a radiologist or physician will consider a hard copy or display of a density image to discern characteristic features of interest. Such features can include lesions, size and shape of specific anatomical structures or organs, as well as other features that should be discernible in the image based on the skill and knowledge of the individual practitioner.

[0043] In one embodiment, the imaging system 200 includes a control mechanism 208 to control movement of components, such as rotation of the gantry 102 and operation of the x-ray source 104. In certain embodiments, the control mechanism 208 also includes an x-ray controller 210 configured to provide power and timing signals to the x-ray source 104. Additionally, the control mechanism 208 includes a gantry motor controller 212 configured to control the rotational speed and / or position of the gantry 102 based on imaging requirements.

[0044] In certain embodiments, the control mechanism 208 also includes a data acquisition system (DAS) 214 that is configured to sample analog data received from the detector elements 202 and convert the analog data into digital signals for subsequent processing. The DAS 214 can also be configured to selectively aggregate analog data from a subset of the detector elements 202 into a so-called macro detector, as further described herein. The data sampled and digitized by the DAS 214 is transmitted to a computer or computing device 216. In one example, the computing device 216 stores the data in a storage device or mass storage device 218. For example, the storage device 218 can include a hard drive, a floppy disk drive, a compact disk-read / write (CD-R / W) drive, a digital versatile disk (DVD) drive, a flash drive, and / or a solid-state storage drive.

[0045] In addition, the computing device 216 provides commands and parameters to one or more of the DAS 214, the x-ray controller 210, and the gantry motor controller 212 to control system operations, such as data acquisition and / or processing. In certain embodiments, the computing device 216 controls system operations based on operator input. The computing device 216 receives operator input, which includes, for example, commands and / or scan parameters, via an operator console 220 operably coupled to the computing device 216. The operator console 220 may include a keyboard (not shown) or a touch screen to allow an operator to specify commands and / or scan parameters.

[0046] Although Figure 2 Only one operator console 220 is shown, but more than one operator console may be coupled to the imaging system 200, e.g., for inputting or outputting system parameters, requesting exams, plotting data, and / or viewing images. In addition, in certain embodiments, the imaging system 200 may be coupled to multiple displays, printers, workstations, and / or the like located locally or remotely, e.g., within an institution or hospital or at an entirely different location, via one or more configurable wired and / or wireless networks (such as the Internet and / or a virtual private network, a wireless telephone network, a wireless local area network, a wired local area network, a wireless wide area network, a wired wide area network, etc.).

[0047] In one embodiment, for example, the imaging system 200 includes or is coupled to a picture archiving and communication system (PACS) 224. In an exemplary embodiment, the PACS 224 is further coupled to a remote system (such as a radiology department information system, a hospital information system) and / or to an internal or external network (not shown) to allow operators at different locations to supply commands and parameters and / or gain access to image data.

[0048] The computing device 216 uses operator-provided and / or system-defined commands and parameters to operate a table motor controller 226, which in turn can control the table 114, which can be a motorized table. Specifically, the table motor controller 226 can move the table 114 to properly position the subject 204 in the gantry 102 to acquire projection data corresponding to a target volume of the subject 204.

[0049] As previously described, the DAS 214 samples and digitizes the projection data acquired by the detector elements 202. Subsequently, the image reconstructor 230 uses the sampled and digitized x-ray data to perform high-speed reconstruction. Figure 2 The image reconstructor 230 is shown as a separate entity, but in certain embodiments, the image reconstructor 230 may form part of the computing device 216. Alternatively, the image reconstructor 230 may not be present in the imaging system 200, and instead the computing device 216 may perform one or more functions of the image reconstructor 230. Furthermore, the image reconstructor 230 may be located locally or remotely, and may be operably connected to the imaging system 200 using a wired or wireless network. In particular, one exemplary embodiment may use computing resources in a "cloud" network cluster for the image reconstructor 230.

[0050] In one embodiment, the image reconstructor 230 stores the reconstructed image in the storage device 218. Alternatively, the image reconstructor 230 may transmit the reconstructed image to the computing device 216 to generate usable patient information for diagnosis and evaluation. In certain embodiments, the computing device 216 may transmit the reconstructed image and / or the patient information to a display or display device 232 that is communicatively coupled to the computing device 216 and / or the image reconstructor 230. In some embodiments, the reconstructed image may be transmitted from the computing device 216 or the image reconstructor 230 to the storage device 218 for short-term or long-term storage.

[0051] Although a CT system is described by way of example, it should be understood that the present technology may also be used with other imaging modalities, such as x-ray imaging systems, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems, nuclear medicine imaging systems, positron emission tomography (PET) imaging systems, single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging systems, ultrasound imaging systems, and combinations thereof (e.g., multimodal imaging systems such as PET / CT or PET / MR imaging systems). The present discussion of the CT imaging modality is provided merely as an example of one suitable imaging modality.

[0052] The adjustable head holder is used on CT imaging systems that do not have a tilting gantry. The purpose is to support the head at a desired tilt angle.

[0053] An adjustable head holder for use with an imaging system having an examination table has a tilt adjustment mechanism that will securely position the head at a plurality of different angles. The novelty is that the tilt adjustment mechanism has a positive locking mechanism with a plurality of different notches that positively engage one end of a tilt adjustment rod to securely position the head holder without the head holder sliding out of position when the patient lifts his / her head off the head support.

[0054] The lockable adjustment (e.g., tilt) mechanism includes a spring loaded tooth and ratchet adjustment mechanism. The novelty is the positive locking mechanism, which means that if the patient lifts his / her head, the head holder will not move out of position to a different tilt angle than the desired tilt angle set by the imaging system operator or imaging technician.

[0055] The adjustable head holder includes a head support, a table attachment coupled to an opening in the table, a tilt adjustment mechanism attached at one end thereof to a bottom of the head support, a tilt adjustment rod connecting the table attachment to the tilt adjustment mechanism, and a hinge connecting the head support to the table attachment.

[0056] A tilt adjustment mechanism and a tilt adjustment lever forming a positive locking mechanism.

[0057] The hinge is made of a flexible material that connects the carbon fiber head holder to the table attachment. The flexible material can be carbon fiber, thermoplastic, plastic, rubber or other flexible polymer, etc. The hinge allows for low material attenuation, torsional stiffness, and provides the necessary range of motion for an adjustable head holder.

[0058] The tilt adjustment rod connects the examination table attachment to the tilt adjustment mechanism. The tilt adjustment rod may also be made of carbon fiber. The adjustable head holder is attached to the tilt adjustment mechanism with a composite fastener.

[0059] The tilt adjustment mechanism may include a biasing assembly, such as a spring-loaded tooth and ratchet assembly, that allows the patient's head to tilt through multiple discrete angles (0 degrees, 10 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees, etc. from the horizontal). The tilt adjustment mechanism may be made of carbon fiber or injection molded plastic. The tilt adjustment mechanism includes a spring-loaded actuator. Compression of the spring-loaded actuator allows the tilt adjustment rod to extend into the ratchet opening at the desired tilt angle. Once set by the imaging technician or operator, a positive locking mechanism prevents the tilt angle from being adjusted. The tilt adjustment mechanism includes a tilt angle of 0 degrees, so that an additional fixed head holder is not required, because the adjustable head holder serves as both a fixed head holder with a 0 degree tilt angle and an adjustable head holder with multiple tilt angles.

[0060] All components of the adjustable head holder are made of non-metallic low-attenuation materials to minimize the generation of image artifacts on the viewing plane.

[0061] Now go to Figure 3A and Figure 3B , which illustrate a first embodiment of an adjustable head holder 300. As described above, a user (such as Figure 1 The subject 112 may position his head on the adjustable head holder 300 to maintain his head at a desired tilt angle for imaging. The CT imaging system 100 represents only one exemplary use of the adjustable head holder 300. Thus, the adjustable head holder 300 may be Figure 1 Non-limiting example of a head retainer 116 .

[0062] Coordinate system 390 is shown to include three axes, an x-axis parallel to the horizontal direction, a y-axis parallel to the vertical direction, and a z-axis perpendicular to each of the x-axis and y-axis. Adjustable head holder 300 includes a central axis 399 that lies in the xz plane.

[0063] The adjustable head holder 300 includes a head support 302 that can receive a patient's head. The head support 302 may include a body 304 having a first side 306 and a second side 308 extending therefrom. The body 304 includes a substantially flat surface against which the patient's head can be placed. The first side 306 and the second side 308 may extend from opposite edges of the body 304, with the two sides being curved at the edges and flattened as they extend upward. The first side 306 and the second side 308 may serve as a boundary that blocks the patient's head from moving away from the adjustable head holder 300.

[0064] The table attachment 310 can be coupled to the first end 392 of the head support 302 via the hinge 330. In one example, the table attachment 310 includes carbon fiber and can be inserted into the head support 302. Fig. 9380 shows a cross-sectional view of the hinge 330 intersecting the first extension 322 and the head support 302. The hinge 330 may be sandwiched between a portion of the head support 302 and the first extension 322. More specifically, the hinge 330 may be partially surrounded by portions of the head support 302 and the first extension 322. A portion of the hinge 330 may be exposed through a gap 332 disposed between the head support 302 and the first extension 322. The gap 332 may allow the hinge 330 to bend (e.g., flex) while remaining physically coupled to the head support 302 and the first extension 322. As shown, the hinge 330 is visible through the gap 332. The material of the hinge 330 may allow it to bend, where the material is rubber or another flexible material. In one example, due to the carbon fiber, the head support 302 and the examination table attachment 310 are inflexible (e.g., rigid), and the bending of the hinge 330 causes the adjustment of the orientation of the head support 302 relative to the examination table attachment 310. In one example, when the hinge 330 is physically coupled to the examination table attachment 310, the patient can be positioned (e.g., Figure 1 When the head support 302 is bent while the patient is on the examination table of the subject 112, only the head support 302 moves. In one example, the examination table attachment 310 is physically connected to the portion of the examination table on which the patient's neck can rest (e.g., the neck portion 382).

[0065] The first embodiment 340 and the second embodiment 350 of the hinge 330 are Figure 3B 340. The first embodiment 340 includes a substantially rectangular shape having a top surface 342 and a bottom surface 344. The width and length of the top surface 342 may be less than both the width and length of the bottom surface 344. Therefore, the side surface 346 of the first embodiment 340 may be angled (e.g., tapered) when it extends from the bottom surface to the top surface. The first embodiment 340 also includes an indentation 348, at which the first embodiment 340 may be bent. The indentation 348 may correspond to the position where the hinge 330 is exposed by the gap 332. The indentation 348 may be arranged in the middle (e.g., center) between the first half 340A and the second half 340B of the first embodiment 340, wherein the halves are identical in shape and size.

[0066] The second embodiment 350 also includes a first half 350A and a second half 350B spaced apart about the indentation 358 and / or joint / bend. The second embodiment 350 includes a first plurality of openings 352 through which one or more fasteners can be inserted to physically couple the second embodiment to the head support 302. The second half 350B can include a second plurality of openings 354 through which fasteners can be inserted to physically couple the second embodiment to the table attachment 310.

[0067] The table attachment 310 including the first extension 322 may also include a second extension 324, wherein both extensions extend away from the portion of the table attachment 310 received via the table mount. The second extension 324 may be coupled to the tilt adjustment rod 360. The coupling between the second extension 324 and the tilt adjustment rod 360 may be dynamic, wherein the coupling allows the tilt adjustment rod 360 to move relative to the second extension 324 without disengaging the coupling. In one example, the coupling is a swivel ball joint, as will be described in more detail below.

[0068] The tilt adjustment rod 360 (which may be interchangeably referred to herein as the tilt rod) is coupled to a swivel ball joint at a first end and to a locking mechanism 370 at a second end, wherein the second end is opposite the first end. The rod 360 includes a substantially rectangular shape, wherein the first end may include a contoured surface configured to engage with the swivel ball joint. The second end may include a slot 362 that may engage with the locking mechanism 370, which enables the tilt adjustment rod 360 to be actuated within the locking mechanism 370 without being removed from the locking mechanism 370, as will be described in more detail below.

[0069] Therefore, in Figure 3A and Figure 3B In the example of FIG. 3 , the locking mechanism 370 is disposed directly below the head holder 302. In this way, the patient's head can be positioned directly above the locking mechanism 370 when imaging occurs. The positioning of the locking mechanism 370 can allow the operator to easily adjust the head holder 302 from either side of the examination table. By positioning the swivel joint below the patient's neck area, complex parts can be avoided from entering the imaging range, which can result in enhanced image quality and fewer image artifacts (if any).

[0070] Now go to Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figure 4C , Figure 4D and Figure 4E, which illustrate an embodiment 400 of the locking mechanism 370. Therefore, previously introduced components may be numbered similarly in this and subsequent figures. The tilt adjustment rod 360 extends through the opening 402 into the interior space 404 of the locking mechanism 370. The tilt adjustment rod 360 includes a first end formed as a rod 410, which is formed via a narrow slot 362. The rod 410 may include a circular shape, wherein the rod 410 is configured to engage with one or more recessed portions 420 of the locking mechanism 370. Each of the one or more recessed portions 420 may correspond to a head retainer (e.g., Figure 3A different positions of the head holder 302).

[0071] Each of the one or more recesses may be evenly spaced apart so that when the rod 410 engages with different recesses, the adjustment of the head retainer may be consistent. For example, actuating the rod 410 from a first recess to a second recess directly adjacent to the first recess may result in a position adjustment of the head retainer equal to a first magnitude. Actuating the rod 410 from a second recess to a third recess directly adjacent to the second recess may result in a position adjustment of the head retainer also equal to a second magnitude. In this way, adjusting the rod 410 to engage with the third recess from the first recess results in a position adjustment of twice the first magnitude. It should be understood that in some examples of the present disclosure, the position adjustment between adjacent recesses may not be consistent (e.g., equal).

[0072] exist Figure 4A and Figure 4B In the example of , there are exactly three recesses. However, it should be understood that there may be more or less than three recesses without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, or alternatively, a component may be arranged in each recess so that the position of the recess can be fine-tuned to a more desired position. In one example, the component may be a protrusion or the like, which is capable of adjusting the position of the first rod 410 in the recess to adjust the tilt angle via a smaller value than moving the first rod to a different recess. For example, if the recess results in a head holder position of 15 degrees, the component may be actuated to actuate the positioning of the rod 410 in the recess so that the angle of the head holder position is adjusted. In one example, the component may be configured to adjust the angle of the head holder position by ±5 degrees.

[0073] Each of the plurality of recesses 420 may include a U-shaped cross section, wherein the cross section is taken along the xy plane. The width of each of the plurality of recesses 420 may be correspondingly greater than the diameter of the rod 410, such that the rod 410 may be inserted into the recess without falling from the recess. That is, the rod 410 including a cylindrical shape may include a diameter correspondingly smaller than the width of each recess, such that the rod 410 may be minimally moved in the x direction when inserted into the recess.

[0074] The locking mechanism 370 may also include a switch 440. The switch 440 may be actuated in the y direction. In one example, the switch 440 is actuated in the y direction by an operator under the force of a spring 460 to allow the rod 410 to disengage from the recess and move to a different recess. If the force applied by the operator does not exceed the force of the spring 460, the switch 450 may not be actuated and the rod 410 may remain locked in place and engaged with the recess. Thus, undesirable (e.g., accidental) adjustments of the head holder by an operator or by a patient may be prevented. The spring may be a coil spring, a leaf spring, or other elastic biasing element.

[0075] The plurality of recesses 420 and the first rod 410 are disposed between the at least one spring 460 and the switch 440. By configuring the locking mechanism 370 in this manner, the packaging size and complexity of the locking mechanism 370 may be reduced.

[0076] Go to Figure 4F , which shows an embodiment of a swivel ball joint 480. As described above, the swivel ball joint 480 is arranged at the interface between the second end of the tilt adjustment rod 360 and the second extension 324. The second end is opposite to the first end of the tilt adjustment rod 360, wherein the first end corresponds to the rod 410 of the tilt adjustment rod 360.

[0077] In one example, the rod 410 is a first rod 410, wherein the tilt adjustment rod 360 further includes a second rod 482. The second rod 482 may be different from or equal to the first rod 410 in size. However, both rods may include a cylindrical shape. The second rod 482 may engage with a joint 484 of the second extension 324. The joint 484 may surround a large portion of the second rod 482 (e.g., greater than 60% of the circumference), thereby preventing the second rod 482 from being removed from the joint 484 along the x-axis and y-axis. However, the second rod 482 may be removed from the joint 484 by sliding along the z-axis. It should be understood that the movement of the second rod 482 along the z-axis does not correspond to the adjustment of the first rod 410 in the locking mechanism 370. In addition, the first rod 410 is accommodated in the internal space of the locking mechanism 370 so that its movement along the z-axis may be as small as zero. In this way, removing the second rod 482 from the joint 484 may require a certain degree of disassembly of the present disclosure, and may not occur during the adjustment of the head holder.

[0078] The second rod 482 can be actuated within the joint 484. In one example, the second rod 482 can pivot in the joint 484 in a direction 486 based on the movement of the first rod 410 within the interior space 404 of the locking mechanism 370. When the first rod 410 is inserted into a recess of the plurality of recesses 420, the second rod 482 can be prevented from pivoting within the joint 484. The movement of the first rod 410, the switch 450, and the position of the head holder are described in more detail below.

[0079] Now go to Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C , which respectively show a first position 500, a second position 525 and a third position 550 of the head holder 302. Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C The position of the first rod 410 within the locking mechanism 370 is further shown.

[0080] In the first position 500, the head holder 302 may include an angle of zero degrees. Thus, the head holder 302 may be aligned with the examination table to which the examination table attachment 310 is physically coupled. By doing so, the patient's head may be aligned with respect to their spine. In the first position, the first rod 410 engages with a first recess 420A of the plurality of recesses 420. The first recess 420A may be the recess farthest from the examination table attachment 310.

[0081] In the second position 525, the head holder 302 may include an angle 330 greater than zero. In one example, the angle 330 is greater than five degrees and less than 50 degrees. In some examples, additionally or alternatively, the angle 330 is between 10 degrees and 30 degrees. In some examples, the angle 330 is between 10 degrees and 20 degrees. In one example, the angle 330 is exactly equal to 15 degrees.

[0082] The head holder 302 can be adjusted from the first position 500 to the second position 525 via pressing the switch 450 and actuating the first rod 410 from the first recess 420A to the second recess 420B. By doing so, the tilt of the patient's head can be increased relative to the first position 500. This may be desirable during imaging to avoid various artifacts that may be produced due to dental work, etc.

[0083] In the third position 550, the head holder 302 may include an angle 352 that is greater than zero and greater than the angle 330. In one example, the angle 352 is between 15 and 50 degrees. In some examples, additionally or alternatively, the angle 352 is between 20 and 40 degrees. In some examples, additionally or alternatively, the angle 352 is between 25 and 35 degrees. In one example, the angle 352 is 30 degrees.

[0084] The head holder 302 may be adjusted from the first position 500 or the second position 525 to the third position 550 by pressing the switch 450 and inserting the first rod 410 into the third recess 420C. By doing so, the tilt of the patient's head may be increased relative to each of the first position 500 and the second position 525. One of the angles 330 and 352 may be selected based on imaging the patient's head that captures the least artifacts.

[0085] Now go to Fig. 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C , which show a transition 600 from a first position 500 to a second position 525. More specifically, Fig. 6A shows the first position, Figure 6B A transition position 625 between the first position 500 and the second position 525 is shown, and Figure 6C A second position 525 is shown.

[0086] To adjust the head holder from the first position 500 to the second position 525, the switch 450 is pressed in a first direction 602. In one example, the first direction 602 is an upward direction, opposite to gravity. In one example, the switch 450 moves via a thrust force, wherein the force is greater than a threshold force of the at least one spring 460. If the thrust force is greater than or equal to the threshold force, the at least one spring 460 compresses and the locking mechanism 370 moves to the transition position 625.

[0087] The transition position 625 shows the pin 652 of the switch 450. The pin 652 is exposed due to the displacement of the upper portion of the switch 450 due to the compression of the at least one spring 460. When the at least one spring 460 is compressed, the switch 450 occupies a greater amount of the interior space of the locking mechanism 370. In addition, the plurality of recesses 420 are pressed upward into the at least one spring 460, thereby releasing the first rod 410.

[0088] The first rod 410 can be actuated within the interior space of the locking mechanism 370. Figure 6C In the example of FIG. 4 , the first rod 410 is actuated toward the second recess 420B and inserted into the second recess. Figure 6C 402, the first pin 410 is locked in place. Figure 6C In the embodiment of FIG. 4 , pin 652 is still shown to illustrate the downward engagement of the upper portion of switch 450 with pin 652 .

[0089] Now go to Fig.6D, which shows an embodiment 650 of an outer surface 652 of the locking mechanism 370. When the locking mechanism 370 is fully assembled, the outer surface 652 is the visible surface of the locking mechanism 370. The outer surface 652 includes a plurality of perspective holes 654 through which an operator can visualize which of the recesses 420 the first rod 410 is engaged with. In some examples, the plurality of perspective holes 654 can additionally or alternatively include one or more markings, such as protrusions, recesses, bumps, ingots, etc. Thus, the operator can verify which position the head holder is positioned in via feel or sight.

[0090] Now go to Fig. 7A , which shows a cross-section of a locking mechanism housing 700, which may be Figure 3A and Figure 3B 700. The locking mechanism housing 700 includes a shelf 702 disposed between an upper surface 704 and a bottom surface 706. The bottom surface 706 includes a plurality of openings 708 through which components (e.g., arms of a switch) may be disposed. As shown, the shelf 702 may be spaced apart from each of the top surface 704 and the bottom surface 706 such that the shelf 702 is disposed within a middle portion of the interior space of the locking mechanism housing.

[0091] Go to Figure 7B , the positioning device 710 is inserted into the locking mechanism housing 700, wherein the edge 712 of the positioning device 710 is arranged directly above the shelf 702. In this way, the edge 712 can rest on the shelf 702, thereby setting the lowest position of the positioning device 710. As shown, the positioning device 710 can include a plurality of recessed portions 420, wherein the width of the edge 712 is greater than the width of the portion of the positioning device 710 including the plurality of recessed portions 420.

[0092] Continue to Figure 7C , the first end of the tilt adjustment rod 360 including the first rod 410 is inserted into a portion of the locking mechanism housing 700 located below the positioning device 710. Therefore, the first rod 410 is arranged between the positioning device 710 and the bottom surface 706. Herein, the inner portion of the locking mechanism housing 700 located between the shelf 702 and the bottom surface 706 is referred to as the lower inner portion 792. The inner portion of the locking mechanism housing 700 located between the shelf 702 and the upper surface 704 is referred to as the upper inner portion 794.

[0093] See also Fig.7D, the switch 450 is inserted into the lower interior portion 792 via a plurality of openings 708 disposed in the bottom surface 706 of the locking mechanism housing 700. The switch 450 includes arms 750. The first arm 752 may extend through the slot 362, and the second arm 754 may not extend through the slot. Thus, the first rod 410 may be positioned between the first arm 752 and the second arm 754. The first arm 752 and the second arm 754 may contact opposite ends of the positioning device 710.

[0094] Continue to Fig. 7E , inserting at least one spring 460 into the upper interior portion of the locking mechanism housing 700. Thus, when the switch 450 is pressed toward the locking mechanism housing 700, the spring 460 may be compressed, and the size of the upper interior portion 494 may be reduced, and the size of the lower interior portion 492 may be increased. This may allow the first pin 410 to move out of the first recess and be inserted into the second recess. In one example, the at least one spring 460 is a leaf spring.

[0095] Continue to Figure 7F , the fixed stop 760 can be arranged to pass through the slot 362 and be physically coupled to the upper surface 704. By doing so, components in the interior space of the locking mechanism housing 700 can be blocked.

[0096] As shown, the illustrated structure provides a plurality of discrete locking positions so that the tilt angle of the user's head can be variably adjusted when engaged with the head retaining device.

[0097] Now go to Figure 8 , a second embodiment of an adjustable head holder 800 is shown. Components of the second embodiment of the adjustable head holder 800 that are the same as the components of the first embodiment of the adjustable head holder 300 are similarly numbered in this figure and subsequent figures and are not reintroduced for the sake of brevity. It should be understood that the second embodiment of the adjustable head holder 800 is Figure 1 Non-limiting example of an adjustable head retainer 116.

[0098] The second embodiment of the adjustable head holder 800 may differ from the first embodiment of the adjustable head holder 300 in that it includes a tilt adjustment lever 810 , a table mount locking and release mechanism 820 , a tilt lever 860 , and a locking mechanism 870 .

[0099] In one example, a second embodiment of an adjustable head holder 800 is configured for use with an imaging system having an examination table. The adjustable head holder 800 includes a tilt adjustment mechanism 870 that will securely position the head at a plurality of different angles. One advantage is that the tilt adjustment mechanism 700 includes a positive locking mechanism having a plurality of different notches that positively engage one end of the tilt adjustment rod 860 to securely position the head holder 302 without the head holder sliding out of position when the patient lifts his / her head off the head support.

[0100] The adjustable head holder 800 includes a head support 302, an examination table attachment 310 ( Fig. 9 ), a tilt adjustment mechanism 870 attached to the bottom of the head support 302 at one end thereof opposite to the examination table attachment 310, a tilt adjustment rod 860 connecting the examination table attachment 310 to the tilt adjustment mechanism 870, and a hinge 830 connecting the head support 302 to the examination table attachment 310.

[0101] The tilt adjustment mechanism 870 includes a spring loaded tooth assembly 880 which may include a plurality of teeth 877 with tooth openings 879 therebetween, such as further described in Fig.10 As shown. The spring loaded tooth assembly 880 may also include a ratchet adjustment mechanism. The positive locking mechanism of the spring loaded teeth may function so that if the patient lifts his / her head, the head holder will not move out of position to a different tilt angle than the desired tilt angle set by the imaging system operator or imaging technician. Thus, the spring loaded teeth may push the tilt adjustment lever 860 in an upward direction toward the head support 302. Another benefit of this positive locking mechanism may allow the operator to adjust the head support position via only one hand because the weight of the head support 302 is reduced via the opposing force of the spring loaded teeth.

[0102] The tilt adjustment mechanism 870 and the tilt adjustment rod form a positive locking mechanism. For example, the teeth 877 and the space 879 are shaped to retain the rod 864 of the tilt adjustment rod with a force that holds the rod in place. For example, the angled surfaces of the space and the teeth facilitate holding the rod in place when loaded with the user's head and also when unloaded. For example, the angled surface 892 is formed at Fig.10 Shown in dashed lines, exemplary angles are shown.

[0103] The hinge 830 is constructed of a flexible material that connects the carbon fiber head support 302 to the table attachment 310. The flexible material may be carbon fiber, thermoplastic, plastic, rubber or other flexible polymer, etc. The hinge 830 allows for low material attenuation, torsional stiffness, and provides the necessary range of motion for an adjustable head holder.

[0104] The tilt adjustment rod 860 connects the inspection table attachment 310 to the tilt adjustment mechanism 870. The tilt adjustment rod can also be made of carbon fiber. In one example, the adjustable head holder 800 is attached to the tilt adjustment mechanism 870 using composite fasteners.

[0105] The tilt adjustment mechanism 870 includes a spring loaded tooth and ratchet assembly 876 that allows the patient's head to be tilted through multiple discrete angles (0 degrees, 10 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees, etc. from the horizontal parallel to the x-axis). The tilt adjustment mechanism 870 can be made of carbon fiber or injection molded plastic. The tilt adjustment mechanism includes a spring loaded actuator. Compression of the spring loaded actuator allows the tilt adjustment rod to extend into the ratchet opening at the desired tilt angle. Once set by the imaging technician or operator, a positive locking mechanism prevents the tilt angle from being adjusted. The tilt adjustment mechanism includes a tilt angle of 0 degrees, so that an additional fixed head holder is not required, because the adjustable head holder serves as both a fixed head holder with a 0 degree tilt angle and an adjustable head holder with multiple tilt angles.

[0106] In one example, a Fig.10 In the example shown, the spring loaded tooth assembly may have an integral leaf spring 882 with a first end integrally coupled to the top of the rod 860 and extending downwardly and engaging the top surface of the bottom wall 884, thereby forming a portion of the opening 874. In one example, the integral leaf spring is positioned in the interior region of the rod 860 and extends downwardly to slidably engage the top surface of the bottom wall 884 at a contact point 886 in a biased manner.

[0107] The tilt adjustment mechanism 870 includes a first opening 872 facing the examination table mount 310. The first opening 872 allows the tilt adjustment rod 860 to enter the internal space of the tilt adjustment mechanism 870. The tilt adjustment mechanism also includes a second opening 874 facing in a direction parallel to the z-axis. In one example, the second opening 874 can be used as a viewing window so that the user can visualize the precise position of the head holder 800 that can be adjusted.

[0108] The tilt adjustment lever 860 includes features that can engage with the ratchet system 876 so that the position of the adjustable head holder 800 can be locked. Fig.10 The tilt adjustment mechanism 870 is shown in greater detail.

[0109] Now turn to Fig. 9 , showing an inspection table 900. The inspection table 900 includes an opening 922, which is configured to receive Figure 3A or Figure 8 The inspection table mount 310 of the first embodiment or the second embodiment of the adjustable head holder 300 or 800. The inspection table includes a top surface 912 opposite to a bottom surface 914. An opening 922 is disposed directly between the top surface 912 and the bottom surface 914. The inspection table 900 also includes a first angled surface 916 and a second angled surface 918. In this manner, the inspection table 900 may include a trapezoidal shape, however, it should be understood that the inspection table 900 may include other shapes, such as a rectangle, a square, etc., without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0110] Now go to Fig.10 , which shows a detailed view 1000 of the tilt adjustment mechanism 870 and the end of the tilt adjustment rod 860 engaged with the tilt adjustment mechanism 870. In one example, the end is a first end, wherein the second end of the tilt adjustment rod 860 is close to Figure 8 The inspection table mounting frame 310. The tilt adjustment rod 860 includes a lever 862 and a rod 864. The tilt adjustment rod 860 can be similar to Figure 3A The tilt adjustment lever 360 of the present invention is also described in detail in that it further includes a first rod and a second rod, wherein the first rod is engaged with the tilt adjustment mechanism and the second rod is engaged with the ball joint. More specifically, the first rod can be engaged with a tooth of a plurality of teeth of the ratchet system, wherein each tooth corresponds to a different tilt angle relative to the horizontal axis of the adjustable head holder. The lever 862 protrudes through the third opening 878 of the tilt adjustment mechanism 870 beyond the contour of the adjustable head holder 300. In other words, the vertical axis 1099 extending from the most horizontal portion of the head holder 302 intersects the lever 862, so that the lever 862 extends further in the horizontal direction than the head holder 302. In this way, a user (such as an imaging technician) can help a patient place his head on the adjustable head holder 300 while still being able to easily visualize and access the lever 862.

[0111] As shown, the lever 862 includes a rib that includes a series of undulations so that the surface of the lever 862 is not smooth. In this way, the user can confirm contact with the lever 862 with their hand when the user meets the patient's needs or performs another task. Additionally or alternatively, the lever 862 may include other markings in addition to or in place of the ribs. The lever 862 may include dots, etchings, and other ingots to provide sensory feedback to the user.

[0112] Now go to Fig.11, which shows a detailed view 1100 of a first embodiment 340 of a hinge 330 incorporated into a second embodiment of an adjustable head holder 800. An extension arm 1130 extends from a table mount (e.g., Figure 8 The hinge 330 is configured to extend toward the head support 302 and toward the head support 302. The hinge 330 shares contact with the head support 302 and the bottom surface of the extension arm 1130. In one example, the extension arm 1130 is shaped to hide most of the hinge 330 in a top view of the adjustable head holder 800. As described above, the hinge 330 can be configured to pivot when the head support 302 is moved by the user and the adjustable tilt lever 860 is not in a locked position with the ratchet system 876.

[0113] Now go to Fig.12 , which shows a mounting to an inspection table (such as Fig. 9 12 is a side view 1200 of an adjustable head holder 800 mounted on an examination table 900 (see FIG. 12 ). More specifically, the examination table mount locking and release mechanism 820 includes a protrusion 1210 that presses against the bottom surface 914 of the examination table. The force of the protrusion 1210 can prevent the adjustable head holder 800 from being accidentally removed from the examination table. That is, the adjustable head holder 800 can be fixedly mounted to the examination table until the tab 1212 is actuated, thereby causing the protrusion 1210 to be actuated in a direction away from the bottom surface 914, as shown via arrow 1214. When the protrusion 1210 is not pressed against the bottom surface 914, the adjustable head holder 800 can be removed (e.g., removed) from the examination table. Therefore, the examination table mount locking and release mechanism 820 can allow the adjustable head holder 800 to be quickly released from the examination table so that a different adjustable head holder can be installed for a subsequent patient.

[0114] In one aspect, the head holder can be adjusted via a locking mechanism including a switch. The combination of the locking mechanism and the switch can allow for quick, precise, and optimal positioning of the patient's head. The technical effect of using the locking mechanism and the switch is to allow for repeatable scanning of a target area while allowing the operator to easily adjust the head holder without allowing the patient to adjust the head holder. By doing so, medical imaging can be enhanced and patient outcomes improved.

[0115] An example of a system includes an adjustable head holder for use with an imaging system, the adjustable head holder comprising a head support, a tilt adjustment mechanism having a plurality of locking positions disposed below a first end of the head support, a table mount extending from a second end of the head support, and a tilt adjustment rod extending from the table mount through the tilt adjustment mechanism, wherein the first end and the second end of the head support are located at opposite ends of the head support.

[0116] The first example of the system also includes where the recline adjustment rod includes a lever extending through an opening of the recline adjustment mechanism.

[0117] A second example of the system optionally includes the first example, further comprising wherein the tilt adjustment mechanism comprises a spring loaded tooth and ratchet system.

[0118] A third example of the system optionally includes one or more of the preceding examples, further comprising wherein the adjustable head holder further comprises a hinge coupled between the second end of the head support and an extension arm extending from the table mount.

[0119] A fourth example of the system optionally includes one or more of the preceding examples, further including wherein the imaging system includes a table having an opening in one end thereof, the opening being shaped to receive the table mount.

[0120] A fifth example of the system optionally includes one or more of the preceding examples, further comprising wherein the adjustable head holder further comprises a table mount locking and release mechanism coupled to the table mount.

[0121] A sixth example of the system optionally includes one or more of the preceding examples, further including wherein the imaging system is one of a computed tomography (CT) imaging system, a positron emission tomography (PET) imaging system, a single photon emission CT (SPECT) imaging system, or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system.

[0122] An example of an adjustable head holder for use with an imaging system, the adjustable head holder comprising a head support, a tilt adjustment mechanism positioned below a first end of the head support, and a table mount extending from a second end of the head support, wherein the head support is configured to pivot via a hinge coupled to the second end of the head support and an extension arm of the table mount, and wherein the first and second ends of the head support are located at opposite ends of the head support.

[0123] The first example of the adjustable head holder also includes where the hinge comprises a flexible material.

[0124] A second example of the adjustable head holder optionally includes the first example, further comprising wherein the flexible material includes one or more of carbon fiber, thermoplastic, plastic, rubber, and polymer.

[0125] A third example of the adjustable head holder optionally includes one or more of the preceding examples, further comprising wherein the table mount is inserted into an opening in an end of a table of an imaging system.

[0126] A fourth example of the adjustable head holder optionally includes one or more of the preceding examples, further comprising wherein the table mount includes a table mount locking and release mechanism.

[0127] A fifth example of the adjustable head holder optionally includes one or more of the preceding examples, further comprising wherein the tilt adjustment mechanism receives a tilt adjustment rod extending from the examination table mount, wherein the tilt adjustment rod includes a first rod configured to engage with a ratchet system of the tilt adjustment mechanism and a second rod disposed in a joint configured as a swivel ball joint.

[0128] A sixth example of the adjustable head retainer optionally includes one or more of the preceding examples, further comprising wherein the first rod is arranged adjacent to a first end of a tilt adjustment rod and the second rod is arranged at a second end of the tilt adjustment rod opposite the first end, wherein the first end is a lever configured to actuate the first rod to and away from a ratchet system of the tilt adjustment mechanism.

[0129] A seventh example of the adjustable head retainer optionally includes one or more of the preceding examples, further comprising wherein the lever extends through the opening of the tilt adjustment mechanism and exceeds a profile of the head support in a horizontal direction.

[0130] An eighth example of the adjustable head holder optionally includes one or more of the preceding examples, further including wherein the adjustable head holder is adjustable relative to a horizontal direction.

[0131] An example of a system includes: an adjustable head holder; an examination table attachment connected to a first half of a hinge via a first extension arm, and the adjustable head holder is connected to a second half of the hinge, each of the examination table attachment and the adjustable head holder being spaced apart from a bendable center of the hinge; and a tilt adjustment rod, the tilt adjustment rod including a first rod adjacent to a lever on a first end of the tilt adjustment rod, the first rod being configured to engage with a ratchet system of a tilt adjustment mechanism, the tilt adjustment rod also including a second rod at a second end of the tilt adjustment rod, the second rod being engaged with a joint of a second extension of the examination table attachment, wherein the second rod is configured to pivot within the joint, wherein the lever extends along a horizontal axis further than a head support of the adjustable head holder and protrudes through an opening of the tilt adjustment mechanism.

[0132] The first example of the system also includes where the ratchet system includes a plurality of spring-loaded teeth to engage the first rod of the tilt adjustment lever at a plurality of different tilt angles.

[0133] A second example of the system optionally includes the first example, further comprising wherein the spring loaded tooth is configured to retain the first rod of the tilt adjustment lever in the ratchet system when the lever is not actuated.

[0134] A third example of the system optionally includes one or more of the preceding examples, further comprising wherein each tooth of the plurality of spring-loaded teeth corresponds to a different tilt angle of the adjustable head holder relative to a horizontal axis.

[0135] As used herein, the elements or steps listed in the singular and beginning with the word "one" or "a kind of" should be understood as not excluding a plurality of said elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. In addition, the reference to "an embodiment" of the present invention does not exclude the existence of additional embodiments that also include the cited features. In addition, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, the embodiment of "including", "comprising" or "having" an element or multiple elements with a specific characteristic may include additional such elements without the characteristic. The terms "including" and "in..." are used as the concise language equivalents of the corresponding terms "including" and "wherein". In addition, the terms "first", "second" and "third" etc. are only used as marks, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements or specific positional order on their objects.

[0136] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any included methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to a person of ordinary skill in the art. Such other examples are intended to fall within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insignificant differences from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A system for head retention, comprising: An adjustable head holder for use with an imaging system, the adjustable head holder comprising: Head support; a tilt adjustment mechanism having a plurality of locking positions disposed below the first end of the head support, wherein the plurality of locking positions includes a plurality of recessed portions; an inspection table mounting frame extending from the second end of the head support; a tilt adjustment rod extending from the table mount through the tilt adjustment mechanism, wherein the tilt adjustment rod comprises a bar configured to engage one of the plurality of recesses, and wherein the tilt adjustment rod comprises a lever extending through an opening of the tilt adjustment mechanism; and The first end and the second end of the head support are located at opposite ends of the head support.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the tilt adjustment mechanism comprises a spring-loaded tooth and ratchet system.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the adjustable head holder further comprises a hinge coupled between the second end of the head support and an extension arm extending from the table mount.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the imaging system comprises an examination table having an opening in one end thereof, the opening being shaped to receive the examination table mount.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the adjustable head holder further comprises a table mount lock and release mechanism coupled to the table mount.

6. An adjustable head holder for use with an imaging system, the adjustable head holder comprising: Head support; a tilt adjustment mechanism positioned below the first end of the head support, wherein the tilt adjustment mechanism includes a plurality of recessed portions; and an inspection table mounting frame extending from the second end of the head support; wherein the head support is configured to pivot via a hinge coupled to the second end of the head support and an extension arm of the table mount; wherein the first end and the second end of the head support are located at opposite ends of the head support; and The plurality of recessed portions of the tilt adjustment mechanism receive a tilt adjustment rod extending from the table mount, wherein the tilt adjustment rod comprises a rod configured to engage with one of the plurality of recessed portions, and wherein the tilt adjustment rod comprises a lever extending through an opening of the tilt adjustment mechanism.

7. The adjustable head holder of claim 6, wherein the hinge comprises a flexible material.

8. The adjustable head holder of claim 6, wherein the table mount includes a table mount lock and release mechanism.

9. A system for head retention, comprising: Adjustable head holder; an examination table attachment coupled to a first half of the hinge via a first extension arm and the adjustable head holder coupled to a second half of the hinge, each of the examination table attachment and the adjustable head holder being spaced apart from a bendable center of the hinge; and a tilt adjustment lever including a first rod adjacent to a lever on a first end of the tilt adjustment lever, the first rod configured to engage with one of a plurality of recesses of a ratchet system of a tilt adjustment mechanism, the tilt adjustment lever further including a second rod at a second end of the tilt adjustment lever, the second rod engaging with a joint of a second extension of the table attachment, wherein the second rod is configured to pivot within the joint; The lever extends along a horizontal axis further than a head support of the adjustable head holder and projects through an opening of the tilt adjustment mechanism.

Images