CT imaging equipment

Abstract

This invention relates to a CT imaging apparatus, comprising a longitudinally extending frame portion, a support structure for an X-ray source, an image detector extending from the longitudinally extending frame portion, and a drive mechanism arranged to move the X-ray source and the image detector about a rotation axis 13. The support structure includes a guide structure configured to allow at least one of the X-ray source and the image detector to move laterally relative to the support structure, wherein the lateral movement range of at least one of the X-ray source and the image detector includes a base position, a first limit position, and a second limit position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to computed tomography (CT) imaging equipment. In particular, the equipment according to the invention is designed for use in the environment of dental and medical cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Computed tomography (CT) is a type of X-ray imaging in which the area to be imaged is illuminated from different directions, and the desired two-dimensional or three-dimensional image can be reconstructed from the image information thus acquired.

[0003] Traditional CT scanners are large and heavy, and they are typically mounted on the floor. Patients are positioned within the scanner's opening and are usually imaged on a horizontally extending, laterally movable examination platform.

[0004] Since the development of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) technology, which utilizes a slower rotation speed of the imaging unit, lighter devices than more conventional CT equipment have been developed. Among CBCT devices, there are also examples of CBCT units that are not mounted on the floor but are designed to be movable. Furthermore, structures including a vertical extension frame for the imaging unit and horizontal extension supports have been designed.

[0005] Generally, medical X-ray imaging equipment, including patient support structures, is typically designed to image standing, sitting, or lying patients.

[0006] Some recently designed CT devices are multi-purpose devices that support more than one imaging modality. On the other hand, this tends to increase the complexity of the device, for example, by incorporating a new degree of motion onto one or more components. Furthermore, the weight of the device may increase, and some modifications may create new challenges, for example, related to positioning the patient for exposure.

[0007] For example, in US Patent 7,945,012, various imaging modes of CT imaging systems have been conceived, but no specific and detailed structural embodiments of the motion required to achieve the imaging modes are taught. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The object of this invention is to provide a CT device, particularly a CBCT device, which includes features related to the mutual positioning of the device and the patient for exposure. In embodiments, the device can perform imaging exposure according to more than one imaging mode.

[0009] The features of the invention are defined in claim 1. More specifically, the device disclosed herein includes a first longitudinally extending frame portion. A support structure extends substantially perpendicularly from the longitudinally extending frame portion. An X-ray source and an image detector, which together form an X-ray imaging assembly, are mounted to the support structure. A first drive mechanism is provided to move the X-ray imaging assembly about a virtual or physical axis of rotation. A control system is provided having at least one operating mode that simultaneously controls the operation of the first drive mechanism and the X-ray imaging assembly. The support structure includes at least one guide mechanism configured to allow at least one of the X-ray source and the image detector to move laterally relative to the support structure. The range of lateral movement of at least one of the X-ray source and the image detector includes a base position, a first limit position, and a second limit position. Attached Figure Description

[0010] The invention will now be described in more detail with reference to some preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0011] Figure 1 This is a schematic overall side view, which shows, as an example, components applicable to an imaging device incorporating the features of this disclosure.

[0012] Figures 2a-2c Some structural details of an embodiment including a motorized guidance configuration arranged as an example are shown, which is functionally connected to the imaging components of the device.

[0013] Figure 3 As shown Figures 2a-2c The guide structure shown is partially covered by the housing of the support structure of the imaging component of the device.

[0014] Figure 4 One embodiment is shown in which the imaging component of the device is located outside the housing of the supporting structure of the imaging component and extends outside the housing.

[0015] Figure 5 It is a schematic overall diagram showing how certain components of a device can be moved to different positions within their defined range of motion.

[0016] Figure 6 It shows the relationship with Figure 1 The schematic general side view of an embodiment similar to the one shown shows elements arranged to change orientation.

[0017] Figure 7 This is a schematic overall diagram of the equipment in a horizontal position, showing how certain components are driven to... Figure 5 The position shown corresponds to the position shown.

[0018] Figure 8aAs an example, some details of a patient support suitable for use in the device disclosed herein are shown.

[0019] Figure 8b A cross-section of the patient support is shown, which may be similar to... Figure 3 The cross-section shown in b.

[0020] Figure 9 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the control system for the device. Detailed Implementation

[0021] A more complete understanding of the components, processes, and apparatus disclosed herein can be obtained by referring to the accompanying drawings. These drawings are merely schematic diagrams for convenience and ease of illustrating the contents of this disclosure and are therefore not intended to indicate the relative size and dimensions of the apparatus or its components and / or to limit or restrict the scope of exemplary embodiments.

[0022] Although specific terms are used in the following description for clarity, these terms are intended to refer only to the specific structures of the embodiments selected for illustration in the accompanying drawings and are not intended to limit or restrict the scope of this disclosure. It should be understood in the following drawings and description that the same reference numerals refer to components having the same function.

[0023] Unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include multiple objects of reference.

[0024] As used herein, the terms approximately, substantially, and essentially are intended to include structural or numerical modifications that do not significantly affect the purpose of the element or number modified by the term. For example, the term substantially may include a range of variation of the relationship such as 25%, or 10%, or 0%.

[0025] As used in the specification and claims, the term "comprising" may include embodiments of "consisting of" and "substantially consisting of". As used herein, the terms "comprising", "including", "having", "having", "capable of", "containing", and variations thereof are intended to be open transitional phrases, terms, or words that require the presence of a specified element / step and allow for the presence of other elements / steps.

[0026] Figure 1 An apparatus including a longitudinally extending frame portion 11 is shown, the longitudinally extending frame portion 11 extending along a first direction and having a first end and a second end. A support structure 12 extends from this longitudinally extending frame portion 11, or "elongated frame portion 11," along a second direction, the support structure supporting the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 (thus...). Figure 1(Not visible in the middle), the second direction is substantially orthogonal to the first direction. The X-ray source 14 and image detector 15 that together form the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 can be mounted substantially opposite to each other to the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15, but in embodiments of the invention, their positions are also arranged to be adjustable.

[0027] While devices like those discussed above typically include patient support components, Figure 1 A particular type of patient support 18 structure is shown, which is mechanically connected to an elongated frame portion 11. This patient support 18, suitable for use in various embodiments of the invention discussed in further detail below, includes a surface extending substantially parallel to the elongated frame portion 11. Moreover, while such a patient support 18 is optional in some embodiments, Figure 1 In one embodiment, the patient support 18 is substantially the same length as the elongated frame portion 11.

[0028] According to one aspect, for example, the length of the slender frame portion 11 is approximately 240 cm.

[0029] According to one aspect, for example, the length of the slender frame portion 11 is between 220cm and 260cm.

[0030] According to one aspect, for example, the length of the patient support 18 is 80%-90% of the length of the slender frame portion 11.

[0031] According to one aspect, for example, the patient support 18 has a longer dimension in a first direction and a shorter dimension in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction.

[0032] According to one aspect, for example, the patient support 18 is transmissive at least in a first direction, at least in terms of its main portion.

[0033] According to one aspect, for example, the transmissive portion of the patient support 18 has substantially the same length as the elongated frame portion 11.

[0034] According to one aspect, for example, the patient support 18 includes a non-transmissive segment at at least one end in a first direction.

[0035] According to one aspect, for example, the length of the transmissive portion of the patient support 18 in the first direction is 80%-90% of the length of the elongated frame portion 11.

[0036] When further discussing some other figures of this disclosure below, examples are presented of how the X-ray source 14 and image detector 15 can be mounted to the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15, and Figure 1 The diagram generally illustrates how the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 can include a housing 121 that covers an annular rotatable gantry 122 to which the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 are mounted. In one embodiment, the housing 121 may extend to cover the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15; in another embodiment, the housing 121 may cover the structure by which the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 are connected to the gantry 122, rather than covering the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 themselves.

[0037] X-ray imaging assemblies 14 and 15 can be arranged to rotate about axis of rotation 13. A schematic overall side view as described above is shown. Figure 1 In the specific configuration shown, the rotation axis 13 coincides with or can be made to coincide with the central axis of the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging components 14, 15, the central axis of the housing 121, and the central axis of the rotatable frame 122 as described above.

[0038] Therefore, according to one aspect, in Figure 1 Not directly visible, for example, the device includes a drive mechanism 16 arranged to drive X-ray imaging assemblies 14 and 15 about a rotation axis 13. (As in...) Figure 1 In this case, the rotation axis 13 can be a physical axis or a virtual rotation axis.

[0039] According to one aspect, for example, when driven along a curved path and thus defining the position of the virtual rotation axis 13, the rotation axis 13 or the rotation center of the X-ray imaging components 14, 15 coincides with the central axis 13 of the gantry 122.

[0040] According to one aspect, the rotation axis 13 is an instantaneous (virtual) rotation axis, and the position of the instantaneous rotation axis relative to the central axis of the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15, the central axis of the housing 121, and / or the central axis of the rotatable frame 122 as described above can be arranged to change.

[0041] According to one aspect, at least one of the components of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 is arranged to be laterally movable from a position exactly opposite to that of the other component.

[0042] According to one aspect, the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 includes a frame 122 having a central axis, and the structure of the apparatus takes into account at least one of the following: laterally moving the X-ray source 14 between a position where the central ray produced by the X-ray source coincides with the central axis of the frame 122 and a position where the central ray produced by the X-ray source does not coincide with the central axis of the frame 122; and laterally moving the image detector 15 between a position where a vector orthogonal to the detector surface at the center of the image detector 15 coincides with the central axis of the frame 122 and a position where a vector orthogonal to the detector surface at the center of the image detector 15 does not coincide with the central axis of the frame 122. Lateral movement of the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 may include moving the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 to a position where the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 face each other, and the central ray produced by the X-ray 14 does not coincide with the central axis of the frame 122, and the vector orthogonal to the detector surface at the center of the image detector 15 does not coincide with the central axis of the frame 122.

[0043] Rotation of the rotatable frame 122 can be performed by any conventional mechanism known to those skilled in the art. In one embodiment, a drive belt driven by at least one pulley is arranged to extend around the annular rotatable frame 122. This configuration enables the frame 122 to rotate at angles exceeding 360 degrees.

[0044] According to another aspect of the invention, another drive mechanism 17 is arranged to the device such that the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 moves back and forth in a direction substantially parallel to the extension of the elongated frame portion 11. According to one aspect, the drive mechanism 17 may be arranged to move the support structure 12 along or beside the elongated frame portion 11.

[0045] According to one aspect, a drive mechanism 17 for driving the support structure 12 in a direction substantially parallel to the direction along which the elongated frame portion 11 extends may include a motor arranged in the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 themselves.

[0046] Regardless of the construction details of the drive mechanism 17 that drives the support structure 12 along or beside the elongated frame portion 11, in one embodiment, the device is constructed to allow the support structure 12 to be driven substantially over the entire length between the first and second ends of the elongated frame portion 11.

[0047] Although the details of the drive mechanism 17 for the back-and-forth movement of the support structure 12 used in X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 in a direction substantially parallel to the direction along which the elongated frame portion 11 extends may be changed, a preferred example of such a mechanism is disclosed in common pending patent application FI20190054, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0048] The device disclosed herein can be described as a dental or medical CT imaging device, the device comprising:

[0049] - A first longitudinal extension frame portion 11, the first longitudinal extension frame portion including a first end and a second end;

[0050] - Support structure 12, which extends from the first longitudinally extending frame portion 11 in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction;

[0051] - X-ray source 14 and image detector 15, together forming an X-ray imaging assembly 14, 15 mounted to support structure 12;

[0052] - A first drive mechanism 16 is arranged to move the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 about a virtual or physical axis of rotation 13.

[0053] The control system of the device may include at least one operating mode to operate the first drive mechanism 16 as defined above and simultaneously operate the X-ray imaging components 14, 15.

[0054] Turning Figures 2a-2c These illustrate some structural details of a possible embodiment of the invention as an example. Figures 2a-2c In this embodiment, a portion of the housing 121 of the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 is removed, making, for example, a guide structure 50 visible, which can be arranged to be functionally connected to at least one of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15. According to one embodiment, the guide structure 50 is motorized.

[0055] Although Figures 2a-2c Two guide structures 50 are shown, which are configured to allow the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 to move laterally relative to their support structure 12 or to the frame 122, but according to one embodiment, only one of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 is arranged with the guide structure 50.

[0056] Lateral movement of the X-ray source 14 and / or image detector 15 relative to the support structure 12 or frame 122 can be implemented in a plane orthogonal to the axis of rotation 13 around which the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 are arranged to rotate.

[0057] According to one aspect, for example, at least one guide structure 50, as discussed herein, is mounted to an annular frame 122, which is arranged to support structure 12 supporting X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15.

[0058] The lateral movement range of at least one of the X-ray source 14 and image detector 15 provided by the guide structure 50 may include a base position, a first limit position and a second limit position located in the direction opposite to the base position.

[0059] Although Figures 2a-2c An embodiment is shown in which the guide structure 50 is structurally identical for both the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15. For clarity, the guide structure 50 is shown in different details; although not all components are even invisible in all these figures, not every single component is... Figures 2a-2c Each of the accompanying figures is indicated by the relevant figure label.

[0060] According to one aspect, the device includes a guide configuration 50 for at least one of an X-ray source 14 and an image detector 15, the guide configuration 50 including a bracket 51 mounted to the X-ray source 14 and / or the image detector 15 (in Figure 2c (as can be seen in the image), so that at least one of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 can move laterally. The range of lateral movement of the bracket 51 may include a base position and a first limit position and a second limit position located in the direction opposite to the base position.

[0061] Furthermore, according to one aspect, at least one guide structure 50 includes: at least one guide groove or guide rail 52 on one side of the support structure 12 or the frame 122; and a mating structure 52' on one side of the bracket 51 (again, in Figure 2c (See in the middle).

[0062] According to one aspect, at least one guide structure 50 may include a motorized structure 53 functionally connected to a bracket 51, the motorized structure 53 providing lateral movement of the X-ray source 14 and / or image detector 15 within a range including a first limit position and a second limit position of the X-ray source 14 and / or image detector 15.

[0063] According to one aspect, the motorized structure 53 may include a drive screw 54 aligned parallel to at least one guide slot or rail 52 and arranged to be functionally connected to the bracket 51. Figures 2a-2c In the embodiment shown, the drive screw 54 is arranged to rotate via a belt 531 driven by a motor 532, but alternatively, another configuration can be used to rotate the drive screw 54.

[0064] According to another aspect, the guiding structure 50 may include a position sensor device 55 configured to acquire information about the position of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 within the lateral range of motion of at least one of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15.

[0065] According to one aspect, the position sensor device 55 can be configured to detect the position of the bracket 51 within the lateral movement range of the frame 51.

[0066] According to another aspect, the signal path can be arranged between at least one guide structure 50 and the control system of the device.

[0067] According to one aspect, the signal path may include a signal path between the position sensor device 55 and the control system of the device.

[0068] According to one aspect, the position sensor device 55 is an absolute position sensor device 55.

[0069] According to one aspect, the absolute position sensor device 55 may include a magnetic component 56 that is structurally connected to a bracket 51 and movably connected to a rod 57 that extends parallel to at least one guide slot or rail 52 and a drive screw 54.

[0070] According to one aspect, the first longitudinally extending frame portion 11 extends horizontally or is arranged to move to extend horizontally, and the motorized structure 53 of the guiding configuration 50 is arranged to be self-holding with respect to: i) the position of at least one of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 within their lateral range of motion; and ii) the rotational position of the first drive mechanism 16 such that the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 move about a virtual or physical axis of rotation 13.

[0071] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 According to one aspect, the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 includes an annular gantry housing 121 that houses i) at least one guide structure 50; and optionally houses ii) a first drive mechanism 16 arranged to move the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 about a virtual or physical axis of rotation 13, while the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 are arranged to be positioned outside the annular gantry housing 121 or extend outside the annular gantry housing 121.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 extend from the same side of the annular gantry housing 121, and this side of the annular gantry housing 121 may include an otherwise enclosed surface, but with an opening 59 for at least one of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15. The size of the opening 59 may be designed to accommodate the range of lateral movement of the X-ray source 14 and / or the image detector 15 guided by at least one guiding configuration 50.

[0073] Figure 2c and Figure 3 One embodiment is shown, which includes a mounting bracket 58 configured to extend through an opening 59 in the rack housing 121. The mounting bracket 58 can be secured to a bracket 51 on one side and to an X-ray source 14 and / or an image detector 15 on the other side. Figure 2c and Figure 3 As shown, different sizes of mounting brackets 58 can be used.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the X-ray source 14 and / or the image detector 15 may include a housing for the X-ray source 14 and / or the image detector 15, the housing being designed and sized such that, at all positions within the lateral range of motion of at least one of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15, the housing covers the opening 59 through which the mounting bracket 58 extends.

[0075] According to one aspect, the device may include two guide structures 50: a first guide structure for the X-ray source 14; and a second guide structure for the image detector 15. The guide structures 50 may include the same number of components having the same function to form similar functional components. The first and second guide structures may be identical, while the mounting bracket 58 may optionally be different because it is specifically designed for the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15.

[0076] Based on one aspect and referring to Figure 4 The housing 121 of the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 15 and 16 does not enclose the X-ray imaging assemblies 14 and 15, but rather serves primarily or solely as a housing for, for example, the annular frame 122 on which the X-ray imaging assemblies 14 and 15 are mounted, and for arranging the equipment to drive the X-ray imaging assemblies 14 and 15 about the axis of rotation 13. This solution enables a lighter support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14 and 15, provides greater accessibility for patients and personnel to the imaging space between the X-ray imaging assemblies 14 and 15, and also makes it easier for personnel to have a clear view of the imaging volume within the housing 121 where the patient will be positioned for exposure.

[0077] Regarding the imaging zone between X-ray imaging components 14 and 15 Figure 5 This illustrates how certain components of the device can move to various positions within their designated range of motion. According to this embodiment, while the embodiments of the invention discussed above allow lateral movement of at least one of the X-ray source 14 and image detector 15 to facilitate patient access to and from the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15, another similar structure or another similar functional structure can be arranged in the device to also allow lateral movement of the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 themselves relative to the elongated frame portion 11. By incorporating such a linear motion mechanism 50' into the device, for example, even more space can be provided for the patient to enter the imaging area and then be properly positioned for exposure.

[0078] Therefore, according to one aspect, the device further includes a linear motion mechanism 50' arranged to enable the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assembly to move relative to the longitudinal extension frame portion 11 in a direction perpendicular to the direction along which the longitudinal extension frame portion 11 extends, wherein the linear motion range of the support structure 12 includes a base position relative to the first longitudinal extension frame portion 11 and a first limit position and a second limit position.

[0079] When the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 extends in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinally extending frame portion 11, the linear motion mechanism 50' causes the direction of movement of the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 relative to the longitudinally extending frame portion 11 to also be perpendicular to that direction.

[0080] Regarding the base point position provided by the linear motion mechanism 50' of the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 and the base point position provided by the guide structure 50 for the X-ray imaging assemblies, in the embodiment, either the first extreme position or the second extreme position can be the base point position.

[0081] The following provides various examples of how to utilize the degrees of freedom of motion of various components of various embodiments of the device.

[0082] Based on one aspect and referring to Figure 5The light-emitting component 141 is arranged to be connected to the X-ray source 14. This light-emitting component 141 can be configured to project a beam of light with the same shape as the X-ray beam that the X-ray source 14 is configured to emit or can be adjusted to emit. This light-emitting component 141 can be mounted, for example, as a separate component from the X-ray source 14, to a guide structure 50 identical to the guide structure of the X-ray source 14, so as to be movably mounted relative to the rest of the apparatus. The lateral range of motion of the guide structure 50 is thus preferably configured such that the X-ray source 14 and the light-emitting component 141 can be positioned at the same location within the range of motion provided by the guide structure 50. This configuration provides a novel arrangement by which positioning light can be projected onto the object to be imaged from the exact same position where the actual X-ray imaging exposure will occur or begin.

[0083] According to another aspect, the control system of the device includes an input for a patient entry mode, which includes operating at least one guide configuration 50 to drive either the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 to a position closer to the first limit position than the second limit position within the lateral movement range of the X-ray source 14 and / or the image detector 15.

[0084] According to one aspect, the device includes a guide structure 50 for both the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15, and the control system of the device includes an input for a patient entry mode, according to which the guide structure 50 is driven to position both the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 closer to a first limit position than a second limit position within the lateral movement range of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15.

[0085] According to another aspect, the device includes a guide structure 50 for both the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15, and the control system of the device includes an input for a patient entry mode, which includes operating the guide structure 50 to move the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 in the same direction so as to position them closer to a first limit position than a second limit position within the lateral movement range of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15.

[0086] According to another aspect, the control system of the device includes an input for a patient entry mode, which includes driving a linear motion mechanism 50' to position the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assembly closer to a first limit position than a second limit position within the linear motion range of the support structure 12.

[0087] According to one aspect, the control system of the device includes inputs for a patient entry mode, which includes a combination of the two or other patient entry modes described above, such as positioning the X-ray imaging components 14, 15 and their support structures 12 in the same or opposite direction as their base point positions.

[0088] According to one aspect, the control system of the device includes an input for a patient entry mode, according to which at least one guide structure 50 is operated to drive at least one of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 to a position closer to a first limit position than a second limit position within the lateral movement range of the X-ray source 14 and / or the image detector 15, and to operate a linear motion mechanism 50' to drive a support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 to a position closer to the limit position within the linear movement range of the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15, which is a position closer to where the X-ray source 14 and / or the image detector 15 is driven within the linear movement range of the X-ray source 14 and / or the image detector 15.

[0089] According to one aspect, the patient entry mode includes a control system controlling a first drive mechanism 16 to move X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 about a rotation axis 13 to drive the X-ray source 14 and image detector 15 to a rotational position, where at least one guide structure 50 is positioned such that the direction of movement achieved by the at least one guide structure 50 is perpendicular to the direction along which the first longitudinally extending frame portion 11 extends.

[0090] The above-described patient entry mode is suitable for implementation when the device is constructed to include an X-ray source 14 and an image detector 15 extending outside the rack housing 121.

[0091] Go to Figure 6 The diagram, as an example and as a schematic general side view, shows certain components of the embodiment, in which, in addition to the component discussed above which may be referred to as the first elongated frame portion 11, there is a second elongated frame portion 21 with a length substantially the same as that of the first elongated frame portion 11, which is mechanically connected to the first elongated frame portion 11.

[0092] Based on one aspect and still referring to Figure 6A hinged connection 22 is arranged near the first end of the elongated frame portions 11 and 12 to mechanically connect the first elongated frame portion 11 and the second elongated frame portion 21, allowing the first elongated frame portion 11 to tilt relative to the second elongated frame portion 21 about at least one inclined axis. The axis of the at least one inclined axis may be an axis orthogonal to the direction in which the first elongated frame portion 11 and the second elongated frame portion 21 extend and the direction in which the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14 and 15 extends (perpendicular to the first longitudinally extending frame portion 11).

[0093] exist Figure 6 In the embodiment shown, at least one tilt axis is horizontal. This should not be interpreted as the tilt axis needing to be horizontal.

[0094] According to another aspect, on one side of the second elongated frame portion 21, in Figure 6 The mounting structure 23, which is not directly visible in the middle, is arranged to connect with the hinged connection structure 22. The mounting structure 23 is arranged to be movable along the second elongated frame portion 21 or to the side of the second elongated frame portion 21.

[0095] According to another aspect, for example, a locking mechanism 24 is arranged near the second end of the second elongated frame portion 21. This locking mechanism 24 is configured to connect and disconnect the first elongated frame portion 11 and the second elongated frame portion 21. In particular, the locking mechanism 24 may be arranged near the second ends of the first elongated frame portion 11 and the second elongated frame portion 21, and configured to connect and disconnect the first elongated frame portion 11 and the second elongated frame portion 21 near the second ends of the first elongated frame portion 11 and the second elongated frame portion 21.

[0096] When the second elongated frame portion 21 is stably mounted and the locking mechanism 24 is not connecting the first elongated frame portion 11 and the second elongated frame portion 21, the second end of the first elongated frame portion 11 can move freely laterally, while the hinged connection 22 between the frame portions 11 and 21 near the first end of the first elongated frame portion 11 allows the first elongated frame portion 11 to rotate about a horizontally inclined axis. In the vertical starting position, this movable mounting structure, as described above, allows the first end of the first elongated frame portion 11 to descend and ascend.

[0097] While the construction that allows the first elongated frame portion 11 to tilt and the first end of the first elongated frame portion 11 to descend and ascend, as well as the construction of the locking mechanism 24 discussed above, can vary, such an example is disclosed in more detail in the co-pending patent application FI20190054, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0098] Figure 6 It shows that according to Figure 1 The device is in the stage where the first end of the first elongated frame portion 11 has moved downward and the second end of the first elongated frame portion 11 has moved horizontally on the surface. Figure 6 The device can be configured to allow the first end of the first elongated frame portion 11 to descend all the way to the vicinity of the second end of the second elongated frame portion 21.

[0099] According to Figure 6 In another aspect not directly visible, the drive mechanism 27 is arranged to be functionally connected to the second elongated frame portion 21 to drive the mounting structure 23 along or beside the second elongated frame portion 21. When the drive mechanism 27 is mechanically connected to the first elongated frame portion 11, near the first end of the first elongated frame portion 11, the drive mechanism 27 can move the first end of the first elongated frame portion 11 in the direction along which the second elongated frame portion 21 extends.

[0100] The drive mechanism 27 for driving the mounting structure 23 may be similar in construction to the drive mechanism 17 for driving the support structure 12 of the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 along the first elongated frame portion 11 or beside the first elongated frame portion 11.

[0101] According to one aspect, the drive mechanism 27 for driving the mounting structure 23 includes a chain drive.

[0102] In other words, in order to describe some of the features discussed above, in an embodiment of the invention, the mounting structure 23 is arranged on one side of the second elongated frame portion 21 to be mechanically connected to the hinged connection configuration 22. The mounting structure 23 is arranged to be movable along or beside the second elongated frame portion 21. This configuration thereby provides the hinged connection configuration 23 and the first end of the first elongated frame portion 11 mechanically connected to the hinged connection configuration 23 with the freedom to move along or beside the second frame portion 21.

[0103] In one embodiment, the mounting structure 23 is arranged to be movable along or beside the second elongated frame portion 21 by a distance at least substantially corresponding to the length of the first elongated frame portion 11, and the hinge connection configuration 22 is arranged to allow the first elongated frame portion 11 to tilt between a direction in which the first elongated frame portion 11 and the second elongated frame portion 21 extend substantially parallel to each other and a direction in which the first elongated frame portion 11 and the second elongated frame portion 21 extend substantially orthogonally to each other.

[0104] According to yet another aspect, locking mechanism 24 includes... Figure 6The displacement mechanism 25, which is not directly visible, moves the second end of the first elongated frame portion 11 away from the second elongated frame portion 21 by a distance when the locking mechanism 24 disconnects the first elongated frame portion 11 and the second elongated frame portion 21.

[0105] according to Figure 6 In another aspect not shown in detail, the locking mechanism 24 includes a motor drive that has mating parts on one side of the motorized structure and the first elongated frame portion 11, respectively.

[0106] The locking mechanism 24 may also include a guide structure configured to reliably guide the second end of the first elongated frame portion 11 toward the locking mechanism 24 as the second end of the first elongated frame portion 11 moves toward the locking mechanism 24. Alternatively, in other words, this is achieved when the second end of the first elongated frame portion 11 moves toward and approaches the second end of the second elongated frame portion 21.

[0107] According to yet another aspect and as Figure 6 As shown in the example, the first elongated frame portion 11 includes at least one wheel or roller 26 near its second end.

[0108] Alternatively, instead of wheels or rollers, a structure designed to slide on a surface can be arranged at the second end of the first elongated frame portion 11.

[0109] Figure 7 This is a schematic overall diagram of a device extending horizontally as an example. Although in Figure 7 Not shown, but the device may include, for example, a combination of Figure 6 The construction discussed allows for a change in the direction along which the slender frame portion 11 extends. Figure 7 The support structure 12 for X-ray imaging components 14 and 15 and Figure 6 The supporting structures are not similar, but Figure 7 It also shows that certain components of the device are driven to... Figure 5 The positions shown correspond to those discussed above in the context of the patient entry mode.

[0110] According to yet another aspect and as Figure 8a As shown, the connection structures 19, 20 that mechanically connect the patient support 18 to the elongated frame portion 11 may include patient support adjustment mechanisms 19', 20', which are configured to allow the patient support 18 to be moved closer to and further away from the (first) elongated frame portion 11.

[0111] On the other hand, the patient support drive mechanisms 19” and 20” are arranged to be functionally connected to the patient support adjustment mechanisms 19’ and 20’.

[0112] According to another aspect, the patient support adjustment mechanisms 19', 20' may include: a first adjustment mechanism 19' included in the patient support drive mechanism 19”, 20” located substantially at a first end of the elongated frame portion 11, the first adjustment mechanism 19' being arranged together with its drive mechanism 19”; and a second adjustment mechanism 20' included in the patient support drive mechanism 19”, 20” located substantially at a second end of the elongated frame portion 11, the second adjustment mechanism 20' being arranged together with its drive mechanism 20”.

[0113] According to one aspect, for example, the patient support adjustment mechanisms 19', 20' are arranged to be functionally connected to the control system of the device, and the control system is configured to control the patient support drive mechanisms 19', 20' of the patient support adjustment mechanisms 19', 20'.

[0114] According to one aspect, for example, the control system is configured as a control connection configuration 19, 20, the connection configuration 19, 20 including: a first adjustment mechanism 19' and its drive mechanism 19” substantially arranged at a first end of the (first) elongated frame portion 11; a second adjustment mechanism 20' and its drive mechanism 20” substantially arranged at a second end of the (first) elongated frame portion 11 to maintain the distance between the (first) elongated frame portion 11 and the patient support 18 at the first end and the second end of the elongated frame portion 11 being the same.

[0115] According to another aspect, the distance between the end of the (first) slender frame portion 11 and the end of the patient support 18 can be adjusted to be different.

[0116] According to one aspect, such as Figure 8b As shown, considering the aforementioned first direction of the patient support 18, the cross-section of its main portion is curved in order to better support the patient on the concave surface of the patient support 18.

[0117] According to another aspect, such as Figure 8b As shown, at the edge 181 of the cross-section of the patient support 18, the shape of the cross-section becomes curved in the opposite direction.

[0118] According to another aspect and such Figure 8bAs further shown, a retaining structure 182 is arranged near the edge of the aforementioned cross-section of the patient support 18 and on the side opposite the concave surface of its main portion. The retaining structure 182 may be, for example, an elongated handle or attachment structure to receive a strip designed to extend on or above the concave side of the patient support 18 to provide further support for the patient during imaging exposure and thereby help keep the patient stationary.

[0119] According to one aspect, and generally as described above, various degrees of freedom of movement of the device components can be utilized when positioning a patient, or more precisely, when positioning anatomical structures for exposure. As an example, considering the patient's shoulder to be examined while lying on the patient support 18 as described above, the patient support 18 can be initially driven to a height position most easily accessible to the patient. Then, while the patient lies on the patient support 18, at least one of the following positions can be adjusted: i) the height position of the patient support 18, ii) the horizontal position of the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15; and iii) the position of at least one of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 within its provided lateral range of motion, such that the desired anatomical structure will be located within the device's field of view. Clearly, this is within the range of degrees of freedom of movement of the device components to which they are arranged.

[0120] In addition to the structures according to embodiments of the invention that enable patient entry and positioning operations as described above, they can also be used to perform, for example, non-rotational imaging modes other than conventional CT imaging and CT imaging, but can deploy linear motion of X-ray imaging components.

[0121] Therefore, according to one aspect, the device includes a guide structure 50 for both the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15, and the control system of the device includes an operating mode of a motorized structure 53 that drives the guide structure 50 to move the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 a distance in the same direction within the lateral movement range of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 from a base position, and to perform imaging exposure while rotating the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 about an axis.

[0122] According to one aspect, the device includes a guide configuration 50 for both the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15, and the control system includes an operating mode that drives the guide configuration 50 to move the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 to positions other than the base point position within the said lateral movement range of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15, and to perform imaging exposure.

[0123] According to one aspect, the device includes a guide configuration 50 for both the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15, and the control system includes an operating mode that drives the guide configuration 50 to move the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 to positions that are equidistant from each other in the same direction as the base point position within the range of said lateral movement of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15, and to perform imaging exposure.

[0124] According to one aspect, the operating mode of the device includes driving both the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 prior to imaging exposure to position them at their extreme ends in the same direction as their base point positions within the range of said lateral movement of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15.

[0125] According to one aspect, the device includes a guide configuration 50 for both the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15, and the control system includes an operating mode that drives the guide configuration 50 to move the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 within the range of said lateral movement during imaging exposure.

[0126] The imaging exposure in the above-mentioned operating mode may include a control system controlling the drive of a first drive mechanism 16, which is arranged to move the X-ray imaging components 14 and 15 around a rotation axis 13.

[0127] According to one aspect, the control system includes at least two imaging modes of the device to operate a first drive mechanism 16 to rotate an X-ray imaging assembly about an axis and simultaneously operate X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 to image an object. In addition, in the first imaging mode, the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 are located at a base point position within their lateral movement range, and in the second imaging mode, the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 have both moved along the guide structure 50 within their lateral movement range to be positioned at the same distance in the same direction as the base point position.

[0128] According to one aspect, the device includes a guide configuration 50 for both the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15, and the control system includes an operating mode having a first imaging exposure and a second imaging exposure, wherein the first imaging exposure includes the control system controlling the drive of a first drive mechanism 16, the first drive mechanism 16 being arranged to move the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 about a rotation axis 13 along a first rotation direction when both the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 have been driven to be positioned at or near a first limit end in the same direction as the base point position within the lateral movement range of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15; the second imaging exposure includes the control system controlling the drive of the first drive mechanism 16, the first drive mechanism 16 being arranged to move the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 about a rotation axis 13 along a rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction after both the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 have been driven to be positioned at or near a second limit end in the same direction as the center position within the lateral movement range of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15.

[0129] According to one aspect, the control system of the device includes an imaging mode comprising two imaging scan rotations, wherein the first scan comprises moving the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 in a first rotational direction via a first drive mechanism 16 when both the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 have been driven in the same direction prior to exposure to be positioned at a distance from their base position toward a first limit end within the lateral movement range of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15, and wherein the second scan comprises moving the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction via the first drive mechanism 16 when the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 have been driven the same distance in the same direction prior to exposure to be positioned at a distance from their base position toward a second limit end within the lateral movement range of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15,.

[0130] According to one aspect, the operating mode described above may optionally include rotating by an angle greater than 180 degrees but less than 360 degrees in the first rotation direction and the second rotation direction.

[0131] Figure 9 The block diagram illustrates examples of components suitable for use in a control system of the device according to the invention. In various embodiments, not all of these features must be present in the control system of the device. Figure 9 The control system is configured to enable control of the operation of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 during exposure. Components controlling the operation of the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 may include components physically arranged in other parts of the X-ray source 14 and / or the image detector 15 and / or the apparatus.

[0132] Figure 9 The control system further controls various drive mechanisms of the equipment, such as those that rotate the X-ray imaging components 14, 15 supported by their support structure 20, those that drive one or more guide structures 50, and those that move the support structure 20 for the imaging devices 14, 15 themselves. Figure 9 A control system including at least one patient entry mode is also shown, which includes controlling at least one of the aforementioned drive devices. Accordingly, the at least one scanning mode includes... Figure 9 The control system's input can be provided by a remote control.

[0133] Figure 9 The diagram further illustrates the signal path to the mounting structure 23 as discussed above, and in the case that the device includes a motorized locking mechanism 24 to connect and disconnect the first elongated frame portion 11 and the second elongated frame portion 21 as discussed above, the control system can also control the drive mechanism of the locking mechanism 24.

[0134] In summary, the control system can be arranged to control all of the above operations or any part thereof. The structure and function discussed above provide various possibilities for convenient positioning and execution of patient imaging.

Claims

1. A medical CT imaging device, the CT imaging device comprising: - A first longitudinal extension frame portion (11), the first longitudinal extension frame portion extends along a first direction and includes a first end and a second end; - Support structure (12), which extends from the first longitudinally extending frame portion (11) along a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction; - An X-ray source (14) and an image detector (15), the X-ray source and the image detector together forming an X-ray imaging assembly (14, 15) mounted to the support structure (12). - A first drive mechanism (16) is arranged to move the X-ray imaging components (14, 15) about a rotation axis (13); - Control system, wherein the control system includes at least one operating mode of the CT imaging device to operate the first drive mechanism (16) and simultaneously operate the X-ray imaging components (14, 15). The characteristic feature is that the support structure (12) includes at least one guide structure (50) configured to enable the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15) to move laterally relative to the support structure (12), the lateral movement range of the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15) both including a base position, a first limit position and a second limit position, wherein the control system is configured to perform imaging exposure by rotating the X-ray imaging components (14, 15) around the rotation axis when the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15) have moved laterally a distance from their base positions in the same direction.

2. The CT imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lateral movement of the X-ray source (14) and / or the image detector (15) relative to the support structure (12) is arranged to occur in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation (13).

3. The CT imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one guide structure (50) includes at least one bracket (51) mounted to the X-ray source (14) and / or the image detector (15) to enable the X-ray source (14) and / or the image detector (15) to move laterally, the lateral movement range of the at least one bracket (51) including a base position, a first limit position and a second limit position.

4. The CT imaging device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The at least one guide structure (50) includes at least one guide groove or guide rail (52) located on one side of the support structure (12) and a mating structure (52') located on one side of the bracket (51).

5. The CT imaging device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The guide structure (50) includes a motorized structure (53) functionally connected to the bracket (51), the motorized structure (53) providing lateral movement of at least one of the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15) within the range of lateral movement including a first limit position and a second limit position of at least one of the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15).

6. The CT imaging device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The motorized structure (53) includes a drive screw (54) which is aligned parallel to the at least one guide groove or guide rail (52) and arranged to be functionally connected to the bracket (51).

7. The CT imaging device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The guiding structure (50) includes a position sensor device (55) configured to acquire information relating to the position of the X-ray source (14) and / or the image detector (15) within the lateral range of motion of at least one of the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15).

8. The CT imaging device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The position sensor device (55) is configured to detect the position of the bracket (51) within the lateral movement range of the bracket (51).

9. The CT imaging device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The position sensor device (55) is an absolute position sensor device (55), wherein the absolute position sensor device (55) includes a magnetic component (56) which is structurally connected to the bracket (51) and movably connected to a rod (57) which extends parallel to at least one guide groove or guide rail (52) of the guide structure (50) and the drive screw (54).

10. The CT imaging device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The signal path is set between the at least one guiding structure (50) and the control system.

11. The CT imaging device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The signal path includes the signal path between the position sensor device (55) and the control system.

12. The CT imaging device according to any one of claims 3-11, characterized in that, The mounting bracket (58) is fixed to the bracket (51), and on the other hand, the mounting bracket is fixed to the X-ray source (14) and / or the image detector (15) to mechanically connect the X-ray source (14) and / or the image detector (15) to the guide structure (50).

13. The CT imaging device according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The CT imaging device includes two guide structures (50), which include: a first guide structure for the X-ray source (14); and a second guide structure for the image detector (15), wherein the first guide structure and the second guide structure (50) include multiple identical components and form the same functional components.

14. The CT imaging device according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The support structure (12) for the X-ray imaging assembly (14, 15) includes a housing (121) and an annular rotatable frame (122), the housing at least accommodating the rotatable frame (122) and the at least one guide structure (50).

15. The CT imaging device according to claim 14, characterized in that, The housing (121) includes a surface having at least one opening (59) for mounting at least one of the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15) through the at least one opening (59) by means of a mounting bracket (58), wherein the at least one opening (59) is sized to allow for a range of lateral movement of the X-ray source (14) and / or the image detector (15) guided by the at least one guiding structure (50).

16. The CT imaging device according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, A light-emitting component (141) is arranged to be connected to the X-ray source (14), and the support structure (12) includes the guide structure (50) configured to allow the X-ray source (14) to move laterally relative to the support structure (12), wherein the light-emitting component (141) is configured to project a beam of the same shape as when the X-ray source is configured to emit an X-ray beam, and wherein the operating range of the guide structure (50) is configured to position the beam and the X-ray beam at the same location relative to the support structure (12).

17. The CT imaging device according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The CT imaging device includes a second drive mechanism (17) configured to move the support structure (12) in a direction substantially parallel to a first direction along which the first longitudinally extending frame portion (11) extends.

18. The CT imaging device according to any one of claims 5-11, characterized in that, The first longitudinally extending frame portion (11) extends horizontally, or is arranged to move for horizontal extension, and the motorized configuration (53) of the guide configuration (50) is arranged to be self-holding with respect to all of the following positions: i) the position of at least one of the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15) within the lateral range of motion of the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15) and ii) a rotational position in which the first drive mechanism (16) is configured to move the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15) about the axis of rotation (13).

19. The CT imaging device according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The support structure (12) for the X-ray imaging assembly (14, 15) includes an annular gantry housing (121) having at least one guide structure (50) located outside the annular gantry housing (121) and inside the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15).

20. The CT imaging device according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The control system includes an input for a patient entry mode, which operates the at least one guide structure (50) according to the patient entry mode to drive at least one of the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15) to a position closer to the first limit position than the second limit position within the lateral movement range of the X-ray source (14) and / or the image detector (15).

21. The CT imaging device according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The CT imaging device includes a guide structure (50) for both the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15), and the control system of the CT imaging device includes an input for a patient entry mode, which drives the guide structure (50) to position both the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15) closer to the first limit position than the second limit position within the lateral movement range of the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15).

22. The CT imaging device according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The CT imaging device includes a linear motion mechanism (50') arranged to enable the support structure (12) for the X-ray imaging assembly (14, 15) to move relative to the first longitudinal extension frame portion (11) in a direction perpendicular to both the first and second directions, wherein the linear motion range of the support structure (12) includes a first limit position, a second limit position, and a base position relative to the first longitudinal extension frame portion (11).

23. The CT imaging device according to claim 22, characterized in that, The control system includes an input for a patient entry mode, which includes driving a linear motion mechanism (50') to position the support structure (12) for the X-ray imaging components (14, 15) closer to the first limit position than the second limit position within the linear motion range of the support structure (12).

24. The CT imaging device according to claim 22, characterized in that, The control system includes an input for a patient entry mode, which operates the at least one guide structure (50) according to the patient entry mode to drive at least one of the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15) to a position closer to the first limit position than the second limit position within the lateral movement range of the X-ray source (14) and / or the image detector (15), and operates the linear motion mechanism (50') according to the patient entry mode to drive the support structure (12) for the X-ray imaging assembly (14, 15) to a position closer to the limit position within the linear movement range of the support structure (12) for the X-ray imaging assembly (14, 15), which is closer to the position to which the X-ray source (14) and / or the image detector (15) are driven within the lateral movement range of the X-ray source (14) and / or the image detector (15).

25. The CT imaging device according to claim 20, characterized in that, The patient entry mode includes the control system controlling the first drive mechanism (16) to move the X-ray imaging components (14, 15) about the rotation axis (13) to drive the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15) to a rotational position, in which the at least one guide structure (50) is positioned such that the direction of motion achieved by the at least one guide structure (50) is perpendicular to a first direction along which the first longitudinal extension frame portion (11) extends.

26. The CT imaging device according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The CT imaging device includes a patient support (18) that includes a surface that extends substantially parallel to the first longitudinally extending frame portion (11).

27. The CT imaging device according to claim 26, characterized in that, The length of the patient support (18) is substantially the same as the length of the first longitudinal extension frame portion (11).

28. The CT imaging device according to claim 26, characterized in that, The CT imaging device includes a connection structure (19, 20) and a patient support adjustment mechanism (19', 20'), the connection structure mechanically connecting the patient support (18) to the first longitudinal extension frame portion (11), and the patient support adjustment mechanism being configured to allow the patient support (18) to be moved closer to and further away from the first longitudinal extension frame portion (11).

29. The CT imaging device according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The CT imaging device includes a guide structure (50) for both the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15), and the control system includes an operating mode to drive the guide structure (50) to move the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15) to a position at the same distance in the same direction relative to the base point position within the lateral movement range of the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15), and to perform imaging exposure.

30. The CT imaging device according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The CT imaging device includes a guide structure (50) for both the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15), and the control system includes an operating mode to drive the guide structure (50) during imaging exposure to move the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15) within the lateral movement range of the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15).

31. The CT imaging device according to claim 29, characterized in that, The imaging exposure includes a control system controlling the drive of the first drive mechanism (16), the first drive mechanism being arranged to move the X-ray imaging components (14, 15) about the rotation axis (13), and / or, prior to the imaging exposure, driving both the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15) to extreme positions in the same direction relative to their base point positions within the lateral movement range of the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15).

32. The CT imaging device according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The CT imaging device includes a guide structure (50) for both the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15), and the control system includes operating modes including a first imaging exposure and a second imaging exposure, wherein the first imaging exposure includes the control system controlling a first drive mechanism (16) arranged to, when both the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15) have been driven to be positioned at or near a first extreme position in the same direction relative to the base point within the lateral movement range of the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15), cause the X-ray source (14) to be positioned at or near a first extreme position in the same direction relative to the base point position. The X-ray imaging assemblies (14, 15) move about the rotation axis (13) along a first rotation direction, and the second imaging exposure includes the control system controlling the drive of the first drive mechanism (16), which is arranged to move the X-ray imaging assemblies (14, 15) about the rotation axis (13) along a rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction after both the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15) have been driven to be positioned at or near a second extreme position in the same direction relative to the base point within the lateral movement range of the X-ray source (14) and the image detector (15).

33. The CT imaging device according to claim 32, characterized in that, The operating mode includes rotating by an angle greater than 180 degrees but less than 360 degrees in the first rotation direction and the second rotation direction.

Images