Positron emission tomography (PET) scanning device

Abstract

A positron emission tomography (PET) scanning apparatus (1) is provided, comprising a detector ring (2) for detecting emitted PET radiation and a main support structure (3) having or having attached a U-shaped portion (34) with two arms (341) for holding the detector ring (2) between the arms (341). The detector ring (2) is held by the two arms (341) such that the detector ring (2) is rotatable about a rotation axis (R) extending through the U-shaped portion (34), particularly through the two arms (341) of the U-shaped portion (34).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a positron emission tomography (PET) scanning apparatus, which is particularly suitable for the needs of the scanned object. The PET scanning apparatus can be, in particular, a wheeled, movable device. Background Technology

[0002] Positron emission tomography (PET) scanners are typically large and bulky, and are only available in hospitals or specialized radiology facilities. Therefore, patients must travel to the location of the PET scanner if needed. However, these patients are often elderly people living in nursing homes or patients who are not very mobile or are confined to bed. Thus, traveling to the PET scan location is cumbersome for patients and often involves significant risks, such as complications or infections, that may occur during the journey. PET scanners also require patients to assume a specific posture during the scan, typically lying supine in bed. Depending on the patient's health condition, this posture can be quite burdensome, and even movement during the scan can impair the results.

[0003] Furthermore, hospitals, researchers, materials scientists, and veterinarians have difficulty obtaining PET machines, not only because they are too large, but also because they often do not meet their needs, particularly for applications outside of standard oncology in hospital clinics.

[0004] Therefore, the drawback of most existing PET scanning machines is that they cannot be taken to the subject and are not versatile enough for different purposes.

[0005] US 2013 / 0218010 A1 discloses a compact and lightweight PET scanner that is portable and can be attached to a hospital bed.

[0006] A PET detector integrated into a helmet-mounted brain imaging system is disclosed in WO 2020 / 015384 A1, US 9,226,717 B2, US 7,884,331 B2, and CN 109864751 A. The PET brain imaging system is suspended on a mobile platform.

[0007] US 9,833,208 B2 discloses a PET imaging device with an adjustable support stage that allows patients to sit, lie down, or stand during the imaging process.

[0008] The PET scanning apparatus disclosed in US 10,307,120 B1 includes a horizontally positioned and vertically movable detector ring that allows the patient to sit upright in a wheelchair during the scanning process.

[0009] JP 3244776 B2 discloses a computed tomography (CT) machine with a gantry body that can be tilted by rotating it about an upper horizontally extending axis to enable scanning of patients in sitting and lying positions.

[0010] US 10,531,843B2 proposes combining a CT device with a horizontally rotatable gantry with an adjustable scanning support, which allows the patient to assume any of the various positions during the imaging process.

[0011] US 9,414,789 B2 discloses a PET imaging apparatus with reduced dimensions. The apparatus includes multiple measuring rings of different diameters, which are slidably mounted on a support structure.

[0012] US 2011 / 0315884 A1 discloses a wheeled mobile PET scanner for imaging human heads. US 8,735,834 B2 discloses another wheeled mobile PET scanner.

[0013] JP 4642143 B2 discloses a PET scanning device with a detector ring held between two arms suspended by pulleys on the ceiling or by linkages on a wall or wheelchair.

[0014] US 2016 / 0166219 A1 relates to an apparatus that combines a virtual reality system with PET brain imaging. The mobile brain imager is suspended from a mobile support that can be carried in the form of a backpack or mounted on a wheeled bracket.

[0015] JP 3793320 B2 illustrates a CT scanner with a U-shaped support structure to which two vertically movable retaining arms are attached. A rotatable imaging unit is held between the two arms.

[0016] WO 2014 / 058772 A1 discloses an apparatus for cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) with a gimbaled scanner housing a source and a detector. The scanner is movable along a vertical support column. Summary of the Invention

[0017] The purpose of this invention is to provide a universal positron emission tomography (PET) scanning device that can be easily adapted to the needs of the scanned object.

[0018] This objective is achieved by the PET scanning apparatus claimed in claim 1. Further embodiments of the PET scanning apparatus are provided in the dependent claims.

[0019] For the purposes of this document, height and orientation information such as “top,” “bottom,” “up,” “down,” “upward,” and “downward” should be understood to mean that the PET scanning device is upright relative to the direction of gravity during its normal and intended use, ready to scan human or animal objects or plants.

[0020] Therefore, the present invention provides a positron emission tomography (PET) scanning apparatus, comprising:

[0021] A detector ring used to detect emitted PET radiation;

[0022] A main support structure having or having attached a U-shaped portion with two arms for holding the detector ring between the arms;

[0023] The detector ring is held by two arms such that it can rotate about the axis of rotation of the two arms that extend through the U-shaped portion, particularly through the U-shaped portion. Furthermore, the detector ring is preferably held by two arms such that it can be displaced relative to the main support structure, preferably relative to the two arms, particularly by translational displacement.

[0024] The advantage of the detector ring's axis of rotation extending through both arms is that the detector ring can be easily adjusted to the patient's needs by rotation, while remaining held stably on the main support structure. Further patient adjustment is preferably possible by displacing the detector ring relative to the two arms. If the detector ring can be displaced relative to the two arms, rather than, for example, displacing them together with the arms, unnecessary component displacement is eliminated, allowing for a reduction in the overall weight of movable parts and making it easier for the user to displace the detector ring. Of course, it is conceivable that in some embodiments, the detector ring can not only be displaced relative to the two arms, but also displaced together with them.

[0025] The detector ring typically includes multiple sensors, particularly multiple sensor modules, arranged in a circumferential ring to be positioned, for example, around the patient's head, for detecting PET radiation emitted from the patient's brain.

[0026] The detector ring typically has an annular shape, such as an elliptical or circular shape, at least on its inner surface. Therefore, the detector ring usually and preferably has an annular opening, particularly a circular opening, into which the portion of the object to be scanned is inserted for PET scanning. The outer surface of the detector ring is also preferably formed in an annular shape, particularly a circular shape. Detector rings with this form have a lighter appearance to the user. However, detector rings can also have angled, particularly rectangular or square, inner or outer shapes.

[0027] The detector ring advantageously has at least one handle to facilitate rotation and displacement of the detector ring by the user.

[0028] PET scanners are not necessarily limited to scanning human patients, especially the human brain. They can also be used to scan limbs such as arms and legs, and / or animals or plants. The ability to rotate and shift the detector ring relative to the main support structure makes PET scanners particularly versatile and suitable for different purposes, such as scanning rodents or plants.

[0029] During normal use of a PET scanner, the main support structure typically bears the majority—if not all—weight of the detector ring. Therefore, the main support structure is generally used to support and hold the detector ring in a stable position during the scanning process. After positioning the main support structure close to the object being scanned, or vice versa, the detector ring can be rotated and shifted accordingly to allow for fine-tuning of the PET scanner for the object.

[0030] The U-shaped portion is specifically defined by two arms. The two arms are typically connected to each other at one end by a vertically extending connecting portion, which also forms part of the U-shaped portion. The other end of each arm typically forms a free end. If a rotation axis extends through at least one of the two arms and the connecting portion, then the rotation axis extends through the U-shaped portion. Preferably, the rotation axis extends through each of the two arms or through the connecting portion. A particularly preferred embodiment is one in which the rotation axis extends in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the two arms, more preferably parallel to the connecting portion.

[0031] The two arms and the connecting portion preferably define a plane in which the U-shaped portion is arranged. This plane may have a certain thickness. Elements not arranged in this plane and particularly extending in the direction perpendicular to this plane are generally not considered part of the U-shaped portion, especially if these elements are attached in a displaceable manner. The U-shaped portion is preferably integrally formed as a single piece.

[0032] The displacement direction can extend in an oblique or even perpendicular direction relative to the plane spanned by the two arms of the U-shaped portion and the connecting portion. In some embodiments, the displacement direction can also extend parallel to the two arms. To be optimally adjusted to the desired imaging plane, the detector ring can advantageously be displaced in at least one rotational position in a direction approximately perpendicular to the plane defined by the opening of the detector ring. It is particularly advantageous if the detector ring can be displaced in a direction corresponding to the longitudinal main axis of the upper portion of the human patient's body, as intended for positioning, so as to facilitate scanning during normal use of the PET scanner.

[0033] In some preferred embodiments, the PET scanning device may include wheels attached to the main support structure to facilitate movement of the PET scanning device. The wheels allow the PET scanning device to be moved and brought to the object being scanned, rather than bringing the object to the PET scanning device. If wheels are provided for moving the PET scanning device, the device preferably also includes a wheel locking mechanism to prevent undesirable movement of the PET scanning device, particularly during the scanning of the object.

[0034] Due to the portability of the PET scanner, it is also capable of indoor monitoring during hadron therapy. For this purpose, the patient can move directly onto the treatment support into the detector ring, which is preferably positioned at the correct height and pre-coordinated with the hadron therapy device, so as not to lose valuable time and signals of isotope tracer decay.

[0035] In other equally preferred embodiments, the PET scanning apparatus may include a scanning support, such as a seating unit (chair or bed), to accommodate the object being scanned. The main support structure may then be formed as a single piece with the scanning support. The scanning support is preferably adjustable to suit the needs of the object being scanned.

[0036] To optimally position the detector ring when the patient being scanned is lying or sitting, it has proven advantageous if the two arms of the main support structure extend upwards at an angle relative to the direction of gravity. This design of the main support structure is also particularly space-saving, especially if the arms of the U-shaped section form the uppermost part of the main support structure, or if the arms of the U-shaped section are not held in place by any element of the main support structure when the U-shaped section is attached to the main support structure.

[0037] If the detector ring can be positioned such that the U-shaped portion, especially the two arms of the U-shaped portion, forms the uppermost part of the PET scanning device, then particularly space-saving storage of the PET scanning device can be achieved.

[0038] The main support structure is preferably height-adjustable to position the detector ring at a desired height. To achieve this, the main support structure is preferably formed by inner and outer structural members that can overlap and extend to adjust the height of the main support structure. Having overlapping and extending inner and outer structural members allows for a particularly compact design of the PET scanning device.

[0039] Especially when viewed from a frontal direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation, the PET scanning device can have an overall external shape that narrows downwards along the direction of gravity from the U-shaped portion. This design allows for significant space savings, as the width of the device, at least in the upper region, is primarily defined by the width of the U-shaped portion needed to hold the detector ring. At the bottom, the external shape of the PET scanning device can widen again along the direction of gravity to improve stability.

[0040] The PET scanning device preferably has an overall size that allows the device to move in its normal upright position through a standard door opening with a width not exceeding 98.5 cm, and particularly not exceeding 86.0 cm. More preferably, if the PET scanning device has wheels, the device has an overall width that allows the PET scanning device to roll forward through a door opening with a width not exceeding 98.5 cm, and particularly not exceeding 86.0 cm.

[0041] The PET scanning device preferably additionally includes a computing device for acquiring PET-related data by means of a detector ring. This computing device typically includes at least a processor, particularly a central processing unit, and storage elements. Predefined instructions are typically pre-stored in the storage elements to instruct the PET scanning device to detect emitted PET radiation by means of the detector ring, and to save or at least cache the acquired PET information and / or, for example, transmit the information further to another device by means of a wired or wireless transmission unit. The computing device is preferably integrated into the main support structure.

[0042] In a particularly preferred embodiment, if the detector ring rotates accordingly, the main support structure, together with the detector ring, forms a through opening that extends at least horizontally through the detector ring and the main support structure, preferably horizontally through the entire PET scanning apparatus. In other words, the PET scanning apparatus is preferably designed such that the object being scanned can be pushed horizontally through the detector ring without contacting the main support structure, and more preferably without contacting any element of the PET scanning apparatus. This allows, for example, a full-body scan of a lying person, or the scanning of multiple rodents or plants moving one after another through the apparatus on, for example, a conveyor belt.

[0043] The detector ring's axis of rotation, about which it can rotate, preferably extends through the detector ring's center of mass. This allows the user to rotate the detector ring particularly easily, and minimizes the load acting on the structural components. A particularly preferred embodiment is one in which the axis of rotation extends diametrically through the detector ring. Therefore, the detector ring is preferably attached to the two arms of the U-shaped portion at locations arranged on two diameters of its outer surface.

[0044] In a particularly preferred embodiment, guide rails are provided on each of the two arms of the U-shaped portion, and the detector ring is held within these guide rails such that the detector ring can be displaced along the guide rails. Therefore, the guide rails preferably form lateral guides for displacing the detector ring. Guide pins or lugs may be attached, for example, to the outer surface of the detector ring, engaging into the guide rails to enable rotation and displacement of the detector ring relative to the arms of the U-shaped portion. The guide rails may be attached, for example, to the inner surface of each arm, or may be provided in the form of slots. An axis of rotation preferably extends through each of these guide rails. Lateral pulleys, helical springs, gas springs, counterweights, and / or screw locks may be provided to facilitate displacement and secure the detector ring in a specific position on the guide rail. The displacement and / or rotation of the detector ring may also be supported by a motor.

[0045] In some embodiments, the guide rails can be rotatably attached to both arms, allowing the detector ring to be adjustable along its displacement direction. This rotatable attachment of the guide rails to the two arms results in particularly good adjustability of the PET scanning device. In this case, the detector ring can be optimally adjusted according to the object and the desired imaging plane. The guide rails are advantageously rotatable about the rotation axis of the detector ring, or at least about an axis extending parallel to the rotation axis of the detector ring. For this purpose, the guide rails can be rotatably attached to the inner surface of the respective arm of the U-shaped portion. However, preferably, each arm of the U-shaped portion includes a rotating plate in which or on which the guide rails are disposed. By having rotating plates, the load acting on the structural elements can be minimized, and more precise adjustment can be made. Attached Figure Description

[0046] Preferred embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting. The drawings show:

[0047] Figure 1 This is a side view of a first embodiment of the positron emission tomography (PET) scanning apparatus of the present invention, which has an integrated seating unit;

[0048] Figure 2a This is a side view of a second embodiment of the PET scanning device of the present invention, which has a freestanding seating unit;

[0049] Figure 2b yes Figure 2a Front view of a PET scanning device;

[0050] Figure 2c yes Figure 2a A plan view of the detector ring of a PET scanner;

[0051] Figure 2d yes Figure 2a A detailed side view of the bottom portion of the main support structure of a PET scanning device with a wheel locking mechanism;

[0052] Figure 2e yes Figure 2a A detailed side view of the back support with an adjustable backrest of the seat unit shown.

[0053] Figure 3a This is a side view of a third embodiment of the PET scanning apparatus of the present invention during scanning of a patient sitting in a seating unit, the apparatus having a height-adjustable main support structure;

[0054] Figure 3b yes Figure 3a Front view of a PET scanning device;

[0055] Figure 3c yes Figure 3a A side view of a PET scanning device, which is adjusted for scanning a patient lying in bed;

[0056] Figure 3d yes Figure 3a A side view of a PET scanning device, which is covered during storage by means of a cover;

[0057] Figure 3e yes Figure 3a A side view of a PET scanning device, which is adjusted for scanning a model in order to calibrate the PET scanning device;

[0058] Figure 4a This is a side view of a fourth embodiment of the PET scanning device of the present invention, which has a height-adjustable detector ring and a freestanding mounting unit;

[0059] Figure 4b yes Figure 4a Front view of a PET scanning device;

[0060] Figure 4c It is suitable for calibration. Figure 4a A side view of a model of a PET scanning device;

[0061] Figure 4d It is in response to Figure 4c During the scanning of the model Figure 4a Side view of a PET scanning device;

[0062] Figure 4e yes Figure 4a A side view of a PET scanning device, in which the detector ring is adjusted for scanning a patient lying in bed;

[0063] Figure 5 This is a side view of a sixth embodiment of the PET scanning device of the present invention, which has a height-adjustable detector ring and a main support structure with internal and external structural members, the internal structural members being able to shift relative to the bottom portion of the main support structure.

[0064] Figure 6a This is a side view of an eighth embodiment of the PET scanning apparatus of the present invention, which has a height-adjustable detector ring mounted in a guide rail provided on a rotating plate;

[0065] Figure 6b During multiple mouse scans Figure 6a A side view of a PET scanning device; and

[0066] Figure 7 This is a side view of a ninth embodiment of the PET scanning apparatus of the present invention, which has a height-adjustable detector ring held by a rotatable lever. Detailed Implementation

[0067] exist Figures 1 to 7 The accompanying drawings illustrate several different embodiments of the PET scanning apparatus 1 of the present invention. Elements having the same or similar functions but belonging to different embodiments are labeled with the same reference numerals in each case.

[0068] In such Figures 1 to 7 In all the embodiments shown, the PET scanning apparatus 1 includes a detector ring 2 having a plurality of sensors arranged along its circular inner surface. Sensors, not visible in the figures, are used to measure and detect PET radiation emitted in the region of the opening in the detector ring 2. The detector ring 2 in each case has a basic annular shape, with a circular inner surface and an outer surface.

[0069] In all embodiments, the detector ring 2 is arranged between two retaining arms 341 that hold the detector ring 2 therebetween. The two retaining arms 341 form part of a U-shaped portion 34, which is itself part of or attached to the main support structure 3. The detector ring 2 is rotatable about a rotation axis R extending through the U-shaped portion 34. Furthermore, in all embodiments, the detector ring 2 is displaceable relative to the two retaining arms 341. To facilitate rotation and displacement of the detector ring 2, one or more handles 21 are attached to the outer surface of the detector ring 2.

[0070] exist Figure 1 In the first embodiment shown, the main support structure 3 and the scanning support in the form of a seating unit 5 are formed as a single piece, the seating unit 5 being used to accommodate the human patient P being scanned in an inclined sitting position. Specifically, the main support structure 3 is formed as a single piece with the back support 54 of the seating unit 5.

[0071] The chair-like seating unit 5 includes a base structure 51 supporting a seat base 52, with armrests attached to the seat base 52. An adjustable leg support 53 is pivotally attached to one end of the seat base 52 for supporting the patient P's legs during the scanning process. At the other end of the seat base 52, the horizontal seat base 52 is kinked into an inclined back support 54. Attached to the upper side of the back support 54 are a backrest 541 and a headrest 542 for optimally accommodating the patient P during the PET scan.

[0072] The back support 54 is integrally joined at its upper end to the U-shaped portion 34 of the main support structure 3. The U-shaped portion 34 has two retaining arms 341. The two retaining arms are connected at one end by a connecting portion, referred to herein as a retaining base 342. The two retaining arms 341 extend parallel to each other from the retaining base 342 in a direction inclined upward relative to the direction of gravity G. During the acquisition of PET scan images, the patient P's head is located in the area between the two retaining arms 341.

[0073] Two retaining arms 341 of the U-shaped portion 34 are used to hold the detector ring 2 between the two arms 341. For this purpose, two fixing lugs 22 are attached to the outer surface of the detector ring 2. The fixing lugs 22, which may also be referred to as guide lugs, are provided on opposite sides of the diameter of the detector ring 2. The fixing lugs 22 engage with guide rails 322 provided in the form of slotted through holes in each of the retaining arms 341. The guide rails 322 extend parallel to each other and are slightly inclined along the back support 54 and the backrest 541. If the patient P is seated in the seating unit 5 as intended and ready for the scanning process, the displacement direction D of the detector ring 2 defined by the longitudinal extension of the guide rails 322 approximately corresponds to the longitudinal main axis of the upper part of the patient P's body. Therefore, the displacement direction D is approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the retaining arms 341.

[0074] The engagement of each fixed lug 22 and the corresponding guide rail 322 allows the detector ring 2 to rotate and shift. The axis of rotation R about which the detector ring 2 can rotate is defined by the position of the fixed lug 22. Thus, the axis of rotation R extends centrally through each of the two fixed lugs 22 and through each of the guide rails 322. With respect to the detector ring 2, the axis of rotation R extends diametrically through the ring and preferably through the center of mass of the detector ring 2.

[0075] To perform PET image acquisition, a computing device 4 is housed within the main support structure 3. Cables 41 can be installed (see, for example, [reference needed]). Figure 2a () for transmitting data and / or energy to or from computing device 4.

[0076] To acquire PET images, patient P is positioned in a slightly tilted sitting posture on seating unit 5, with detector ring 2 at the uppermost position of guide rail 322, as shown. Figure 1 As shown. Then, the medical staff uses handle 21 to rotate and move the detector ring 2 to the optimal position for image acquisition. To prevent patient P from moving his head during image acquisition, a headband 543 can be used, such as... Figure 3c As shown.

[0077] Figures 2a to 2e Different embodiments are shown, in which the seating unit 5 is separate from the PET scanning device 1. Here, the main support structure 3 of the PET scanning device 1 includes a bottom portion 33 to which wheels 35 are attached. By means of the wheels 35, the PET scanning device 1 can be moved to bring the PET scanning device 1 to the patient P. The main support structure 3 extends straight upward from the bottom portion 33 to the U-shaped portion 34. As shown in Figure 2aAs can be seen in the side view, when the PET scanning device 1 is viewed from the side, the bottom portion 33 extends along the retaining arm 341 toward the front of the PET scanning device 1 to form a lying U-shaped overall shape. This shape optimizes the stability of the PET scanning device 1.

[0078] exist Figure 2b In the front view, it is readily apparent that, when viewed from the front, the PET scanning device 1 has an overall external shape that narrows downwards from the U-shaped portion 34 along the direction of gravity G and widens only at the bottom portion 33. This particular external shape of the PET scanning device 1 is especially space-saving while simultaneously allowing for stable positioning of the device. It is also apparent that the detector ring 2 can be positioned such that it forms the uppermost part of the PET scanning device 1.

[0079] exist Figure 2c In the plan view, it can be seen that the U-shaped portion 34 widens from the holding base 342 toward the free end of the holding arm 341, which makes the design of the PET scanning device 1 even more space-saving.

[0080] Figure 2d The image shows a detailed view of the bottom portion 33 of the main support structure 3. As can be seen, a wheel locking mechanism 36 is provided, which allows the wheels 35 to be locked by means of a foot pedal 361. When the foot pedal 361 is actuated, the wheels 35 retract to prevent movement of the PET scanning device 1, especially during the imaging process.

[0081] Figure 2e Preferred details of the seating unit 5 are shown. To accommodate the patient P, the backrest 541 and the attached headrest 542 can move together relative to the back support 54. In this way, the seating unit 5 can be adjusted according to the size of the patient P, so as to accommodate, for example, not only adults but also children.

[0082] Figures 3a to 3e Another embodiment with a height-adjustable main support structure 3 is shown. Height adjustment allows the PET scanning device 1 to be optimally adjusted for scanning and enables its storage in a particularly space-saving manner. For example, the same PET scanning device 1 can be used to scan individuals in a seated position (…). Figure 3a () or lying down () Figure 3c Patient P is scanned. To allow for scanning in a supine position, the height of the main support structure 3 is lowered, and patient P is positioned on a bed 6, which optionally has one or more positioning pillows 61. The ability to adjust the height of the main support structure 3 also facilitates PET scanning in special cases, such as scanning animals or plants. Therefore, the height adjustability of the main support structure 3 greatly enhances the versatility of the PET scanning device 1.

[0083] To allow for height adjustment, the main support structure 3 includes a lower inner structure 31 and an upper outer structure 32 that can be stacked and extended on top of each other. Thanks to the design of the stackable and extendable inner structure 31 and outer structure 32, the PET scanning device 1 still maintains a compact and attractive design.

[0084] and Figures 1 to 2e The implementation methods shown are different. Figures 3a to 3e The embodiment has a guide rail 322 extending approximately in a direction parallel to the holding arm 341. This allows the detector ring 2 to be displaced such that the detector ring 2 can be positioned while the patient P is seated ( Figure 3a ) or lying down ( Figure 3c It is optimally adjusted and positioned in both cases.

[0085] Figure 3d The storage location of the PET scanning device 1 is shown. The height of the main support structure 3 is minimized, and the detector ring 2 rotates in a horizontal position, such that the retaining arm 341 forms the uppermost part of the PET scanning device 1. A cover 8 is used to protect the PET scanning device from dust and other contaminants.

[0086] Figure 3e A model positioning system 9 is shown, having a model 91 held by a model holder 92. The model 91 is periodically PET scanned to adjust and calibrate the scanning parameters of the PET scanning device 1. As can be seen, the model 91 extends horizontally from the model holder 92 to move horizontally into the detector ring 2. The height of the PET scanning device 1 is minimized, and for this purpose, the detector ring 2 rotates in a vertical position.

[0087] Figures 4a to 4e The following embodiment is shown: In this embodiment, the main support structure 3 is fixed in height. However, in order to enable the use of the PET scanning device 1 to scan the patient P in a sitting position ( Figure 4a ) and lying position ( Figure 4e For PET scans performed in a supine position, the guide rail 322 of the retaining arm 341 with a U-shaped portion 34 extends beyond approximately half or more of the height of the main support structure 3. This allows the detector ring 2 to be positioned at various heights. (This is for scanning a patient P in a supine position.) Figure 4e ) and scanning model 91 ( Figure 4d ), detector ring 2 can be moved to its lowest position, and in order to scan patient P in a tilted sitting position. Figure 4a ), detector ring 2 can be moved to its uppermost position.

[0088] Figure 5The following embodiment is shown: In this embodiment, the main support structure 3 is height-adjustable, similar to... Figures 3a to 3e The implementation method is as follows. However, here, not only is the main support structure 3 height-adjustable, but the detector ring 2 is also height-adjustable relative to the U-shaped portion 34 over a considerable range. Displacement of the detector ring 2 can be used to fine-tune the detector ring 2 to the desired imaging plane, which facilitates the handling of the PET scanning device 1 during preparation for actual imaging. Additionally, the internal structure 31 is displaceable relative to the bottom portion 33 of the main support structure, which can also be used to fine-tune the PET scanning device 1 to the patient P and the desired imaging plane.

[0089] exist Figure 6a and Figure 6b In each embodiment, the guide rail 322 is disposed within the rotating plate 323, which forms part of the corresponding retaining arm 341. The advantage of the rotatable rotating plate 323 is that the guide rail 322 can rotate about the axis of rotation R to adjust the displacement direction D. This additional adjustability of the displacement direction D greatly improves the adjustability of the PET scanning device 1 for different patients P and generally different scanning conditions. Therefore, the versatility of the PET scanning device 1 can be further improved due to the rotating plate 323. An adjusting handle 23 is provided for rotating the rotating plate 323.

[0090] In all embodiments, preferably, the main support structure 3 includes a through opening 321 in the form of, for example, a recess, which extends horizontally through the main support structure 3, such that the detector ring 2 and its internal opening can be flush with the through opening 321. Figure 6b As shown. For this purpose, the detector ring 2 rotates in a vertical position. Then, the through opening 321 allows the scanning support 7 to be pushed horizontally through the detector ring 2 completely without abutting against the main support structure 3 or any other part of the PET scanning device 1. Utilizing this design of the PET scanning device 1, whole-body scanning becomes possible, for example, by pushing a lying person through the detector ring 2 of a corresponding size. Furthermore, as... Figure 6b As shown, if multiple animals, such as mice M, are arranged on the scanning support 7, which is pushed horizontally through the detector ring 2, or if the scanning support 7 even has a conveyor belt for moving the mice M one by one through the detector ring 2, then these animals can be scanned one by one.

[0091] Figure 7Another inventive embodiment of the PET scanning apparatus 1 is shown. Here, the apparatus also has a height-adjustable main support structure 3, which has an inner structure 31 and an outer structure 32 capable of overlapping and extending with each other. In this embodiment, the U-shaped portion 34 does not form part of the main support structure 3, but is attached to the top of the outer structure 32 of the main support structure 3. The U-shaped portion 34 is attached to the main support structure 3 such that it can rotate about a horizontally extending axis of a retaining base 342 extending through the U-shaped portion 34. The U-shaped portion 34 can extend about its axis of rotation, specifically parallel to the longitudinal principal direction of the retaining base 342. Because the detector ring 2 is held between the two retaining arms 341 of the U-shaped portion 34, the detector ring 2 can rotate together with the U-shaped portion 34 about the axis of rotation of the retaining base 342 extending horizontally through the U-shaped portion 34. This allows the detector ring 2 to not only rotate, but also simultaneously lower relative to the direction of gravity G. Furthermore, the detector ring 2 can be displaced relative to the holding arm 341 within the guide rail 322 to optimally adjust the detector ring 2 to the desired imaging plane. In the current embodiment, rotation of the detector ring 2 relative to the holding arm 341 is not possible, but it is certainly achievable in other embodiments.

[0092] The present invention is not limited to the foregoing embodiments and various modifications are possible. For example, the mobility of the detector ring 2 relative to the retaining arm 341 is not necessarily provided by means of a guide rail arranged on the retaining arm. The guide rail may, for example, be arranged on the detector ring, and a retaining lug engaged in the guide rail may be attached to the retaining arm. In all embodiments, wheels are preferably provided to facilitate easier movement of the PET scanning device, but the wheels may be omitted. Features pointed out only for certain embodiments may also be provided in other embodiments. Various further modifications are possible.

[0093] List of reference numerals

[0094] 1. PET Scanning Device 51 Base Structure

[0095] 52 Seat base

[0096] 2 detector ring 53 leg support

[0097] 21 handles 54 back support

[0098] 22 Fixed lugs 541 Backrest

[0099] 23 Adjustment handle 542 Headrest

[0100] 543 headband

[0101] 3 Main Support Structure Components

[0102] 31 Internal structural components, 6 beds

[0103] 32 External structural components 61 Positioning pillow

[0104] 321 through opening

[0105] 322 guide rail 7 scanning support

[0106] 323 Rotary Plate

[0107] 33 Bottom section 8 cover parts

[0108] 34 U-shaped section

[0109] 341 retaining arm 9 model positioning system

[0110] 342 retains the base 91 model

[0111] 35-wheel 92 model retainer

[0112] 36-wheel locking mechanism

[0113] 361 Foot P Patient

[0114] M mice

[0115] 4. Calculation device R rotation axis

[0116] 41 Cable D Displacement Direction

[0117] G gravity direction

[0118] 5 seating units

Claims

1. A positron emission tomography (PET) scanning device (1), comprising: Detector ring (2), the detector ring (2) is used to detect emitted positron emission tomography radiation; as well as The main support structure (3) has or is attached to a U-shaped portion (34) with two arms (341) for holding the detector ring (2) between the arms (341). The detector ring (2) is held by the two arms (341) such that the detector ring (2) can rotate about a rotation axis (R) extending through the U-shaped portion (34). In this case, a guide rail (322) is provided on each of the two arms (341) or on the detector ring (2). The guide rail (322) is configured to hold the detector ring (2) in such a way that the detector ring (2) can be displaced along the two arms (341), and The lugs that engage with the guide rail (322) are attached to the outer surface of the detector ring (2) or to the two arms (341).

2. The positron emission tomography scanning device (1) according to claim 1, additionally includes wheels (35) attached to the main support structure (3) to facilitate the movement of the positron emission tomography scanning device (1).

3. The positron emission tomography scanning device (1) according to claim 2, comprising a wheel locking mechanism (36) for locking the wheel (35).

4. The positron emission tomography (PET) scanning apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The two arms (341) of the U-shaped portion (34) extend upward at an angle relative to the direction of gravity (G).

5. The positron emission tomography (PET) scanning apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The detector ring (2) can be positioned such that the two arms (341) of the U-shaped portion (34) form the uppermost part of the positron emission tomography scanning device (1).

6. The positron emission tomography scanning apparatus (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The main support structure (3) is height adjustable so that the detector ring (2) can be positioned at a desired height.

7. The positron emission tomography scanning apparatus (1) according to claim 6, wherein, The main support structure (3) is formed by an inner structure (31) and an outer structure (32), which can be stacked and extended to adjust the height of the main support structure (3).

8. The positron emission tomography scanning apparatus (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The positron emission tomography scanning device (1) has an overall external shape that narrows downward along the direction of gravity (G) from the U-shaped portion (34).

9. The positron emission tomography (PET) scanning apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The positron emission tomography scanning device (1) has an overall size that allows the positron emission tomography scanning device (1) to move through a door opening with a width not exceeding 98.5 cm in its normal upright position.

10. The positron emission tomography scanning apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, additionally comprising a computing device (4) for acquiring positron emission tomography related data by means of the detector ring (2), the computing device (4) being integrated in the main support structure (3).

11. The positron emission tomography scanning apparatus (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, When the detector ring (2) rotates accordingly, the main support structure (3) together with the detector ring (2) forms a through opening (321), which extends at least horizontally through the detector ring (2) and the main support structure (3).

12. The positron emission tomography scanning apparatus (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The rotation axis (R) about which the detector ring (2) is rotatable extends through the center of mass of the detector ring (2).

13. The positron emission tomography scanning apparatus (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The axis of rotation (R) extends through each of these guide rails (322).

14. The positron emission tomography scanning apparatus (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The guide rail (322) is rotatably attached to the two arms (341) so that the detector ring (2) is adjustable along its displacement direction (D).

15. The positron emission tomography (PET) scanning apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, additionally comprising an adjustable seating unit (5) that allows a human patient (P) to sit down during the PET scanning procedure.

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