Imaging system with wireless communication capabilities

Abstract

An imaging system (MIS), optionally a medical imaging system, with wireless communication capabilities, and related methods. The imaging system comprises a gantry (RG) rotatable about a rotation axis. The gantry comprises a detector arrangement (D) capable of recording measurement data related to a subject (e.g. patient) (PAT) to be imaged in a plurality of spatial positions. The system further comprises a radio transmitter (TX) for generating a directional radio beam capable of propagating along a propagation axis for transmitting the measurement data to a radio receiver (RX). The radio transmitter (TX) is arranged at the rotatable gantry and is operable such that the propagation direction intersects the rotation axis in a position located away from the rotatable gantry.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to an imaging system having wireless communication capabilities, to a method for wireless communication for an imaging system, to a computer program element and to a computer readable medium. BACKGROUND

[0002] In medical imaging and imaging in general, computed tomography ("CT") acquisition can produce a large amount of data in a short time. This is even more complex with the advent of spectral CT in the last few years. Spectral CT produces even more data, as in some spectral imaging techniques, detectors are used in a way that more than one sensor per image pixel is used.

[0003] Current solutions for moving data between the moving gantry of a CT scanner and the stationary parts of the CT scanner are based on optical communication over a slip ring. The slip ring can also be used to provide power to the moving gantry.

[0004] Currently, the data rate required for non-spectral CT is about 10 Gbit / s, and for spectral CT the data rate is correspondingly higher, about more than 100 Gbit / s.

[0005] Current optical solutions are expensive custom hardware. SUMMARY

[0006] Therefore, there can be a need for an alternative solution for data communication related to a rotating imaging system.

[0007] It is noted that the following described aspects of the invention equally apply to the method for wireless communication for an imaging system, the computer program element and the computer readable medium.

[0008] According to a first aspect of the invention, an imaging system having wireless communication capabilities is provided, comprising:

[0009] a gantry rotatable around an axis of rotation, the gantry comprising a detector arrangement capable of recording measurement data related to a subject (e.g. a patient) to be imaged in a plurality of spatial positions;

[0010] at least one radio transmitter for generating a directional radio beam propagable along a propagation axis for transmitting the measurement data to a radio receiver;

[0011] wherein the radio transmitter is arranged at the rotatable gantry and is operable such that the propagation direction intersects the axis of rotation in a region / position located away from the rotatable gantry,

[0012] The system further comprises a receiver, wherein said receiver is provided at said position / region.

[0013] In particular, the region / position is remote from the gantry, including that no plane perpendicular to the rotation axis and intersecting the rotatable gantry or the fixed gantry of the imaging system can intersect the region / position.

[0014] In embodiments, the system further comprises an examination table on which a subject (e.g. a patient) to be imaged can be placed during imaging, and the position is positioned remote from / beyond the table.

[0015] In embodiments, the transmitter comprises an array of antenna elements that cooperatively operate to form a directional beam.

[0016] In embodiments, there are multiple such transmitters arranged on the rotatable gantry around the rotation axis, and the respective propagation axes intersect at the region / point. The propagation axes trace out a cone as the rotatable gantry rotates.

[0017] In another aspect, an imaging system with wireless communication capabilities is provided, comprising:

[0018] a rotatable gantry located in a fixed gantry and rotatable around a rotation axis, the gantry comprising a detector arrangement capable of recording measurement data related to a subject (e.g. a patient) to be imaged in a plurality of spatial positions;

[0019] at least one radio transmitter for generating a directional radio beam at a transmission energy to transmit the measurement data to a radio receiver;

[0020] switching logic operable to switch the transmitter between an idle mode and an active mode, wherein the transmission energy in the active mode is higher than in the idle mode.

[0021] wherein the at least one radio transmitter is arranged at the gantry so as to be rotatable with the gantry;

[0022] wherein the radio receiver can be arranged remote from the gantry at a first fixed region;

[0023] wherein there is a definable communication channel extending from the first region to a second region fixed in space;

[0024] wherein the at least one radio transmitter can pass through the second region during rotation of the rotatable gantry, and

[0025] Wherein the control logic is operable to switch at least one radio transmitter from an idle mode to an active mode only when the radio transmitter enters the second zone, and the transmitter remains in the active mode while the transmitter passes through the fixed second zone.

[0026] In embodiments, there are multiple such radio transmitters arranged at the gantry.

[0027] In embodiments, the at least one transmitter is operable at frequencies of at least about 1 GHz or higher.

[0028] The proposed communication system for imaging systems is suitable for fast and stable communication and can cope with fast gantry rotation speeds of about four rotations per second and the resulting fast changes of the transmission channel (i.e. the direct path from the transmitter antenna to the receiver antenna) and reflections of the examination room in which the imager is arranged. Despite this fast moving environment, the proposed communication system is able to use transmitter / receiver devices with high throughput using (preferably "massive") multiple input / multiple output ("MIMO") and antenna array based beamforming as envisaged in 5G wireless technology or any other wireless scheme.

[0029] Due to the indoor arrangement of the receivers far away from the imager, a higher degree of setup flexibility is provided and an unobstructed path can easily be realized. The indoor arrangement of the receivers (relative to the arrangement on the imager) as primarily envisaged herein also allows for easier maintenance (because of better accessibility) and facilitates retrofitting of existing imagers with wireless communication capabilities. The proposed setup, with the intersection far away from the gantry, allows for transmitting / receiving data without intermediate means, thereby reducing the number of components and / or costs.

[0030] Furthermore, without the proposed system, it can be necessary to increase the transmission power and data redundancy in the form of additional error correction codes to reduce the error rate. However, this can be at odds with the desire to achieve the required high data rates in a hospital environment, where mobile radio units need to be as small as possible by limiting the allowed transmission power. Due to the proposed system, the required data rates can be achieved in these cases.

[0031] In embodiments, it is proposed to include a plurality of transmitters / antennas at the back of a CT scanner, which can be switched during scanning to compensate for the rotation. The communication channel, the path between the transmitting and receiving antennas (arrays), is approximately kept constant with respect to the rotation. The transmission channel no longer has rapid variations, while the antenna beamforming can be directly concentrated towards the receiver. Both effects contribute to the overall achievable transmission rate. Control logic switches the transmitters between an active mode or an idle mode in order to select the transmission channel. In some embodiments, the control logic is configured to evaluate a background signal received by the receiver. Based on this evaluation, appropriate measures are taken to ensure sufficient transmission rate.

[0032] The proposed communication system can be built from wireless communication devices that are envisaged for mobile phone or Internet of Things (loT) communication. The latest generation of wireless communication chips, like 5G devices, provide suitable data rates, but other devices can be used instead. Due to the expected large-scale manufacturing, the use of such devices in imaging devices can be more commercially viable than the current optical custom solutions.

[0033] In embodiments, the imaging system is an X-ray imaging system.

[0034] In embodiments, the imaging system is configured for a multi-energy X-ray imaging system.

[0035] In another aspect, a method for wireless communication of an imaging system is provided, the system comprising at least one radio transmitter for generating a directional radio beam capable of propagating along a propagation direction to transmit measurement data recorded by a detector of the imaging system to a radio receiver, wherein the at least one radio transmitter is arranged at a rotatable gantry of the imaging system so as to be capable of rotating with the rotatable gantry relative to a stationary gantry, thereby defining a communication channel extending from i) a first stationary area arranged remote from the gantry and in which the radio receiver is arranged to ii) a second stationary area in space, the method comprising the steps of:

[0036] switching the at least one radio transmitter from an idle mode to an active mode only when the radio transmitter enters the second stationary area and maintaining the active mode while the radio transmitter passes through the second stationary area, wherein the transmission energy in the active mode is higher than in the idle mode.

[0037] As an alternative to the above embodiments and aspects, an "opposite" configuration is also envisaged, in which one or more transmitters are arranged in the room remote from the gantry, while one or more receivers are arranged in or at the rotatable gantry to rotate therewith.

[0038] In particular, according to an alternative aspect, there is provided an imaging system with wireless communication capabilities, comprising:

[0039] a gantry rotatable about a rotation axis, the gantry comprising means capable of processing data;

[0040] at least one radio receiver for receiving data from a radio transmitter in a directional radio beam propagable along a propagation axis;

[0041] wherein the radio receiver is arranged at the rotatable gantry and operable such that the propagation axis intersects the rotation axis in a position located away from the rotatable gantry.

[0042] Likewise, there can be a plurality of such receivers arranged on the rotatable gantry about the rotation axis, each receiver for receiving data in a beam propagable along a respective propagation axis intersecting the region.

[0043] In another aspect, there is provided an imaging system with wireless communication capabilities, comprising:

[0044] a rotatable gantry located in a fixed gantry and rotatable about a rotation axis, the gantry comprising means capable of processing data;

[0045] at least one radio receiver for receiving data from a radio transmitter in a directional radio beam under transmission energy;

[0046] switching logic (SL) operable to cause the transmitter to switch between an idle mode and an active mode, wherein the transmission energy in the active mode is higher than in the idle mode;

[0047] wherein the at least one radio receiver is arranged at the gantry so as to be rotatable with the gantry;

[0048] wherein the radio transmitter is arrangeable away from the gantry at a first fixed region.

[0049] wherein there is a definable communication channel extending from the first fixed region to a second region fixed in space;

[0050] wherein the at least one radio receiver is passable through the second region during rotation of the gantry, and

[0051] wherein the control logic is operable to switch the at least one radio transmitter from the idle mode to the active mode only when the radio receiver enters the second region, and the transmitter remains in the active mode while the radio receiver is passing through the second region.

[0052] In yet another aspect, a method for wireless communication of an imaging system is provided, the system comprising a radio transmitter for generating a directional radio beam that can propagate along a propagation direction for transmitting data to a radio receiver, wherein the radio receiver is arranged at a rotatable gantry of the imaging system so as to be able to rotate with the rotatable gantry relative to a stationary gantry, thereby defining a communication tunnel extending from i) a first stationary region arranged remote from the gantry and in which the transmitter is arranged to ii) a second stationary region in space, the method comprising the steps of:

[0053] switching at least one radio transmitter from an idle mode to an active mode only when the radio receiver enters the second stationary region and to remain in the active mode while the radio receiver passes through the second stationary region, wherein the transmission energy in the active mode is higher than in the idle mode.

[0054] The idle mode can comprise turning off completely any (or no measurable) transmission of energy, but such a hard switch is not always required. Turning off completely can save energy consumption. Merely reducing to a lower (non-zero) energy level can make the switching circuit faster and can increase its lifetime.

[0055] In these "opposite" embodiments, the data processing / generating device can still be an X-ray detector, but can additionally or alternatively comprise other devices, like control devices, or any other data processing device at or in the rotatable gantry that needs to be provided with data from a remote transmitter. For example, the transmitter can transmit control data / signals to control circuitry in the rotatable gantry to control its rotation, or can transmit control signals to control circuitry of the detector to set / reset certain detector settings, etc.

[0056] In another aspect, a computer program element, which, when being executed by at least one processing unit, is adapted to cause the processing unit to perform any of the above-mentioned methods, is provided.

[0057] In another aspect, a computer readable medium having stored the program element is presented.

[0058] The "subject" being imaged can be animate and comprise a human or animal patient or a part thereof, or the subject is inanimate, like an item in a security check system or a sample object in a non-destructive material test.

[0059] The user can refer to a person (e.g. a medical professional) operating the imaging device and / or system to image an object.

[0060] As used herein, a "region" comprises a point location.

[0061] A transmitter / receiver / transceiver is "arranged away from the gantry of the imaging system" in the embodiments contemplated herein can be defined as follows: any imaginary plane which i) passes through the point / position / area of the transmitter / receiver / transceiver, ii) is perpendicular to the rotation axis of the imaging system, does not intersect the fixed and / or rotatable gantry. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0062] Exemplary embodiments of the present application will now be described with reference to the following drawings, which are not to scale, wherein:

[0063] Figure 1 A perspective view of a rotating imaging system is shown;

[0064] Figure 2A A block diagram of a wireless communication system is shown;

[0065] Figure 2B A schematic block diagram of a receiver component is shown;

[0066] Figure 2C A schematic block diagram of a transmitter component is shown;

[0067] Figure 3A 3B An imaging system comprising a wireless communication system according to a first embodiment is shown;

[0068] Figure 4A 4B An imaging system comprising a wireless communication system according to a second embodiment is shown;

[0069] Figure 5 An imaging system comprising a wireless communication system according to a third embodiment is shown; and

[0070] Figure 6 A computer-implemented wireless communication method for an imaging system is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0071] With reference to Figure 1 , a schematic perspective front view of an image system MIS is shown. A very common use of such an image system is a medical image system or a baggage inspection security system. The image system is preferably a rotating type X-ray imaging system, such as a CT scanner. Other rotating imaging modalities are also contemplated herein, such as C-arm or U-arm X-ray imaging devices. In general, any rotating system with an imaging unit is contemplated herein, such as a linac with imaging options, or others.

[0072] ​​The image system MIS comprises a stationary gantry NG arranged in an examination room. The stationary gantry NG carries a rotating gantry RG which is rotatable around an examination region A having a rotation axis Z therethrough. The rotating gantry is donut-shaped, and the examination region A is formed as an opening therein. An examination table TB can be extended at least partially into the examination region along the rotation axis Z, which can also be referred to herein as the imaging axis Z. A patient PAT or object to be imaged resides on the examination table. The table TB with the patient PAT or object thereon can be advanced along the imaging axis Z so that the region of interest is located in the examination region A. The examination table TB is optional.

[0073] The rotating gantry comprises a detector module D capable of detecting X-radiation. The rotating gantry RG can further comprise an X-ray source XS. The source XS is arranged on the rotating gantry RG in a spatial relationship opposite the detector D and across the examination region A. However, in all embodiments it is not necessarily the case that the X-ray source XS is mounted on or integrated in the rotating gantry RG. For example, in embodiments the source XR can be arranged outside the rotating gantry, on the stationary NG, as a ring around the examination region. Such a stationary X-ray source unit can comprise a plurality of individual sub-X-ray sources, for example, or form one single integral source as a ring.

[0074] During imaging, X-radiation is emitted from the X-ray source XS and interacts with the patient tissue, then emerges from the patient's far side, and then impinges on the detector D. The impinging radiation is converted by the detector D into (projection) measurement data (sometimes referred to as detector raw data). The measurement data collected at the detector D comprises intensity values. During imaging, the rotating gantry rotates, the detector rotates with it, and in certain embodiments the X-ray source rotates with it as well.

[0075] Due to the rotation, the rotating detector receives X-radiation from a plurality of spatial directions, and measurement data can be acquired from a plurality of different spatial directions p relative to the patient. In some imaging schemes, the table TB is advanced along the imaging axis Z to collect measurement data at different positions. Image planes (or "image domains") in which image data can be reconstructed from the measurement data are schematically represented by the directions X, Y, each image plane being perpendicular to the imaging axis Z. There are different such parallel image planes, one for each position on the Z axis. An external or on-board power supply (not shown) provides power to the rotating gantry RG (and / or components thereon) through a slip ring arrangement. An operator console (not shown) can allow a user (such as medical staff) to control the imaging operation. The user can use the operator console to issue imaging control signals, such as X-ray source settings, detector settings, or signals to control the rotation speed, movement of the table TB, etc.

[0076] The rotational imaging system is configured for wireless communication. To this end, it comprises, in part, a wireless communication system CS. Broadly, in embodiments, measurement data collected at the detector D can be transmitted to one or more receiving devices, intended, remote, like the image processing system IPS, via the wireless communication system CS.

[0077] The image processing system IPS can be arranged as a computer system running imaging software, like an image reconstruction algorithm, which allows to convert (projection) measurement data from the projection domain into cross-sectional images of the image domain X, Y. A large number of cross-sectional images can be obtained along the imaging axis Z, which can be combined into a 3D image volume. Other tasks can be performed by the image processing system IPS. The image processing system IPS can reside on a single or multiple computers, e.g. in a "cloud" setup or other distributed architecture. Instead of or in addition to providing measurement data to the image processing system, the measurement data can be forwarded to a database DB (like a PACS of a HIS) or other storage for storage. The reconstructed images or measurement data can be visualized on a display device MT or can be processed in other ways.

[0078] In embodiments, data other than (projection) measurement data can need to be additionally or alternatively transmitted via the communication system CS. For example, the image processing system can be integrated into the mobile gantry RG and reconstructed images output by the image processing system can need to be sent to a remote receiving device via the communication system CS.

[0079] Generally, the data flow mainly of interest in this context is from the rotatable gantry RG to a receiving device located outside the rotatable gantry RG, which can be remote from the imaging system MIS. In other embodiments, also a reverse data (back) flow is additionally or alternatively envisaged, which flows from outside the gantry or even remote from the imaging system back to the rotatable gantry RG (or components therein or thereon). Examples of such "backflow" data are imaging control signals from an operator console or any data receivable in components integrated into the rotatable gantry RG.

[0080] The wireless communication system CS is now explained in more detail with reference to the schematic block diagram in Fig. 2. As understood herein, "wireless communication" comprises the transfer of information (like measurement data or other data) over the air by using electromagnetic radiation in suitable frequency bands in the frequency spectrum. Electromagnetic waves in a given frequency spectrum are modified by modulation in order to enable the transfer of information over the air.

[0081] Broadly, a communication system CS comprises one or more transmitters TX and one or more receivers RX. The operation of the communication system will be explained with main reference to the transmitted data being measurement data received from detectors on a rotatable gantry, but this does not limit the principles disclosed herein as any other data can be transmitted in any direction.

[0082] The transmitter TX (which we often refer to herein as the “transmitter”, it being understood that there can be a single or more than one) is configured to transmit the measurement data received from the detectors on the rotatable gantry over the air to the receiver RX (again, we often refer to herein as the “receiver RX”, it being understood that there can be more than one).

[0083] As will be explored more fully below, the transmitter TX is arranged at or in the rotating gantry, while the receiver RX is arranged in the examination room, but at a distance and away in space from the rotating gantry RG and / or the non-rotating gantry NG. For example, the receiver RX can be mounted on the ceiling, on a wall or on the floor, or can be hung or otherwise arranged in the room. The receiver RX can be arranged on a wall behind the non-rotating / rotating gantry. Preferably, but not necessarily, the receiver is arranged within the same room in which the imaging system MIS is provided.

[0084] Figure 2B and 2C Each of the receiver RX and the transmitter TX is shown in a schematic block diagram, respectively.

[0085] Now first turning to Figure 2Ctransmitter TX, which comprises an input port IN, where data to be transmitted (e.g. measurement data) is received. The transmitter TX component can comprise a digital signal processor DSP to process or otherwise condition the data to be transmitted ("payload"). An encoder component ENC encodes the data appropriately. Preferably, as envisaged herein, the transmitter TX has beamforming capabilities. The transmitter can direct a radio beam in an intended spatial direction q. The radio beam has a payload modulated by a modulator comprising a directional antenna driver component DD. The directional driver component DD receives the encoded data from the encoder and drives a set of one or more antenna elements (exemplarily shown as a1-a4) to produce a directional beam in a preselected direction q, which transmits information in the air. Each antenna element causes a radio wavelet to be produced by it, but their phases are tuned by the driver DD so that the wavelets constructively interfere in some places and destructively in others, thereby producing a directional radio beam (e.g. main lobe). The transmitter TX is further coupled with a power supply (not shown) (external or on-board) to provide energy. This energy is used to transmit the beam with a certain transmission energy. The energy is adjustable, as is the beam direction q. The adjustment is made by a user, or through a connection with other devices (e.g. with a control logic CL), as will be explained in detail below.

[0086] Figure 2B The receiver RX component has a similar structure as the transmitter TX and comprises a set of receiver antenna elements a'1-a'4, where the incoming data beam (previously transmitted by the transmitter TX) is registered. A directional driver or tuner DD' of the receiver RX can be used to tune the receiver antenna elements a'1-a'4 to be signal receptive for a particular spatial direction q, which corresponds to the direction q from which the transmitter TX has transmitted the data. A decoder component DEC decodes the received data in order to recover the data previously transmitted. The recovered data can then be processed by an optional signal processor DSP, e.g. for error correction or otherwise. The payload is then output through an output interface OUT, which can then be forwarded to its destination, e.g. an image processor IPS, a data storage device or any other suitable signal receiving device, through another wireless or wired connection. One or each of the transmitter TX and the receiver RX can comprise an on-board storage element (not shown) to buffer at least a portion of the data to be transmitted or received.

[0087] As shown in Figure 2B and 2C , the transmitter TX and / or the receiver module RX can have a MIMO, in particular a "massive" MIMO architecture, in order to enable or at least facilitate parallel data processing when receiving and / or transmitting.

[0088] While the transmitter TX and receiver module RX have been described above in a MIMO setup using an array of antenna elements (phased antenna array) for beamforming, this is not necessarily the case in all embodiments. More conventional modules TX, RX can be used instead, with a single or small number (e.g. less than 5 or 10) of antenna elements. In particular, the receiver RX does not necessarily have a phased array of antenna elements. A single or small number of antenna elements can be sufficient. Moreover, the antenna elements can accept signals from different directions. The TX, RX modules with (massive) MIMO and phased array antennas primarily envisaged herein have two-digit numbers of antenna elements, such as more than 10, more than 20, more than 50, or even three-digit numbers. The operating frequency is in the GHz range, with mm-wave envisaged. Mobile telephony, WIFI or other wireless technologies can be used, both as is and with appropriate adjustments if needed.

[0089] The receiver capabilities and transmitter capabilities can be combined into a single unit to form a transceiver TX / RX. It should be understood that either or both of the transmitter TX and receiver RX can be arranged as a transceiver TX / RX. While a transceiver is preferred, it is not necessarily required in all embodiments discussed herein. In other words, in embodiments the transmitter TX is only configured to transmit signals and / or the receiver RX is only configured to receive signals. In the following, references to the transmitter TX or receiver RX are understood to include references to a “transceiver”, and thus all of the following description also applies to transceivers.

[0090] Referring back to Figure 2A the block diagram, the operation of the communication system CS will now be explained in more detail. The proposed wireless communication system CS is configured to address the challenge of reliably transmitting measurement data from a rotating transmitter TX to a receiver RX, especially at high data throughputs. The receiver RX is envisaged to remain stationary at a single location at least during transmission. Due to the rotating gantry and the detector can reach very high rotation speeds, of the order of four rotations per second, sufficient data throughput cannot be achieved at the intended quality without compensation for the rotation.

[0091] The proposed communication system CS is equipped with such a motion compensation scheme. More specifically, the wireless communication system CS is configured to form a communication channel CC that is fully or partially spatially invariant and stationary, in Figure 2A schematically shown as a cylinder in dashed lines. The channel CC defines the part of the space through which data can be transmitted in the direction q.

[0092] One end of the channel CC ("exit region" TOR) comprises the transmitters TX, while the other end ("target region" TAR) comprises the receivers RX. Despite the rotation of the transmitters, the communication channel CC itself remains fully spatially invariant in embodiments and is fixed at a certain pose in space. This spatial invariance of the communication channel CC to the rotation of the TX is achieved by having the communication system CS comprise a tracker TR component in communication with the switching logic CL. The size, cross-section or shape of the target region TAR can depend on the number of receivers to be arranged, and / or on the width / cross-section or directional characteristics of the radio beams from the transmitters TX.

[0093] The switching logic CL opens and closes the transmitters TX in synchrony with the rotational position of the rotating gantry RG as tracked by the tracker TR. Only when a transmitter (or any of the transmitters, if there are multiple such transmitters) passes through the exit region, the transmitter is powered on to transmit data. But as soon as the transmitter TX leaves the exit region due to the rotation, it is turned off again. As soon as the next transmitter enters or the same transmitter re-enters the exit region, the respective TX is turned on (again), and so on, in synchrony. The tracker TK is in communication (preferably by a wired connection) with an encoder system of the motor arrangement driving the rotating gantry. The encoder system provides a digital definition of the angular position of the rotating gantry relative to a reference position, e.g. the upright twelve o'clock position. Based on the tracking information from the tracker TR, the control logic CL then synchronously opens or closes one or more transceivers. In detail, when a known TX position on the rotating gantry passes through a predetermined angular range, the respective transmitter TX is turned on. The exit region comprises this predetermined angular range. The range can be defined very narrow, such that only a single transmitter TX can reside in it at any time. Alternatively, and preferably, a wider angular range segment is used as the exit region, such that multiple transmitters TX can reside in it at the same time, and some or all of the transmitters are turned on and allowed to transmit, thereby increasing the data throughput. Preferably, the channel CC is confined in space such that it does not intersect with obstacles like the patient, the examination table TB or other equipment or parts of the imager MIS. The tracker TR and the switch control logic CL can be integrated into a single control module. The tracker TR and / or the control logic CL can be mounted on or integrated into the rotating gantry RG.

[0094] Instead of a hard switching scheme in which the energy supply provided to the transmitters TX is turned on and off, it is also conceivable to replace it by a "soft" switching scheme. In soft switching, the transmitters TX are switched from a low energy transmission mode to a high energy transmission mode in which the radiation is transmitted with a higher energy than in the low energy transmission mode. In other words, the control logic CL switches each of the transmitters TX between an active mode and an idle mode or state in synchronization with the angular position of the rotating gantry. In this context, the "idle mode or state" comprises a complete shutdown or switching to a low energy transmission, while the "active mode or state" comprises an activation or at least switching to a transmission with a higher transmission energy than in the idle mode.

[0095] The spatially invariant channel CC is defined by the switching operation of the logic CL which synchronizes the angular position of the transmitters on the rotating gantry with the switching between active and idle mode. The spatially invariant channel CC is a portion of space which encloses the communication path which can be considered as a cylinder or any other geometric shape which extends from the exit area through which the transmitters TX pass to the target area at which the preferably stationary receivers RX reside. The switching logic CL in fact allows for an angular position synchronized channel hopping while doing so preserving the spatial invariance of the communication channel CC.

[0096] In embodiments, the switching logic CL is not only configured to switch the TX between active and idle mode, but can further be configured to select the appropriate frequency transmission channel. Furthermore, in embodiments, the control logic CL is configured to evaluate background signals, like noise or signal reflections received by the receivers RX, to take appropriate measures to ensure sufficient transmission rates. These measures can include channel equalization or other filter schemes to eliminate repetitive non-phase signal contributions. In order to obtain stable and high throughput transmission results, it can be useful to switch the channel not only based on the position of the gantry but additionally based on background signals, like noise or reflections, during communication. A signal processor, like a DSP, can be arranged in the receiver RX to estimate the noise level and thus predict signal contributions from reflections. It can also be useful to communicate on multiple channels simultaneously to obtain maximum throughput. Such a multi-channel transmission protocol can be realized by selecting an exit area which is wide enough to accommodate more than one transmitter TX at any time, as described above.

[0097] It is to be understood that while in the above cases the payload, like measurement data, is transmitted from the movable gantry transmitters TX to the stationary indoor receivers RX, the opposite data flow can also be envisaged. If transceivers are used, data can be transmitted from the stationary indoor transceivers TX / RX to the movable gantry transmitters TX, like imaging control signals or other data.

[0098] Referring now to Figures 3-5, which illustrate the arrangement of different communication channels CC as envisioned in the embodiments herein. The channels in Figures 3 and 4 are defined by the aforementioned interoperation between the tracker TR and the switching logic CL, and in Figure 5 The middle is defined by a specific geometric arrangement.

[0099] First, refer to Figure 3, in Figure 3A The image shows a front view in the (X,Y) plane as seen from the rear of the imaging system along the -Z direction. Transmitters TX1-n are arranged in a regular, equidistant angular pattern on the rear of the rotating gantry RG. In this embodiment, the 16 transmitters are evenly distributed across 360° in 22.5° wide segments. The exit area of ​​the channel is defined at the 12 o'clock position, approximately 45° wide, to accommodate three transmitters TX in operational mode. Figure 3A The given pattern is an example; the location and number of any other transmitters, as well as any other angular location / width of the emission zone, are also envisioned. The selection of a suitable location and width for the emission zone may depend on local obstructions present in the inspection chamber. The size of the emission zone can be predefined and programmed into the switching logic CL of the communication system CS. In Figure 3, the emission zone accommodates only three of the total number of transmitters (TX1-3) at any given time during rotation. Only three transmitters (TX) are switched to operating mode at any given time when entering and residing in the emission zone of the communication channel. All remaining transmitters (TX4-n) outside the emission zone are switched to idle mode via the operation of the switching logic CL.

[0100] Although multiple transmitters (TX) are used in the design of Figure 3, it is also envisioned that a single transmitter could be used in an embodiment. The size of the emission area can be defined for a single transmitter or multiple transmitters (e.g., two, three, or more). However, having a narrow emission area will come at the cost of data throughput. It is desirable to have an emission area that accommodates multiple transmitters so that data can be transmitted through multiple transmitters simultaneously.

[0101] Figure 3B A planar diagram in the (Y, Z) plane is shown. Figure 3A The arrangement structure is shown in more detail here. The communication channel CC, formed as a cylinder in this embodiment, is illustrated more specifically, wherein the target area includes at least one receiver, or in this exemplary embodiment, three receivers RX1-3. Receivers RX1-3 are arranged away from the gantry NG, RG. More specifically, the receivers RX are arranged such that an imaginary plane passing through the location of the receivers RX and perpendicular to the imaging axis Z does not intersect the gantry NG or RG or the inspection stage TB. Figure 3B As shown, the three transmitters TX1-3 are currently in operating mode because these transmitters are emitting through the output area in channel CC.

[0102] One or more receivers RX can be mounted on a wall, preferably at approximately the same height as the emission area. However, due to beamforming capabilities, the receivers can be located anywhere in the space. Receiver RX can be mounted on a wall, on a ceiling, suspended from the ceiling, or mounted on the floor. In this embodiment, the receiver RX is not fixedly mounted but rather mounted on a wheeled trolley or any other portable device, allowing the receiver to be moved to any desired location within the room, providing greater flexibility. In this embodiment, the directional drivers DD of the transmitter TX and receiver RX must be reset and tuned to the new spatial location of receivers RX1-3. However, it is preferable to fix the receiver RX in a single location within the room. If the transmitter TX comprises longitudinally shaped directional antenna elements, it is desirable that the longitudinal axis of each of these antenna elements is parallel to the imaging axis Z. This allows for a more streamlined and compact design.

[0103] Now referring to Figure 4, it is in Figure 4A The image again shows the rear view of the scanner MIS along the -Z direction and in Figure 4B The plan view in Figure 4 is similar to the arrangement discussed previously in Figure 3. However, in Figure 4, the transmitters TX and / or receivers RX comprise phased arrays, which are shown as small square areas in the figures. In this particular embodiment, four transmitters TX with phased transmitter arrays are arranged in an equidistant angular pattern. At any given time, only a single transmitter, such as TX1, is in operational mode because it resides in the emission region of channel CC. In Figure 4, the emission region is again shown at the 12 o'clock position. Again, as mentioned earlier, this is exemplary, and other angular positions of the emission region are contemplated. In other embodiments, fewer than four phased array transmitters TX or more than four transmitters TX may be used.

[0104] Now for reference Figure 5 This illustrates an embodiment in which the communication channel CC, which is at least partially spatially invariant, is achieved through a geometric arrangement rather than through synchronous switching as shown in Figures 3 and 4. That is, Figure 5 The embodiment in the example can be implemented without switching logic CL and tracker TR, and the receiver RX can receive each of the incoming signals along different propagation axes q1, q2.

[0105] The unchanging communication channel CC is formed or defined by arranging the receiver RX1-3 in a spatial position away from the gantry RG / NG and on the axis of rotation Z. Figure 5 This is a side view of this configuration along the -Y direction.

[0106] Likewise, as in Figures 3 and 4, the receivers RX are spatially distanced from the gantries NG, RG, so that the plane (not shown) through the positions of the receivers RX and perpendicular to the rotation axis Z does not intersect the gantries RG / NG and / or the table TB.

[0107] The transmitters TX can be physically mounted so as to be tilted towards the positions of the receivers RX1-3 located on the rotation axis Z so as to be focused thereon. Each receiver propagates its data packets in a different direction q1, q2. The propagation directions q1, q2 intersect the position at the intersection point (or area) where the receivers RX1-3 are arranged on the rotation axis Z. However, if the transmitters have beamforming capabilities, such physical tilting can not be required. In such embodiments, the transmitters TX can be mounted flat on the gantry RG, but their directional drivers DD are configured to direct the radio beams in the required propagation directions q1, q2 so as to intersect the target area on the rotation axis Z where the receivers RX are mounted.

[0108] Preferably, the intersection point q1∩q2∩Z is located where the imaging / rotation axis Z passes through the wall of the examination room in which the imaging system MIS is arranged. Then, the receivers can be conveniently mounted on the wall at said position. Arranging the receivers RX at a position on the rotation axis Z can also be done in either of the embodiments in Figures 3 and 4.

[0109] Figure 5 This "geometrical" embodiment of the application differs from the switched embodiments of Figures 3 and 4 in that the constancy requirement for the communication channel CC is relaxed, and in space forms a cone. Specifically, in this semi-constant-in-space embodiment, while the exit area is indeed rotating, the target area of the communication channel remains fixed. All transmitters TX can continuously transmit information throughout the rotation, while the target area of the receivers RX remains fixed in space on the fixed rotation axis.

[0110] As shown, the transmitters TX can be arranged in an equidistant angular pattern around the rotating gantry. A single transmitter TX, two transmitters (as shown opposite to each other) or more (as three or four or more) transmitters can be arranged in a regular (angularly equidistant) or irregular pattern. Preferably, as in Figures 3 and 4, the transmitters TX are mounted on the back of the rotating gantry, from where the radio beams are emitted and propagate into the half-space into which the imaging axis Z points, so as to avoid any obstruction that can be caused by the table TB. But above, as in Figures 3 and 4, embodiments where the transmitters TX are mounted on the front of the rotatable gantry RG are also not excluded herein. Figure 5

[0111] In the embodiments of Figures 3 and 4, the transmitters TX are mounted on the back of the rotating gantry RG, from where the radio beams are emitted and propagate into the half-space into which the imaging axis Z points, so as to avoid any obstruction that can be caused by the table TB. But above, as in Figures 3 and 4, embodiments where the transmitters TX are mounted on the front of the rotatable gantry RG are also not excluded herein. Figure 5 ​In alternative embodiments, the switching logic CL can still be used, as explained above in connection with Figs. 3 and 4, as an option, in which case the communication channel is no longer convex in shape, but now non-convex. If the switching logic is used, and if there are two or more transmitters, then the channel splits into the edges of a triangle (for two transmitters TX) or the lateral edges of a pyramid (for three or more transmitters TX), e.g. the intersection points q1∩q2∩...∩q i form the apex of the pyramid.

[0112] It can be appreciated with reference to all the above embodiments that arranging the receiver RX in a space remote from the gantry allows to achieve flexibility, easier access for maintenance, and allows to retrofit existing imagers with wireless communication capabilities in a commercially viable way.

[0113] In the above embodiments, and as previously mentioned, it is contemplated to arrange the transmitter TX on the rotating gantry. The transmitter TX is preferably mounted on the rotatable gantry RG, but remote and outside the detector D. This is the preferred embodiment. Alternatively, in other embodiments, it is contemplated to integrate the transmitter into the detector housing. Integrating the transmitter TX into the detector module can allow to save any additional connection circuitry. However, arranging the transmitter TX on the gantry RG outside the detector module allows to achieve better transmission throughput and signal quality, since potentially interfering structures (like the metallic detector housing) can interfere disadvantageously in the data path. Arranging the transmitter TX at the gantry RG outside the detector D, preferably at the same angular position as the detector, results in an improved spatial relationship. The communication between the transmitter TX and the detector D can also be wireless, but is preferably wired by having a line extending from the input interface of the transmitter TX to a detector port, which is coupled to the readout lines of the detector module D.

[0114] The proposed communication system CS can be used with any wireless standard, general purpose (like for mobile phone communication) or custom made. In particular, it is contemplated to use a working frequency in the GHz range (like 1 GHz or higher, e.g. +5 GHz or higher), so as to achieve a throughput of about 10, even 100 Gbit / s or higher.

[0115] The proposed wireless communication system is particularly suitable for spectral or X-ray energy resolving imaging systems. This type of imaging system can comprise a specially designed detector D that is capable of resolving the incoming radiation into energy ranges. Such a detector comprises a dual-layer detector or a detector with photon counting circuitry. These types of detectors or other detectors with multi-energy detection capabilities produce a large amount of data per image pixel, which needs to be transmitted as measurement data. Spectral CT in particular can benefit from the high throughput that can be achieved with the proposed communication system.

[0116] It is to be understood that for any one of the above embodiments in Figures 1-5 The opposite configuration is also envisaged, in which one or more receivers RX are mounted at or in the rotatable gantry, while the transmitter TX is mounted in the room and away from the RG, NG gantry. The channel CC would then extend in the other way, with the target region and the exit region being exchanged. This opposite configuration can be used when data backflow is required. In this opposite configuration, it is no longer the measurement data of the detector that is transmitted, but other payload data, including for example control signals for the detector D or for the rotatable gantry itself, or data for any other data-consuming components mounted in or at the rotatable gantry. In embodiments with the opposite configuration, the transmitter TX is arranged at a fixed, room-internal exit position / region TOR at the intersection of the propagation axes of the receivers RX extending onto the rotatable gantry, the switching logic CL can still be used to ensure that data is transmitted to the fixed target region TAR, especially when a single transmitter is used. Alternatively and preferably, a plurality of transmitters TX1, TX2 is positioned at the intersection position TAR, each transmitter being configured to propagate along a respective different one of the propagation axes q1, q2, such that data is transmitted in a radio beam forming a cone CC. In this case, too, no switching logic CL is required.

[0117] Reference is now made to Figure 6 which is a flowchart of a method of supporting wireless communication for an imaging system, in particular an X-ray based imaging system with a rotating X-ray detector and / or source.

[0118] At step S610, the angular position of the transmitter mounted on the rotating gantry of the X-ray imaging system is tracked. As soon as the transmitter enters the predetermined exit region, a control or tracking signal is issued.

[0119] At step S620, based on the control or tracking signal, the sender is switched from the idle mode to the active mode to send the payload to the fixed receiver distanced from the gantry arrangement. The sender TX remains in the active mode once entered and resides in the predetermined angular region (exit region TAR) and is switched back to the idle mode when leaving the predetermined angular region. The switching cycle repeats upon re-entry and is true for each sender. In this way, an at least partially, in particular fully, spatially invariant communication channel between one or more senders and one or more receivers can be achieved to receive the data transmitted from the sender.

[0120] In one embodiment, at least one end of the channel remains fixed in space, while in other embodiments both ends of the channel (exit region and target region) remain fixed and spatially invariant during the rotation of the one or more senders.

[0121] The method can be adapted for a single sender or for a plurality of senders, each of the respective senders being switched from the idle mode to the active mode each time entering the predetermined angular region due to the rotation.

[0122] As mentioned above, the active mode and the idle mode can be defined as fully on or off, or in a soft switching scheme, the energy is reduced, with a higher transmission energy in the active mode than in the idle mode.

[0123] The components of the communication system CS can be implemented as software modules or routines in a single software suite and run on a general purpose computing unit PU, like a workstation associated with the imager MIS or a server computer associated with a group of imagers. Alternatively, the components of the image processing system IPS can be arranged in a distributed architecture and connected in a suitable communication network.

[0124] In a reversed configuration, the tracking S610 is for the receiver and the switching at S620 is made according to the receiver entering and leaving a designated region, in this embodiment the target region TAR.

[0125] Some or all components of the system CS can be arranged in hardware, like in a suitably programmed FPGA (field programmable gate array) or as a hardwired IC chip. Some components of the system CS, in particular the switching logic CL, can be arranged in software, hardware or both. The switching logic CL and / or the tracker TR can be arranged as one or more microcontrollers.

[0126] One or more features disclosed herein can be configured or implemented as / within circuitry encoded in a computer-readable medium and / or combinations thereof. The circuitry can include discrete electronic components and / or integrated circuitry, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), system on a chip (SOC), machines, computer systems, processors and memories, computer programs, and combinations thereof.

[0127] In another exemplary embodiment of the present application, a computer program or a computer program element is provided that is characterized by being adapted to execute the method steps of the method according to one of the preceding embodiments, on an appropriate system.

[0128] Accordingly, the computer program element might be stored on a computer unit, which also enables the functioning of an embodiment of the invention. This computer unit can be part of an embodiment of the invention or be independent thereof. The computer unit, on which the computer program is stored, can be suitably connected to the device components required for the implementation of the described method. Thus, the computer program element, which can also be updated via a computer program update, can be used to control the device according to the inventive method.

[0129] This exemplary embodiment of the present application covers both a computer program that from the very beginning uses the inventive method and a computer program that uses the inventive method when updated.

[0130] Further on, the computer program element might be able to provide all the steps of the method as described above.

[0131] According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present application, a computer readable medium, such as a CD-ROM, is presented wherein the computer readable medium has stored thereon the computer program element.

[0132] A computer program can be stored and / or distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or a solid state storage medium supplied together with or as a part of other hardware, but also by means of an electronic signal. The latter can be supplied on a data carrier such as an optical data carrier, a solid state data carrier or a wireless data carrier. It would be also possible to download the computer program electronically via a data network, such as the internet.

[0133] However, the computer program can also be presented over a network like the World Wide Web and can be downloaded into the working memory of a data processor from there. According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present application, a medium for making a computer program element available for downloading is presented, which computer program element is arranged to perform a method according to one of the previously described embodiments of the method.

[0134] It should be noted that embodiments of the application have been described with reference to different subject matters. In particular, some embodiments have been described in relation to claims of a method type while other embodiments have been described in relation to claims of a device type. However, a person skilled in the art will readily recognize that any combination of features from the different subject matters can be combined unless otherwise indicated, and that any combination of features from the different subject matters is contemplated by the present application. However, all features can be combined in order to provide synergistic effects that are more than the simple sum of the features.

[0135] While the application has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, such illustration and description is to be considered illustrative or exemplary and not restrictive. The application is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practising the claimed application, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims.

[0136] In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit can fulfil the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures can not be used to advantage. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. An imaging system (MIS) with wireless communication capability, comprising: A rotatable gantry (RG) located within a fixed gantry (NG) and capable of rotating about a rotation axis, the rotatable gantry including a detector device (D) capable of recording measurement data related to the patient to be imaged (PAT) in multiple spatial locations; At least one radio transmitter (TX) is used to generate a directional radio beam capable of propagating along a propagation axis to transmit the measurement data to a radio receiver (RX). The at least one radio transmitter (TX) is arranged at the rotatable gantry and operable such that the propagation axis intersects the rotation axis at a position remote from the rotatable gantry. The imaging system (MIS) also includes the radio receiver (RX), wherein the radio receiver is positioned at the location and spatially remote from the rotatable gantry (RG) and the fixed gantry (NG), such that a plane passing through the location and perpendicular to the rotation axis does not intersect the rotatable gantry (RG) and the fixed gantry (NG). Wherein, when the at least one radio transmitter (TX) rotates, the communication channel between the at least one radio transmitter (TX) and the radio receiver (RX) remains unchanged relative to the rotation of the at least one radio transmitter (TX).

2. The imaging system according to claim 1, wherein, The imaging system also includes an examination stage (TB) on which the subject to be imaged (OB) can be placed during imaging, and the position is located away from the examination stage.

3. The imaging system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The at least one radio transmitter (TX) includes an array formed by antenna elements (α) that cooperate to form the directional radio beam.

4. The imaging system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The imaging system includes multiple radio transmitters (TX1, TX2) arranged on the rotatable gantry about the rotation axis, and the corresponding propagation axes intersect at the location.

5. An imaging system (MIS) with wireless communication capability, comprising: A rotatable gantry (RG) located within a fixed gantry (NG) and capable of rotating about a rotation axis, the rotatable gantry including a device (D) capable of processing data; At least one radio receiver (RX) is used to receive data from a radio transmitter (TX) in a directional radio beam capable of propagating along the propagation axis; The at least one radio receiver (RX) is arranged at the rotatable gantry and is operable such that the propagation axis intersects the rotation axis at a position away from the rotatable gantry. The imaging system (MIS) further includes the radio transmitter (TX), which is positioned at the location and spatially distanced from the rotatable gantry (RG) and the fixed gantry (NG) such that a plane passing through the location and perpendicular to the axis of rotation does not intersect the rotatable gantry (RG) and the fixed gantry (NG); and Wherein, when the at least one radio receiver (RX) rotates, the communication channel between the at least one radio receiver (RX) and the radio transmitter (TX) remains unchanged relative to the rotation of the at least one radio receiver (RX).

6. An imaging system (MIS) with wireless communication capability, comprising: A rotatable gantry (RG) located within a fixed gantry (NG) and capable of rotating about a rotation axis, the rotatable gantry including a detector device (D) capable of recording measurement data related to a subject to be imaged (PAT) in multiple spatial locations; At least one radio transmitter (TX) is used to generate a directional radio beam under transmission energy to transmit the measurement data to a radio receiver (RX); A switching logic (CL) enables the at least one radio transmitter (TX) to switch between an idle mode and an operating mode, wherein the transmission energy in the operating mode is higher than the transmission energy in the idle mode. The at least one radio transmitter (TX) is arranged at the rotatable gantry (RG) so as to be able to rotate together with the rotatable gantry (RG); The radio receiver (RX) is positioned in a first fixed area away from the rotatable gantry (RG) and the fixed gantry (NG), such that a plane passing through the first fixed area and perpendicular to the axis of rotation does not intersect the rotatable gantry (RG) and the fixed gantry (NG). There is a communication channel (CC) between the at least one radio transmitter (TX) and the radio receiver (RX), and the communication channel extends from the first fixed area to a second fixed area in space and remains spatially unchanged when the at least one radio transmitter (TX) rotates; Wherein, the at least one radio transmitter (TX) is able to pass through the second fixed area during the rotation of the rotatable gantry (RG), and The switching logic (CL) is operable to switch the at least one radio transmitter (TX) from idle mode to working mode only when the at least one radio transmitter (TX) enters the second fixed area, and the at least one radio transmitter (TX) remains in working mode when the at least one radio transmitter (TX) passes through the second fixed area.

7. The imaging system according to claim 6, wherein, There are multiple such radio transmitters (TX1-TX4) arranged at the rotatable gantry (RG).

8. The imaging system according to any one of claims 6 to 7, wherein, The at least one radio transmitter (TX) is capable of operating at a frequency of at least 1 GHz.

9. The imaging system according to any one of claims 6 to 7, wherein, The imaging system (MIS) is an X-ray imaging system.

10. An imaging system (MIS) with wireless communication capability, comprising: A rotatable gantry (RG) located within a fixed gantry (NG) and capable of rotating about a rotation axis, the rotatable gantry including a device (D) capable of processing data; At least one radio receiver (RX) is used to receive data from a radio transmitter (TX) in a directional radio beam under transmitted power. Switching logic (CL) is operable to switch the radio transmitter (TX) between two modes: idle mode and operating mode, wherein the transmission energy in the operating mode is higher than the transmission energy in the idle mode; The at least one radio receiver (RX) is arranged at the rotatable gantry (RG) so as to be able to rotate together with the rotatable gantry (RG); The radio transmitter (TX) is arranged in a first fixed area away from the rotatable gantry (RG) and the fixed gantry (NG), such that a plane passing through the first fixed area and perpendicular to the axis of rotation does not intersect the rotatable gantry (RG) and the fixed gantry (NG). There is a communication channel (CC) between the at least one radio receiver (RX) and the radio transmitter (TX), and the communication channel extends from the first fixed area to a second fixed area in space and remains spatially unchanged when the at least one radio receiver (RX) rotates; Wherein, the at least one radio receiver (RX) is able to pass through the second fixed area during the rotation of the rotatable gantry (RG), and The switching logic (CL) is operable to switch the radio transmitter (TX) from idle mode to working mode only when the at least one radio receiver (RX) enters the second fixed area, and the radio transmitter (TX) remains in working mode while the at least one radio receiver (RX) passes through the second fixed area.

11. A method for wireless communication in an imaging system, the imaging system comprising at least one radio transmitter for generating a directional radio beam capable of propagating along a propagation direction to transmit measurement data recorded by a detector of the imaging system to a radio receiver, wherein the at least one radio transmitter is arranged at a rotatable gantry of the imaging system to be rotatable with the rotatable gantry relative to a fixed gantry about a rotation axis, thereby defining a communication channel between the at least one radio transmitter and the radio receiver, wherein, as the at least one radio transmitter rotates, the communication channel extends from i) a first fixed region disposed away from the rotatable gantry and the fixed gantry, in which the radio receiver is disposed, to ii) a second fixed region in space and remains spatially constant, and a plane passing through the first fixed region and perpendicular to the rotation axis does not intersect the rotatable gantry and the fixed gantry, the method comprising the steps of: The at least one radio transmitter is switched from idle mode to working mode only when it enters the second fixed area (S520), and the working mode is maintained when the at least one radio transmitter passes through the second fixed area, wherein the transmission energy in the working mode is higher than the transmission energy in the idle mode.

12. A method for wireless communication in an imaging system, the imaging system including a radio transmitter for generating a directional radio beam capable of propagating along a propagation direction to transmit data to a radio receiver, wherein the radio receiver is arranged at a rotatable gantry of the imaging system to be rotatable together with the rotatable gantry relative to a fixed gantry about a rotation axis, thereby defining a communication channel between the radio transmitter and the radio receiver, wherein, as the radio receiver rotates, the communication channel extends from i) a first fixed region disposed away from the rotatable gantry and the fixed gantry, in which the radio transmitter is disposed, to ii) a second fixed region in space and remains spatially constant, and a plane passing through the first fixed region and perpendicular to the rotation axis does not intersect the rotatable gantry and the fixed gantry, the method comprising the steps of: The radio transmitter is switched from idle mode to working mode only when the radio receiver enters the second fixed area (S520), and the working mode is maintained when the radio receiver passes through the second fixed area, wherein the transmission energy in the working mode is higher than the transmission energy in the idle mode.

13. A computer program product comprising a computer program that, when executed by at least one processing unit (PU), is adapted to cause the processing unit (PU) to perform the method according to claim 11 or 12.

14. A computer-readable medium, wherein, A computer program is stored on the computer-readable medium, and when the computer program is executed by at least one processing unit (PU), the computer program is adapted to cause the processing unit (PU) to perform the method according to claim 11 or 12.

Images