Rotatable subject support device

Abstract

A subject support device (1400, 1600) for use with a radiotherapy apparatus. The subject support device (1400) includes a subject support (1410), a subject support receiver (1420), and a deformable guide (1418). The subject support (1410) is configured to be tilted relative to the subject support receiving portion (1420). The deformable guide (1418) includes a first face (1431) and a second face (1433), where the first face (1431) is arranged to at least partially contact a longitudinal sidewall of the subject support (1410) throughout the range of the tilted configuration. The subject support device (1600) includes: a platform (1618); a subject support movable relative to the platform (1618); and an interface plate (1646) movable relative to the platform (1618), where the interface plate (1646) is physically coupled to the subject support such that translation of the subject support relative to the platform (1618) causes translation of the interface plate (1646), and the interface plate (1646) is configured to electrically connect the subject support to the cable. An apparatus for a subject support device (114) includes a linkage (220) for moving a platform (214), and a base (228) movably coupled to the linkage (220), where the base (228) includes a linkage receiving area configured to receive at least a portion of the linkage (220) when the linkage (220) is in a retracted position, and to receive at least a portion of the linkage (220) when the linkage (220) is in an extended position. The portion of the linkage (220) extends beyond the base (228).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to radiation therapy apparatus and, in particular, to a subject support device of a radiation therapy apparatus for positioning a subject during the delivery or application of radiation therapy. Background Art

[0002] Radiation therapy and medical imaging are becoming more and more common in the treatment of various cancers. Therefore, more and more patients are receiving treatment or imaging, which requires the use of radiation therapy equipment. Many patients who use these devices have health problems that lead to physical weakness, mobility problems, etc. Radiation therapy is also highly dependent on accurately delivering a certain dose of radiation, so the positioning of the patient is very important to ensure that the tumor is pointed and healthy tissue is not damaged. Although a lot of research has been carried out to reduce the risk of healthy tissue associated with radiation therapy, correctly positioning the patient during treatment and scanning is the key to ensure that the prescribed radiation dose is accurately and optimally delivered to the target area. Therefore, the components of the radiation therapy equipment are constructed to move the patient accordingly. The subject support device can be used to position the patient when the patient is scanned by a medical device (such as a medical imaging device) or when the patient is receiving treatment (such as radiotherapy). The subject support device can be a bed or a couch where the patient is located. The subject support device can be moved through multiple degrees of freedom to allow the patient to be properly positioned before and during treatment or imaging.

[0003] To achieve patient positioning, existing systems typically use a large number of moving parts that are connected together. However, the use of so many moving parts introduces further risks to the patient and the equipment. For example, when the subject support device is tilted or rotated, a patient's limbs such as fingers or arms may become pinched or trapped. Cables, tubes, and other components may similarly become pinched, broken, or otherwise damaged during movement or rotation of various components of the subject support device.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need to improve the accessibility of subject supports for patients, particularly in light of patient frailty, reduced mobility, poor health, etc., and the expanding range of patients for whom these treatments are used, and to improve the overall safety and maintenance of subject supports and additional radiotherapy equipment.

[0005] The present invention seeks to address these and other disadvantages. Summary of the invention

[0006] Various aspects of the invention are defined in the independent claims. Optional features are defined in the dependent claims.

[0007] According to a first aspect, there is provided an apparatus for a subject support device, wherein the apparatus comprises: a linkage for moving a platform, the linkage being movable between an extended position and a retracted position; and a base movably coupled to the linkage, wherein the base comprises a linkage receiving area configured to receive at least a portion of the linkage when the linkage is in the retracted position, and wherein a portion of the linkage extends beyond the base when the linkage is in the extended position.

[0008] The linkage receiving area may include a recess.

[0009] The linkage receiving area may include a cutout portion of the base.

[0010] The linkage receiving area may be defined as having a thickness measured vertically that is less than the overall thickness of the base.

[0011] The base may be movably coupled to the linkage via a coupling disposed in the linkage receiving area.

[0012] The linkage may include a first member movably coupled to the base, and the base may be configured to receive at least a portion of the first member. The first member may have a length and a width, and the received portion of the first member may extend along the length of the first member.

[0013] The linkage may also include a second member movably coupled to the first member, wherein the second member may be movably coupled to the platform.

[0014] The linkage may be configured to adjust at least one of height, pitch, roll, and yaw of the subject support platform.

[0015] The linkage may be disposed below the platform of the subject support device.

[0016] The linkage and base may be configured for a stacking arrangement with a platform of a subject support device.

[0017] The base may be configured to be removably coupled to the floor of a treatment room.

[0018] The linkage may be configured to raise and / or lower the platform.

[0019] The recess may extend toward the bottom surface of the base.

[0020] A subject support device is provided according to any one of the above embodiments. The subject support device may further include a platform.

[0021] According to a second aspect, there is provided a subject support device for a radiotherapy apparatus, wherein the device comprises a subject support receiving portion, the subject support receiving portion comprising a longitudinal inner wall and a longitudinal outer wall, the longitudinal outer wall being inclined relative to a horizontal axis. The device further comprises a subject support, the subject support comprising a longitudinal side wall and a tabletop component comprising a surface and an extended edge, the extended edge extending beyond the longitudinal side wall, the subject support being tiltable relative to the subject support receiving portion about a tilt axis, wherein the longitudinal side wall is arranged opposite to the longitudinal inner wall of the subject support receiving portion, and wherein at a maximum tilt position of the subject support, a distance between a lower surface of the extended edge and the longitudinal outer wall increases with increasing displacement from a central longitudinal axis of the subject support.

[0022] The longitudinal outer wall may be inclined at a first angle relative to a horizontal axis and the extended edge is at a second angle relative to the horizontal axis at a maximum inclined position of the subject support and a difference between the first and second angles is greater than a threshold angular difference.

[0023] The extended edge may be flush with the surface of the table top component.

[0024] The subject support receiving portion may include a cover portion.

[0025] The extended edge of the tabletop member may also include a recess for receiving at least a portion of an accessory attached to the subject support.

[0026] The depression may include an accessory surface located on a side of the subject support opposite the surface of the tabletop component.

[0027] The longitudinal side wall may include a portion that is not opposed to the longitudinal inner wall of the subject support receiving portion as the subject support tilts about the axis.

[0028] The extended edge of the tabletop portion of the subject support may include a liquid guide for minimizing liquid from entering the subject support receiving portion.

[0029] The liquid guide may include a groove configured to interrupt the flow of liquid from the subject support to the subject support receiving portion.

[0030] The grooves may be located on the underside of the extended edge and may be arranged to provide a capillary action.

[0031] The liquid guide may be arranged substantially parallel to the tilting axis.

[0032] The liquid guide may be configured to direct liquid away from a gap in which the subject support receiving portion receives the subject support, the gap being defined by the longitudinal side walls and the longitudinal inner wall.

[0033] The gap may be located at a position where the subject support emerges from or retracts into the subject support receiving portion when the subject support is tilted about the tilt axis.

[0034] A radiotherapy device is also provided, comprising the subject support device according to any one of the above embodiments.

[0035] According to a third aspect, a subject support device for a radiotherapy apparatus is provided, wherein the device comprises a subject support, the subject support comprising a first longitudinal side wall and a second longitudinal side wall, the first longitudinal side wall and the second longitudinal side wall each having a radius of curvature defined relative to an inclination axis, the subject support having a maximum width less than or equal to twice the radius of curvature. The device also comprises a subject support receiving portion, the subject support receiving portion comprising a first longitudinal inner wall and a second longitudinal inner wall, the first longitudinal inner wall and the second longitudinal inner wall each having a radius of curvature defined relative to the inclination axis, the first longitudinal inner wall and the second longitudinal inner wall being arranged to be respectively opposite to the first longitudinal side wall and the second longitudinal side wall of the subject support, wherein the subject support is configured to be inclined about the inclination axis relative to the subject support receiving portion, and wherein the radius of curvature of the first longitudinal inner wall and the second longitudinal inner wall is greater than the radius of curvature of the first longitudinal side wall and the second longitudinal side wall.

[0036] The curvature radius of the first longitudinal inner wall and the second longitudinal inner wall may be less than 8 mm and greater than the curvature radius of the first longitudinal side wall and the second longitudinal side wall.

[0037] The subject support receiving portion may be configured such that tilting of the subject support about the tilt axis causes the first longitudinal side wall to emerge from the subject support receiving portion and retract the second longitudinal side wall into the subject support receiving portion, or alternatively, causes the second longitudinal side wall to emerge from the subject support receiving portion and retract the first longitudinal side wall into the subject support receiving portion.

[0038] In all inclined configurations of the subject support, a portion of at least one of the first longitudinal sidewall and the second longitudinal sidewall may protrude from the subject support receiving portion.

[0039] A portion of at least one of the first longitudinal sidewall and the second longitudinal sidewall of the subject support may include an additional recess for receiving at least a portion of an accessory attached to the subject support.

[0040] The subject support may include a fluid guide for directing fluid away from the subject support receiving portion.

[0041] The liquid guide may be configured to interrupt the flow of liquid from the subject support toward a gap defined by the first longitudinal side wall and the first longitudinal inner wall or by the second longitudinal side wall and the second longitudinal inner wall.

[0042] The liquid guide may be configured to direct the liquid flow away from the gap.

[0043] The liquid guide may include a rim protruding from the surface of the recess.

[0044] The liquid guide may include a channel within the subject support receiving portion. The channel may be configured to direct liquid toward a longitudinal end of the device.

[0045] The liquid guide may include a groove configured to exhibit a capillary action.

[0046] The apparatus may also include a top surface between the first longitudinal sidewall and the second longitudinal sidewall, the top surface being parallel to the ground when the subject support is in the neutral tilt position, and a base surface between the first longitudinal sidewall and the second longitudinal sidewall, the base surface being on an opposite side of the subject support as the top surface.

[0047] The base surface may be curved with a radius of curvature of the first longitudinal sidewall and the second longitudinal sidewall.The base surface may be substantially flat.

[0048] A radiotherapy device is also provided, which comprises the apparatus of any one of the above embodiments.

[0049] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a subject support apparatus for a radiotherapy device, the apparatus comprising: a platform; a subject support movable relative to and supported by the platform; and an interface plate movable relative to the platform, wherein the interface plate is physically coupled to the subject support such that translation of the subject support relative to the platform causes translation of the interface plate, and wherein the interface plate is configured to electrically connect the subject support to a cable.

[0050] The platform may be arranged to support an interface board.

[0051] The device may also include a slot configured to receive the interface board.The slot may be defined by a gap between the platform and a cover, the cover being disposed generally above the platform.

[0052] The cover may be configured to cover the cable.

[0053] Movement of the subject support relative to the platform may at least partially expose the slot.

[0054] The slot may be configured to accommodate movement of the interface plate relative to the platform.

[0055] The interface plate may be configured to translate along the slot.

[0056] The length of the slot may be less than or equal to 8 mm.

[0057] An interface plate may be mounted on a subject support.

[0058] The interface board may include a printed circuit board and / or a flat cable. The interface board may also include a support plate for supporting the printed circuit board and / or the flat cable.

[0059] The device may further include a cable chain configured to accommodate a cable. The cable chain may be configured to hold a plurality of cables. The cable chain may be arranged between the cover and the platform.

[0060] The platform may be configured to route one or more cables within the platform.

[0061] The interface board may be configured to electrically couple with a tilt module configured to control the tilt of the subject support relative to the platform.

[0062] The interface board may be configured to electrically connect the subject support to the plurality of cables.

[0063] The interface board may include a plurality of electrical connections to the subject support.

[0064] A radiotherapy device is also provided, which comprises the apparatus of any one of the above embodiments.

[0065] According to a fifth aspect, there is provided a subject support device for a radiotherapy apparatus, the device comprising a subject support and a subject support receiving portion, wherein the subject support is configured to tilt relative to the subject support receiving portion. The device further comprises a deformable guide, the deformable guide comprising a first face and a second face, wherein the first face is arranged to at least partially contact a longitudinal side wall of the subject support throughout the tilted configuration, and the second face is arranged to contact a longitudinal outer wall of the subject support receiving portion.

[0066] The deformable guide may be elastically deformable.The deformable guide may comprise expandable plastic.

[0067] The length of the portion of the first face arranged to contact the longitudinal side wall of the subject support may be less than 15 mm.

[0068] The deformable guide may include a low friction coating.

[0069] The first face of the deformable guide may include a recess.

[0070] The deformable guide may include a channel extending longitudinally through the deformable guide.

[0071] The deformable guide may be in a deformed state when the subject support is in the neutral tilt position.

[0072] The deformation of the deformable guide may increase as the angle between the subject support and the longitudinal outer wall of the subject support receiving portion decreases.

[0073] As the angle between the subject support and the longitudinal outer wall of the subject support receiving portion decreases, the deformable guide may expand outwardly from the device.

[0074] The deformable guide may further include an upper side, and the subject support may include a subject support surface that projects above the longitudinal wall of the subject support, and the upper side of the deformable guide may be attached to the underside of the subject support surface.

[0075] The deformable guide may be attached to the subject support and / or the subject support receiving portion.

[0076] The device may include another deformable guide member, which includes a third side and a fourth side, wherein the third side is arranged to at least partially contact another longitudinal side wall of the subject support member throughout the tilted configuration range, and the fourth side is arranged to contact another longitudinal outer wall of the subject support receiving portion. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0077] Specific embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0078] Figure 1 A radiation therapy apparatus or device including a subject support device according to the present disclosure is shown;

[0079] Figure 2a to Figure 2c showing different views of a subject support device according to the present disclosure;

[0080] Figure 3a showing a linkage in an extended position according to the present disclosure;

[0081] Figure 3b showing a linkage in a retracted position according to the present disclosure;

[0082] Figure 3c showing a linkage and base of a subject support device in accordance with the present disclosure in an extended position;

[0083] Figure 3d showing a linkage and base of a subject support device in accordance with the present disclosure in an extended position;

[0084] Figure 4a A lower coupling element according to the present disclosure is shown;

[0085] Figure 4b shows a base of a subject support device according to the present disclosure;

[0086] Figure 5a shows a base of a subject support device according to the present disclosure;

[0087] Figure 5b shows a cross-sectional view of a base of a subject support device according to the present disclosure;

[0088] Figures 6a to 6c A subject support device according to the present disclosure is shown;

[0089] Figure 7a to Figure 7b A first actuator according to the present disclosure is shown;

[0090] Figure 8a showing a subject support in accordance with the present disclosure in a neutral tilt position;

[0091] Figure 8b showing a subject support in accordance with the present disclosure in a maximum tilt position;

[0092] Figure 8c A subject support according to the present disclosure is shown;

[0093] Fig. 9 shows a cross-sectional view of a subject support device according to the present disclosure;

[0094] Fig.10 shows a simplified cross-sectional view of a subject support device according to the present disclosure;

[0095] Fig.11 shows a simplified cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a subject support device according to the present disclosure;

[0096] Fig.12 shows a simplified cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a subject support device according to the present disclosure;

[0097] Fig.13 shows a simplified cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a subject support device according to the present disclosure;

[0098] Figure 14a to Figure 14b shows a simplified cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a subject support device of the present disclosure;

[0099] Fig.15 Several simplified cross-sectional views of a deformable guide according to the present disclosure are shown;

[0100] Figures 16a to 16d A subject support device according to the present disclosure is shown;

[0101] Fig.17 A subject support device according to the present disclosure is shown; and

[0102] Figures 18a to 18c A view showing a movable connection between a longitudinal skid and a platform according to the present disclosure.

[0103] Reference numerals

[0104] 100 Radiotherapy equipment

[0105] 106 Radiation Source

[0106] 111 Vertical Z axis

[0107] 113 Vertical Y axis

[0108] 114 Subject Support Device

[0109] 115 Horizontal X axis

[0110] 116 rack

[0111] 117 Frame Rotation Mechanism

[0112] 118 base

[0113] 120 Rotating mechanism

[0114] 124 Isocenter

[0115] 140 patients

[0116] 210 Upper unit

[0117] 211 Tilt axis

[0118] 212 Subject support

[0119] 213 First Surface

[0120] 214 Platform

[0121] 215 Upper lateral skid

[0122] 216 Longitudinal skid

[0123] 217 Lower lateral skid

[0124] 218 longitudinal groove

[0125] 219 longitudinal ridge

[0126] 220 linkage

[0127] 222 First Leg

[0128] 224 first supporting element

[0129] 226 Second Leg

[0130] 227 Second support element

[0131] 228 base

[0132] 229 Lower connecting element

[0133] 230 Actuating mechanism

[0134] 232 drive components

[0135] 245 Skirt

[0136] 314 Subject Support Device

[0137] 321 Attachment Components

[0138] 350 Depression

[0139] 361a,b first coupling feature

[0140] 370 second connection feature

[0141] 371 Second connection feature

[0142] 375 Installation Features

[0143] 381 Gap

[0144] 429 Lower connecting element

[0145] 450 Depression

[0146] 453 Connection Features

[0147] 550 holes

[0148] 621 First guide

[0149] 622 First guide

[0150] 623 First guide

[0151] 624 First guide

[0152] 625 First Actuator

[0153] 635 First boot block

[0154] 636 First boot block

[0155] 637 First boot block

[0156] 638 First boot block

[0157] 639 Rotating joint

[0158] 640 Panel

[0159] 645 Motion Converter

[0160] 772 Electric Motor

[0161] 774 Belt and Pulley Arrangements

[0162] 776 Lead Screw

[0163] 800 Subject Support Device

[0164] 810 Subject Support

[0165] 811 First Surface

[0166] 812 Central longitudinal axis

[0167] 813 Tilt axis

[0168] 815 Lower surface

[0169] 816 Longitudinal skid

[0170] 817 first longitudinal side wall

[0171] 819 Extended Edge

[0172] 820 Subject support receiving unit

[0173] 821 Side

[0174] 823 First longitudinal outer wall

[0175] 825 first longitudinal inner wall

[0176] 831 Gap

[0177] 833 Incision Area

[0178] 835 end

[0179] 837 Groove

[0180] 841 Area

[0181] 1000 Subject Support Device

[0182] 1010 Subject Support

[0183] 1011 First Surface

[0184] 1012 Central longitudinal axis

[0185] 1013 Tilt axis

[0186] 1016 Longitudinal skid

[0187] 1017 Longitudinal side wall

[0188] 1019 Edge

[0189] 1020 Subject Support Receiving Unit

[0190] 1021 Side

[0191] 1023 longitudinal inner wall

[0192] 1027 Flat part

[0193] 1031 Gap

[0194] 1041 Cutting area

[0195] 1118 protruding edge

[0196] 1224 Edge

[0197] 1226 Lower surface

[0198] 1317 Side surface

[0199] 1320 Cavity

[0200] 1328 Inserts

[0201] 1400 Subject Support Device

[0202] 1415 Outer side

[0203] 1418 Deformable Guide

[0204] 1424 longitudinal outer wall

[0205] 1431 Page 1

[0206] 1433 Second Side

[0207] 1435 Upper side

[0208] 1437 Channel

[0209] 1500 Subject Support Device

[0210] 1514 Covering

[0211] 1516 Longitudinal skid

[0212] 1518 Platform

[0213] 1544 Lower side skids

[0214] 1560 Guide Rail

[0215] 1562 Cable Chain

[0216] 1646 Interface Board

[0217] 1848 Electrical connection points

[0218] 1850 Support Plate DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0219] Radiation Therapy Equipment - Overview

[0220] The arrangements of the present disclosure may be implemented in any suitable or desired radiation therapy device, such as a treatment device and / or an imaging device.

[0221] For example, the arrangements of the present disclosure may be implemented in Figure 1 A radiation therapy apparatus 100 is shown. Figure 1 An example of a radiotherapy device 100 is shown that combines the rotation of a patient with the rotation of a radiation source. The radiotherapy device includes a subject support 114 for supporting a subject or patient 140 and a radiation source 106 supported by a gantry 116. In this arrangement, the subject support 114 is configured to be rotatable around a vertical Z-axis 111, while the gantry 116 is configured to be rotatable around the subject support 114 about a longitudinal Y-axis 113. The gantry 116 is a C-arm gantry or an open gantry. A gantry rotation mechanism 117 rotates the gantry 116 around the Y-axis 113. The radiation source 106 is configured to emit radiation along a radiation axis. Due to the rotation of the gantry 116, radiation can be delivered to the patient 140 from multiple angles in a radiation plane.

[0222] exist Figure 1 In the example of , a rotation mechanism 120 is provided below the gantry 116, and the rotation mechanism 120 is used to rotate the subject support 114 around the rotation axis of the subject support 114 in the radiation plane that coincides with the Z-axis 111. In particular, the rotation axis 111 of the subject support coincides with the isocenter 124 of the radiotherapy device, so that the subject support 114 rotates around the isocenter 124. A gantry rotation mechanism 117 is provided for the gantry 116, and the gantry 116 is opposite to the subject support 114 about the rotation axis 111. In the following discussion, when the subject support is in its neutral position (parallel to the floor plane), the vertical Z-axis 111 is considered to be the axis perpendicular to the plane of the subject support, the transverse X-axis 115 is considered to be the transverse axis (short side) of the subject support 114, and the longitudinal Y-axis 113 is considered to be the longitudinal axis (long side) of the subject support. Figure 1 In the example of FIG. 1 , the rotation axis of the subject support device 114 coincides with the vertical Z-axis 111 .

[0223] Subject support device 114 includes a base 118 that supports subject support device 114 and connects subject support device 114 to rotation mechanism 120 .

[0224] The subject support devices described herein may be used in conjunction with a medical device, such as an imaging device. In a preferred embodiment, the medical device is a radiation therapy device.

[0225] Subject Support Devices - Overview

[0226] Figure 2a , Figure 2b and Figure 2c Subject support device 114 is depicted in greater detail. Figure 2a An angled rear view of subject support device 114 is shown. Figure 2b A side view of subject support device 114 is shown. Figure 2c An angled front view of subject support device 114 is shown.

[0227] The subject support 114 is configured to move and / or position a subject or patient 140. The subject support 114 may be configured to move the patient 140 in any one, some, or all (e.g., a combination) of three translational degrees of freedom, including: elevation (e.g., parallel to the Z-axis 111), longitudinal movement (e.g., parallel to the Y-axis 113), and lateral movement (e.g., parallel to the lateral X-axis 115). In addition, the subject support 114 may be configured to move the patient 140 in any one, all, or a combination of three rotational degrees of freedom, including: roll (e.g., about the longitudinal Y-axis 113), pitch (e.g., about the X-axis 115), and yaw (e.g., about the Z-axis 111).

[0228] Subject support device 114 includes subject support 212 (also referred to as a tabletop or couch), platform 214, linkage 220 (also referred to as a support structure or arm), and base 118. In some embodiments, subject support device 114 may include a subject support receiving portion. In some embodiments, platform 214 may include, for example, a subject support receiving portion in an integrated form. Therefore, throughout the description, it should be understood that the subject support receiving portion can be a platform (e.g., platform 214), or an additional component, for example, disposed between platform 214 and subject support 212.

[0229] The subject support 212 is configured to support a patient or subject on a first surface 213 (also referred to as a patient positioning surface or subject support surface). The subject support 212 is supported directly or indirectly by the platform 214 and can be tilted relative to the platform along a tilt axis 211. The tilt axis can correspond to a roll axis. In some embodiments, the subject support 212 is disposed on or in a subject support receiving portion, which can be the platform 214, a portion of the platform 214, or an external component attached or coupled to the platform 214. In some embodiments, the tilt axis 211 can be the longitudinal axis 113 or an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis 113. That is, the tilt axis 211 can be a central longitudinal axis 113 along the surface of the subject support 212.

[0230] Platform 214 is supported by linkage 220, which is configured to support and move platform 214 and subject support 212 above a floor (e.g., the floor of a treatment room). Platform 214 is connected to a base 228 (e.g., base 118) that supports subject support 114 and connects the subject support 114 to rotation mechanism 120. In some embodiments, base 228 can be directly connected to the floor without the need for an intermediate rotation mechanism 120. Base 228 can be embedded in the floor.

[0231] The subject support 212 and the platform 214 may be combined to be referred to as the upper unit 210. In use, the patient 140 may lie on the subject support 212. In other words, the patient 140 may contact the first surface 213 of the subject support 212 in use.

[0232] As can be seen from the illustration, subject support 114 is capable of moving subject support 212 in one or more degrees of freedom. In some embodiments, subject support 114 provides movement of subject support 212 in only one degree of freedom, a subset of the listed degrees of freedom, or all of the degrees of freedom disclosed in this application.

[0233] Subject support 212 can be linearly moved relative to platform 214 along tilt axis 211 (or an axis parallel to tilt axis 211). Such movement can be controlled by a linear actuator. Such linear movement can be described as translation. In other words, subject support 212 is configured to translate linearly relative to platform 214.

[0234] Platform of the subject support device

[0235] The platform 214 includes a longitudinal sled 216, an upper lateral sled 215, and a lower lateral sled 217. The longitudinal sled 216 is movably coupled to the subject support 212, and supports the subject support 212. For example, the longitudinal sled 216 is coupled to the subject support 212 through a tilt module.

[0236] The longitudinal sled 216 includes a longitudinal ridge 219 that is configured to be received by or coupled with a corresponding longitudinal groove 218 on the upper lateral sled 215 located on the underside of the longitudinal sled 216. The platform 214 (specifically the upper lateral sled 215) includes a corresponding longitudinal groove 218. The longitudinal groove 218 is formed on the upper surface of the upper lateral sled 215. The longitudinal ridge 219 is received by the longitudinal groove 218 to couple the subject support 212 with the upper lateral sled 215, thereby allowing the subject support 212 to move relative to the platform 214 along the axis defined by the longitudinal groove (e.g., along the tilt axis 211). The movement of the subject support 212 is controlled by a linear actuator so that the subject support 212 is configured to move in a longitudinal, linear manner relative to the platform 214 and other components of the subject support device 114. In some embodiments, platform 214 and other components of the subject support apparatus (eg, components other than subject support 212) may be collectively referred to as a patient support base.

[0237] It should be understood that the subject support 212 and the platform 214 can be coupled in any manner that allows movement (e.g., translational movement). For example, in some embodiments, the ridge and groove arrangements can be interchanged, such that the longitudinal sled 216 includes grooves and the upper lateral sled 215 includes corresponding ridges.

[0238] The upper lateral sled 215 is coupled to the lower lateral sled 217 in a movable arrangement such that the upper lateral sled 215 can be moved relative to the lower lateral sled 217 , for example in a lateral direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0239] Rotating mechanism for adjusting pitch

[0240] The linkage 220 is configured to adjust the height of the upper unit 210 and also serves as a rotation mechanism to rotate the upper unit 210, for example, to change its pitch. The rotation is performed relative to a horizontal plane and / or relative to the treatment room floor. Figure 2b In , the pitch angle is marked as α.

[0241] exist Figure 2a to Figure 2cIn the illustrated embodiment, the rotation mechanism of linkage 220 includes a drive member 232 and an actuation mechanism 230. The rotation mechanism of linkage 220 is configured to apply a force to the underside of platform 214 via drive member 232, thereby rotating platform 214 (and the connected subject support 212) relative to a horizontal plane.

[0242] The rotation mechanism is configured to rotate upper unit 210, i.e., subject support 212 and platform 214. Because the rotation mechanism of linkage 220 is located below upper unit 210, rather than constituting a part of upper unit 210 as in known designs, the weight and size of upper unit 210 can be significantly reduced. Because the rotation mechanism does not constitute a part of upper unit 210, the entire upper unit 210 (including the rotation mechanism) does not need to be translated as part of the linear translation of subject support 212.

[0243] Linkage - upper and lower elements

[0244] The linkage 220 is configured to carry the weight of the upper unit 210 and a patient positioned on the subject support 212. Various embodiments of the linkage 220 are contemplated. Figure 2a , Figure 2b and Figure 2c In the illustrated embodiment, the linkage 220 includes an upper element (or member) coupled to the lower side of the upper unit 210 and a lower element (or member) coupled to the base. The upper element may include a first leg 222, and the lower element may include a second leg 226 coupled to the base. The first leg 222 and the second leg 226 are coupled to each other by a first support element 224. The first support element 224 may be referred to herein as a support block or an anchor element.

[0245] In this embodiment, the linkage comprises a second support element 227 forming part of the lower element. The second support element 227 is coupled to the second leg 226 in a parallelogram four-bar linkage such that the orientation of the first support element 224 remains unchanged during movement.

[0246] In some embodiments, the upper unit 210 is rotatably coupled to the linkage 220 to allow rotation about an axis of rotation. In a simple embodiment, the linkage 220 can be coupled to the upper unit 210 by an interaction between a shaft and one or more bearings that receive the shaft. For example, the one or more bearings can be mounted on the underside of the upper unit 210 and configured to receive the shaft. For example, the upper region of the first leg 222 can ultimately form a double-ended shaft, each end of which is received in a bearing mounted on the base of the upper unit 210. In such an embodiment, the orientation of the shaft and bearings defines an axis of rotation about which the upper unit 210 can rotate relative to the linkage 220. Other embodiments include a ball joint or any other mechanical connection that allows the upper unit 210 to rotate relative to the axis of rotation.

[0247] The second leg 226 is coupled to the base. The coupling may be accomplished by a lower coupling element 229, and the second leg 226 may be configured to rotate relative to the lower coupling element as part of a height adjustment mechanism. The lower coupling element 229 extends upwardly out of the plane of the base, allowing the second leg 226 to couple to the lower coupling element 229 to define an axis of rotation that is parallel to the axis of rotation about which the upper unit 210 rotates relative to the first leg 222.

[0248] Embodiments of the base 218 and the linkage 220 will be further described with reference to FIGS. 3-5 .

[0249] Height adjustment mechanism

[0250] The linkage 220 may also include a height adjustment mechanism (not shown). The height adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust the height (i.e., vertical distance) of the upper unit 210 above the ground or base. The height adjustment mechanism includes one or more motor mechanisms. The upper motor mechanism may be positioned within, form a part of, or be coupled to the first support element 224. The lower motor mechanism may be positioned within, form a part of, or be coupled to the lower coupling element 229.

[0251] The height adjustment mechanism can be formed by one or more different mechanisms. The height adjustment mechanism can be configured to adjust the vertical distance between the first support element 224 and the upper unit 210 by actuating the first leg 222. As a result, the height of the upper unit 210 above the floor increases. The height adjustment mechanism includes a rotary mechanism or motor, which is configured to generate a rotary movement of the first leg 222 relative to the first support element 224. It can be a rotary hydraulic motor. The rotary motor is housed in the first support element 224.

[0252] Optionally, an additional rotary motor can be provided. Relative to the above-mentioned rotary motor (which can be referred to as the upper rotary motor), the rotary motor can be referred to as the lower rotary motor. The lower rotary motor is also housed in the first support element 224 and is configured to drive the rotation relative to the first support element 224 and the second leg 226. Thus, the height adjustment mechanism can also be configured to adjust the vertical distance between the first support element 224 and the base 228 and / or the floor of the treatment room by actuating the second leg 226 using the lower rotary motor. Thus, the height of the upper unit 210 is adjusted. By synchronously driving the rotation using the upper rotary motor and the lower rotary motor, the vertical height of the subject support 212 can be adjusted.

[0253] For example, the height adjustment mechanism may include a lower rotation mechanism or motor, such as a rotary hydraulic motor, configured to generate rotational movement of the second leg 226 relative to the first support element 224 .

[0254] The height adjustment mechanism is configured to control the height of the upper unit 210 above the treatment room floor. As described above, the upper unit 210 (particularly the base of the upper unit 210) is rotatably coupled to the linkage 220 to allow rotation about a rotation axis. By adjusting the height of the upper unit 210 above the treatment room floor using the height adjustment mechanism, the height of this rotation axis can also be adjusted.

[0255] Although a linkage 220 and a height adjustment mechanism have been described that includes a mechanism capable of rotating one or more support legs about a rotation axis to adjust the height of the upper unit 210, the height adjustment mechanism can take a variety of forms. For example, the height adjustment mechanism can include an arrangement of hydraulic pistons that are positioned and configured to adjust the height of the upper unit 210. Another embodiment can involve a scissor lift mechanism. Those skilled in the art will appreciate other possible ways to adjust the height of the upper unit 210. Regardless of the specific implementation of the linkage 220 and / or the height adjustment mechanism, the rotation mechanism 120 is coupled to the linkage 220 and is configured to apply a force to the underside of the upper unit 210 so as to rotate the upper unit 210 relative to the linkage 220.

[0256] In some embodiments, the subject support device 114 also includes a skirt 245 (also known as a bellows) configured to cover the linkage 220. The skirt 245 can be connected between the base 228 and the upper unit 210. The skirt 245 is flexible and can, in particular, have an accordion-like structure, i.e., it is configured to extend, compress, or collapse in a folded manner like an accordion. As a result, the patient and the clinician will not be harmed by the movement mechanism described herein. It is simpler to provide such protection using a simple skirt 245 through the current design, in particular, by being attached to and supported by the support structure through a rotating mechanism. In Figure 2a and Figure 2c , the skirt is folded or compressed downwardly away from the upper unit 210 so that the linkage 220 and the rotation mechanism can be seen.

[0257] Extended and retracted positions

[0258] Figure 3a and Figure 3b An embodiment of a subject support device 314 (eg, subject support device 114) is shown with some elements omitted for simplicity. Figure 3a The subject support device 314 is shown in an extended position, Figure 3b Subject support device 314 is shown in a retracted position.

[0259] Subject support device 314 includes linkage 220, which includes first member 222 (also referred to as upper element or first leg) and second member 226 (also referred to as lower element or second leg). First member 222 can be coupled to a platform (such as platform 214 described above), for example, by attachment element 321.

[0260] The first member 222 is rotatably coupled to the second member 226 via the first support element 224. The first support element 224 may be a component of the first member 222 or the second member 226, or may be a separate component.

[0261] The second member 226 is rotatably coupled to the base 228. In this embodiment, the second member 226 is directly connected to the base 228, although in some embodiments, the second member 226 can be connected to the base 228 via an intermediate component.

[0262] The base 228 includes a recessed portion 350 configured to receive at least a portion of the linkage 220. The recessed portion 350 may include a recess extending through the base 228, such as Figure 3a. In other words, the recessed portion 350 can be a hole or cutout of the base 228. In some embodiments, the recessed portion 350 can be a hole or cutout surrounded on all sides by the walls of the base 228, for example, the depth of the recessed portion 350 can be equal to the thickness of the base 228. In other embodiments, the recessed portion 350 can be bounded on two or three sides of the hole or cutout, so that one side of the recessed portion remains open. Other embodiments may include a recess that extends partially into the base, for example to accommodate at least a portion of the linkage 220. In other words, in some embodiments, the thickness of the recessed portion 350 may be less than the thickness of the rest of the base 228. In some embodiments, the recess (e.g., the recessed portion 350) can be surrounded by the rest of the base 228, so that the recessed portion 350 is contained within the base 350. That is, the depth of the recessed portion 350 can be less than the thickness of the base 228. In some embodiments, the recessed portion 350 extends to one or more edges or sides of the base 350.

[0263] In some embodiments, the length and width of the recessed portion 350 are equal to or greater than the length and width of the lower element of the linkage 220. In some embodiments, the recessed portion 350 has a length less than the length of the lower element of the linkage 220, and at least one side of the recessed portion 350 is not bounded by a thicker portion of the base 228.

[0264] exist Figure 3a In the extended position shown, the linkage 220 extends beyond the base 228, for example, above the base 228. That is, in the extended position, the linkage 220 can protrude from the base 228. Figure 3b In the retracted position shown, the linkage 220 is at least partially received by the base 228, such as by the recessed portion 350. That is, in the retracted position, at least a portion of the linkage 220 is less than the thickness of the base 228. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the thickness of the second member 226 is received within the base 228, such as within the recessed portion 350.

[0265] In some embodiments, in the retracted position, the components of the linkage 220 can be stacked, such as folded. For example, in the retracted position, the second member 226 can be substantially parallel to the ground. In some embodiments, the components of the linkage 220 can be stacked so that each component of the linkage 220 is substantially parallel to the ground in the retracted position, such as flat.

[0266] The linkage 220 may be configured to adjust at least one of the height, pitch, roll, and yaw of a platform coupled to the first member 222 of the linkage 220. To accommodate such adjustments, the linkage 220 may be configured to adjust at least one of the height, pitch, roll, and yaw of a platform coupled to the first member 222 of the linkage 220. Figure 3a The extended posture and Figure 3b Several intermediate postures are maintained between the retracted postures of the linkage 220. In these intermediate postures, the linkage 220 can be partially extended outside the base 228, while a portion of the linkage 220 remains received by the recessed portion of the base 228.

[0267] In some embodiments, a skirt 245 is provided. The skirt 245 can be connected between the base A228 and the attachment element 321 (e.g., a platform). The skirt 245 has flexibility and can have an accordion-like structure, that is, it is configured to extend, compress, or fold like an accordion. Figure 3b In the retracted position shown, the skirt 245 has been folded to accommodate the retraction of the linkage 220 into the base 228. The skirt 245 can be used to ensure that cables, fingers, clothing, etc. are not pinched by the linkage 220 when the linkage 220 moves between the extended position and the retracted position. It should be understood that the skirt 245 is an optional feature.

[0268] When in Figure 3b In the retracted position shown, the portion of the linkage 220 received by the base 228 may include a portion of the second member 226 and may extend along the length of the second member 226. It is also possible that the entire second member 226 is received by the base 228. For example, the depth of the recessed portion 350 can be greater than or equal to the thickness of the second member 226. In this embodiment, the first member 222 extends beyond the recessed portion 350 of the base 228. In some embodiments, the depth of the recessed portion 350 can be less than the thickness of the second member 226, and the second member 226 can protrude from the recessed portion 350 when in the retracted position.

[0269] In other embodiments, when Figure 3b When in the retracted position shown, the portion of the linkage 220 received by the base 228 can include at least a portion of the first member 222 and can extend along the length of the first member 222. In this embodiment, the entire second member 226 is fully received by the base 228 when in the retracted position.

[0270] The recessed portion 350 of the base 228 can be configured to receive the entire linkage 220. In this embodiment, the skirt 245 will be folded into pleats so that the skirt 245 is substantially flat. The platform 214 can then be placed on the upper surface of the base 228 and can be connected to the linkage 220 via the attachment element 321. In this embodiment, the depth of the recessed portion 350 can be at least the thickness of the linkage when the linkage is in the retracted position. When the linkage is in the retracted position, the thickness of the linkage can be, for example, the sum of the thickness of each member that makes up the linkage.

[0271] In some embodiments, when the linkage is in the retracted position, one or more components of the linkage 220 can be received within the recessed portion 350 and at least one other component of the linkage 220 can protrude (eg, extend) from the base 228 .

[0272] Figure 3c and Figure 3d An embodiment of a subject support device 314 is shown with some elements omitted for simplicity. Figure 3c In FIG. 1 , it can be seen that the linkage 220 is in an extended position. Figure 3d In the figure, it can be seen that the linkage is in the retracted position. Figure 3d As shown, when the linkage 220 is in the retracted position, the base 228 may extend beyond the length of the second member 226. In other words, the recessed portion 350 of the base 228 can be longer than the length of the linkage 220 in the retracted position (e.g., the length of the second member 226). When the linkage 220 is in the retracted position, a gap or space 381 can be formed. For example, the space can be used to store electrical components that can be attached to the linkage 220 or other parts of the device. The base 228 can be coupled (e.g., attached) to the floor by an attachment device 382 (e.g., one or more screws, bolts, shafts, hinges, etc.). In some embodiments, the attachment device 328 can allow the base 228 to rotate relative to the ground about a vertical axis. Figure 3c and Figure 3d Further shown are first coupling feature 361 and second coupling features 370 and 371. Figures 4a to 5b These features are further described.

[0273] Base and lower coupling element

[0274] Figure 4a The lower coupling element is shown in more detail. The lower coupling element includes first coupling features 361a and 361b, and the first coupling features are configured to allow the second leg 226 to be coupled to the lower coupling element 429. The lower coupling element 429 (e.g., the lower coupling element 229) also includes a second coupling feature 371, which is configured to allow the second support element 227 to be coupled to the lower coupling element 429. The lower coupling element 429 can be connected to the base in a connectable manner, or can form a part of the base. The features of the base may have the same or similar properties as the corresponding features of the above-mentioned base 228. When the linkage is in the retracted position, including such a component for coupling the base 228 to the linkage 220 will reduce the minimum height of the platform. That is, the use of components such as the lower coupling element 429 reduces the minimum step-on height of the platform, making it easier for patients to reach the subject support for scanning or treatment.

[0275] Figure 4b An embodiment of a base 228 of a subject support device is shown. Base 228 includes a recess 450 that is configured to receive a portion of linkage 220 when the linkage is in a retracted position. Recess 450 can be an example of recessed portion 350. Where linkage 220 includes a second leg 226, the retracted position can involve recess 450 receiving at least a portion of second leg 226 of linkage 220, wherein the received portion extends along the length of second leg 226. In such a position, the second leg of linkage 220 can partially or completely extend beyond recess 450. Figure 5b In the illustrated embodiment, the recess is configured to receive at least a portion of the second leg 226 when the linkage is in the retracted position, and the recess 450 extends partially into the base 228 .

[0276] That is to say, Figure 4b In the illustrated embodiment, the depth of the recess 450 is less than the thickness of an area of ​​the base 228 (e.g., an outer wall of the base 228) that surrounds (e.g., surrounds two, three, or four sides of) or defines (e.g., lines or delimits) the recess 450.

[0277] In some embodiments, the outer edge of the base 228 is also recessed, such as Figure 4b In such an embodiment, the recessed portion 350 can extend to the outer edge of the base 228. In some such embodiments, the length of the recessed portion 350 can be less than the length of the linkage 220 when in the retracted position, or less than the length of a member of the linkage 220 (e.g., the second member 226). In the retracted position, a portion of the length of the linkage 220 can be received by the recessed portion 350, and the remainder of the length of the linkage 220 can extend or extend laterally, hanging from the base 228.

[0278] The base 228 also includes a plurality of coupling features 453, such as attachment means 328, which allow the base 228 to be removably coupled to a surface disposed below (e.g., the floor of a treatment room). The plurality of coupling features 453 can take the form of a plurality of holes configured to allow the base 228 to be coupled to a surface disposed below.

[0279] Figure 5aThe base 228 of the subject support device 314 is shown. The base 228 includes a recessed portion 350 that is configured to receive at least a portion of the linkage 220. In this embodiment, the recessed portion 350 extends through the base 228 so that a significant proportion (e.g., at least one quarter, one third, or one half) of the linkage 220 or a component of the linkage 220 can be received by the recessed portion 350. That is, the recessed portion 350 can include a hole 550 that is sized to receive at least a portion of the component of the linkage 220. The depth of the recessed portion 350 can be equal to the thickness of the base 228, or to the thickness of the area of ​​the base 228 surrounding the recessed portion 350. For example, the recessed portion 350 can be surrounded by the wall of the base 228. The shape of the recessed portion 350 is such that it can receive a portion of the linkage 220, wherein the received portion extends along the length of the linkage 220. That is, the length of the recessed portion 350 can be at least the length of the member of the linkage 220, or when the linkage 220 is in the retracted position, can be at least the length of the linkage 220. In other words, the length of the linkage 220 when the linkage 220 is in the retracted position can be the longitudinal length of the linkage 220, such as along the longitudinal axis of the second member 226. The width of the recessed portion 350 can be at least the width of the member of the linkage 220, or at least the width of the linkage 220.

[0280] In this embodiment, the base A228 includes at least one coupling element that allows the base A228 to be connectably and movably coupled to the linkage A220. The first coupling features A361a and A361b are configured to allow the linkage A220 to be coupled to the lower coupling element. In particular, the first coupling features A361a and A361b can be utilized to allow the second leg A226 of the linkage A220 to be coupled to the base A228. These coupling features A361a, A361b can be arranged within the recessed portion 350 so that the linkage A220 can be fully or partially received in the base A228. Although Figure 5a and Figure 5b Two coupling features are shown in FIG, but this is exemplary only. In some embodiments, a single coupling feature may be used, such as a centrally located hinge, etc. In some embodiments, more than two coupling features may be used.

[0281] Second coupling features 370 and 371 allow a support member (not shown) of linkage 220 to be coupled to base 228. Second coupling features 370 and 371 may include a raised slot 370 with a plurality of holes 371 through which second support member 227 may be coupled to base, such as Figure 5aThe slot can be configured (eg, by setting a size and / or positioning) such that the slot can partially or completely receive the second support element 227 when the linkage 220 is in the retracted position.

[0282] This coupling feature may allow the linkage 220 to be movably or rotatably coupled to the base 228 .

[0283] A plurality of coupling features 361a, 361b and optional 370, 371 can form part of base 228, which can allow base 228 to be more compact than previously known systems. For example, the arrangement of coupling features within recessed portion 350 allows for a reduced height of the base and / or a reduced minimum height or step-on height of the platform.

[0284] Figure 5b A cross-sectional view of the base 228 of the subject support device 314 is shown. Mounting features 375 are visible on the upper surface of the base 228, which are generally located below the raised slots 370 (not shown). These mounting features can be used to mount the raised slots 370 to the base 228, or alternatively, the second support element 227 can be directly connected to the base using the mounting features 228. The mounting features 375 can take the form of a plurality of holes that are sized to receive one of the raised slots 370 or the second support element 227 of the linkage 220. In some embodiments, the raised slots 370 can be fused to the base 228, or the base 228 can include the raised slots 370.

[0285] It should be understood that the raised slot 370 is an optional feature.

[0286] As shown in any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the base 228 can be manufactured by a casting process or the like. This manufacturing process is less expensive than alternatives such as welding, and thus the base 228 provides a less expensive alternative to known systems. The base 228 can be manufactured using a casting process because the coupling element used to couple the base to the linkage 220 forms part of the base A228. Casting the base 228 may involve incorporating some of the functionality of the height adjustment unit with the base 228, such as by connecting to a support element via a raised slot A370. The base 228 formed by a casting process may also provide increased stiffness and rigidity, and may provide improved support for the linkage 220 and other components of the device.

[0287] Including the coupling element in the base 228 also allows the step-on height of the subject support device to be reduced. Typically, the coupling arrangement between a standard non-recessed base (as shown in known designs) and a linkage includes a connecting element located at the top of the base, so that the linkage can move about the top point of the base, increasing the step-on height of the device. The connecting element can be manufactured separately, and then the components must be welded together, for example, which makes this arrangement expensive, further increasing the disadvantages of known designs.

[0288] Tilt arrangement

[0289] Figures 6a to 6c The exemplary embodiment of subject support device 114 is shown with various components excluded in order to better illustrate longitudinal sled 216 (also referred to as first platform component).

[0290] Figure 6a An angled view is shown showing the coupling of the longitudinal skid 216 to the panel 640 . Figure 6b The same angled view is shown, but with the panel 640 removed to better illustrate the arrangement of the first actuator 625 . Figure 6c Shown with Figure 6a A front view of the same arrangement is shown.

[0291] When subject support 212 is coupled to panel 640 and fully assembled, subject support 212 can be tilted relative to platform 214. Subject support 212 can be tilted about tilt axis 211, which can be a fixed axis. Tilt axis 211 is parallel to and / or can coincide with the longitudinal centerline of the subject support and / or the longitudinal centerline of panel 640 and / or the longitudinal centerline of longitudinal sled 216. That is, the longitudinal centerline of the subject support can coincide with the longitudinal centerline of panel 640 and the longitudinal centerline of longitudinal sled 216.

[0292] In the illustrated arrangement, the subject support device 114 further includes first guides 621, 622, 623, 624 disposed on the longitudinal sled 216. The first guides 621, 622, 623, 624 are inclined relative to the longitudinal sled 216. The first guides 621, 622, 623, 624 are fixed relative to the longitudinal sled 216 and extend into a recess in the longitudinal sled 216. By providing inclined guides 621, 622, 623, 624 extending into a recess in the base, the gap between the longitudinal sled 216 and the subject support surface can be advantageously reduced for a given degree of available tilt. Patients receiving radiation therapy may be physically frail and may have limited mobility, and reducing the "hop-on" height of the subject support device (i.e., the height of the subject support above the floor when in a neutral tilt position) (e.g., when the subject support is parallel to the floor or the tilt angle is 0) is advantageous because it allows the patient to more easily get himself to or place himself on the subject support. Reducing the gap between the longitudinal sled 216 and the subject support 212 has other benefits, for example, because it reduces the chance that something (such as a patient's or clinician's fingers) will be caught in the gap when the subject support 212 is tilted relative to the longitudinal sled 216 .

[0293] As can be seen in the figure, the first guides 621, 622, 623, 624 are arranged to be tilted away from the center of the panel 640. More specifically, the first guides 621, 622, 623, 624 are arranged to be tilted away from the centerline of the panel 640. In the arrangement shown, the first guides 621, 622, 623, 624 are tilted away from the longitudinal centerline of the panel 640 and the tilt axis 211. A first subset of the first guides (indicated by reference numerals 621 and 622) are located on a first side of the longitudinal skid 216, and a second subset of the first guides (indicated by reference numerals 623 and 624) are located oppositely on a second side of the longitudinal skid 216. Thus, the first and second subsets of the first guides are positioned on either side of the tilt axis 211. The guides 621, 622 in the first subset are tilted in a first direction away from the center of the panel and / or away from the tilt axis 211, and the guides 623, 624 in the second subset are tilted in a second direction away from the center of the panel and / or away from the tilt axis 211, wherein the first direction is opposite to the second direction. Each guide 621, 622 in the first subset faces a corresponding one of the guides 623, 624 in the second subset. Thus, the subject support is biased to move toward a central neutral position, thereby improving the stability of the subject support and preventing sudden large changes in the subject support tilt angle (in the event of any type of mechanical failure).

[0294] The subject support device 114 also includes first guide blocks 635, 636, 637, 638 disposed on the panel 640. In the arrangement shown in the figure, the first guide blocks 635, 636, 637, 638 are disposed at the four corners of the panel 640. In the arrangement shown in Figures 3 to 5, the first guide blocks 635, 636, 637, 638 are configured to slide along the inclined surfaces of the corresponding first guide members 621, 622, 623, 624. The guide members 621, 622, 623, 624 may include a plurality of guide rails in the manner described above, and the guide blocks 635, 636, 637, 638 may include a plurality of corresponding first slides arranged to slide along the plurality of guide rails. The plurality of first slides may be rotatably coupled to the panel 640 via a rotating coupling. For example, Figure 6c The rotating couplings 639 shown in Figure 6 couple the panel 640 to a carriage that forms part of the guide block 637. These rotating couplings cause the panel 640 to tilt as the carriage moves up and down the inclined surface of the guide rail.

[0295] As with other arrangements described herein, the apparatus includes a tilt module positioned between the longitudinal sled 216 and a subject support including a panel 640 and a first actuator 625 .

[0296] Figure 7a and Figure 7b A first actuator 625 is shown. A panel 640 is coupled to the underside of the subject support so that the subject support tilts with the panel 640. The panel 640 is also coupled to the first actuator 625 so that movement produced by the first actuator 625 is translated into movement of the panel 640 along the first guides 621, 622, 623, 624, thereby tilting the subject support relative to the panel 640.

[0297] The first actuator 625 is disposed on the longitudinal sled 216. When the subject support 114 is in a neutral tilt position (e.g., when the subject support or the top surface of the subject support is parallel to the ground, or when the tilt angle relative to the horizontal is 0), the first actuator is again positioned in the recess of the longitudinal sled 216 to reduce the "boarding" height (i.e., the gap between the longitudinal sled 216 and the support). The first actuator 625 is a linear actuator and includes an electric motor 772, a drive belt and pulley arrangement, and a lead screw or ball screw 776. The skilled person will understand that in order to achieve the functions described herein, the first actuator 625 can take different forms, and the first actuator 625 can take any of a variety of forms, not just Figure 7a to Figure 7b The form shown in , for example, can be a simple piston as shown in Figures 3 to 5.

[0298] The panel 640 is coupled to the first actuator 625 via a motion converter 645, which may be referred to as a motion conversion unit or motion conversion element. The motion converter 645 may have a triangular prism shape. The motion converter 645 is rotatably coupled to the first actuator 625. The motion converter 645 includes a shaft or spindle configured to cooperate with an orifice or recess on the first actuator 625 to define a rotational coupling between the motion converter 645 and the linear actuator 625. It is understood that the arrangement of the spindle and the corresponding recess or orifice may be reversed. The motion converter 645 is rigidly coupled to the underside of the panel 640 and may form a portion of the panel 640.

[0299] In operation, when the first actuator 625 is extended, the motion is transmitted to the panel 640 via the motion converter 645. The motion of the first actuator 645 causes the movement of the motion converter 645, which in turn causes a tilting motion of the panel 640, which in turn causes the subject support to tilt. The motion of the first actuator 625 along the movement axis is transmitted to, i.e. causes the panel 640 to move along the inclined first guides 621, 622, 623, 624, thereby causing the subject support to tilt relative to the base about the first rotation axis. Figures 6a to 6c , Figure 7a and Figure 7b In the arrangement shown, the rotation axis is substantially perpendicular to the axis of movement of the first actuator 645 .

[0300] By coupling the first actuator 625 to the panel 640 (e.g., via a motion converter 645), force is applied directly to the tiltable panel. Since the tiltable panel is directly coupled to the tiltable subject support, energy and force can be efficiently transferred from the actuator to the panel, and to the tiltable subject support. This is more advantageous than a design that attempts to achieve a tilting motion by applying a force to a movable tilted surface below the subject support to force the subject support upward, thereby causing a tilting motion about a pivot point. Such a design requires the pivot point to be anchored between the base and the upper surface, and such a design will produce unnecessary strains and stresses at the pivot point, and is therefore more susceptible to mechanical failure.

[0301] In the figures, the subject support device has a tilt axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the subject support. This can also be described as a roll rotation. However, it should be recognized that the same mechanism can be used to provide a pitch rotation by reconfiguring and reorienting the first guide. The subject support device is shown in the figures as being tiltable only about one rotation axis, but it should be understood that a plurality of second tilt guides and second guide blocks can be provided in the manner described herein to allow the subject support of the device to tilt about a second tilt axis, such as a lateral or transverse axis.

[0302] Movement of the subject support

[0303] As reference Figures 6a to 6c As described, the tilted arrangement of the subject support 114 (e.g., 314) can allow the subject support to tilt up to, for example, plus or minus 3 degrees from the horizontal on each longitudinal side of the subject support. The subject support can typically include a cover or other component of the subject support receiving portion, which is typically disposed below the longitudinal side of the subject support. Typically, when the subject support is in a neutral (or "zero tilt") position (e.g., when the tilt angle is 0), the cover includes a surface that is substantially parallel to the subject support. When the subject support is tilted, the portion of the subject support that extends longitudinally along the side of the subject support and is typically located above the cover may be at risk of pinching fingers, cables, pipes, etc. That is, the tilt of the subject support 114 may introduce a risk of pinching fingers and / or pinching cables in such a configuration because when the subject support is tilted, limbs, cables, pipes, etc. may be pinched between the extension portion and the substantially parallel cover. Therefore, it is beneficial to have an arrangement of a subject support and a subject support receiving portion, which arrangement may include a cover, etc., which is configured to reduce this risk. Many such configurations are discussed below.

[0304] Figures 8a to 8c A simplified cross-sectional view of a subject support device 800 of the above-mentioned radiotherapy apparatus is shown. The subject support device 800 can be, for example, the subject support device 314. For simplicity, multiple elements of the subject support device 800 have been omitted. For the purpose of illustration, the following description and the figures shown are described as if both longitudinal sides of the subject support device include the disclosed features. In some embodiments, the features described and shown can indeed be present on both longitudinal sides of the subject support device and / or the subject support receiving portion. However, in other embodiments, some or all of the features may only be present on one longitudinal side of the device. For example, in some embodiments, there may be only one extended edge. In other embodiments, the subject support device may include an extended edge on each side.

[0305] Subject support device 800 includes a subject support receiving portion 820 and a subject support 810 that can be tilted relative to subject support receiving portion 820 about a tilt axis 813. Tilt axis 813 can be an axis that is above a central longitudinal axis 812 of subject support 810, i.e., aligned with a longitudinal axis that passes through or along the center of subject support 810. In other words, tilt axis 813 can be a longitudinal axis that is above central longitudinal axis 812 of subject support 810, such as along an imaginary line that is perpendicular to a horizontal axis extending from central longitudinal axis 812 of subject support 810.

[0306] The subject support receiving portion 820 supports the subject support 810. The subject support receiving portion 820 may include a platform, or may be included in the platform. That is, in some embodiments, the platform includes a subject support receiving portion, which may be a part of the platform. In some embodiments, the subject support receiving portion may be attached (e.g., removably attached) to the platform. It should be understood that the subject support receiving portion may be included in the platform, attached to a part of the platform, attached to a component of the platform, or coupled to the platform, or vice versa.

[0307] The subject support receiving portion 820 may also include side portions 821, and in some embodiments, a longitudinal sled 816. That is, the subject support receiving portion 820 may be disposed generally above the longitudinal sled 816. In some embodiments, an intermediate component may be disposed between the subject support receiving portion 820, the subject support 810, and the longitudinal sled 816. In some embodiments, the subject support receiving portion 820 may include one or more side portions 821, which may be a cover or other removable or non-removable component configured to be coupled to the platform. The longitudinal sled 816 includes features similar or identical to the longitudinal sled 216 described above.

[0308] The subject support receiving portion 820 is generally disposed below the subject support 810 to provide support to the underside of the subject support 810. In some embodiments, the subject support 810 can be disposed directly on the subject support receiving portion 820. In some embodiments, the subject support 810 can be disposed on one or more intermediate components that are disposed on the subject support receiving portion 820.

[0309] The subject support device 800 may further include a tilt module (not shown) configured to tilt the subject support 810 about a tilt axis 813 .

[0310] Subject support

[0311] The subject support 810 is configured to support a patient or subject. The subject support 810 may include at least a first longitudinal sidewall 817 and a tabletop component. The tabletop component may include a first surface 811 and an extended edge 819, the extended edge 819 extending beyond the first longitudinal sidewall 817. The extended edge may have an associated length L1, which refers to the distance between the location where the first longitudinal sidewall intersects the extended edge and the end of the extended edge, the distance being measured distally. In some embodiments, the subject support 810 may also include a second longitudinal sidewall and a second extended edge, the second extended edge extending beyond the second longitudinal sidewall.

[0312] A first longitudinal sidewall 817 of subject support 810 is disposed generally below first surface 811 and is sized to be received by subject support receiving portion 820. As described above, subject support receiving portion 820 may be a component of the platform, or a separate component that may be coupled to platform 820. For example, subject support receiving portion 820 may include a cover.

[0313] The first and second longitudinal sidewalls 817 can be curved and can have a radius of curvature R. Throughout the description, the first and second longitudinal sidewalls 817 can also be referred to as curved portions. In some embodiments, the base of the subject support 810 can be curved so that in a cross-sectional view of the subject support 810, the first and second longitudinal sidewalls 817 can form an arc having a radius of curvature R. In other embodiments, the subject support 810 can have a flat portion between the first and second longitudinal sidewalls 817, which is shown in the figure as being opposite to the longitudinal sled 816. It should be understood that the radius of curvature does not have to be a precise circle. In other words, the first and / or second longitudinal sidewalls 817 can be generally circularly curved. That is, the curvature of the first and / or second longitudinal sidewalls 817 can be slightly elliptical.

[0314] The subject support receiving portion 820 includes a first longitudinal inner wall 825 and a first longitudinal outer wall 823. The first longitudinal outer wall 823 can be inclined at an angle relative to the horizontal axis. In some embodiments, the first longitudinal outer wall 823 can be straight, for example, with a constant slope. In some embodiments, the first longitudinal outer wall can be curved (for example, it can have a cross-section in the shape of an arc). In some embodiments, the first longitudinal outer wall 823 can have an associated length L2, wherein the length L2 is greater than or equal to the length L1 of the extended edge. The length L2 of the first longitudinal outer wall can only include an inclined and / or curved surface. In some embodiments, the first longitudinal outer wall 823 can be formed by multiple components. In this case, the length L2 can be the total length of the multiple components. For example, as shown in the figure, the first component can be sloped or curved, with a length of L2a, and the second component can have a different slope with a length of L2b, or have a substantially vertical slope.

[0315] When the subject support 810 is in any inclined configuration, the extended edge 819 and the first longitudinal outer wall 823 may form an open angle. That is, the distance between the bottom surface (e.g., the underside) of the extended edge 819 and the first longitudinal outer wall 823 may increase distally. In other words, the distance between the bottom surface of the extended edge 819 and the first longitudinal outer wall 823 at a first point along the extended edge may be less than the distance between the bottom surface of the extended edge 819 and the first longitudinal outer wall 823 at a second point along the extended edge 819, the second point being closer to the end of the extended edge 819 than the first point, and the first point being closer to the central longitudinal axis of the subject support 810 than the second point.

[0316] In some embodiments, subject support receiving portion 820 may further include second longitudinal inner wall 825 and second longitudinal outer wall 823 , which may be arranged similarly to first longitudinal inner wall 825 and first longitudinal outer wall 823 , respectively, such as on opposite sides of subject support 810 .

[0317] In some embodiments, the first longitudinal sidewall 817 of the subject support has a curvature such that each point along the side surface is offset by a constant distance R from the central longitudinal axis of the subject support 810. The value of the distance R can be referred to as the radius of curvature. The tilting of the subject support causes the first longitudinal sidewall 817 to emerge from or retract into the platform. In some embodiments, for all tilted configurations, a portion of the first longitudinal sidewall 817 can protrude from the subject support receiving portion 820. That is, for all tilted configurations, a portion of the first longitudinal sidewall 817 can remain outside the subject support receiving unit 820. It should be understood that the radius of curvature does not have to be a precise circle. In other words, the first longitudinal sidewall 817 can be roughly circularly curved. That is, the curvature of the first and / or second longitudinal sidewalls 817 can be slightly elliptical.

[0318] The extended edge 819 of the subject support can have a smaller thickness than the rest of the subject support and can form an edge along one or both longitudinal sides of the subject support 810. The extended edge 819 includes an upper surface, which can form a portion of the first surface 811, and a lower surface 815, which is located on the underside of the extended edge 819.

[0319] In some embodiments, one or more extended edges 819 are flush with the desktop component of the subject support. Alternatively, one or more extended edges can be inclined relative to the plane of the surface of the desktop component. That is, the extended edge 819 can be angled relative to the surface of the desktop component.

[0320] Figure 8a A subject support 810 is shown in a neutral tilt position. In the neutral tilt position, the tilt angle may be zero or substantially zero. In other words, the patient positioning surface may be parallel or substantially parallel to the ground or floor.

[0321] Figure 8b The subject support 810 is shown in a maximum tilt position. The subject support is said to be in a maximum tilt position when the subject support is tilted to one side or the other at a maximum tilt angle. In some embodiments, the subject support can be tilted plus or minus 3 degrees from a horizontal position. At the maximum tilt position of the subject support, the distance between the lower surface of the extended edge 819 and the first longitudinal outer wall 823 increases with increasing displacement from the central longitudinal axis 812. In particular, the distance can be the distance between the lower surface of the extended edge 819 and the first longitudinal outer wall 823, the lower surface being located below the central longitudinal axis 812, e.g., tilted downward as shown.

[0322] In the maximum tilt position, the extended edge is at an angle, labeled θ. This angle may be referred to as a minimum angle difference relative to first longitudinal outer wall 823 of subject support receiving portion 820. Angle θ may be the angle between the extended edge and first longitudinal outer wall 823 of subject support receiving portion 820 when the subject support is in the maximum tilt position (particularly, the tilt direction is the direction in which the extended edge approaches first longitudinal outer wall 823), e.g., as shown, when the extended edge is below the horizontal axis (e.g., the position of the extended edge after tilting is lower than the position of the extended edge when subject support 810 is in the neutral tilt position).

[0323] Therefore, the minimum angle difference can be the difference between:

[0324] a) the inclination angle of the first longitudinal outer wall 823 of the subject support receiving portion 820 relative to the horizontal axis, and

[0325] b) The angle of extended edge 819 relative to the horizontal axis when the subject support is in the maximum tilted position.

[0326] The inclination angle of the first longitudinal outer wall 823 of the subject support receiving portion can be selected so that the minimum angle difference is greater than the threshold angle difference. That is, the subject support receiving portion 820, such as its first longitudinal outer wall, can be arranged so that the minimum angle difference exceeds the threshold angle difference. In an embodiment where the extended edge 819 is flush with the surface of the desktop component, when the subject support is in the maximum tilted position, the angle of the extended edge 819 relative to the horizontal axis can be an inclination angle. The threshold angle difference can be based on many factors, such as material, friction coefficient, size, etc. In some embodiments, the threshold angle difference can be approximately 30°, preferably 36°. Therefore, the minimum angle difference can be at least the threshold angle difference, and is preferably greater than the threshold angle difference. A larger minimum angle difference is desired because a larger angle can form a larger area between the extended edge and the subject support receiving portion 820.

[0327] Figure 8c A subject support receiving portion is shown in which the first longitudinal outer wall is curved. That is, in some embodiments, the first longitudinal outer wall of the subject support receiving portion 820 is curved with a radius of curvature r(ext). In such embodiments, the inclination angle of the first longitudinal outer wall 823 of the subject support receiving portion can be the angle of a plane tangent to the curved surface of the first longitudinal outer wall 823, where the tangent is the smallest along the curved surface, or within 2 to 3 mm of the first longitudinal side wall 817. For example, Figure 8c The slope of the tangent line to the curved first longitudinal outer wall 823 at the flattest point shown in FIG. 8 is the smallest.

[0328] Fig. 9A cross-sectional view of a subject support 800 of a radiotherapy device is shown. In some embodiments, the extended edge 819 may have a cutout area or recess 833. The recess 833 may be arranged to receive at least a portion of an accessory attached to the subject support. For example, the recess 833 may be used to clamp or otherwise connect a cable or other component to the subject support. Providing a recess 833 for receiving at least a portion of an accessory prevents objects such as a patient's finger or a clinician's finger, cables, and pipes from being caught when the subject support is rotated. In some embodiments, the recess 833 may include an accessory surface located on one side of the subject support, which is opposite to the surface of the desktop component. The recess 833 may be defined by an area of ​​reduced thickness, which is referred to and shown as the end 835 of the extended edge 819.

[0329] In some embodiments, the depression 833 can extend along the entire length of the extended edge (e.g., in the longitudinal direction), or along a portion of the length of the extended edge. For example, there can be one or more areas of the extended edge with the depressions, allowing accessories to be attached to the extended edge at the one or more areas along the length of the subject support.

[0330] In some embodiments, first longitudinal sidewall 817 can include a portion that is not opposite first longitudinal inner wall 825 of subject support receiving portion 820 as subject support 810 tilts about tilt axis 813. This portion of first longitudinal sidewall 817 can remain exposed for any degree of tilt of subject support 810 about tilt axis 813. The degree of tilt of subject support 810 about tilt axis 813 can be limited by this portion, for example, the tilt angle of subject support 810 can have a maximum tilt angle at which only this portion is exposed above first longitudinal sidewall 817 and above subject support receiving portion 820. In some embodiments, second longitudinal sidewall 817 can include a corresponding portion that is not opposite second longitudinal inner wall 825 of subject support receiving portion 820. In some embodiments, first longitudinal inner wall 825 can be short, for example, 1-2 cm in length.

[0331] The subject support receiving portion 820 supports the subject support 810. The subject support receiving portion 820 may include a platform, or may be included in the platform. That is, in some embodiments, the platform includes a subject support receiving portion, which may be a part of the platform. In some embodiments, the subject support receiving portion may be attached (e.g., removably attached) to the platform. It should be understood that the subject support receiving portion may be included in the platform, attached to a part of the platform, attached to a component of the platform, or coupled to the platform, or vice versa.

[0332] The subject support receiving portion 820 may also include side portions 821, and in some embodiments, a longitudinal sled 816. That is, the subject support receiving portion 820 may be disposed generally above the longitudinal sled 816. In some embodiments, an intermediate component may be disposed between the subject support receiving portion 820, the subject support 810, and the longitudinal sled 816. In some embodiments, the subject support receiving portion 820 may include one or more side portions 821, which may be a cover or other removable or non-removable component configured to be coupled to the platform. The longitudinal sled 816 includes features similar or identical to the longitudinal sled 216 described above.

[0333] Subject support receiving portion 820 also includes an opening for receiving subject support 810, and can be configured such that there is a gap 831 along at least one longitudinal side of subject support 810 where subject support 810 is received by platform 820. Gap 831 can be small enough to prevent pinching of fingers, and can be less than 8 mm. Furthermore, according to embodiments described herein, gap 831 can remain substantially constant as subject support 810 tilts about tilt axis 813.

[0334] In some embodiments, the first longitudinal sidewall 817 and the second longitudinal sidewall 817 of the subject support are curved with a radius of curvature R defined relative to the tilt axis 813. As described above, the tilt axis can be aligned with the central longitudinal axis of the subject support. In some embodiments, the underside of the subject support can include the first longitudinal sidewall 817 and the second longitudinal sidewall 817. In some embodiments, the underside of the subject support can also include a bottom surface, which can be generally flat or curved. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the underside is constant, such that the profile of the underside of the subject support corresponds to an arc of a circle.

[0335] The side portion is sized such that there is a gap 831 between the first longitudinal side wall 817 of the subject support 810 and the side portion 821 of the subject support receiving portion 820. The gap 831 can be defined by at least a portion of the first longitudinal inner wall 825 and the second longitudinal inner wall 825 of the subject support receiving portion 820. The side portion 821 can be, for example, a covering portion of a portion of the device and can be used to cover, for example, cables that connect the subject support 810 to the subject support receiving portion 820 (e.g., a platform). The first longitudinal outer wall 823 and the second longitudinal outer wall 823 are defined on the outwardly facing surface of the side portion.

[0336] That is, the first and second longitudinal inner walls 825 of the subject support receiving portion 820 can each include a curved region configured to receive a subject support. The radius of curvature of the curved region is greater than the radius of curvature of the first and second longitudinal side walls of the subject support. The difference in the radius of curvature enables a gap 831 to be formed between the first and second longitudinal side walls 817 of the subject support 810 and the subject support receiving portion 820. As the subject support is tilted, the above difference remains unchanged.

[0337] like Figures 8a to 9 As shown, a region 841 is formed between the subject support 810 and the subject support receiving portion 820 on each longitudinal side of the subject support device 800, wherein the boundary of the region 841 is defined by the first longitudinal outer wall 823 of the subject support receiving portion, the lower surface 815 of the extended edge 819 and the first longitudinal side wall 817 of the subject support.

[0338] This region is formed due to the extension edge 819 of the subject support 810 extending above the first longitudinal outer wall 823. When the subject support is in a neutral tilt position (e.g., a tilt angle of 0°), a section of the first longitudinal side wall 817 (also referred to as the curved portion) further delimits the region 841 as described above.

[0339] When the extension of the lower surface 815 of the extension edge 819 toward a vertical plane passing through the central longitudinal axis 812 intersects the extension of the first longitudinal outer wall 823 of the side toward a vertical plane passing through the central longitudinal axis 812, an angle θ is defined. The first angle can be defined as the angle of inclination of the first longitudinal outer wall relative to the horizontal axis, and the second angle can be defined as the angle of the extension edge 819 relative to the horizontal axis when the subject support 810 is in the maximum tilt position as described above. The horizontal axis can be defined as the lateral axis across the top surface of the desktop component when in a neutral position. Angle θ can be defined as the difference between the first angle and the second angle. When the subject support is tilted, angle θ decreases, so that the displacement between the opposite face of the first longitudinal outer wall 823 and the lower surface 815 of the extension edge B819 is reduced. Therefore, the segment of the first longitudinal side wall 817 that delimits the above-mentioned area 841 decreases as θ decreases.

[0340] In some embodiments, the maximum angle of inclination of the subject support can be achieved when the lower surface 815 of the extended edge 819 contacts the first longitudinal outer wall 823 at the innermost point of the first longitudinal outer wall 823. Due to the maximum inclination, the area 841 may be defined only by the lower surface 815 of the extended edge 819 and the first longitudinal outer wall 823.

[0341] As the subject support is tilted, for example during treatment or imaging, there is a risk that a limb may be pinched in the area between the extended edge 819 of the subject support 810 and the subject support receiving portion 820 supporting the subject support 810. In the embodiments described herein, the subject support 810 is configured such that the region 841 does not present a risk of pinching a finger for any tilted configuration of the subject support 810. This is due to the tilt of the first longitudinal outer wall, which causes a limb placed in the region 841 to be pushed outwardly from the central longitudinal axis as the tilt of the subject support 810 increases. When the subject support 810 is tilted, the extended edge 819 presses downwardly onto the limb in the region 841, the limb contacts the first longitudinal outer wall 823, and is therefore pushed outwardly due to the tilt of the first longitudinal outer wall 823, for example in a direction away from the central longitudinal axis 812 (e.g., distally).

[0342] As described above, a threshold angle difference between the first angle of the first longitudinal outer wall 823 and the second angle of the extension edge 819 is determined to prevent the limb from being caught in the region 841. The determination of the threshold angle difference may involve determining the minimum size required for the region 841 to prevent the limb from being caught therein. In some embodiments, the minimum angle threshold may be predetermined to be 30 degrees, preferably 36 degrees. In some embodiments, where the first longitudinal outer wall includes a curved surface, the minimum angle will increase with increasing distance from the tilt axis. The minimum angle threshold may be variable, and this variation may depend on the material (and associated friction) of the extension edge and / or the first longitudinal outer wall. Therefore, the limb will not be caught in the region between the extension edge 819 and the platform structure 820 of the subject support. For example, if the first longitudinal outer wall 823 has a low coefficient of friction, such as a painted surface, a polished surface, carbon fiber, plastic, etc., the minimum angle threshold may be smaller. If the longitudinal outer wall 823 has a high coefficient of friction, such as a rough surface, the minimum angle threshold may be larger.

[0343] The relationship between the length L1 of the extended edge 819 and the length L2 of the first longitudinal outer wall 823 allows for an open angle to exist between the extended edge 819 and the first longitudinal outer wall 823, such that the displacement between the extended edge 819 and the first longitudinal outer wall 823 increases in an outward direction (e.g., distally), such as outwardly from the central longitudinal axis 812 of the subject support 810. This ensures that a limb in contact with the extended edge 819 or the first longitudinal outer wall 823 can be easily retracted from the region 841, thereby reducing the risk of pinching fingers.

[0344] The inclination or curvature of first longitudinal outer wall 823 may provide an additional advantage in that liquid leaking from upper surface 811 of the subject support tabletop component may be directed away from the subject support receiving portion 820 of the device due to the inclination or curvature of first longitudinal outer wall 823. This feature may thereby prevent liquid from entering the subject support device.

[0345] Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of a subject support 800 of a radiotherapy apparatus as described above is shown, with several optional features added. For simplicity, various elements of the subject support have been omitted. For purposes of illustration, the following embodiments are described as if both longitudinal sides of the subject support include the disclosed features. However, as described above, in other embodiments, some or all of the features may only be present on one longitudinal side of the subject support.

[0346] like Fig. 9 As shown, liquid guides or grooves 837 are located on the lower surface of the extended edge 819 along one or both longitudinal sides of the subject support 810. That is, the grooves 837 can be disposed on one side, such as on the extended edge extending beyond the first longitudinal sidewall 817 of the subject support; or on both sides, such as on the extended edge 819 extending beyond the first and second respective longitudinal sidewalls 817 of the subject support. The grooves 837 can be small in diameter, such as 1-2 mm, and extend along the longitudinal sides of the subject support 810, and can be configured such that their presence minimizes fluid from entering the underside of the subject support and / or entering the subject support receiving portion 820. The grooves 837 can also be configured such that they exhibit capillary action to direct fluid away from the underside of the subject support. The grooves 837 can be disposed substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis 812.

[0347] The groove 837 can also be configured to direct fluid away from the gap 831 between the subject support receiving portion 820 and the first longitudinal sidewall 817 of the subject support 810 .

[0348] Fig.10 A simplified cross-sectional view of a subject support 1000 for use in the claimed radiation therapy apparatus is shown. For simplicity, various elements of the subject support have been omitted. For purposes of illustration, as described above, the following embodiments are described as if both longitudinal sides of the subject support include the disclosed features. However, in other embodiments, some or all of the features may only be present on one longitudinal side of the subject support.

[0349] The subject support device 1000 includes a subject support receiving portion 1020 and a subject support 1010, and the subject support 810 is tiltable relative to the subject support receiving portion 1020 about a tilt axis 1013. Fig. 9 Similar to the described subject support receiving portion 820, the subject support receiving portion 1020 can be a component or area of ​​the platform, or an additional component disposed on the platform to receive the subject support 1010. The subject support receiving portion 1020 can include a platform, and the two terms can be used interchangeably. It should be understood that the subject support receiving portion can be (e.g., detachably) included in the platform, attached to a portion of the platform, attached to a component of the platform, or coupled to the platform, or vice versa. The subject support receiving portion 1020 can support the subject support 1010. The subject support receiving portion 1020 can include two side portions 1021, which can be, for example, a cover portion. In some embodiments, the subject support receiving portion 1020 can include a longitudinal sled 1016, or can be coupled to a component including a longitudinal sled 1016. These features can have the same or similar properties as the corresponding features of the above-mentioned subject support device 800.

[0350] In some embodiments, the subject support receiving portion 1020 includes a first longitudinal inner wall 1023 and a second longitudinal inner wall 1023. The first and second longitudinal inner walls may be curved, having a radius of curvature R2 (not shown).

[0351] Subject support 1010 is configured to support a patient or subject on a first surface 1011 (also referred to as a patient positioning surface or subject support surface). Subject support 1010 includes first and second longitudinal sidewalls 1017 and 1017 that are curved with a radius of curvature R.

[0352] The radius of curvature R is smaller than the radius of curvature R2 of the first and second longitudinal inner walls 1023 of the subject support receiving portion. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature R may be smaller than the radius of curvature R2 by some threshold distance, such as between 4 mm and 10 mm, preferably 8 mm.

[0353] The surface of subject support 1010 that faces platform or subject support receiving portion 1020 can be referred to as the underside of subject support 1010. The underside can include first and second longitudinal sidewalls 1017. In some embodiments, the underside can have a constant radius of curvature such that its cross section forms an arc of radius R. In some embodiments, for example Fig.10In the illustrated embodiment, the underside can also include a flat portion 1027 between the first longitudinal sidewall 1017 and the second longitudinal sidewall 1017. The flat portion 1027 can be substantially parallel to the ground when the subject support is in the neutral tilt position. In some embodiments, each point on the first and second longitudinal sidewalls 1017 is the same distance (R) from the tilt axis 1013.

[0354] In some embodiments, an optional cut-out region 1041 can be provided along the longitudinal side of each first longitudinal sidewall 1017 to form an edge portion 1019 having a reduced thickness that extends outwardly above the cut-out region 1041. Since the first and second longitudinal sidewalls 1017 of the subject support have a generally circular arc profile, the distal points of the edge portions maintain a constant distance R from the central longitudinal axis at most. In other words, the maximum width of the subject support is twice the radius of curvature R.

[0355] The cutout area 1041 can create space for the limb to interact with the device without the risk of pinching the limb in the area between the subject support receiving unit 1021 and the first and / or second longitudinal side walls 1017 of the subject support. Since the radius of curvature of the first longitudinal side wall 1017 is smaller than the radius of curvature of the first longitudinal inner wall 1023, a gap occurs between the first longitudinal inner wall 1023 of the subject support receiving portion 1020 and the first longitudinal side wall 1017 of the subject support 1010. The gap 1031 located in the area where the subject support receiving portion 1020 receives the subject support 1010 will remain unchanged, which further reduces the risk of pinching. For example, such a gap 1031 can exist between the side portion 1021 (which can be a cover portion) and the first longitudinal side wall 1017.

[0356] Fig.11 A simplified cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a subject support 1010 for use in a radiation therapy apparatus is shown.The features of the subject support may have the same or similar attributes as the corresponding features of subject support 1000 described above.

[0357] The subject support 1010 is constructed in a manner similar to Fig.10 The construction shown is substantially similar and includes a cutout region 1041 along one or both longitudinal sidewalls of the subject support 1010. The cutout region 1041 results in an outwardly extending edge portion 1019 of reduced diameter. That is, the maximum width of the subject support is maintained at twice the radius of curvature of the first and second longitudinal sidewalls. In some embodiments, the lower surface of the cutout region 1041 is downwardly sloped and optionally includes an outwardly extending rim 1118 at its distal end.

[0358] The raised edge 1118 may be configured to provide fluid flow by directing fluid away from the subject support 1010 and the subject support receiving portion or platform (e.g., Fig.10 A gap 1031 between the subject support receiving portion 1020 is shown to prevent fluid from entering the area below the subject support 1010.

[0359] Fig.12 A simplified cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a subject support 1010 for use in a radiation therapy apparatus is shown. Features of subject support 1010 may have the same or similar attributes as corresponding features of subject support device 1000 described above.

[0360] The subject support 1010 is constructed in a manner similar to Fig.10 The construction shown is substantially similar and includes a cutout region 1041 along one or both longitudinal sidewalls 1017 of the subject support 1010. The cutout region 1041 results in an outwardly extending edge portion 1019 of reduced diameter. That is, the maximum width of the subject support is maintained at twice the radius of curvature of the first and second longitudinal sidewalls. The lower surface 1226 of the cutout region 1041 includes an edge 1224 extending along the longitudinal side of the subject support 1010. The edge 1224 protrudes in an angled upward direction toward the distal end of the lower side surface of the edge portion 1019. The angled edge is sized so that its maximum distance from the central longitudinal axis of the subject support is the radius of curvature R. The edge 1224 can form a groove defined by the lower surface 1226, which can be arranged to exhibit capillary action. This arrangement will prevent liquid from accumulating in or on the subject support receiving portion and prevent liquid from entering the device.

[0361] The configuration of cut-out region 1041 can prevent fluid from entering the area beneath subject support 1010 because the fluid will be directed through the cut-out region along the longitudinal sides of the device and will exit the device upon reaching the end of the cut-out region.

[0362] Fig.13 A simplified cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a subject support 1010 for use in a radiation therapy apparatus is shown. Features of subject support 1010 may have the same or similar attributes as corresponding features of subject support device 1000 described above.

[0363] The subject support 1010 is constructed in a manner similar to Fig.10The construction shown is substantially similar and includes a cutout region 1041 along one or both longitudinal sidewalls of the subject support 1010. The cutout region results in an outwardly extending edge portion 1019 of reduced diameter. That is, the maximum width of the subject support is maintained at twice the radius of curvature of the first and second longitudinal sidewalls. In this embodiment, the cutout region 1041 is configured to accommodate an insert 1328. That is, the subject support receiving portion may also include an insert 1328. The insert 1328 extends longitudinally along the cutout region and is attached to the side surface 1317 of the subject support 1010 and the lower side surface of the edge portion 1019. The insert 1328 includes a cavity 1320 extending longitudinally along the insert 1328.

[0364] The construction of insert 1328 and associated cavity 1320 may prevent fluid from entering the area beneath subject support 1010 because the fluid will be directed through cavity 1320 along the longitudinal sides of the subject support and will exit the subject support upon reaching the opening at the end of cavity 1320.

[0365] Insert 1328 may be removable to accommodate cleaning of the subject support device.

[0366] Fig.14a and Fig.14b A simplified cross-sectional view of a subject support 1400 of the above-described radiotherapy apparatus is shown. Subject support 1400 may be, for example, subject support 314. For simplicity, a number of elements of subject support 1400 have been omitted. For purposes of illustration, the following description and that shown in the accompanying drawings are described as if both longitudinal sides of the subject support included the disclosed features. In some embodiments, the features described and shown may indeed be present on both longitudinal sides of the subject support and / or the subject support receiving portion. However, in other embodiments, some or all of the features may only be present on one longitudinal side of the subject support.

[0367] Subject support device 1400 includes subject support receiving portion 1420 and subject support 1410, which is configured to be tilted relative to subject support receiving portion 1420. Subject support 1410 can be tilted about tilt axis 1413. Tilt axis 1413 can be an axis above central longitudinal axis 1412 of subject support 1410, i.e., aligned with a longitudinal axis passing through or along the center of subject support 1410. In other words, tilt axis 1413 can be a longitudinal axis located above central longitudinal axis 1412 of subject support 1410, such as along an imaginary line perpendicular to a horizontal axis extending from central longitudinal axis 1412 of subject support 1410.

[0368] The subject support receiving portion 1420 is configured to support the subject support 1410. The subject support receiving portion 1420 may include a platform, or may be included in the platform. That is, in some embodiments, the platform includes a subject support receiving portion, which may be a part of the platform. In some embodiments, the subject support receiving portion may be attached (e.g., removably attached) to the platform. It should be understood that the subject support receiving portion may be included in the platform, attached to a part of the platform, attached to a component of the platform, or coupled to the platform, or vice versa.

[0369] Subject support receiving portion 1420 can include features having similar or identical properties to corresponding features of any other subject support device described herein. In some embodiments, subject support receiving portion 1420 can include side portions 1421 and / or longitudinal sled 1416. In some embodiments, an intermediate component can be disposed between subject support receiving portion 1420 and longitudinal sled 1416. In some embodiments, subject support receiving portion can include one or more side portions 1421, which can be a cover or other removable or non-removable component configured to be coupled to a platform. Longitudinal sled 1416 includes features similar or identical to longitudinal sled 216 described above.

[0370] Subject support receiving portion 1420 is generally disposed below subject support 1410 to provide support to the underside of subject support 1410. In some embodiments, subject support 1410 can be disposed directly on subject support receiving portion 1420. In some embodiments, subject support 1410 can be disposed on one or more intermediate components disposed on subject support receiving portion 1410.

[0371] The subject support device may further include a tilting module (not shown) configured to tilt the subject support 1410 relative to the subject support receiving portion 1420. The tilting module may be configured to tilt the subject support relative to the tilt axis 1413.

[0372] Subject support 1410 may include features having similar or identical properties to corresponding features of any other subject support described herein. For example, subject support device may include features having similar or identical properties to corresponding features of subject support 810.

[0373] Subject support 1410 is configured to support a patient or subject. Subject support 1410 may include at least longitudinal sidewall 1417 and a tabletop component. Tabletop component may include surface 1411 (e.g., subject support surface) and extended edge 1419 that extends beyond longitudinal sidewall 1417. In some embodiments, subject support 1410 may also include a second longitudinal sidewall and a second extended edge that extends beyond the second longitudinal sidewall.

[0374] Longitudinal sidewall 1417 of subject support 1410 is disposed generally below surface 1411 and is sized to be received by subject support receiving portion 1420. As described above, subject support receiving portion 1420 can be a component of the platform, or a separate component that can be coupled to the platform. For example, subject support receiving portion 1420 can include a cover. In some embodiments, longitudinal sidewall 1417 and second longitudinal sidewall 1417 can include features having similar or identical properties to corresponding features of subject support 810.

[0375] For example, in some embodiments, the first and second longitudinal side walls 1417 may be curved and may have a radius of curvature R, as shown in FIGS. 8 to 9. Fig.13 As shown. Throughout the description, the first and second longitudinal side walls 1417 may also be referred to as curved portions. In some embodiments, the base of the subject support 1410 can be curved or partially curved such that in a cross-sectional view of the subject support 1410, the first and second longitudinal side walls 1417 can form an arc having a radius of curvature R. In other embodiments, the subject support 1410 can have a flat portion between the first and second longitudinal side walls 1417, which is shown in the figure as being opposite the longitudinal sled 1416. It should be understood that the radius of curvature does not have to be a precise circle. In other words, the first and / or second longitudinal side walls 1417 can be generally circularly curved. That is, the curvature of the first and / or second longitudinal side walls 1417 can be slightly elliptical. Although Fig.14a and Fig.14b Curved longitudinal sidewalls 1417 are depicted for exemplary purposes only.

[0376] The subject support receiving portion 1420 includes a longitudinal outer wall 1424. In some embodiments, the longitudinal outer wall 1424 can be inclined at an angle relative to the horizontal axis. In some embodiments, the longitudinal outer wall 1424 can be straight, for example, it can have a constant slope. In other embodiments, the longitudinal outer wall 1424 can be curved (for example, it can have a cross-section in the shape of an arc). In some embodiments, the longitudinal outer wall 1424 can be formed by multiple parts. For example, a first part can be in the form of a slope or curved, and a second part can have a different slope, or a substantially vertical slope.

[0377] In some embodiments, when subject support 1410 is in any inclined configuration, extended edge 1419 and longitudinal outer wall 1424 can form an open angle, as described with reference to FIG. 8 .

[0378] In some embodiments, the longitudinal sidewall 1417 of the subject support has a curvature such that each point along the side surface is offset from the central longitudinal axis of the subject support 1410 by a constant distance R. The value of the distance R can be referred to as the radius of curvature. The tilting of the subject support causes the longitudinal sidewall 1417 to emerge from or retract into the platform. In some embodiments, for all tilted configurations, a portion of the longitudinal sidewall 1417 can protrude from the subject support receiving portion 1420. That is, for all tilted configurations, a portion of the longitudinal sidewall 1417 can remain outside the subject support receiving unit 1420. It should be understood that the radius of curvature does not have to be a precise circle. In other words, the longitudinal sidewall 1417 can be roughly circularly curved. That is, the curvature of the longitudinal sidewall 1417 can be slightly elliptical.

[0379] In some embodiments, the longitudinal sidewall 1417 can be straight, for example, can be in the form of a ramp, or have a constant slope. In some embodiments, the longitudinal sidewall 1417 can be formed by multiple parts. For example, a first part can be in the form of a ramp or curved, and a second part can have a different slope, or a substantially vertical slope.

[0380] In some embodiments, subject support receiving portion 1420 can further include a second longitudinal outer wall 1424 , which can be arranged similarly to longitudinal outer wall 1424 , such as on an opposite side of subject support 1410 .

[0381] Extended edge 1419 of the subject support can have a smaller thickness than the remainder of the subject support and can form an edge along one or both longitudinal sides of subject support 1410. Extended edge 1419 includes an upper surface, which can form a portion of first surface 1411, and a lower surface, which is located below extended edge 1419.

[0382] In some embodiments, one or more extension edges 1419 are flush with the desktop component of the subject support. Alternatively, one or more extension edges can be inclined relative to the plane of the surface of the desktop component. That is, extension edge 1419 can be angled relative to the surface of the desktop component.

[0383] Subject support device 1400 also includes a deformable guide 1418. Deformable guide 1418 may be generally disposed below an extended edge 1419 of the subject support. In embodiments of the device that do not include optional extended edge 1419, a first deformable guide may be disposed generally above side 1421 of subject support receiving portion 1420.

[0384] Deformable guide 1418 can extend in the longitudinal direction, and in some embodiments, can extend along the entire length of subject support 1410. In other embodiments, the deformable guide can extend partially in the longitudinal direction along the length of subject support 1410. In some embodiments, the deformable guide can include multiple sections that extend intermittently or at regular intervals along the length of subject support 1410. In other words, the deformable guide can extend along at least a portion of the length of subject support 1410.

[0385] Deformable guide 1418 includes a first face 1431 and a second face 1433. The first face is arranged to at least partially contact longitudinal sidewall 1417 of subject support 1410. Second face 1433 is arranged to at least partially contact subject support receiving portion 1420 (e.g., longitudinal outer wall 1424 of subject support receiving portion 1420). In some embodiments, first face 1431 may at least partially contact subject support 1410 (e.g., longitudinal sidewall 1417 of subject support 1410), and second face 1433 may at least partially contact longitudinal outer wall 1424 of subject support receiving portion 1420. In other words, in some embodiments, first face 1431 and second face 1433 may at least partially contact longitudinal sidewall 1417 of subject support 1410 and longitudinal outer wall 1424 of subject support receiving portion 1420, respectively, throughout the tilted configuration of subject support device 1400. Contact may include removably attaching, non-removably attaching, or merely touching. In some embodiments, the corresponding face of deformable guide 1418 may be attached (removably or non-removably attached) to at least one of subject support 1410 and subject support receiving portion 1420 by mechanical and / or chemical means (e.g., adhesive).

[0386] In some embodiments, the length of the portion of first inner face 1431 arranged to contact longitudinal sidewall 1417 of subject support 1410 can correspond to the tilt angle of subject support 1410. This can be a first tilt position of the subject support, and can correspond to a maximum tilt position of the subject support. The maximum tilt position of the subject support can be, for example, a tilt position at which further tilting is not possible, or a tilt position that is determined to be a maximum tilt position (e.g., by a setting or an operator) although a physical limit is not reached. In other words, the length of the portion of first face 1431 arranged to contact longitudinal sidewall 1417 can be such that the portion is not received in subject support receiving portion 1420 during any tilting of subject support 1410 relative to the tilt axis. In particular, in some embodiments, the length of the portion of first face 1431 arranged to contact longitudinal sidewall 1417 can be such that the portion is not received in subject support receiving portion 1420 at the maximum tilt angle of subject support 1410. This allows tilting of the subject support 1410 relative to the tilt axis 1413 without causing damage to the deformable guide 1418 (eg, by tearing).

[0387] In some embodiments, the length of the portion of the first face 1431 disposed in contact with the longitudinal sidewall 1417 of the subject support 1410 can be less than or equal to 15 mm.

[0388] In some embodiments, the portion of the first side 1431 disposed in contact with the longitudinal side wall 1417 may be permanently or removably attached to the longitudinal side wall 1417. The second side may be permanently or removably attached to the longitudinal outer wall 1424 of the subject support receiving portion 1420. This may involve chemical attachment means (e.g., bonding or gluing), or mechanical attachment means (e.g., locking mechanisms, such as tongue and groove configurations, and / or the use of Velcro tape, such as Velcro tape attached to the longitudinal outer wall 1424 and the deformable guide (e.g., Velcro tape may be attached to the upper side 1435 of the deformable guide 1418)). The Velcro tape may be attached to the longitudinal outer wall 1424 and / or the deformable guide by an adhesive (e.g., 3M adhesive). Further examples include hooks that may be glued or sewn to the deformable guide 1418. Such a mechanism may allow the deformable guide 1418 to be easily attached and removed, for example, for disinfection, cleaning, and / or replacement. In embodiments where one or both of the attachments are removable, the configuration of the device may allow for removal, replacement, and sterilization of the deformable guide 1418 between radiation therapy sessions.

[0389] Other embodiments may allow for longer or shorter portions of first side 1431 to contact longitudinal sidewall 1417 of subject support 1410. In such embodiments, the length of the portion of first side 1431 in contact with the longitudinal sidewall may depend on the angle of inclination of subject support 1410 relative to inclination axis 1413. For example, a subject support having a greater angle of inclination (e.g., a greater maximum inclination angle) may require a shorter length of the portion of the first side in contact with the longitudinal sidewall, and vice versa.

[0390] First face 1431 may further include first recess 1425. First recess 1425 may be a cutout or recessed portion of the first face that extends in the longitudinal direction. First face 1431 may be configured such that first recess 1425 is positioned on a lower portion of first face 1431. The size of first recess 1425 may vary as subject support 1410 tilts about tilt axis 1413, as explained in more detail below. First recess 1425 may reduce or prevent tearing of deformable guide 1418 due to tilting of subject support 1410.

[0391] Deformation in the deformable guide 1418 may result in a corresponding deformation of the first recess 1425. Expansion of the deformable guide 1418 may result in expansion of the first recess 1425, e.g., may allow or cause the first recess 1425 to expand. Compression or contraction of the deformable guide may result in compression or contraction of the first recess 1425. In other words, the size of the first internal recess 1425 may depend on the relative expansion or contraction of the deformable guide 1425. This allows the subject support 1425 to be tilted relative to the tilt axis without damaging the deformable guide 1418. In other words, deformation of the internal recess facilitates deformation of the deformable guide 1418 as the subject support 1410 is tilted relative to the tilt axis 1413.

[0392] In some embodiments, the deformable guide 1418 may include a channel 1437 extending longitudinally through the deformable guide 1418. The channel may also be referred to as an inner recessed portion 1437 of the deformable guide 1418 (eg, Fig.15). The channel can be completely enclosed within the deformable guide and can extend longitudinally along the deformable guide. That is, the longitudinal ends of the channel can be closed or sealed by the deformable guide. In other embodiments, the channel can have at least one open end, wherein at least one longitudinal end of the channel is open, for example, not covered by the material of the deformable guide. In some embodiments, both ends of the channel can be open so that the channel extends longitudinally through the entire length of the deformable guide. In other words, the deformable guide can be hollow and / or can include a longitudinal hole through the guide. This feature allows the deformable guide 1418 to undergo greater deformation. For example, in an embodiment where the deformable guide 1418 is a compressible guide, the presence of a hollow cavity or longitudinal hole through the guide 1418 allows for an increased compression distance. The use of a hollow cavity and / or channel 1437 can also enable the use of more durable materials.

[0393] In some embodiments, the first side 1431 of the deformable guide 1418 can be fixed to the longitudinal side wall 1417 of the subject support 1410. In other words, the first side 1431 of the deformable guide 1431 can be permanently or removably attached to the longitudinal side wall 1417 of the subject support. This may involve chemical attachment means (e.g., bonding or gluing), or mechanical attachment means (e.g., locking mechanisms, such as tongue and groove configurations, slits, slots, and / or the use of Velcro). For example, Velcro can be attached to the longitudinal outer wall 1424 and the deformable guide (e.g., Velcro can be attached to the upper side 1435 of the deformable guide 1418). The Velcro can be attached to the longitudinal outer wall 1424 and / or the deformable guide by an adhesive (e.g., 3M adhesive). Further examples include hooks that can be glued or sewn to the deformable guide 1418. Such a mechanism can make the deformable guide 1418 easy to attach and remove, for example, for disinfection, cleaning, and / or replacement. In some embodiments, the first side 1431 of the deformable guide 1431 is at least partially adhered (eg, glued) to the longitudinal sidewall 1417 of the subject support 1410 .

[0394] The deformable guide 1418 is composed of a deformable material, such as an elastically deformable material and / or an elastically deformable material. In some embodiments, the deformable guide 1418 can be an elastically deformable guide. In such embodiments, the deformable guide 1418 is completely or substantially elastically deformable. The deformable guide 1418 can be an elastically deformable guide. In other words, the deformable guide 1418 can be able to withstand elastic deformation of the guide without plastic deformation. In other words, the deformable guide 1418 cannot be permanently deformed due to deformation. For example, when the force (e.g., compression) that deforms the deformable guide 1418 is released, the deformable guide 1418 can return to its original shape.

[0395] In some embodiments, the deformable guide 1418 can include an expanded plastic. For example, the deformable guide 1418 can include a foamed plastic, such as foamed neoprene. In some embodiments, the deformable guide can include a material having a particular density that can allow for reduced friction with other components of the device, or reduced wear due to contact with other components of the device.

[0396] In addition, the deformable guide may include a coating, such as a low friction coating. Such a coating may be a coating that can reduce friction and / or wear on the deformable guide. The low friction coating may be, for example, a Teflon coating or film, or a polyethylene coating or film.

[0397] Deformable guide 1418 may also include an outer side 1415. Outer side 1415 may include a surface that is not in contact with subject support 1410 or subject support receiving portion 1420 (e.g., longitudinal side wall 1417 of subject support 1410 or longitudinal outer wall 1424 of subject support receiving portion 1420). Outer side 1415 of deformable guide 1418 may include an outer side of the deformable guide that is farthest from tilt axis 1413. In some embodiments, when subject support 1410 is in a neutral tilt position, outer side 1415 may be straight (e.g., may be vertical or substantially vertical, or may have a constant gradient). In other embodiments, when subject support 1410 is in a neutral tilt position, outer side 1415 may be curved (e.g., may have a cross-section that is in the shape of an arc of a circle). In such embodiments, at the neutral tilt position, the outer side may have a radius of curvature defined relative to the tilt axis. In embodiments where the curvature of longitudinal sidewall 1417 has a radius of curvature defined relative to tilt axis 1413, the radius of curvature of the outer side of deformable guide 1418 may be greater than the radius of curvature of longitudinal sidewall 1417. In other words, outer side 1415 of deformable guide may be shaped such that it protrudes outward from subject support device 1400.

[0398] In some embodiments, deformable guide 1418 can further include upper side 1435. Upper side 1435 can be the uppermost surface of deformable guide 1418 and can be substantially parallel to subject support surface 1411. In some embodiments, where subject support surface 1411 includes extended edge 1419, upper side 1435 can at least partially contact the underside of extended edge 1419. In other embodiments, upper side 1435 can be an exposed surface of deformable guide 1418.

[0399] The upper side 1435 can be permanently or removably attached to the underside of the extended edge 1419. This may involve chemical attachment means (e.g., bonding or gluing), or mechanical attachment means (e.g., mechanical locking mechanisms, such as tongue and groove configurations, slits, slots, and / or the use of Velcro). For example, Velcro can be attached to the longitudinal outer wall 1424 and the deformable guide (e.g., Velcro can be attached to the upper side 1435 of the deformable guide 1418). Velcro can be attached to the longitudinal outer wall 1424 and / or the deformable guide by an adhesive (e.g., 3M adhesive). Further examples include hooks that can be glued or sewn to the deformable guide 1418. Such a mechanism can make the deformable guide 1418 easy to attach and remove, for example, for disinfection, cleaning, and / or replacement. In some embodiments, the upper side 1418 of the deformable guide 1435 is at least partially adhered (e.g., glued) to the underside of the extended edge 1419 of the subject support 1417.

[0400] In some embodiments, subject support device 1400 may further include another deformable guide that may be arranged similarly to deformable guide 1418, such as on an opposite side of subject support 1410. In such embodiments, deformable guide 1418 is referred to as first deformable guide 1418, and the other deformable guide is referred to as second deformable guide 1418. First deformable guide 1418 may include features as described in any of the embodiments disclosed herein. Second deformable guide 1418 may include features having similar or identical properties to the features of first deformable guide 1418. In some embodiments, first deformable guide 1418 and second deformable guide 1418 may be identical. In other embodiments, second deformable guide 1418 may include additional or different features relative to first deformable guide 1418. For example, first deformable guide 1418 may include channel 1437, and the second deformable guide may omit the feature. Any combination of these features may be used.

[0401] Fig.14a The subject support 1410 is shown in a neutral tilt position, where the tilt angle may be zero or substantially zero. In other words, the patient positioning surface may be parallel or substantially parallel to the horizontal (eg, the ground or floor).

[0402] In the neutral tilt position, the deformable guide 1418 may be in a neutral state or a deformed state. This may be a partially deformed state. In some embodiments, this may correspond to a partially compressed and / or contracted state. That is, when the subject support 1410 is in the neutral tilt position, the first deformable guide may be partially compressed.

[0403] In embodiments including an additional or another deformable guide 1418 (referred to herein as the second deformable guide 1418), the second deformable guide 1418 may also be in a neutral deformed state or in a partially deformed state. In some embodiments, this may correspond to a partially compressed state. That is, when the subject support 1410 is in the neutral tilt position, the second deformable guide may be partially compressed. The first deformable guide and the second deformable guide may be in the same or substantially equivalent compressed state in the neutral tilt position. In embodiments where the first and second deformable guides 1418 are made of the same or similar material, the first and second deformable guides are in the same or similar compressed state in the neutral tilt position.

[0404] Fig.14b A subject support 1410 is shown in a first tilted position. The first tilted position may be, for example, a maximum tilted position of the subject support. When the subject support is tilted to one side or the other by an angle of inclination, the subject support is said to be in an inclined position. In some embodiments, the subject support may be tilted by plus or minus 3 degrees from horizontal. At the first tilted position of the subject support, for example, tilted by -3° from horizontal, the distance between the lower surface of the extension edge 1419 and the longitudinal outer wall 1424 of the subject support receiving portion may be minimum. In particular, the distance may be the distance between the lower surface of the extension edge 1419 and the longitudinal outer wall 1424, the lower surface being located below the central longitudinal axis 1412, for example tilted downward. At the second tilted position, for example, tilted by +3° from horizontal, the distance between the lower surface of the extension edge 1419 and the longitudinal outer wall 1424 of the subject support receiving portion may be maximum. For example, the maximum may be the result of a physical limitation or setting, which is, for example, determined by the user, or indicated by the treatment plan. In particular, the distance may be the distance between the lower surface of the extended edge 1419 and the longitudinal outer wall 1424, the lower surface being located above the central longitudinal axis 1412, for example, inclined upward. Fig.14b As shown, they are represented as L and R respectively.

[0405] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, Fig.14b As shown, one longitudinal side of the device in a first inclined position will result in the opposite longitudinal side of the device in a second inclined position, and vice versa.

[0406] When the subject support 1410 is tilted relative to the tilt axis 1413, the deformable guide 1418 may be in a state of increasing deformation. In other words, when the subject support is tilted, the deformable guide may be in a state of relative contraction or expansion, depending on the direction of the tilt. The deformation of the deformable guide 1418 increases as the angle between the subject support 1410 and the longitudinal outer wall 1424 of the subject support receiving portion 1420 decreases. This can be the angle between the extended edge 1419 of the subject support surface 1411 and the longitudinal outer wall 1424 of the subject support receiving portion. That is, as the angle between the bottom surface (e.g., the underside) of the extended edge 1419 and the longitudinal outer wall 1424 decreases, the deformation of the deformable guide may increase. In embodiments where the deformable guide 1418 includes a compressible guide, as the angle between the extended edge 1419 or the underside of the subject support surface 1411 and the longitudinal outer wall 1424 of the subject support receiving portion increases, the compression of the deformable guide 1418 increases.

[0407] Deformable guide 1418-1 deforms as subject support 1410 approaches the first tilted position of subject support 1410. That is, deformation of the deformable guide increases as subject support 1410 tilts toward the first tilted position. In embodiments where the deformable guide is a compressible guide, deformable guide 1418-1 is increasingly compressed as subject support 1410 approaches the first tilted position.

[0408] In embodiments where deformable guide 1418 includes inner recess 1425, inner recess 1425 may deform substantially in proportion to the deformation of deformable guide 1418. That is, as the tilt of subject support 1410 approaches the first tilted position, inner recess 1425 may compress substantially in proportion to the deformation of deformable guide 1418-1.

[0409] The deformation of the deformable guide 1418-1 may cause the deformable guide 1418-1 to protrude and / or expand outwardly from the device. When the subject support 1410 is tilted toward or near the first tilted position, the increased deformation of the deformable guide 1418-1 may cause the deformable guide 1418-1 to protrude outwardly, such as in a direction away from the subject support 1410. That is, reducing the angle between the subject support 1410 and the longitudinal outer wall 1424 of the subject support receiving portion 1420 may cause the deformable guide 1418 to protrude or expand outwardly from the subject support device. In other words, the distance from the tilt axis 1413 to the farthest point on the deformable guide 1418-1 may increase as the deformation of the deformable guide 1418-1 increases. The outward expansion of the deformable guide 1418-1 may push any fingers or limbs away to prevent pinching of fingers.

[0410] In some embodiments, the lateral side 1415 of the deformable guide 1418-1 can include a distal end point on the deformable guide 1418-1 relative to the tilt axis 1413. In such embodiments, deformation of the deformable guide 1418-1 can cause the lateral side 1415 of the deformable guide 1418-1 to protrude outward from the device. That is, the distance between the tilt axis 1413 and the first lateral side 1415 of the deformable guide 1418-1 increases as the deformation of the deformable guide 1418-1 increases. That is, tilting of the subject support 1410 toward the first tilted position can cause the deformable guide to compress or contract in a generally downward direction relative to the horizontal axis and expand in an outward direction relative to the subject support 1410.

[0411] Thus, when the subject support 1410 is tilted toward the first tilted position, any limb, body part or cable that may contact the extended edge 1419, the deformable guide 1418-1 or the first outer wall 1424 of the subject support receiving portion 1420 will be pushed outward, thereby reducing the risk of pinching fingers.

[0412] In the first tilted position of the subject support 1410, the deformable guide 1418-1 can be in a state of increased deformation. This can be a state of maximum deformation. In embodiments where the deformable guide 1418-1 is a compressible guide, the deformable guide 1418-1 can be in a state of increased compression, or in a state of maximum compression at this first tilted position. The inner recess 1425, if present, is in a state of increase or maximum compression. In some embodiments, in the first tilted position of the subject support 1140, the inner recess 1425 is compressed so that the recess is negligible.

[0413] Deformable guide 1418-2 deforms as subject support 1410 approaches the second tilted position of subject support 1410. That is, deformation of the deformable guide increases as subject support 1410 tilts toward the second tilted position. In embodiments where the deformable guide is a compressible guide, deformable guide 1418-2 expands as subject support 1410 approaches the second tilted position.

[0414] In embodiments where the deformable guide 1418 includes an inner recess 1425, the inner recess 1425 may deform substantially in proportion to the deformation of the deformable guide 1418. That is, at the second inclined position of the deformable guide 1418-2, the inner recess 1425 may expand substantially in proportion to the deformation of the deformable guide 1418-2.

[0415] In some embodiments, the lateral side 1415 of the deformable guide 1418-2 may include a distal end point on the deformable guide 1418-2 relative to the tilt axis 1413. In such embodiments, deformation of the deformable guide 1418-2 may cause the lateral side 1415 of the deformable guide 1418-1 to expand or stretch. That is, the distance between the tilt axis 1413 and the lateral side 1415 of the deformable guide 1418-1 decreases as the deformation of the deformable guide 1418-1 increases. In other words, the tilting of the subject support 1410 when approaching the second tilted position causes the deformable guide to expand upward relative to the horizontal axis, and the upward expansion of the deformable guide 1418-2 may cause the lateral side 1415 of the deformable guide 1418-2 to move inward or toward the subject support 1410.

[0416] At the second inclined position of the subject support 1410, the deformable guide 1418-2 is in a state of increased deformation. This may be a state of maximum deformation. As previously described, the state of maximum deformation may be a deformed state beyond which no further deformation is possible, or a deformed state that reaches a maximum tilt angle, such as a maximum tilt angle set according to (e.g., from a user and / or a treatment plan). In an embodiment where the deformable guide 1418-2 is a compressible guide, the deformable guide 1418-1 may be in a reduced or minimum compression state at the second inclined position. This minimum compression state may also be referred to as an expanded state, and in some embodiments, the expanded state may be a "fully released" or neutral state.

[0417] In some embodiments, the subject support device 1400 may also include another deformable guide 1418 located on an opposite side of the device. In describing such embodiments, reference is made to the deformable guides as first deformable guide 1418 and second deformable guide 1418, respectively. Second deformable guide 1418 may include features having similar or identical properties to the features of first deformable guide 1418. In some embodiments, first deformable guide 1418 and second deformable guide 1418 may be identical. In other embodiments, second deformable guide 1418 may include additional or different features relative to first deformable guide 1418.

[0418] It should be understood that one longitudinal side of the subject support device in a first inclined position will cause the opposite longitudinal side of the device to be in a second inclined position, and vice versa. Thus, when the first deformable guide 1418 is in a state of increased contraction or compression, the second deformable guide will be in a state of decreased contraction or compression, and vice versa. Fig.14a As shown, when the subject support 1410 is in the neutral tilt position, the relative deformations of the first deformable guide and the second deformable guide can be substantially the same.

[0419] Fig.15 14 shows cross-sectional views of deformable guide 1418 at various tilted positions of subject support device 1400. The configuration of deformable guide 1418 in a first tilted position is indicated by A in the figure, the configuration of deformable guide 1418 in a neutral tilted position is indicated by B in the figure, and the configuration of deformable guide 1418 in a second tilted position is indicated by C in the figure.

[0420] The subject support device 1400 allows for a reduction in the risk of finger pinching due to the tilting of the subject support 1410 relative to the subject support receiving portion 1420 before or during treatment. The presence of the first deformable guide prevents the patient from placing a limb or finger in an area where there is a risk of finger pinching, such as under the extended edge 1419 of the device. In particular, in situations where a comatose, anesthetized or unconscious patient is being treated, the device 1400 provides a means of reducing the risk of a limb or finger of the patient being pinched in a finger pinching area. Such a patient is unable to actively withdraw a limb or finger from a finger pinching area, and therefore, the device provides a means by which, when the device is tilted, the troublesome finger or limb is pushed away from the finger pinching area without any effort on the part of the patient.

[0421] In addition, subject support device 1400 provides a method for reducing the risk of finger pinching without any impact on the design of subject support 1410. Subject support device 1400 can be compatible with many existing subject support designs and can be compatible with many existing subject support receiving portion designs. In other words, the finger pinching solution provided by subject support device 1400 can be adapted into existing designs without any impact on the design of existing devices. This finger pinching solution can also be adapted to other subject support device embodiments described herein without any impact on the design of the related subject support device.

[0422] Another advantage provided by the subject support device 1400 is that there is no impact on the minimum bench loading height when the design is implemented. That is, the presence of one or more deformable guides between the subject support and the subject support receiving portion does not impact the minimum bench loading height of the subject support. The one or more deformable guides can be sized so that they fit neatly between the existing subject support and the subject support receiving portion. This may involve fitting the one or more deformable guides below the extended edge of the subject support, or, in the absence of an extended edge, this may involve fitting the one or more deformable guides so that the one or more deformable guides do not extend above the subject support. The one or more deformable guides can be easily installed, removed, and replaced if necessary.

[0423] Thus, subject support device 1400 provides a low-cost and easily implemented means for mitigating the risk of finger pinching.

[0424] Cable Routing

[0425] Figures 16a to 16d Aspects of a subject support device 1600 are shown with some details omitted for simplicity.

[0426] Figures 16a to 16d A longitudinal sled 1616 is shown movably coupled to a platform 1618 located approximately below the longitudinal sled. The longitudinal sled 1616 can be used to support a subject support. The platform 1618 can include a recessed portion to receive the longitudinal sled. The recessed portion can include a groove that is complementary in shape to the underside of the longitudinal sled, thereby allowing the longitudinal sled 1616 to move smoothly along the platform 1618. In some embodiments, the longitudinal sled 1616 can translate along a guide rail 1660 attached to the platform 1618. The guide rail 1660 can be positioned within the recessed portion of the platform, or positioned along an associated groove.

[0427] A removable connection (not shown) is provided between the subject support and the platform 1618. The removable connection can be an interface board that is movable or translatable relative to the platform 1618. The interface board electrically connects the subject support to at least one cable so as to electrically connect the subject support to another component of the device via the cable. The interface board can be physically connected (e.g., attached) to the subject support. For example, the cable can electrically connect the subject support to an external power source or the platform itself. One or more cables can be routed along the platform 1618, or routed within the platform 1618, so as to connect to components of, for example, a radiotherapy device. Such electrical connections can include, for example, a connection to a tilt module of the subject support, wherein the tilt module is configured to control the tilt of the subject support relative to the platform.

[0428] An interface board is used to electrically connect a subject support to at least one cable so that the subject support is electrically connected to another (e.g., at least one) component of the device via the cable. The risk of finger pinching is eliminated or reduced. Typically, this type of device may include a number of individually connected cables that connect the subject support to other components of the device. If the subject support is tilted or moved relative to a platform generally disposed below it, the individual cables may move along the open grooves, become loose or taut, or become generally displaced, thereby causing a risk of finger pinching. A removable connection or interface board is provided, through which all cables are electrically connected to the subject support, thereby allowing the cables to be routed in a manner that avoids movement along the open grooves, or avoids general displacement. The routing of the cables can also avoid areas in the device where there are known risks of finger pinching.

[0429] In some embodiments, a cable chain 1662 may be provided. Such a cable chain may provide a cable management function, as one or more cables electrically connecting the subject support to other components of the radiation therapy device may be maintained within the cable chain. The cable chain 1662 may be placed on its side so that the height of the cable chain remains the same as the rolling mechanism. Thus, the cable chain 1662 does not increase the patient stepping height of the table.

[0430] like Fig.16b As shown, the device may also include a cover 1614 that covers at least a portion of the side of the platform 1618. The cover 1614 may be removably attached to the platform 1618. In addition, the cable chain 1662 and the associated cables contained within the cable chain are retained within the cover 1614. This further reduces the risk of pinching fingers or cable damage.

[0431] To route, maintain, or clean beneath or around the cables, the cover 1614 may be removed from the platform 1618 to facilitate access to the cable assembly.

[0432] Figure 16a to Figure 16band Figures 16c to 16d Movement of the subject support and longitudinal sled 1616 along platform 1618 is shown. It can be seen that the subject support and sled 1616 have translated along platform 1618. In addition, it can be seen that cable chain 1662 moves with the subject support to maintain electrical connections between the subject support and any external cables. This arrangement allows the cables to remain neatly arranged within cable chain 1662 in all subject support configurations.

[0433] Fig.17 Shows Figures 16a to 16c The embodiment of the apparatus shown in which the electrical connection provided between the subject support and one or more external cables includes at least one cable routed within platform 1616 to provide an electrical connection to a portion of lower lateral sled 1644 .

[0434] Figures 18a to 18c A detailed view of a movable connection or interface plate between longitudinal sled 1616 (not shown) and platform 1618 of subject support device 1600 is shown.

[0435] exist Fig.18a 16, longitudinal sled 1616 and cover 1614 have been removed from the figure to expose interface plate 1646. It can be seen that the interface plate can be partially or fully supported by platform 1618, which is generally disposed below interface plate 1646. Subject support device 1600 may include a slot configured to receive the interface plate. The slot may be defined by a gap between the cover (not shown) and platform 1618.

[0436] The interface plate can translate relative to the platform and can translate along a slot (e.g., a groove or gap) defined between the platform 1618 and a cover (not shown). Such a slot or gap can be configured to accommodate movement of the interface plate 1646 relative to the platform 1618.

[0437] like Figures 16a to 16d As shown, movement of the subject support relative to platform 1618 may result in movement of interface plate 1646. Interface plate 1646 may be attached to longitudinal sled 1616 and / or subject support (not shown) by cables or other means such that movement of the subject support relative to platform 1618 results in corresponding movement of interface plate 1646. For example, these movements may be translational movements, wherein when longitudinal sled translates along guide rail 1660, interface plate 1646 undergoes corresponding translational movement.

[0438] Movement of the longitudinal sled 1616 relative to the platform 1618 may expose a portion of a slot or gap defined in the device.

[0439] Additionally, interface plate 1646 may be mounted to subject support or longitudinal sled 1616 such that interface plate 1646 is partially disposed within subject support or longitudinal sled 1616. Interface plate 1646 will then move or translate with subject support or longitudinal sled 1616.

[0440] Interface plate 1646 may be a printed circuit board, a flat cable, and / or the like, and may be mounted on support plate 1850. One or more interface plates 1646 and support plate 1850 may be configured to be received by a slot defined in subject support device 1600. For example, support plate 1850 may be sized to be received by the slot, or may include grooves or ridges that allow it to translate smoothly along the slot.

[0441] The interface plate 1646 has a plurality of electrical connection points 1848 for connection to the subject support. The electrical connection points may be connected directly to the subject support, or may be connected through the longitudinal sled 1616 (not shown).

[0442] The interface board 1646 may also include a connection point for connecting to the cable chain 1662 so that at least one cable housed in the cable chain may be electrically connected to the interface board 1646 .

[0443] The cover 1614 can be configured to cover the cable and / or cable chain 1662, such as Fig.18b shown.

[0444] In some embodiments, the narrow slot defined between the cover portion 1614 and the platform 1618 may be no more than 8 mm wide, and is preferably as wide as Fig.18c 6.6mm is shown. This ensures that the slot itself does not pose a finger pinching risk to a user using the device. The interface board can be a 1.6mm thick printed circuit board so that it can be received in the defined slot. The support plate can preferably be 2mm thick so that it can be received in the defined slot together with the interface board. Preferably, a 1.5mm gap can be left between the support plate 1850 and the platform 1618 and between the interface board 1852 and the cover 1614. In some embodiments, the flat cable can be used in a similar manner as a supplement or alternative to the printed circuit board.

[0445] For all of the above embodiments, in some embodiments, the operation of an actuator (eg, actuator 625) may be controlled by a software program executed by a processor. However, if desired, the operation of actuator 625 may be manually controlled.

[0446] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the subject support of the subject support device 114 can be tilted or rotated (pitch) about the transverse (X-) axis 115 and / or tilted or rotated (roll) about the longitudinal (Y-) axis 113. Therefore, according to the present disclosure, the patient 140 can be positioned with two additional degrees of freedom. The two additional degrees of freedom (pitch and roll) can be adjusted individually or in combination, and when the couch is in a neutral rotation position (yaw) or in a rotation position. For the safety and comfort of the patient, the amount of pitch and roll is preferably limited to a predetermined maximum angle. An embodiment of the present disclosure provides an arrangement for achieving one or more additional degrees of freedom in pitch and / or roll using simple mechanical elements, and the movement of the support surface can be directly controlled due to the independent and predictable movement of the support surface along the inclined surface of the guide in the transverse or longitudinal direction. Due to the simple arrangement, the size of the couch remains relatively compact and the center of gravity remains low. The rotation of the support surface about the transverse axis and the longitudinal axis can be arranged to pivot around the same point in the center of the board, thereby minimizing any compensation required in the X, Y or Z direction. The disclosed arrangement of relative guides limits or prevents movement of the plate 640 (and thereby the subject support 212) in the direction of the axis of the first guide (and optional second guide). In other words, the arrangement of the guides according to the preferred embodiment limits or locks rotation about the Z-axis. Thus, no additional stabilization mechanism is required to prevent accidental rotation about the Z-axis when the support surface is rolled or pitched. The position of the guides provides a wide base for receiving the weight of the support surface and the subject thereon, thereby improving the stability of the support surface. In some examples, the subject support or sections thereof can pitch or roll about an axis separated from the isocenter 124, and different sections can move to compensate and keep a portion 114 of the couch substantially at the isocenter 124. In this way, radiation can be maximized through healthy tissue while maximizing the radiation dose delivered to the target area.

[0447] The embodiments of the present disclosure described above are merely exemplary, and many variations are possible, which will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the above description includes examples of preferred and / or optional features of the disclosed embodiments, and is not intended to be strictly followed in the meaning of the words, and there may be other variations apparent to those skilled in the art that will produce substantially the same or similar effects.

[0448] The following embodiments are also disclosed:

[0449] 1. A subject support device for a radiotherapy device, the subject support device comprising:

[0450] a subject support, and

[0451] The subject supports the receiving portion;

[0452] wherein the subject support is configured to be inclined relative to the subject support receiving portion; and

[0453] A deformable guide comprising a first face and a second face, wherein throughout a tilted configuration:

[0454] The first face is arranged to at least partially contact a longitudinal side wall of the subject support, and

[0455] The second face is arranged to contact a longitudinal outer wall of the subject support receiving portion.

[0456] 2. A device according to clause 1, wherein the deformable guide is elastically deformable.

[0457] 3. A device according to clause 1 or clause 2, wherein the deformable guide comprises expandable plastic.

[0458] 4. Apparatus according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the length of the portion of the first face arranged in contact with the longitudinal side wall of the subject support is less than 15 mm.

[0459] 5. A device according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the deformable guide comprises a low friction coating.

[0460] 6. A device according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first face of the deformable guide comprises a recess.

[0461] 7. A device according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the deformable guide comprises a channel extending longitudinally through the deformable guide.

[0462] 8. Apparatus according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the deformable guide is in a deformed state when the subject support is in a neutral tilt position.

[0463] 9. Apparatus according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein deformation of the deformable guide increases as the angle between the subject support and the longitudinal outer wall of the subject support receiving portion decreases.

[0464] 10. Apparatus according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the deformable guide expands outwardly from the apparatus as the angle between the subject support and the longitudinal outer wall of the subject support receiving portion decreases.

[0465] 11. An apparatus according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein:

[0466] The deformable guide also includes an upper side surface;

[0467] The subject support includes a subject support surface that projects above a longitudinal wall of the subject support; and

[0468] The upper side of the deformable guide is attached to an underside of the subject support surface.

[0469] 12. Apparatus according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the deformable guide is attached to the subject support and / or the subject support receiving portion.

[0470] 13. A device according to any of the preceding clauses, comprising a further deformable guide,

[0471] The further deformable guide comprises a third face and a fourth face, wherein, throughout the tilted configuration:

[0472] The third face is arranged to at least partially contact another longitudinal side wall of the subject support, and

[0473] The fourth face is arranged to be in contact with another longitudinal outer wall of the subject support receiving portion.

[0474] 14. A radiotherapy apparatus comprising a subject support device as described in any one of clauses 1 to 13.

[0475] 15. A subject support device for a radiotherapy apparatus, the device comprising:

[0476] a subject support receiving portion, the subject support receiving portion comprising a longitudinal inner wall and a longitudinal outer wall, the longitudinal outer wall being inclined relative to a horizontal axis;

[0477] A subject support comprising:

[0478] - longitudinal side walls, and

[0479] - a tabletop element comprising a surface and an extended edge, said extended edge extending beyond said longitudinal side wall,

[0480] The subject support is tiltable relative to the subject support receiving portion about a tilt axis,

[0481] wherein the longitudinal side wall is arranged opposite to the longitudinal inner wall of the subject support receiving portion, and

[0482] wherein, at a maximum tilted position of the subject support, a distance between a lower surface of the extended edge and the longitudinal outer wall increases with increasing displacement from a central longitudinal axis of the subject support.

[0483] 16. An apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the longitudinal outer wall is inclined at a first angle relative to the horizontal axis, and at the maximum inclination position of the subject support, the extended edge is at a second angle relative to the horizontal axis, and wherein the difference between the first angle and the second angle is greater than a threshold angle difference.

[0484] 17. An apparatus according to clause 15 or clause 16, wherein the extended edge is flush with the surface of the table top member.

[0485] 18. Apparatus according to any one of clauses 15 to 17, wherein the subject support receiving portion comprises a cover portion.

[0486] 19. The apparatus of any one of clauses 15 to 18, wherein the extended edge of the tabletop component further comprises a recess for receiving at least a portion of an accessory attached to the subject support.

[0487] 20. The apparatus of clause 19, wherein the recess comprises an accessory surface on a side of the subject support, the accessory surface opposite the surface of the tabletop component.

[0488] 21. The apparatus of any one of clauses 15 to 20, wherein the longitudinal side wall includes a portion that does not oppose the longitudinal inner wall of the subject support receiving portion as the subject support tilts about the tilt axis.

[0489] 22. Apparatus according to any one of clauses 15 to 21, wherein the extended edge of the tabletop portion of the subject support comprises a liquid guide for minimising liquid from entering the subject support receiving portion.

[0490] 23. The apparatus of clause 22, wherein the liquid guide comprises a groove configured to interrupt the flow of liquid from the subject support to the subject support receiving portion.

[0491] 24. A device according to clause 23, wherein the groove is located on the underside of the extended edge and is arranged to provide a capillary action.

[0492] 25. Apparatus according to clause 22 or clause 23, wherein the liquid guide is arranged substantially parallel to the tilting axis.

[0493] 26. The apparatus of any one of clauses 22 to 25, wherein the liquid guide is configured to direct liquid away from a gap in which the subject support receiving portion receives the subject support, the gap being defined by the longitudinal side wall and the longitudinal inner wall.

[0494] 27. Apparatus according to clause 26, wherein the gap is located at a position where the subject support emerges from or retracts into the subject support receiving portion when the subject support is tilted about the tilt axis.

[0495] 28. A radiotherapy apparatus comprising a subject support device as described in any one of clauses 15 to 27.

[0496] 29. A subject support device for a radiotherapy apparatus, the device comprising:

[0497] a subject support comprising a first longitudinal sidewall and a second longitudinal sidewall, the first longitudinal sidewall and the second longitudinal sidewall each having a radius of curvature defined relative to an inclined axis, the subject support having a maximum width less than or equal to two times the radius of curvature; and

[0498] a subject support receiving portion comprising a first longitudinal inner wall and a second longitudinal inner wall, the first longitudinal inner wall and the second longitudinal inner wall each having a radius of curvature defined relative to the tilt axis, the first longitudinal inner wall and the second longitudinal inner wall being arranged opposite the first longitudinal side wall and the second longitudinal side wall, respectively, of the subject support,

[0499] wherein the subject support is configured to tilt relative to the subject support receiving portion about the tilt axis, and

[0500] Wherein, the curvature radius of the first longitudinal inner wall and the second longitudinal inner wall is greater than the curvature radius of the first longitudinal side wall and the second longitudinal side wall.

[0501] 30. The device according to clause 29, wherein the radius of curvature of the first longitudinal inner wall and the second longitudinal inner wall is less than 8 mm greater than the radius of curvature of the first longitudinal side wall and the second longitudinal side wall.

[0502] 31. An apparatus according to clause 29 or clause 30, wherein the subject support receiving portion is constructed so that tilting of the subject support member about the tilt axis causes the first longitudinal side wall to appear from the subject support receiving portion and the second longitudinal side wall to retract into the subject support receiving portion, or alternatively, causes the second longitudinal side wall to appear from the subject support receiving portion and the first longitudinal side wall to retract into the subject support receiving portion.

[0503] 32. Apparatus according to any one of clauses 29 to 31, wherein in all inclined configurations of the subject support a portion of at least one of the first and second longitudinal side walls protrudes from the subject support receiving portion.

[0504] 33. Apparatus according to any one of clauses 29 to 32, wherein a portion of at least one of the first and second longitudinal side walls of the subject support comprises an additional recess for receiving at least a portion of an accessory attached to the subject support.

[0505] 34. Apparatus according to any one of clauses 29 to 33, wherein the subject support comprises a liquid guide for directing fluid away from the subject support receiving portion.

[0506] 35. The device of clause 34, wherein the liquid guide is configured to interrupt the flow of liquid from the subject support toward a gap defined by the first longitudinal side wall and the first longitudinal inner wall or by the second longitudinal side wall and the second longitudinal inner wall.

[0507] 36. The device according to clause 35, wherein the liquid guide is configured to direct the liquid flow away from the gap.

[0508] 37. A device according to any one of clauses 34 to 36 when dependent on clause 32, wherein the liquid guide comprises a rim protruding from the surface of the recess.

[0509] 38. The device of any one of clauses 34 to 36, wherein the liquid guiding portion comprises a channel within the subject support receiving portion.

[0510] 39. A device according to clause 38, wherein the channel is configured to direct liquid towards a longitudinal end of the device.

[0511] 40. The device of any one of clauses 34 to 36, wherein the liquid guide comprises a groove configured to exhibit capillary action.

[0512] 41. The apparatus of any one of clauses 29 to 40, wherein the subject support further comprises:

[0513] a top surface between the first longitudinal sidewall and the second longitudinal sidewall, the top surface being parallel to the ground when the subject support is in a neutral tilt position; and

[0514] A base surface between the first longitudinal sidewall and the second longitudinal sidewall, the base surface being on an opposite side of the subject support from the top surface.

[0515] 42. The device of clause 41, wherein the base surface is curved with a radius of curvature of the first and second longitudinal side walls.

[0516] 43. The device of clause 41, wherein the base surface is substantially flat.

[0517] 44. A radiotherapy apparatus comprising a device according to any one of clauses 29 to 43.

[0518] 45. A subject support device for a radiotherapy apparatus, the subject support device comprising:

[0519] platform;

[0520] a subject support movable relative to and supported by the platform; and

[0521] an interface plate capable of moving relative to the platform,

[0522] wherein the interface plate is physically coupled to the subject support such that translation of the subject support relative to the platform causes translation of the interface plate, and

[0523] Wherein the interface plate is configured to electrically connect the subject support to a cable.

[0524] 46. ​​The apparatus of clause 45, wherein the platform is arranged to support the interface board.

[0525] 47. The apparatus of clause 45 or clause 46, further comprising a slot configured to receive the interface plate.

[0526] 48. The device of clause 47, wherein the slot is defined by a gap between the platform and a cover, the cover being disposed generally above the platform.

[0527] 49. The device of clause 48, wherein the cover is configured to cover a cable.

[0528] 50. The apparatus of any one of clauses 47 to 49, wherein movement of the subject support relative to the platform at least partially exposes the slot.

[0529] 51. The apparatus of any one of clauses 47 to 50, wherein the slot is configured to accommodate movement of the interface plate relative to the platform.

[0530] 52. The device of any one of clauses 47 to 51, wherein the interface plate is configured to translate along the slot.

[0531] 53. A device according to any one of clauses 47 to 52, wherein the width of the narrow slot is less than or equal to 8 mm.

[0532] 54. Apparatus according to any one of clauses 45 to 53, wherein the interface plate is mounted on the subject support.

[0533] 55. The apparatus of any one of clauses 45 to 54, wherein the interface board comprises a printed circuit board and / or a flat cable.

[0534] 56. The apparatus of clause 55, wherein the interface board further comprises a support plate for supporting the printed circuit board and / or the flat cable.

[0535] 57. The device of any one of clauses 45 to 56, wherein the device further comprises a cable chain configured to receive a cable.

[0536] 58. The apparatus of clause 57, wherein the cable chain is configured to hold a plurality of cables.

[0537] 59. Apparatus according to clause 57 or clause 58, wherein the cable chain is arranged between the cover and the platform.

[0538] 60. The apparatus of any one of clauses 45 to 59, wherein the platform is configured to route one or more cables within the platform.

[0539] 61. The apparatus of any one of clauses 45 to 60, wherein the interface board is constructed to electrically couple with a tilt module configured to control the tilt of the subject support relative to the platform.

[0540] 62. The apparatus of any one of clauses 45 to 61, wherein the interface board is configured to electrically connect the subject support to a plurality of electrical cables.

[0541] 63. The apparatus of any one of clauses 45 to 62, wherein the interface board comprises a plurality of electrical connections to the subject support.

[0542] 64. A radiotherapy apparatus comprising a device according to any one of clauses 45 to 63.

[0543] 65. An apparatus for a subject support device, the apparatus comprising:

[0544] a linkage for moving the platform, the linkage being movable between an extended position and a retracted position; and

[0545] a base movably coupled to the linkage, wherein the base includes a linkage receiving area configured to receive at least a portion of the linkage when the linkage is in the retracted position, and

[0546] Wherein, when the linkage is in the extended posture, the portion of the linkage extends beyond the base.

[0547] 66. The apparatus of clause 65, wherein the linkage receiving area comprises a recess.

[0548] 67. The apparatus of clause 65 or clause 66, wherein the linkage receiving area comprises a cut-out portion of the base.

[0549] 68. Apparatus according to any one of clauses 64 to 67, wherein the linkage receiving area is defined as having a thickness measured vertically which is less than the overall thickness of the base.

[0550] 69. Apparatus according to any one of clauses 64 to 68, wherein the base is movably coupled to the linkage by a coupling disposed in the linkage receiving area.

[0551] 70. The apparatus of any one of clauses 64 to 69, wherein the linkage comprises a first member movably coupled to the base, and wherein the base is configured to receive at least a portion of the first member.

[0552] 71. An apparatus according to clause 70, wherein the first member has a length and a width, and wherein the received portion of the first member extends along the length of the first member.

[0553] 72. The apparatus of clause 70 or clause 71, wherein the linkage further comprises a second member movably coupled to the first member, and wherein the second member is movably coupled to the platform.

[0554] 73. The apparatus of any one of clauses 64 to 72, wherein the linkage is configured to adjust at least one of the height, pitch, roll and yaw of the subject support platform.

[0555] 74. Apparatus according to clause 73, wherein the linkage is disposed below a platform of the subject support device.

[0556] 75. Apparatus according to clause 73 or clause 74, wherein the linkage and the base are configured for a stacking arrangement with a platform of the subject support device.

[0557] 76. Apparatus according to any one of clauses 64 to 75, wherein the base is configured to be removably coupled to the floor of a treatment room.

[0558] 77. Apparatus according to any one of clauses 64 to 76, wherein the linkage is configured to raise and / or lower the platform.

[0559] 78. Apparatus as claimed in any one of clauses 64 to 77, wherein the recess extends towards a bottom surface of the base.

[0560] 79. A subject support device comprising: an apparatus according to any one of clauses 64 to 78.

[0561] 80. The subject support device of clause 79, further comprising a platform.

Claims

1. A subject support device for a radiotherapy device, the device comprising: a subject support, and The subject supports the receiving portion; wherein the subject support is configured to be inclined relative to the subject support receiving portion; and A deformable guide comprising a first face and a second face, wherein throughout a tilted configuration: The first face is arranged to at least partially contact a longitudinal side wall of the subject support, and The second face is arranged to contact a longitudinal outer wall of the subject support receiving portion.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The deformable guide is elastically deformable.

3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The deformable guide comprises expandable plastic.

4. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The portion of the first face arranged to contact the longitudinal sidewall of the subject support has a length of less than 15 mm.

5. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The deformable guide includes a low friction coating.

6. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first face of the deformable guide includes a recess.

7. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The deformable guide includes a channel extending longitudinally therethrough.

8. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: When the subject support is in the neutral tilt position, the deformable guide is in a deformed state.

9. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: Deformation of the deformable guide increases as the angle between the subject support and the longitudinal outer wall of the subject support receiving portion decreases.

10. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: As the angle between the subject support and the longitudinal outer wall of the subject support receiving portion decreases, the deformable guide expands outwardly from the device.

11. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The deformable guide also includes an upper side surface; The subject support includes a subject support surface that projects above a longitudinal wall of the subject support; and The upper side of the deformable guide is attached to an underside of the subject support surface.

12. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The deformable guide is attached to the subject support and / or the subject support receiving portion.

13. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a further deformable guide, The other deformable guide comprises a third surface and a fourth surface, wherein, Throughout the tilted structure: The third face is arranged to at least partially contact another longitudinal side wall of the subject support, and The fourth face is arranged to be in contact with another longitudinal outer wall of the subject support receiving portion.

14. A subject support device for a radiotherapy apparatus, the device comprising: a subject support receiving portion including a longitudinal inner wall and a longitudinal outer wall, the longitudinal outer wall being inclined relative to a horizontal axis; A subject support comprising: longitudinal side walls, and a tabletop component comprising a surface and an extended edge, the extended edge extending beyond the longitudinal side wall, the subject support being tiltable relative to the subject support receiving portion about a tilt axis; wherein the longitudinal side wall is arranged opposite to the longitudinal inner wall of the subject support receiving portion; and wherein, at a maximum tilted position of the subject support, a distance between a lower surface of the extended edge and the longitudinal outer wall increases with increasing displacement from a central longitudinal axis of the subject support.

15. A subject support device for a radiotherapy apparatus, the device comprising: a subject support comprising a first longitudinal sidewall and a second longitudinal sidewall, the first longitudinal sidewall and the second longitudinal sidewall each having a radius of curvature defined relative to an inclination axis, the subject support having a maximum width less than or equal to two times the radius of curvature; and a subject support receiving portion comprising a first longitudinal inner wall and a second longitudinal inner wall, the first longitudinal inner wall and the second longitudinal inner wall each having a radius of curvature defined relative to the tilt axis, the first longitudinal inner wall and the second longitudinal inner wall being arranged opposite the first longitudinal side wall and the second longitudinal side wall, respectively, of the subject support, wherein the subject support is configured to tilt relative to the subject support receiving portion about the tilt axis, and Wherein, the curvature radius of the first longitudinal inner wall and the second longitudinal inner wall is greater than the curvature radius of the first longitudinal side wall and the second longitudinal side wall.

16. A subject support device for a radiotherapy apparatus, the device comprising: platform; a subject support movable relative to and supported by the platform; and an interface plate capable of moving relative to the platform, wherein the interface plate is physically coupled to the subject support such that translation of the subject support relative to the platform causes translation of the interface plate, and Wherein the interface plate is configured to electrically connect the subject support to a cable.

17. An apparatus for a subject support device, the apparatus comprising: a linkage for moving the platform, the linkage being movable between an extended position and a retracted position; and a base movably coupled to the linkage, wherein the base includes a linkage receiving area configured to receive at least a portion of the linkage when the linkage is in the retracted position, and Wherein, when the linkage is in the extended posture, the portion of the linkage extends beyond the base.

Images