Cleaning unit and medical imaging equipment with cleaning unit

Abstract

This invention is based on a cleaning unit configured as a housing surrounding a patient-accommodating area of ​​a medical imaging device. The cleaning unit includes at least one cleaning element having an annular support structure, wherein the diameter of the cleaning element comprises at least one value of the diameter of the housing surrounding the patient-accommodating area. Furthermore, this invention relates to a medical imaging device having a cleaning unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a cleaning unit configured as a housing surrounding a patient receiving area of ​​a medical imaging device, the cleaning unit including at least one cleaning element. Furthermore, this invention relates to a medical imaging device having a scanner unit, a patient receiving area at least partially surrounded by the scanner unit, a housing surrounding the patient receiving area, and a cleaning unit. Background Technology

[0002] In the case of a medical imaging device having a cylindrical and / or tubular patient-accepting area, the patient is positioned within the patient-accepting area for a medical imaging examination. The patient-accepting area is surrounded by the scanner unit and / or detector unit of the medical imaging device, where the patient is positioned on an examination table and moved into the patient-accepting area for the medical imaging examination. After the medical imaging examination, it is necessary and / or desirable to clean the outer shell surrounding the patient-accepting area.

[0003] Especially when medical imaging equipment is configured as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, the patient reception area is very long and tunnel-like, sometimes reaching 1.5 meters or more in length. PET (positron emission tomography) devices and / or PET computed tomography (CT) devices and / or PET MRI devices also have similarly long and / or large patient reception areas. However, cleaning such a configured patient reception area is only possible due to the considerable workload for medical operators and / or cleaning personnel. Furthermore, cleaning such a configured patient reception area is very time-consuming.

[0004] During a patient's stay in the patient accommodation area, individual areas may become contaminated by the patient, for example, through touching and / or coughing in said areas. Therefore, irradiating the patient accommodation area and / or the enclosure surrounding it with UV radiation, particularly UV-C radiation, is insufficient for effective cleaning. More precisely, it is necessary for cleaning personnel to move into the patient accommodation area along with the examination bed and manually wipe and disinfect the enclosure surrounding it there. Furthermore, sponges mounted on telescopic poles can also be brought into the patient accommodation area by cleaning personnel for cleaning, as disclosed in US5 918 342 A.

[0005] However, this type of cleaning method is very costly and time-intensive. Furthermore, there is a risk that cleaning may not be performed adequately due to time constraints. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention is based, in particular, on providing an easily operable and effective cleaning method for the housing of a medical imaging device that surrounds the patient receiving area. This objective is achieved by a cleaning unit and a medical imaging device having the cleaning unit. Advantageous designs are described in the following description.

[0007] This invention is based on a cleaning unit configured as a housing surrounding a patient-accommodating area of ​​a medical imaging device, the cleaning unit comprising at least one cleaning element. According to the invention, the at least one cleaning element has an annular support structure, wherein the diameter of the cleaning element comprises at least one value of the diameter of the housing surrounding the patient-accommodating area.

[0008] The cleaning unit is configured to clean, preferably automatically clean, the patient-accommodating area of ​​a medical imaging device, particularly the housing surrounding the patient-accommodating area. For this purpose, the cleaning unit has at least one cleaning element with an annular support structure. Preferably, the circumference and / or geometry of the cleaning element, particularly the annular support structure, is adapted to the circumference and / or geometry, particularly the cross-section, of the patient-accommodating area and / or the housing surrounding the patient-accommodating area. Preferably, the cleaning element with the annular support structure is configured to clean the patient-accommodating area, particularly the housing surrounding the patient-accommodating area. Here, the annular support structure can movably rest against the housing surrounding the patient-accommodating area, such that by moving the cleaning element, particularly the annular support structure, along the longitudinal direction of the patient-accommodating area, wiping can be performed on the housing surrounding the patient-accommodating area.

[0009] A particularly advantageous feature is that the cleaning element, having an annular support structure, rests against the housing surrounding the patient receiving area along its circumferential direction. The annular support structure can include a support surface on the side facing the housing surrounding the patient receiving area, said support surface being disposed circumferentially around the annular support structure. Preferably, the support surface can extend circumferentially around the entire area of ​​the annular support structure facing the housing surrounding the patient receiving area.

[0010] If the diameter, especially the outer diameter, of at least one cleaning element corresponds to the diameter, especially the inner diameter, of the outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area, then it is feasible to precisely fit the cleaning unit, especially at least one cleaning element with an annular support structure, into the patient receiving area. For cleaning the patient receiving area, especially the outer shell surrounding it, it is necessary for at least one cleaning element to adhere to the patient receiving area with sufficient force to perform wiping disinfection. Preferably, at least one cleaning element adheres to the outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area with a force of 4N to 6N. Particularly advantageously, at least one cleaning element adheres to the outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area with a force of about 5N, providing sufficient pressure for mechanical cleaning while still allowing the cleaning unit to move through the patient receiving area, especially along the longitudinal direction of the patient receiving area. For this purpose, the diameter, especially the outer diameter, of at least one cleaning element can also be about 1mm larger than the diameter, especially the inner diameter, of the outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area. In particular, the diameter, especially the outer diameter, of at least one cleaning element can be about 2mm larger than the diameter, especially the inner diameter, of the outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area. In particular, the diameter of at least one cleaning element, especially the outer diameter, can be up to 3 mm larger than the diameter of the outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area, especially the inner diameter.

[0011] Furthermore, at least one cleaning element may additionally have a cleaning pad, such as a wiping lip and / or textile fabric, like a cleaning cloth. This cleaning pad can be disposed on the support surface of at least one cleaning element, particularly an annular support element. The thickness of this cleaning pad is sufficient to allow the annular support structure to abut against the outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area with a sufficiently large force. This annular support structure has a diameter corresponding to the circumference, particularly the inner circumference, of the outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area. Depending on the configuration of the cleaning pad, particularly its thickness, the diameter of the annular support structure of at least one cleaning element can also be greater than or less than the diameter of the patient receiving area, such that the annular support structure always abuts against the outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area with a sufficiently large force for cleaning the patient receiving area. If at least one cleaning element does not have a cleaning pad, the diameter, particularly the outer diameter, of the annular support structure preferably corresponds to the diameter, particularly the outer diameter, of at least one cleaning element.

[0012] This invention advantageously provides medical operators with a simple and time-saving method for cleaning the shell surrounding the patient receiving area. In particular, it provides medical operators and / or cleaning personnel with a cleaning workflow that reduces workload when cleaning the shell surrounding the patient receiving area. Here, at least one cleaning element with a ring-shaped support structure can achieve large coverage, preferably complete coverage, of the shell surrounding the patient receiving area along the circumferential direction of the patient receiving area. Specifically, by moving the cleaning element with the ring-shaped support structure within the patient receiving area, especially along the longitudinal direction of the patient receiving area, simple and comprehensive cleaning of the shell surrounding the patient receiving area, particularly mechanical wiping, can be achieved.

[0013] In an advantageous improvement of the cleaning unit according to the invention, at least one cleaning element has at least one base element configured to house the annular support structure within the patient receiving area. Preferably, the at least one base element is configured to be movably disposed within the patient receiving area. Here, the at least one base element can be configured to be disposed on a track system of a medical imaging device and / or on a patient support device, particularly on the examination bed of the patient support device. For this purpose, the at least one base element can also include at least one fixing element for securely mounting the cleaning unit on the track system of the medical imaging device and / or on the patient support device, particularly on the examination bed of the patient support device. Furthermore, the base element enables high stability of the cleaning unit, particularly the annular support structure, for cleaning the housing surrounding the patient receiving area during the cleaning process, especially during the movement of the cleaning unit within the patient receiving area.

[0014] In an advantageous improvement of the cleaning unit according to the invention, the annular support structure has at least two annular elements, each disposed at a first end region on at least one base element and at least partially movably disposed relative to each other by means of a second end region opposite to the at least one base element. The annular support structure can thus have a common base element, and the two annular elements are preferably disposed on opposite sides of said common base element. Furthermore, the annular support structure can also include two base elements, wherein one of the two annular elements can be disposed on one of the two base elements respectively. Preferably, at least two annular elements are arranged in a ring. Here, the two annular elements can also be arranged substantially mirror-symmetrically relative to each other.

[0015] The second end regions of the two annular elements, facing away from at least one base element, can be formed to abut and / or at least partially overlap each other. If the cleaning unit, and thus the annular support structure, is located outside the patient receiving area, the two annular elements are preferably in a stress-relieved state. In this stress-relieved state, the diameter, especially the outer diameter, of at least one cleaning element has a value at least the same as or greater than the diameter, especially the inner diameter, of the shell surrounding the patient receiving area. For example, the diameter, especially the outer diameter, of at least one cleaning element can be at most 1 mm, preferably at most 2 mm, and preferably at most 3 mm larger than the diameter, especially the inner diameter, of the shell surrounding the patient receiving area. When the cleaning unit, and thus at least one cleaning element with the annular support structure, is introduced into the patient receiving area, the annular support structure can be pressed together during introduction into the patient receiving area by means of a funnel-shaped configuration of the introduction area of ​​the patient receiving area. Thus, the two annular elements can move toward each other and / or press inward, such that the overlapping area between the two annular elements can also increase. This causes the two annular elements to be under stress and thus apply force to the shell surrounding the patient receiving area.

[0016] This design has the following advantages: it can generate forces acting on the shell surrounding the patient receiving area in a structurally simple manner for cleaning, especially mechanical cleaning, of the shell surrounding the patient receiving area.

[0017] Alternatively, the cleaning unit, particularly the annular support structure, can also include a spring element that presses the two annular elements outward for the cleaning process.

[0018] In an advantageous improvement of the cleaning unit according to the invention, at least one cleaning element has at least one cleaning pad disposed on an annular support structure. Preferably, at least one cleaning pad is disposed on the outer side of the annular support structure. For example, for this purpose, the annular support structure can have a support surface on the outer side, the support surface being configured to receive and / or secure at least one cleaning pad. Furthermore, the support surface can also be provided with a fastening element capable of securing at least one cleaning pad to the annular support structure in an easily releasable manner, allowing for replacement of the cleaning pad. For example, the fastening element can include Velcro. In particular, here, at least one cleaning pad is disposed along the circumferential direction of the annular support structure over its entire length. Furthermore, other arrangements of the at least one cleaning pad on the annular support structure that would be meaningful to those skilled in the art are conceivable at any time.

[0019] At least one cleaning pad may include materials suitable for and / or configured to absorb cleaning fluid. Preferably, at least one cleaning pad includes foam and / or a flexible textile structure, such as nonwoven fabric. Alternatively, at least one cleaning pad may also include wiping lips and / or cleaning lips made of a preferably elastic material. Furthermore, other designs of at least one cleaning pad that will be meaningful to those skilled in the art are conceivable at any time.

[0020] This design of the invention enables efficient cleaning of the outer casing surrounding the patient receiving area. In particular, it allows for mechanical cleaning of the casing surface, especially through wiping.

[0021] In an advantageous improvement of the cleaning unit according to the invention, the cleaning unit has at least one receiving element for containing cleaning agent. The cleaning agent preferably includes a disinfectant, particularly one permitted for use in medical imaging equipment. The at least one receiving element can, for example, include a holding device for containing a commercially available cleaning agent container containing cleaning agent and / or a commercially available disinfectant container containing disinfectant. In particular, the at least one receiving element can be configured such that it is feasible to replace the cleaning agent container and / or disinfectant container at any time. Furthermore, the cleaning unit can also have more than one receiving element for containing cleaning agent. For example, if the annular support structure includes two annular elements, the cleaning unit can also have two receiving elements for containing cleaning agent, wherein one of the two receiving elements is respectively disposed on one of the two annular elements. This allows for a short transport path for the cleaning agent from at least one receiving element to, for example, the cleaning pad of the cleaning unit.

[0022] In an advantageous improvement of the cleaning unit according to the invention, at least one receiving element is disposed on the inner side of the annular support structure. The inner side of the annular support structure can, for example, include a side of the cleaning pad facing away from the annular support structure and / or a side of the annular support structure facing away from the outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area. This design of the invention enables particularly protected placement of at least one receiving element and / or cleaning agent. Thus, particularly when the cleaning unit moves through the patient receiving area, undesirable damage to at least one receiving element can be advantageously prevented.

[0023] In an advantageous improvement of the cleaning unit according to the invention, at least one cleaning element has at least one cleaning agent channel, which is at least partially circumferentially disposed within an annular support structure. The annular support structure can here include a groove for receiving at least one cleaning agent channel. The at least one cleaning agent channel can also include a hose or be configured as a hose. Preferably, the at least one cleaning agent channel can have openings at defined and / or specific intervals through which cleaning agent can pass outward, particularly to the cleaning pad and / or the outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area. If the annular support structure has multiple annular elements, the at least one cleaning element can also include multiple cleaning agent channels, wherein the cleaning agent channels can be respectively disposed in one of the annular elements of the annular support structure. This design of the invention has the advantage of providing simple and rapid dispensing of cleaning agent. In particular, it enables uniform distribution of cleaning agent on the annular support structure, especially on the cleaning pad of the annular support structure, in this way.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, at least one detergent channel can also be connected to a receiving element for holding the detergent, enabling simple detergent dispensing. Here, detergent is dispensed, for example, by manually operating a detergent dispenser comprised of a receiving element for holding the detergent. Automatic control of detergent dispensing is also conceivable.

[0025] In an advantageous improvement of the cleaning unit according to the invention, at least one cleaning element has a sensor for detecting the cleaning dose. The sensor is preferably configured to detect the cleaning dose based on moisture value and / or moisture content. Preferably, the sensor detects the moisture value and / or moisture content within and / or near the cleaning pad. For this purpose, the sensor can be directly disposed within the cleaning pad. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the sensor is disposed within a support surface on a support portion of the cleaning pad, thus being in direct contact with the cleaning pad.

[0026] The design of this invention has the following advantages: the amount of cleaning agent present in the cleaning pad can be checked and / or controlled before the cleaning process using the cleaning unit. In particular, this prevents insufficient cleaning due to insufficient cleaning agent. Furthermore, it also prevents cleaning with excessive cleaning agent. Additionally, the sensor can be connected to an optical output element that displays the cleaning dosage to the user. For example, the optical output element can include an LED that emits red light when the cleaning dosage is too low or too high.

[0027] In an advantageous improvement to the cleaning unit according to the invention, at least one cleaning element has a plurality of UV-C emitting mechanisms disposed on the outer surface of an annular support structure. The plurality of UV-C emitting mechanisms preferably comprises a large number of UV-C emitting mechanisms. The plurality of UV-C emitting mechanisms preferably comprises a plurality of UV-C-LEDs, enabling a particularly low-cost cleaning unit. The UV-C emitting mechanisms, especially the UV-C-LEDs, can here be arranged at defined and / or specific intervals, enabling effective surface disinfection of the housing surrounding the patient reception area. For this purpose, the annular support structure can also have an annular opening in which the UV-C emitting mechanisms, especially the UV-C-LEDs, are disposed, thereby enabling a protected configuration as the cleaning unit moves through the patient reception area.

[0028] In an advantageous improvement of the cleaning unit according to the invention, at least one cleaning element has at least one light-emitting mechanism and at least one light opening, wherein the light opening is disposed on the inner and / or side of the annular support structure. In this way, the cleaning process can be advantageously visualized for the user and / or patient. The at least one light-emitting mechanism can, for example, include a UV-C light-emitting mechanism that can additionally be used to disinfect the housing surrounding the patient receiving area. Furthermore, the at least one light-emitting mechanism can also include a light-emitting mechanism designed solely for visually displaying the cleaning process, emitting light only during the cleaning process. For example, here, the at least one light-emitting mechanism includes an LED emitting blue light, which can produce a sense of cleanliness at the observer's perspective. The at least one light opening enables the light emitted by the at least one light-emitting mechanism to become visible to the user and / or patient. The at least one light opening on the annular support structure can, for example, include a gap and / or channel, in which the at least one light-emitting mechanism is also disposed.

[0029] In an advantageous improvement of the cleaning unit according to the invention, the cleaning unit has electrical terminal elements. By virtue of these electrical terminal elements, the cleaning unit can be powered and / or exchange data with a control unit, for example, with the control unit of a medical imaging device. Here, the electrical terminal elements can be directly connected to the control unit and / or electrical contacts. However, in this case, it is preferable that the electrical terminal elements are connected to the control unit and / or to the electrical contacts via a plug-in connection at the patient support device of the medical imaging device, particularly at the examination bed of the patient support device.

[0030] The advantages of this design are that it allows for the automatic and / or autonomous control of the cleaning unit, thereby enabling the cleaning process of the housing surrounding the patient receiving area. Furthermore, it allows for simple control of the cleaning process, depending on the type of medical imaging examination. Additionally, it provides an advantageously automated assembly of the cleaning process.

[0031] In an advantageous improvement of the cleaning unit according to the invention, the electrical terminal elements of the cleaning unit are compatible with the sockets of the examination bed for electrical contact with local radio frequency coils. Preferably, the medical imaging device includes a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, wherein local radio frequency coils can be used to detect magnetic resonance signals. For the detection of magnetic resonance signals, for MRI examination, at least one local radio frequency coil is typically positioned at the patient, particularly around the area of ​​the patient to be examined. Different local radio frequency coils can also be provided for different areas to be examined for the detection of magnetic resonance signals, wherein different local radio frequency coils are adapted to the area to be examined, such as a head radio frequency coil or a knee radio frequency coil, etc. For electrical contact and / or data exchange of the local radio frequency coils, the local radio frequency coils have coil connectors. Furthermore, for this purpose, the patient support device of the MRI device, especially the examination bed, also has mating and / or compatible coil connector elements, especially sockets, so that electrical contact of the local radio frequency coils can be made directly at the examination bed. This type of connector socket, already present on examination tables, can also be used for electrical contact cleaning units, where the electrical terminal elements of the cleaning unit can be constructed similarly to coil connector elements. This allows for short cable lengths for the electrical terminal elements, minimizing the risk of cable compression during examination table movement. Furthermore, the cleaning unit can be integrated particularly easily into existing medical imaging equipment, especially MRI equipment.

[0032] Furthermore, the present invention is based on a medical imaging device having a scanner unit, a patient receiving area at least partially surrounded by the scanner unit, a housing surrounding the patient receiving area, and a cleaning unit. The cleaning unit is configured herein to clean the housing surrounding the patient receiving area of ​​the medical imaging device, and includes at least one cleaning element having an annular support structure, wherein the diameter of the cleaning element includes at least one value of the diameter of the housing surrounding the patient receiving area.

[0033] Medical imaging equipment may include, for example, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) devices and / or computed tomography (CT) devices and / or PET (positron emission tomography) devices and / or other medical imaging equipment that may be relevant to those skilled in the art. The medical imaging equipment preferably includes a detector unit and / or a scanner unit configured and / or designed for detecting medical image data during a medical imaging examination of a patient. For example, if the medical imaging equipment is configured as an MRI device, the scanner unit may include a basic magnet for generating a uniform magnetic field, a gradient system for position encoding the detected MRI data, and a radio frequency (RF) antenna unit. Here, the RF antenna unit may include an RF antenna fixedly disposed within the scanner unit for emitting excitation pulses.

[0034] For medical imaging examinations, the patient, and especially the area to be examined, is located within the patient containment area. The field of view (FOV) and / or isocenter of the medical imaging device are preferably positioned within the patient containment area. The FOV preferably includes the detection area of ​​the medical imaging device, within which conditions exist for detecting medical image data. The isocenter of the medical imaging device preferably includes a region and / or point within the medical imaging device that has optimal and / or ideal conditions for detecting medical image data. For example, when the medical imaging device is configured as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, the isocenter includes the most uniform magnetic field region within the MRI device.

[0035] The outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area is preferably cylindrical. The outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area may include a housing cover. In the case where the medical imaging device is configured as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, the outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area may also be integrally and / or one-piece constructed with the radio frequency antenna unit of the scanner unit.

[0036] The medical imaging device according to the invention advantageously provides medical operators and / or cleaning personnel with a simple and time-saving method for cleaning the shell surrounding the patient receiving area. In particular, it provides medical operators and / or cleaning personnel with a cleaning workflow that reduces workload for cleaning the shell surrounding the patient receiving area. Here, a large, preferably complete, coverage of the shell surrounding the patient receiving area can be achieved by at least one cleaning element having a ring-shaped support structure along the circumferential direction of the patient receiving area. In particular, by moving the cleaning element with the ring-shaped support structure within the patient receiving area, especially along the longitudinal direction of the patient receiving area, a simple and comprehensive cleaning of the shell surrounding the patient receiving area, especially mechanical wiping, can be achieved.

[0037] The advantages of the medical imaging device according to the invention substantially correspond to the advantages of the cleaning unit according to the invention, which are described in detail above. The features, advantages, or alternative embodiments mentioned herein can also be adapted to other claimed subjects, and vice versa.

[0038] In an advantageous improvement of the medical imaging device according to the invention, an annular support structure for cleaning the outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area is disposed within the patient receiving area and abuts against the outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area by means of force.

[0039] The force that causes the annular support structure to rest against the outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area can be generated, for example, through pre-tensioning of the annular support structure and / or through a spring element. Preferably, the annular support structure rests against the outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area with a force of 4N to 6N. Particularly advantageously, the annular support structure rests against the outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area with a force of about 5N.

[0040] The design has the following advantages: it can provide a sufficiently high clamping force for at least one cleaning element to effectively clean the shell surrounding the patient receiving area, but at the same time the squeezing force acting on the shell of the patient receiving area is not so great that it would hinder the movement of at least one cleaning element in the patient receiving area during the cleaning process.

[0041] In an advantageous improvement of the medical imaging apparatus according to the invention, the medical imaging apparatus has a patient support device with an examination bed movable within a patient accommodation area, wherein the examination bed has a receiving unit for setting a cleaning unit, wherein the receiving unit is located at the head end of the examination bed.

[0042] The patient support device is configured to position the patient, and especially the area to be examined, within the patient accommodation area, particularly within the isocenter of the medical imaging equipment. For this purpose, the patient support device includes an examination bed. The examination bed is specifically configured for horizontal movement within the patient accommodation area. Furthermore, the examination bed can also be configured for vertical movement. For example, vertical movement of the examination bed is only feasible when it is completely positioned outside the patient accommodation area, making it easy for the patient to sit on the examination bed. By means of a movable examination bed, the patient, and especially the area to be examined, is brought into the patient accommodation area, particularly into the isocenter of the medical imaging equipment.

[0043] The head end of the examination bed preferably includes the following end region of the examination bed, which moves first into the patient receiving area when the examination bed is moved into the patient receiving area. In particular, the head end of the examination bed includes the end region of the front portion of the examination bed. The receiving unit of the examination bed preferably includes specially configured areas and / or specially configured elements on the examination bed, configured for setting and / or receiving the cleaning unit on the examination bed.

[0044] The design of this invention has the following advantages: by placing the cleaning unit on the examination bed, simple cleaning movements of the cleaning unit, especially at least one cleaning element, can be achieved. In particular, by horizontally moving the examination bed within the patient accommodation area, the cleaning unit, especially at least one cleaning element with a ring-shaped support structure, can move across the patient accommodation area to perform cleaning. Another advantage of this design is that it provides a simple cleaning workflow for the user.

[0045] In an advantageous improvement of the medical imaging apparatus according to the invention, an examination bed is provided with a fixing track for securing at least one accessory unit, wherein a receiving unit includes the fixing track, and a cleaning unit includes at least one fixing element that mates with the fixing track. For medical imaging examinations, accessory units may be required, for example, to be positioned and / or placed on the patient during preparation for the medical imaging examination. Such accessory units can, for example, include an EKG unit and / or an infusion unit and / or other units that appear meaningful to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, the accessory unit can include a support unit, such as a support pad, for properly and / or more comfortably supporting and / or positioning the patient on the examination bed. In the case of magnetic resonance imaging, the accessory unit can also include a localized radiofrequency coil, which is positioned and / or located around the area of ​​the patient to be examined during preparation for the medical imaging examination. To securely, particularly positionally, the accessory unit is fixed on the examination bed, the accessory unit is typically fastened by means of a fixing strap. The strap is disposed on the fixing track. Preferably, the examination bed has two fixing tracks disposed along the longitudinal direction of the examination bed in a lateral region of the examination bed. Here, fixed tracks can be set on opposite lateral areas of the examination bed, wherein a support area for supporting the patient is preferably provided between the two fixed tracks.

[0046] At least one of the fixing elements of the cleaning unit, which cooperates with the fixing track, is preferably configured to enable the cleaning unit to be fixed and / or mounted on the examination bed together with the fixing track, and in particular to enable the cleaning unit to be releasably fixed and / or releasably mounted on the examination bed.

[0047] The design of this invention has the following advantages: it allows for the simple installation of the cleaning unit on the examination bed. In particular, it enables the simple integration of the cleaning unit into existing medical imaging equipment without requiring structural changes to the existing equipment, especially the examination bed. Furthermore, it allows for the integration of the cleaning unit into the examination bed in a particularly space-saving and low-cost manner.

[0048] In an advantageous improvement of the medical imaging apparatus according to the invention, the medical imaging apparatus includes a patient support device having an examination bed and a track system disposed within the patient receiving area for guiding the examination bed, wherein a cleaning unit for cleaning the housing surrounding the patient receiving area can be disposed on the track system. Preferably, the track system extends through the entire patient receiving area along its longitudinal direction. The track system typically comprises two tracks extending and / or disposed on either side of the lateral areas of the patient receiving area.

[0049] By mounting the cleaning unit on a track system, simple and reliable guidance of the cleaning unit can be advantageously achieved when it moves through the patient reception area, especially when moving through the patient reception area in the longitudinal direction. Particularly here, the cleaning unit can be easily integrated into existing medical imaging equipment without requiring structural modifications to the existing equipment. Another advantage is that stress can be advantageously eliminated in the coupling mechanism between the cleaning unit and the examination table when the cleaning unit is additionally coupled to the examination table.

[0050] Furthermore, by placing the cleaning unit on the track system of the medical imaging equipment, the cleaning unit can be manually moved, for example by means of a telescopic rod, across the patient accommodation area for cleaning, thus providing a simple and low-cost cleaning unit.

[0051] In an advantageous improvement of the medical imaging apparatus according to the invention, the cleaning unit has at least one fixing element, and the receiving unit has at least one fixing element on the end side of the examination bed, said fixing element cooperating with at least one fixing element of the cleaning unit. In this way, it is possible to easily and particularly autonomously set and / or fix the cleaning unit to the examination bed. If the cleaning unit is further disposed on a track system, it can be coupled and / or fixed to the examination bed when the examination bed is moved in, and can move through the patient receiving area for cleaning.

[0052] Here, at least one fixing element of the cleaning unit can include a connecting plate-like fixing element extending away from the cleaning unit in the direction toward the examination bed. Preferably, at least one fixing element of the receiving unit includes a corresponding perforated receiving element.

[0053] In an advantageous improvement of the medical imaging apparatus according to the invention, the fixing mechanism of the cleaning unit and the examination bed is configured such that the fixing mechanism is released when the examination bed leaves the patient receiving area. Preferably, the fixing mechanism is configured such that the examination bed and the cleaning unit are fixedly and / or coupled when the examination bed is moved into the patient receiving area. One advantage of this design is that the cleaning unit can remain protected within the patient receiving area. Furthermore, the cleaning unit is also positioned outside the line of sight of the patient positioned on the examination bed, allowing the cleaning unit to be positioned on the end side of the examination bed even during medical imaging examinations.

[0054] In an advantageous improvement of the medical imaging apparatus according to the invention, a cleaning unit has at least one fixing element, and a receiving unit has at least one fixing element that cooperates with at least one fixing element of the cleaning unit, wherein at least two fixing elements are configured to form or release a fixing mechanism during vertical movement of the examination bed. The vertical movement of the examination bed preferably includes a lifting motion in the direction of gravity acting on the examination bed or also opposite to gravity acting on the examination bed. Preferably, the fixing elements of the cleaning unit and the examination bed are configured such that coupling and / or fixing between the cleaning unit and the examination bed occurs when the examination bed moves upward, i.e., moves opposite to gravity acting on the examination bed. And when the examination bed moves downward, i.e., moves in the direction of gravity acting on the examination bed, the fixing between the cleaning unit and the examination bed is released and / or removed. Here, at least one fixing element of the cleaning unit is particularly prominently and / or connected in a sheet-like manner, which engages with a fixing element of the examination bed that is configured as a recess when the examination bed moves upward. Preferably, two fixing elements are connected, and the connection is configured to fit together in the longitudinal direction of the patient accommodating area. For this purpose, the fixing elements of the examination bed are positioned at the head end of the examination bed on the side opposite to the upward force acting on the examination bed.

[0055] This design of the invention enables the cleaning unit to be easily and autonomously positioned and / or secured to the examination bed. In particular, the cleaning unit can remain decoupled from the examination bed within the patient accommodation area during patient preparation, allowing for unrestricted space available for preparation. One advantage of this design is that the cleaning unit can be protected within the patient accommodation area. Furthermore, the cleaning unit is positioned outside the patient's line of sight while positioned on the examination bed, allowing it to be positioned on the end of the examination bed even during medical imaging examinations. Attached Figure Description

[0056] Other advantages, features and details of the invention will become apparent from the embodiments described below and from the accompanying drawings.

[0057] The attached diagram shows:

[0058] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a medical imaging device with a cleaning unit according to the present invention is shown;

[0059] Figure 2 A first embodiment of a cleaning unit on an examination bed of a medical imaging device is shown;

[0060] Figure 3 A first view showing a second embodiment of a cleaning unit on an examination table of a medical imaging device;

[0061] Figure 4 A second view showing a second embodiment of the cleaning unit;

[0062] Figure 5 A third view showing a second embodiment of the cleaning unit;

[0063] Figure 6 A third embodiment of a cleaning unit on an examination table of a medical imaging device is shown;

[0064] Figure 7 A first view showing a fourth embodiment of a cleaning unit on an examination table of a medical imaging device;

[0065] Figure 8 A second view showing a fourth embodiment of the cleaning unit;

[0066] Figure 9 A third view showing a fourth embodiment of the cleaning unit;

[0067] Figure 10 A first view showing a fifth embodiment of a cleaning unit on an examination table of a medical imaging device;

[0068] Figure 11 A second view showing a fifth embodiment of the cleaning unit;

[0069] Figure 12 A third view showing a fifth embodiment of the cleaning unit;

[0070] Figure 13 A fourth view showing a fifth embodiment of the cleaning unit; and

[0071] Figure 14 A sixth embodiment of a cleaning unit on an examination table of a medical imaging device is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0072] exist Figure 1The medical imaging device 10 is schematically illustrated. In this embodiment, the medical imaging device 10 is formed by a magnetic resonance imaging device 11, and the invention is illustrated exemplarily with respect to the magnetic resonance imaging device 10. However, the invention is not limited to the design of the medical imaging device 10 as the magnetic resonance imaging device 11, and other designs of the medical imaging device 10, such as computed tomography (CT) devices and / or PET devices, are conceivable at any time.

[0073] The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device 11 includes a scanner unit 12 formed of magnet units. Furthermore, the MRI device 10 has a patient receiving area 13 for accommodating a patient. In this embodiment, the patient receiving area 13 is cylindrically configured and is cylindrically surrounded by the scanner unit 12, particularly by the magnet units, in the circumferential direction. However, in principle, different configurations of the patient receiving area 13 can be conceived at any time. A patient support device 14 of the MRI device 10 allows the patient to be pushed and / or moved into the patient receiving area 13. For this purpose, the patient support device 14 has an examination bed 15 configured to move within the patient receiving area 13. Specifically, the examination bed 15 is movably supported in the direction extending longitudinally and / or in the z-direction of the patient receiving area 13. For this purpose, the medical imaging device 10, and especially the MRI device 11, has a track system comprising two parallel tracks 26. Each track 26 is laterally disposed within the patient receiving area 13 for guiding the examination bed 15. The two tracks 26 extend along the entire patient receiving area 13.

[0074] The scanner unit 12, particularly the magnet unit, includes a superconducting fundamental magnet 16 for generating a strong and particularly constant fundamental magnetic field 17. Furthermore, the scanner unit 12, particularly the magnet unit, has a gradient coil unit 18 for generating a magnetic field gradient, which is used for position encoding during imaging. The gradient coil unit 18 is controlled by a gradient control unit 19 of the magnetic resonance device 11. The scanner unit 12, particularly the magnet unit, also includes a radio frequency antenna unit 20 for exciting the polarization occurring in the fundamental magnetic field 17 generated by the fundamental magnet 16. The radio frequency antenna unit 20 is controlled by a radio frequency antenna control unit 21 of the magnetic resonance device 11 and incident the radio frequency magnetic resonance sequence into the patient receiving area 13 of the magnetic resonance device 11.

[0075] To control the basic magnet 16, the gradient control unit 19, and the radio frequency antenna control unit 21, the magnetic resonance imaging device 11 has a system control unit 22. The system control unit 22 centrally controls the magnetic resonance imaging device 11, for example, by executing a predetermined imaging gradient echo sequence. Furthermore, the system control unit 22 includes an evaluation unit (not shown in detail) for evaluating medical image data detected during the magnetic resonance examination.

[0076] Furthermore, the magnetic resonance imaging device 10 includes a user interface 23 connected to the system control unit 22. Control information, such as imaging parameters and reconstructed magnetic resonance images, can be displayed to a medical operator on a display unit 24 of the user interface 23, for example, on at least one monitor. Additionally, the user interface 23 has an input unit 25, which allows a medical operator to input information and / or parameters during the measurement process.

[0077] The illustrated magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device 10 may, of course, include other components typically found in MRI devices 10. The general functional modes of the MRI device 10 are also known to those skilled in the art, thus omitting the need for detailed description of other components.

[0078] The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device also includes cleaning units 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600, which are configured to clean the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13 of the MRI device 11. In this embodiment, the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13 is integrally and / or one-piecely formed with the side of the radio frequency antenna unit 20 facing the patient receiving area 13. Furthermore, the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13 may also include a housing cover.

[0079] Cleaning units 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 each have at least one cleaning element 101, 201, 301, 401, 501, or 601. Figures 1 to 14 In this configuration, cleaning units 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 each have a unique cleaning element 101, 201, 301, 401, 501, and 601. However, it is also conceivable that cleaning units 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 may have two or more cleaning elements 101, 201, 301, 401, 501, and 601. These cleaning elements can also be constructed in the same structural manner and configured to improve the cleaning success rate.

[0080] exist Figure 2The image shows a medical imaging device 10, particularly a magnetic resonance imaging device 11, with a first embodiment having a cleaning unit 100. The cleaning unit 100 has a cleaning element 101 with an annular support structure 102. The cleaning element 101, particularly the annular support structure 102, is adapted to the circumference, particularly the inner circumference, of the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13. The cleaning element 101 has a diameter 103, particularly the outer diameter, which corresponds to at least one value of the diameter 104, particularly the inner diameter, of the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13. Furthermore, the diameter 103, particularly the outer diameter, of the cleaning element 101 can be at most 1 mm larger than the diameter 104, particularly the inner diameter, of the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13, preferably at most 2 mm, and more preferably at most 3 mm.

[0081] Furthermore, the cleaning unit 101 has two base elements 106 configured to house and / or position the cleaning unit 101, particularly the annular support structure 102, within the patient receiving area 13. The two base elements 106 are configured to house and / or secure the cleaning unit 100 to the examination bed 15. For housing the cleaning unit 100 on the examination bed 15, the examination bed 15 has a receiving unit 107, which is located at the head end 108 of the examination bed 15. The head end 108 of the examination bed 15 includes an end region that is first introduced into the patient receiving area 13 when the examination bed 15 is moved into the patient receiving area 13.

[0082] The examination bed 15 also has two fixed rails 109 configured to secure accessory units. The two fixed rails 109 are located on opposite lateral regions of the examination bed 15, with a support region 110 for supporting and / or positioning the patient between the two fixed rails 109. The receiving unit 107 for mounting the cleaning unit 100 on the examination bed 15 also has two fixed rails 109, specifically the regions of the two fixed rails 109 facing the head end 108 of the examination bed 15. For mounting the cleaning unit 100 on the two fixed rails 109, the cleaning unit 100 has two fixing elements 111 that mate with the fixed rails 109. The two fixing elements 111 are mounted on two base elements 106, with the fixing elements 109 respectively mounted on the base elements 106. Here, the two base elements 109 are also located on opposite sides of the cleaning unit 100.

[0083] Furthermore, the cleaning element 101 has a cleaning pad 105. In this embodiment, the cleaning pad 105 includes a wiping lip, which preferably comprises an elastic material. The cleaning pad 105, especially the wiping lip, is disposed on the outward-facing side of the annular support structure 102, particularly on the side facing the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13. For this purpose, the annular support structure 102 can also have a groove-shaped opening on its outer side to receive the cleaning pad 105, especially the wiping lip. Preferably, the cleaning pad 105, especially the wiping lip, is detachably disposed on the outer side of the annular support structure 102, for example, by means of Velcro and / or by means of a form-fitting receiving groove.

[0084] In this embodiment, the annular support structure 102 can have a single annular element 112, which is disposed on both base elements. Preferably, the annular support structure 102 can also have two annular elements, which are disposed on one of the two base elements 106 at a first end region. The two annular elements are configured to be at least partially movably detached from each other at a second end region away from the base element 106, such that the annular support structure 102 is pressed inward when the cleaning unit 100 is introduced into the patient receiving area 13. Preferably, the annular support structure 102 has a diameter, especially an outer diameter, which corresponds at least to the diameter 104, especially the inner diameter, of the outer shell 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13, or is at most 3 mm larger than the diameter 104, especially the inner diameter, of the outer shell 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13.

[0085] Therefore, by providing the cleaning pad 105, especially the wiping lip, on the outside of the annular support structure 102, the outer diameter of the cleaning element 101 is larger than the inner diameter of the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13. The diameter of the annular support structure 102 can also be related to the thickness of the cleaning pad 105 to achieve the desired diameter 103 of the cleaning element 101. This results in the cleaning element 101 abutting against the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13 by force after the cleaning unit 100 is introduced into the patient receiving area 13. Preferably, the cleaning element 101 abuts against the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13 with a force of 4N to 6N, providing sufficient pressure for mechanical cleaning; however, it is also feasible for the cleaning unit 100 to move through the patient receiving area 13.

[0086] exist Figures 3 to 5 A second embodiment of the cleaning unit 200 is shown. The components, features, and functions are substantially the same and are numbered using the same reference numerals. The following description is substantially limited to those in the... Figure 2 The differences between the embodiments, wherein references to maintaining the same components, features, and functions are made to each other. Figure 2The description of the embodiments in the document.

[0087] exist Figures 3 to 5 The image shows a medical imaging device 10, particularly a magnetic resonance imaging device 11, with a second embodiment having a cleaning unit 200. The cleaning unit 200 has a cleaning element 201 with an annular support structure 202. The cleaning element 201, particularly the annular support structure 202, is adapted to the circumference, particularly the inner circumference, of the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13. Here, the cleaning element 201 has a diameter 203, particularly the outer diameter, which corresponds to at least one value of the diameter 204, particularly the inner diameter, of the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13. Furthermore, the diameter 203, particularly the outer diameter, of the cleaning element 201 can be at most 1 mm larger than the diameter 204, particularly the inner diameter, of the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13, preferably at most 2 mm, and preferably at most 3 mm larger.

[0088] Furthermore, the cleaning unit 200 has a base element 205 configured to house the cleaning element 201, particularly the annular support structure 202, within the patient receiving area 13. Here, the cleaning unit 200 can be mounted on a track system, particularly on two tracks 26 of the track system, by means of the base element 205. The base element 205 is configured such that it is positioned on either side of one of the two tracks 26 of the track system. Additionally, the base element 205 includes fixing elements 206 for securing and / or coupling the cleaning unit 200 to the examination bed 15. In this embodiment, the base element 205 includes two fixing elements 206, each extending in a sheet-like manner toward the examination bed 15 away from the base element 205. The two fixing elements 206 also have a circular cross-section. Figure 3 ).

[0089] In order to house the cleaning unit 200 on the examination bed 15, the examination bed 15 has a receiving unit 207, wherein the receiving unit 207 is disposed on the head end 208 of the examination bed 15. Figure 4Here, the receiving unit 207 has two fixing elements 209, which cooperate with the two fixing elements 206 of the base unit 205. The two fixing elements 209 of the receiving unit 207 are disposed on the end side of the examination bed 15. In order to couple and / or arrange the cleaning unit 200 with the examination bed 15, the cleaning unit 200 is already located on the track 26 within the patient receiving area 13, particularly in the introduction area of ​​the patient receiving area 13. When the examination bed 15 is moved horizontally into the patient receiving area 13, the cleaning unit 200 is coupled to the examination bed 15 and is pushed and / or pulled through the patient receiving area 13 by means of the examination bed 15 to perform the cleaning process. The fixing elements 206 of the base element 205 and / or the fixing elements 209 of the examination bed 15 may also include locking elements and / or clamping elements to prevent the cleaning unit 200 from being released from the examination bed when the examination bed 15 moves in the opposite direction of the introduction. Here, the cleaning unit 200 for cleaning the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13 can also be separated from the patient receiving area 13 on the back side of the medical imaging device 10, and is held by the examination bed 15 by means of fixing elements 206, 209. Figure 5 Furthermore, the fixing mechanism between the cleaning unit 200 and the examination bed 15 is configured such that when the examination bed 15 leaves the patient accommodation area 13, particularly at the inlet opening of the patient accommodation area 13, the fixing mechanism is released, and the cleaning unit 200 remains in the patient accommodation area 13.

[0090] In addition, the cleaning element 201 has a cleaning pad 210 ( Figure 5 In this embodiment, the cleaning pad 210 comprises a textile fabric, such as a nonwoven fabric. The cleaning pad 210 is disposed on the outward-facing side of the annular support structure 202, particularly on the side facing the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13. For this purpose, the annular support structure 202 may also include a groove-shaped opening on its outer side for receiving the cleaning pad 210. Preferably, the cleaning pad 210, especially the nonwoven fabric, is detachably disposed on the outer side of the annular support structure 202, for example, via Velcro and / or via a form-fitting receiving groove.

[0091] In this embodiment, the annular support structure 202 can have a single annular element 211, which is disposed on the base element 205. Preferably, the annular support structure 202 can also have two annular elements, which are disposed on the base element 205 at a first end region, respectively. The two annular elements can be configured to be at least partially movable relative to each other at a second end region away from the base element 205, such that the annular support structure 202 is pressed inward when the cleaning unit 200 is introduced into the patient receiving area 13. Preferably, the annular support structure 202 has a diameter, especially an outer diameter, which corresponds at least to the diameter 204, especially the inner diameter, of the outer shell 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13, or is at most 3 mm larger than the diameter 204, especially the inner diameter, of the outer shell 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13.

[0092] Therefore, by positioning the cleaning pad 210 on the outside of the annular support structure 202, the outer diameter of the cleaning element 201 is larger than the inner diameter of the outer shell 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13. This causes the cleaning element 201 to press against the outer shell 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13 after the cleaning unit 200 is introduced into the patient receiving area 13, as already mentioned herein. Figure 2 As described.

[0093] In addition, the cleaning unit 200 includes a receiving element 212 for containing cleaning agent. Figure 3 and 5 A receiving element 212 for holding cleaning agent is disposed on the inner side 213 of the annular support structure 202. The receiving element 212 may, for example, include a holding device for holding a commercially available cleaning agent container containing cleaning agent and / or a commercially available disinfectant container containing disinfectant. Furthermore, the annular support structure 202 may also include cleaning agent channels and / or cleaning agent hoses (not shown in detail) for dispensing cleaning agent at the cleaning pad 210.

[0094] exist Figure 6 A third embodiment of the cleaning unit 300 is shown. The components, features, and functions are substantially the same and are numbered using the same reference numerals. The following description is substantially limited to those in... Figures 3 to 5 The differences between the embodiments, wherein references to maintaining the same components, features, and functions are made to each other. Figures 3 to 5 The description of the embodiments in the document.

[0095] Figure 6 The embodiments and Figures 3 to 5The difference in the embodiment is that the cleaning unit 300 has an electrical terminal element 302. Here, the electrical terminal element 302 is structurally identical to the coil connector of the local radio frequency coil. Furthermore, the examination bed 15 also has a connection socket 303 for electrical contact with the local radio frequency coil. The electrical terminal element 302 of the cleaning unit 300 is configured to be compatible with the connection socket 303 of the examination bed 15. For electrical contact, especially for controlling the cleaning unit 300 and / or detecting cleaning data, the electrical terminal element 302 is inserted into the connection socket 303.

[0096] Another design scheme for the cleaning unit 300 corresponds to Figures 3 to 5 The embodiments described herein are referenced.

[0097] exist Figures 7 to 9 The fourth embodiment of the cleaning unit 400 is shown. The components, features, and functions are substantially the same and are numbered using the same reference numerals. The following description is substantially limited to... Figures 2 to 6 The differences between the embodiments, wherein references to maintaining the same components, features, and functions are made to each other. Figures 2 to 6 The description of the embodiments in the document.

[0098] exist Figures 7 to 9 The image shows a medical imaging device 10, particularly a magnetic resonance imaging device 11, which has a fourth embodiment of a cleaning unit 400. The cleaning unit 400 has a cleaning element 401 with an annular support structure 402. The cleaning element 401, particularly the annular support structure 402, is adapted to the circumference, particularly the inner circumference, of the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13. Here, the cleaning element 401 has a diameter 403, particularly the outer diameter, which corresponds to at least one value of the diameter 404, particularly the inner diameter, of the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13. Furthermore, the diameter 403, particularly the outer diameter, of at least one cleaning element 401 can be at most 1 mm larger than the diameter 404, particularly the inner diameter, of the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13, by a maximum of 1 mm, preferably at most 2 mm, and preferably at most 3 mm.

[0099] Furthermore, the cleaning unit 400 has a base element 405 configured to house the cleaning element 401, particularly the annular support structure 402, within the patient receiving area 13. Here, the cleaning unit 400 can be mounted on a track system, particularly on two tracks 26 of the track system, by means of the base element 405. The base element 405 is configured such that it is positioned on either side of one of the two tracks 26 of the track system. Furthermore, the base element 405 includes fixing elements 406 for fixing and / or coupling the cleaning unit 400 to the examination bed. In this embodiment, the base element 405 includes two fixing elements 406. The two fixing elements 406 are L-shaped and each has a connecting piece element extending tab-like from the base element 405 toward the examination bed 15. These two connecting pieces have flat and / or planar surfaces with the base element 405. Additionally, each of the two fixing elements 406 has a bolt disposed on the end of the connecting piece element facing away from the base element 405. The bolt extends downwards perpendicular to the connecting element, especially along the direction of gravity. Figure 7 ).

[0100] To accommodate the cleaning unit 400 on the examination bed 15, the examination bed 15 has a receiving unit 407, which is located at the head end 408 of the examination bed 15. Here, the receiving unit 407 has two fixing elements 409, which are configured to cooperate with the two fixing elements 406 of the base unit 405. The two fixing elements 409 of the receiving unit 407 are located on the end side of the examination bed 15. Here, the two fixing elements 409 of the receiving unit 407 are L-shaped to accommodate the fixing elements 406 of the cleaning unit 400. Figure 7 ).

[0101] To couple and / or position the cleaning unit 400 to the examination bed 15, the cleaning unit 400 is positioned on the track 26 within the patient receiving area 13, particularly in the introduction area of ​​the patient receiving area 13. The fixing and / or coupling mechanisms between the examination bed 15, particularly the receiving unit 407 of the examination bed 15, and the cleaning unit 400, particularly the fixing element 406 of the cleaning unit 400, are configured such that the fixing and / or coupling between the examination bed 15 and the cleaning unit 400 is made or released during vertical movement of the examination bed 15. For example, vertical movement of the examination bed 15 is only feasible when the examination bed 15 is completely positioned outside the patient receiving area 13. Vertical movement of the examination bed 15 preferably includes a lifting or lowering motion along the direction 410 of the gravity acting on the examination bed 15 or also opposite to the gravity acting on the examination bed 15. As the examination bed 15 moves upward, i.e., opposite to the force of gravity acting on the examination bed 15, the fixing element 406 of the cleaning unit 400 engages with the fixing element 409 of the receiving unit 407, thus coupling and / or securing the cleaning unit 400 and the examination bed 15. Preferably, the fixing elements 405 and 409 form a connection that is shaped to fit along the longitudinal direction of the patient receiving area 13, such that after the cleaning unit 400 is coupled and / or secured to the examination bed 15, the cleaning unit 400 moves through the patient receiving area 13 due to the horizontal movement of the examination bed 15. Here, the cleaning unit 400 for cleaning the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13 can also leave the patient receiving area on the rear side of the medical imaging device 10, and is held by the examination bed 15 by means of the fixing elements 406 and 409. Figure 9 As the examination bed 15 moves downward, that is, along the direction 410 of the gravity acting on the examination bed 15, the fixation between the cleaning unit 400 and the examination bed 15 is released, so that the cleaning unit 400 remains in the patient accommodating area 13.

[0102] Furthermore, the cleaning element 401 includes a cleaning pad 411. In this embodiment, the cleaning pad 411 comprises a textile fabric, such as a nonwoven fabric. The configuration, arrangement, and function of the cleaning pad 411 correspond herein to the following... Figures 3 to 5 The implementation plan is described below for reference. Figure 9 ).

[0103] In this embodiment, the annular support structure 402 can have a single annular element 412 disposed on the base element 405. Preferably, the annular support structure 402 can also have two annular elements disposed on the base element 405 at a first end region. The two annular elements can be configured to be at least partially movably detached from each other at a second end region away from the base element 405, such that the annular support structure 402 is pressed inward when the cleaning unit 400 is introduced into the patient receiving area 13. Preferably, the annular support structure 402 has a diameter, particularly an outer diameter, which corresponds at least to the diameter 404, particularly an inner diameter, of the outer shell 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13, or is at most 3 mm larger than the diameter 404, particularly the inner diameter, of the outer shell 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13.

[0104] Therefore, by placing the cleaning pad 411 on the outside of the annular support structure 402, the outer diameter of the cleaning element 401 is larger than the inner diameter of the outer shell 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13. This causes the cleaning element 401 to press against the outer shell 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13 after the cleaning unit 400 is introduced into the patient receiving area 13, as already mentioned herein. Figure 2 Described.

[0105] Furthermore, the cleaning unit 400 includes a receiving element 413 for containing cleaning agent. The receiving element 413 is disposed on the inner side 414 of the annular support structure 402. The receiving element 413 may, for example, include a holding device for containing a commercially available cleaning agent container containing cleaning agent and / or a commercially available disinfectant container containing disinfectant. Additionally, the annular support structure 402 may also include cleaning agent channels and / or cleaning agent hoses (not shown in detail) for dispensing cleaning agent at the cleaning pad 411.

[0106] Furthermore, the cleaning unit 400 can also have electrical terminal elements, wherein the electrical terminal elements are in Figures 7 to 9 Not shown in detail herein. The design and / or function of the electrical terminal components correspond to those referenced herein. Figure 6 The description.

[0107] exist Figures 10 to 13 The fifth embodiment of the cleaning unit 500 is shown. The components, features, and functions are substantially the same and are numbered using the same reference numerals. The following description is substantially limited to those in the... Figures 2 to 9 The differences between the embodiments, wherein references to maintaining the same components, features, and functions are made to each other. Figures 2 to 9 The description of the embodiments in the document.

[0108] Figures 10 to 13The cleaning unit 500 has a cleaning element 501 with an annular support structure 502. The cleaning element 501, and especially the annular support structure 502, is adapted to fit around the circumference, particularly the inner circumference, of the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13. Here, the cleaning element 501 has a diameter, particularly the outer diameter, which corresponds to at least one value of the diameter, particularly the inner diameter, of the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13. Furthermore, the diameter of the cleaning element 501, particularly the outer diameter, can be at most 1 mm larger than the diameter, particularly the inner diameter, of the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13, preferably at most 2 mm, and preferably at most 3 mm larger.

[0109] Furthermore, the cleaning unit 500 has two base elements 505 configured to position and hold the cleaning element 501, particularly the annular support structure 502, within the patient receiving area 13. The two base elements 505 are configured to mount and / or secure the cleaning unit 500 to the examination bed 15. Figure 10-12 In order to house the cleaning unit 500 on the examination bed 15, the examination bed 15 has a receiving unit 506, wherein the receiving unit 506 is disposed at the head end 507 of the examination bed 15. Figure 11 ).

[0110] The examination bed 15 also has two fixed rails 508, which are configured to secure the accessory unit. Figure 10 Two fixed rails 508 are disposed on opposite lateral regions of the examination bed 15, with a support region 509 for supporting and / or positioning the patient provided between the two fixed rails 508. A receiving unit 506 for placing the cleaning unit 500 on the examination bed 15 has two fixed rails 508, particularly in the region facing the head end 507 of the examination bed 15, each having two fixed rails 109. For the cleaning unit 500 to be disposed on the two fixed rails 508, the cleaning unit 500 has two fixing elements 510 that mate with the fixed rails 508. The two fixing elements 510 are disposed on two base elements 505, each fixed on a base element 505. Here, the two base elements 505 are also disposed on opposite sides of the cleaning unit 100.

[0111] In this embodiment, the annular bearing structure 502 has two annular elements 511 ( Figure 10 and 11Two annular elements 511 are respectively disposed on one of the two base elements 505 at a first end region. At the second end region, particularly the end region opposite to one of the base elements 505, the two annular elements 511 of the annular support structure 502 are disposed at least partially movable relative to each other. The end regions of the two annular elements 511 opposite to the base element 505 are here configured to abut against each other and / or at least partially overlap. In this embodiment, the two annular elements 511 are disposed and / or configured substantially mirror-symmetrically relative to each other.

[0112] If the cleaning unit 500, and further includes the annular support structure 502, is located outside the patient receiving area 13, then preferably, the two annular elements 511 are in a stress-relieved state. In this stress-relieved state, the diameter of the cleaning element 501, especially the outer diameter, has a value that is at least the same as or greater than the diameter, especially the inner diameter, of the outer shell 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13. The cleaning unit 500, and further includes the cleaning element 501, introduced into the patient receiving area 13 together with the annular support structure 502, which can be pressed together during introduction into the patient receiving area 13 via a funnel-shaped configuration of the introduction area of ​​the patient receiving area 13. Thus, the two annular elements 511, especially with their movable end regions relative to each other, move toward each other and / or press inward, increasing the overlap area between the two annular elements 511. This causes the two annular elements 511 to be under stress, thereby applying force to the outer shell 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13.

[0113] In addition, the cleaning element 501 has a cleaning pad 512 ( Figures 10 to 13 In this embodiment, the cleaning pad 501 comprises a fabric structure, particularly a nonwoven fabric, and / or foam. The cleaning pad 512, particularly the fabric structure and / or foam, is disposed on the outward-facing side of the annular support structure 502, especially on the side facing the outer shell 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13. For this purpose, the annular support structure 502 also has a receiving surface 513 on its outer side for receiving the cleaning pad 512, particularly the fabric structure and / or foam. Preferably, the cleaning pad 512, particularly the fabric structure and / or foam, is detachably disposed on the receiving surface 513 of the annular support structure 502, for example, via Velcro.

[0114] Therefore, by placing the cleaning pad 512, particularly the fabric structure and / or foam, on the outside of the annular support structure 502, the cleaning element 501 has an outer diameter larger than the inner diameter of the outer shell 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13. This results in the cleaning element 501 abutting against the outer shell 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13 by means of force after the cleaning unit 500 is introduced into the patient receiving area 13. Preferably, the cleaning element 501 abuts against the outer shell 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13 with a force of 4N to 6N, such that there is sufficient pressure for mechanical cleaning; however, it is also feasible for the cleaning unit 500 to move through the patient receiving area 13.

[0115] In addition, the cleaning unit 500 includes two receiving elements 514 for holding cleaning agents. Figures 10 to 12 Two receiving elements 514 for containing cleaning agents are respectively disposed on the inner side 515 of the annular element 511 of the annular support structure 502. The receiving element 514 may, for example, include a holding device for containing a commercially available cleaning agent container containing cleaning agent and / or a commercially available disinfectant container containing disinfectant.

[0116] The cleaning element 501, especially the annular support structure 502, has two cleaning agent channels 516, wherein the cleaning agent channels 516 are respectively disposed on one of the annular elements 511 of the annular support structure 502. Figure 13 Cleaning agent channels 516 are respectively arranged circumferentially within the annular element 511. In this embodiment, each of the two cleaning agent channels 516 comprises a cleaning agent tube. For dispensing cleaning agent, each of the two cleaning agent channels 516 has an opening 517, such as a hole, on the side facing the cleaning pad 512. The openings 517 and / or holes are arranged on the cleaning agent channels 516 at specific and / or defined intervals. For uniform dispensing of cleaning agent, the openings 517 and / or holes can also be of different sizes. For dispensing cleaning agent, in this embodiment, it is necessary for the user, especially a medical operator, to squeeze the cleaning agent container together, thereby delivering the cleaning agent into the cleaning agent channel 516. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the dispensing of cleaning agent can be automatically controlled.

[0117] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the cleaning element 501 has two sensors 518 configured to detect the cleaning dose ( Figure 13For this purpose, two sensors 518 are disposed on the receiving surface 513 of the annular support structure 502, particularly on one of the annular elements 511, and thus arranged to be in direct contact with the cleaning pad 512. Here, the cleaning dosage is detected and / or determined based on the moisture value and / or moisture content. For user monitoring, the sensors 518 may also include optical output mechanisms, such as LEDs, which display to the user whether the cleaning dosage is sufficient for the cleaning process. Furthermore, the two sensors 518 may also be connected to a control unit for automatic control of cleaning agent dispensing.

[0118] Furthermore, the cleaning unit 500 can also have electrical terminal elements, wherein the electrical terminal elements are in Figures 10 to 13 Not shown in detail herein. The design and / or function of the electrical terminal components correspond to those referenced herein. Figure 6 The description.

[0119] exist Figure 14 The sixth embodiment of the cleaning unit 600 is shown. The components, features, and functions are substantially the same and are numbered using the same reference numerals. The following description is substantially limited to the embodiments described in the accompanying drawings. Figures 10 to 13 The differences between the embodiments, wherein references to maintaining the same components, features, and functions are made to each other. Figures 10 to 13 The description of the embodiments in the document.

[0120] exist Figure 14 The cleaning unit is shown in a side view. Figure 14 The cleaning unit 600 in the middle and Figures 10 to 13 The difference in the cleaning unit 500 lies in the alternative design of the cleaning pads 602. In this embodiment, the cleaning unit 600 has two cleaning pads 602, which are spaced apart from each other. For this purpose, the cleaning unit 600, and particularly the annular support structure 603 of the cleaning unit 600, has two support surfaces, wherein a first support surface is disposed in the front region of the annular support structure 603 and a second support surface is disposed in the rear region of the annular support structure 603, particularly on the side of the annular support structure 603 facing the outer shell 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13. The design of each cleaning pad 602 corresponds here to the design referenced herein. Figures 10 to 13 The implementation plan in the document.

[0121] Between the two cleaning pads 602, the cleaning unit 600 has a receiving area 604 for accommodating a plurality of UV-C emitting mechanisms 605 for disinfecting the housing 27 surrounding the patient receiving area 13. In this embodiment, the plurality of UV-C emitting mechanisms 605 are each formed of a UV-C-LED. Each UV-C-LED is disposed on the annular support structure 603, particularly on the outer surface of the annular support structure 603. For this purpose, the outer surface can also be grooved to provide a protected arrangement for the plurality of UV-C emitting mechanisms 605. The respective UV-C emitting mechanisms 605, particularly the UV-C-LEDs, are distributed along the circumferential direction on the outer surface of the annular support structure 603.

[0122] The cleaning unit 600 also has a plurality of light openings 606 disposed on the inner side of the annular support structure 603. Preferably, the light openings 606 are configured to continuously pass through the annular support structure 603 in a radial direction, so that the light from the light-emitting mechanism, especially the UV-C light-emitting mechanism 605, can radiate into the patient receiving area 13, and thus be visible to the patient and / or observer.

[0123] Alternatively, it is conceivable that the cleaning unit 600 has a light opening disposed on the side of the annular support structure 603. Furthermore, the cleaning unit 600 may also include a light-emitting mechanism, which is independent of the UV-C light-emitting mechanism and is configured solely for visually displaying the cleaning process to the user and / or patient.

[0124] The cleaning unit also includes an electrical terminal element 607. Here, the electrical terminal element 607 is configured to be the same mechanism as the coil connector of the local radio frequency coil. The design and / or function of the electrical terminal element 607 corresponds herein to the design described in the reference document. Figure 6 The description.

[0125] Another design for the cleaning unit 600 corresponds here to the one referenced in this document. Figures 10 to 13 The cleaning unit described in the document.

[0126] Although the details of the invention have been illustrated and described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, the invention is not limited to the disclosed examples, and those skilled in the art can derive other variations therefrom without departing from the scope of protection of the invention.

Claims

1. A cleaning unit configured as a housing surrounding a patient-accommodating area of ​​a medical imaging device, the cleaning unit comprising at least one cleaning element. Its features are, The at least one cleaning element has a ring-shaped support structure, wherein the diameter of the cleaning element includes at least one value of the diameter of the outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area. The at least one cleaning element has at least one base element configured to house the annular support structure within the patient receiving area. The ring-shaped support structure has at least two ring elements, which are respectively disposed on the at least one base element at a first end region and are at least partially movably disposed relative to each other by means of a second end region opposite to the at least one base element.

2. The cleaning unit according to claim 1, Its features are, The at least one cleaning element has at least one cleaning pad, wherein the cleaning pad is disposed on the annular support structure.

3. The cleaning unit according to claim 1 or 2, Its features are, The cleaning unit has at least one receiving element for containing cleaning agent.

4. The cleaning unit according to claim 3, Its features are, The at least one receiving element is disposed on the inner side of the annular bearing structure.

5. The cleaning unit according to claim 1 or 2, Its features are, The at least one cleaning element has at least one cleaning agent channel, which is at least partially arranged circumferentially within the annular support structure.

6. The cleaning unit according to claim 1 or 2, Its features are, The at least one cleaning element has a sensor for detecting the cleaning dose.

7. The cleaning unit according to claim 1 or 2, Its features are, The at least one cleaning element has a plurality of UV-C emitting mechanisms disposed on the outer surface of the annular support structure.

8. The cleaning unit according to claim 1 or 2, Its features are, The at least one cleaning element has at least one light-emitting mechanism and at least one light opening, wherein the light opening is disposed on the inner side and / or side side of the annular support structure.

9. The cleaning unit according to claim 1 or 2, Its features are, It is equipped with electrical terminal components.

10. The cleaning unit according to claim 9, Its features are, The electrical terminal element is compatible with the socket of the radio frequency coil for electrical contact areas on the examination bed.

11. A medical imaging device, the medical imaging device having a scanner unit, a patient receiving area at least partially surrounded by the scanner unit, a housing surrounding the patient receiving area, and a cleaning unit according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The medical imaging device according to claim 11, Its features are, The ring-shaped support structure is provided within the patient receiving area for cleaning the outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area and is attached to the outer shell surrounding the patient receiving area by means of force.

13. The medical imaging device according to claim 11 or 12, Its features are, A patient support device is provided with an examination bed that is movable within the patient accommodation area, wherein the examination bed has a housing unit for setting up a cleaning unit, wherein the housing unit is located at the head end of the examination bed.

14. The medical imaging device according to claim 13, Its features are, The examination bed has a fixed rail for securing at least one accessory unit, wherein the receiving unit includes the fixed rail, and the cleaning unit includes at least one fixing element that mates with the fixed rail.

15. The medical imaging device according to claim 11 or 12, Its features are, The device includes a patient support unit having an examination bed and a track system disposed within the patient accommodation area for guiding the examination bed, wherein a cleaning unit for cleaning the outer shell surrounding the patient accommodation area can be disposed on the track system.

16. The medical imaging device according to claim 13, Its features are, The cleaning unit has at least one fixing element, and the receiving unit has at least one fixing element on the end side of the examination bed that cooperates with the at least one fixing element of the cleaning unit.

17. The medical imaging device according to claim 16, Its features are, The fixing mechanism between the cleaning unit and the examination bed is configured such that the fixing mechanism is released when the examination bed leaves the patient accommodation area.

18. The medical imaging device according to claim 13, Its features are, The cleaning unit has at least one fixing element, and the receiving unit has at least one fixing element that cooperates with at least one fixing element of the cleaning unit, wherein the at least two fixing elements are configured to form or release the fixing mechanism when the examination bed moves vertically.

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