Medical imaging system cable

Abstract

The invention relates to a medical imaging system cable. A system for a medical imaging system (200) is provided. In one example, a medical imaging system (200) includes a C-arc (202) and a radiation source (204) coupled to a first end (218) of the C-arc (202) and a detector (206) opposite the radiation source (204) coupled to a second end (220) of the C-arc, where the detector (206) is configured to receive radiation from the radiation source (204). The medical imaging system (200) also includes a pivot arm (216) configured to adjust a position of the C-arc (202) and a cable chain (224) coupled to each of the C-arc (202) and the pivot arm (216) via rotatable joints (230, 232), where the cable chain (224) extends upwardly from each of the rotatable joints (232, 230) at each of a plurality of positions of the C-arc (202).

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 593,899, filed on October 27, 2023, entitled “MEDICAL IMAGING SYSTEM CABLE,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] Embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein relate to cables for medical imaging systems, and more particularly, to cables for medical imaging systems including a C-shaped table. Background Art

[0004] Radiographic systems can be used in a variety of applications, including medical and industrial applications. In a medical setting, a radiographic system can provide a non-invasive way to image a patient's tissue and bones. Some radiographic systems may include a rotatable, curved arm, referred to as a C-arc, coupled to a base unit. The C-arc may include an x-ray source at one end and a detector at the other end. A gap may be provided between the x-ray source and the detector to accommodate an object, such as a portion of a patient's body, which may be irradiated with radiation from the x-ray source. When irradiating the object, the x-ray radiation penetrates the object and is captured by the detector. By penetrating an object placed between the source and the detector, the x-rays enable an image of the object to be captured and transferred to a display monitor, where the image may be displayed or stored and retrieved later. Summary of the invention

[0005] In one example, a medical imaging system includes a C-shaped arc and a radiation source coupled to a first end of the C-shaped arc and a detector coupled to a second end of the C-shaped arc opposite to the radiation source, wherein the detector is configured to receive radiation from the radiation source. The medical imaging system also includes a pivot arm configured to adjust a position of the C-shaped arc and a cable chain coupled to each of the C-shaped arc and the pivot arm via a rotatable joint, wherein the cable chain extends upward from each of the rotatable joints at each of a plurality of positions of the C-shaped arc.

[0006] It should be understood that the above brief description is provided to introduce in a simplified form selected concepts that are further described in the detailed description. It is not meant to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, the scope of which is uniquely defined by the claims that follow the detailed description. Furthermore, the claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any disadvantages noted above or in any part of this disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The present invention will be better understood by reading the following description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0008] Figure 1 An exemplary medical imaging system including a C-shaped arc is shown;

[0009] Figures 2 to 4 Various views of a C-shaped arc comprising a cable chain are shown;

[0010] Figures 5 to 7 The C-arc and cable chain are shown in different positions;

[0011] Figure 8 A cable connector including a connector cover coupled to a cable connector mount is shown;

[0012] Fig. 9 Shows the cable connector without the connector cover and Figure 8 Cable connector mounting base;

[0013] Fig.10 A cable link connector is shown;

[0014] Fig.11 A cable link connector mount on a pivoting arm of a medical imaging system is shown;

[0015] Fig.12 A cable chain mount on a C-shaped arc of a medical imaging device is shown;

[0016] Fig.13 A portion of a cable connector mount and a cable connector for accommodating a plurality of cables is shown;

[0017] Fig.14 A cable chain having two cable chain connectors coupled to a medical imaging system is shown;

[0018] Fig.15 shows a first view of a cable chain including two cable chain joints;

[0019] Fig.16 Shows Fig.15 a second view of the cable chain; and

[0020] Fig.17 Shows Fig.15 A third view of the cable chain. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The following description relates to various embodiments of a medical imaging system. A medical imaging system (such as Figures 1 to 7The medical imaging system shown in FIG. 1 includes a C-shaped arc. A radiation source is disposed at a first end of the C-shaped arc, and a radiation detector is disposed at an opposite second end of the C-shaped arc. A subject to be imaged by the medical imaging system may be disposed between the radiation source and the radiation detector. The radiation source may emit radiation, such as x-ray radiation, and the radiation may pass through the subject, wherein attenuated x-ray radiation that has passed through the subject is intercepted or received by the detector. During imaging, as shown in FIG. Figures 5 to 7 As shown, the C-shaped arc can be oriented in more than one position so that radiation can pass through the subject at a plurality of different angles.

[0022] The medical imaging system may include a cable management system including a cable chain, such as Figures 15 to 17 As shown, it is configured to accommodate one or more power cables of a medical imaging system. Figure 8 and Fig.14 As shown, the cable chain may be coupled to the medical imaging system via pivotable joints of the cable management system, which are coupled to corresponding joint mounts of the medical imaging system. Figures 9 to 12 An enlarged view of the pivotable joint and joint mount is shown. Fig.13 As shown, the cables may be passed through the pivotable joint and the joint mount. Figures 2 to 4 and Figures 8 to 17 Shown are to scale, but other relative dimensions may be used.

[0023] refer to Figure 1 , schematically illustrates an imaging system 100 including a C-arc 102 (which may also be referred to herein as a C-gantry or C-arm). The imaging system 100 may be referred to herein as a medical imaging system and / or a C-arc imaging system. The imaging system 100 includes a radiation source, and in the examples described herein, the radiation source is an x-ray unit 108 (which may be referred to herein as an x-ray tube) that is positioned relative to a detector 130 (which may be referred to herein as an x-ray detector) and is configured to emit x-ray radiation. In other examples, the radiation source may be configured to emit different types of radiation such as gamma rays for imaging (e.g., imaging a subject such as a patient 134), and the detector (e.g., the x-ray detector 130) may be configured to detect radiation emitted by the radiation source (e.g., the x-ray beam 132). The imaging system 100 additionally includes a base unit 105 that supports the imaging system 100 on a ground surface 190 on which the imaging system 100 sits (eg, via a base 122 supported by wheels 124, wheels 126, etc.).

[0024] The C-shaped arc 102 includes a C-shaped portion 103 connected to an extension portion 107, wherein the extension portion 107 is rotatably coupled to the base unit 105. The detector 130 is coupled to the C-shaped portion 103 at a first end 150 of the C-shaped portion 103, and the x-ray unit 108 is coupled to the C-shaped portion 103 at an opposite second end 152 of the C-shaped portion 103. For example, the C-shaped arc 102 can be configured to rotate at least 180 degrees in opposite directions relative to the base unit 105. The C-shaped arc 102 can rotate about at least the rotation axis 164, and can additionally rotate about the axis 167. The C-shaped portion 103 can be rotated as described above to adjust the x-ray unit 108 and the detector 130 (positioned on opposite ends of the C-shaped portion of the C-shaped arc 102 along the axis 166, wherein the axis 166 intersects the rotation axis 164 and extends radially relative to the rotation axis 164) through a plurality of positions.

[0025] During an imaging operation (e.g., scanning), a portion of a patient's body placed in an opening formed between the x-ray unit 108 and the detector 130 may be irradiated with radiation from the x-ray unit 108. For example, the patient 134 may be supported by a patient support table 136 (where the patient support table 136 includes a support surface 138 and a base 140) and may be disposed between the x-ray unit 108 and the detector 130. The x-ray unit 108 includes an x-ray tube insert 109, and x-ray radiation generated by the x-ray tube insert 109 may be emitted from the x-ray unit 108. The radiation may penetrate the portion of the patient's body disposed to be irradiated, and may travel to the detector 130 where it is captured (e.g., intercepted by a detector surface 113 of the detector 130). By penetrating the portion of the patient's body placed between the x-ray unit 108 and the detector 130, an image of the patient's body is captured and relayed to the electronic controller 120 of the imaging system 100 (e.g., via an electrical connection such as a conductive cable 161). The image may be displayed via the display device 118. The images of the subject acquired by the imaging system 100 via the x-ray unit 108 and the detector 130 as described above may be referred to herein as projection images and / or scanned projection images.

[0026] The base unit 105 may include an electronic controller (e.g., a control and computing unit) that processes instructions or commands sent from a user input device during operation of the imaging system 100. The base unit 105 may also include an internal power source (not shown) that provides power to operate the imaging system 100. Alternatively, the base unit 105 may be connected to an external electrical power source to power the imaging system 100. A plurality of connection lines (e.g., cables, such as conductive cables 161) may be provided to transmit power, instructions, and / or data between the X-ray unit 108, the detector 130, and the control and computing unit. The plurality of connection lines may transmit power from an electrical power source (e.g., an internal and / or external power source) to the X-ray unit 108 and the detector 130.

[0027] The C-shaped arc 102 can be adjusted to a plurality of different positions by rotating the C-shaped portion 103 of the C-shaped arc 102. Figure 1 In the illustrated initial first position, the detector 130 may be positioned vertically above the x-ray unit 108 relative to a ground surface 190 on which the imaging system 100 is located, wherein an axis 166 disposed perpendicular to the ground surface 190 intersects a midpoint of each of an exit of the x-ray unit 108 and a detector surface 113 of the detector 130. The C-shaped arc 102 may be adjusted from the first position to a different second position by rotating the C-shaped portion 103. In one example, the second position may be a position in which the x-ray unit 108 and the detector 130 are rotated together 180 degrees relative to the first position, such that the x-ray unit 108 is positioned vertically above the detector 130, wherein the axis 166 intersects a midpoint of the exit of the x-ray unit 108 and a midpoint of the detector surface 113 of the detector 130. When adjusted to the second position, the x-ray unit 108 may be positioned vertically above an axis of rotation 164 of the C-shaped portion 103 of the C-shaped arc 102, and the detector 130 may be positioned vertically below the axis of rotation 164. Different rotational positions of the C-arc 102 are possible.

[0028] The x-ray unit 108 may include an x-ray tube including a cathode that emits a stream of electrons in response to heat generated by an applied voltage and an anode that includes a target that is struck by the stream of electrons to generate x-rays (e.g., to perform one or more x-ray exposures on a patient of the imaging system). A voltage is applied at a gridded electrode of the cathode to turn the cathode on (e.g., a bias voltage to generate x-rays) or off (e.g., a grid voltage to stop the generation of x-rays). The cathode may be bipolar, where the gridded voltage has a first polarity (e.g., negative) and the bias voltage has an opposite polarity (e.g., positive), or the cathode may be unipolar, where both the gridded voltage and the bias voltage have a single polarity (e.g., negative).

[0029] The voltage change for turning the cathode on and off can be generated by driving the electronics of the cathode connected by a cable (e.g., cable 161). It should be understood that cable 161 may include multiple separate cables bundled in a common housing. When the cathode of the x-ray tube is unipolar (unipolar / monopolar), cable 161 includes a high voltage (HV) cable to deliver the grid voltage and bias voltage, rather than two separate cables. Therefore, relative to the cable used when the cathode is bipolar, the HV cable requires strong insulation, and is thicker, and has higher rigidity and limited torsion and bending capabilities. Therefore, when the cathode is unipolar, different cables can be used, and therefore, the HV cable for a unipolar cathode can be referred to as a unipolar cable. The use of a unipolar cathode and a corresponding unipolar cable can provide higher image quality than a system that relies on a bipolar tube. As explained above, because the C-shaped arc rotates around the patient to take images, the cable 161 is movable, and it may be desirable to minimize the cable movement so as to keep the cable not near the patient, thereby avoiding visibility, ergonomics and sterility problems. In addition, the cable movement can be compatible with limited torsion and bending capabilities. Therefore, the previous method for accommodating the cable of the imaging system may be inappropriate and cause the degradation of the HV cable. For example, due to the stiffness of the HV cable and the various cable bending radius of the HV cable, when the HV cable leaves the pivot arm, enters the C-shaped arc and bends between the entry point and the exit point, the hose that accommodates the cable and does not move the control may cause the degradation of the HV cable. For example, at the joint between the cable and the C-shaped arc and / or at the joint between the cable and the pivot arm, depending on the position of the C-shaped arc, the joint may have a relatively high rotation angle (e.g., 175 degrees). In other words, as done in the existing system, exposing the HV cable to a high joint rotation angle may cause the degradation of the HV cable.

[0030] Thus, according to embodiments disclosed herein, cables (including HV cables) of a medical imaging system (e.g., an interventional system such as a C-arc) may be housed in a cable chain having a pivotable joint where the cable chain is coupled to the medical imaging system, particularly at the C-arc and the pivot arm. The pivotable joint may be configured to rotate within a limited angular range to allow the cable to move when adjusting the position of the C-arc relative to the pivot arm while preventing excessive rotation of the joint that may cause cable degradation. In addition, the pivotable joints may each include a roller to confine the cable to a lower portion of an opening formed in the joint, thereby preventing the cable from contacting an upper edge of the opening, wherein friction between the cable and the surface forming the opening may cause cable degradation. In addition, the cable chain may include hinged links with hinge limits to allow the cable to bend, but the cable will not bend beyond a minimum cable bend radius and the cable chain will not enter the inner patient area of ​​the C-arc.

[0031] refer to Figure 2 , a first view 201 (eg, a side view) of a medical imaging system 200 including a C-shaped arc 202 is shown. The first view 201 includes a Cartesian coordinate system 299, which is also present at Figures 3 to 17 The coordinate system 299 may be relative to the medical imaging system installed in the medical facility and include a y-axis parallel to gravity, an x-axis extending from the base toward the C-shaped arc parallel to the length of the base of the medical imaging system, and a z-axis extending orthogonal to the y-axis and the x-axis and parallel to the width of the base. In the first view 201, the external covers of some components of the medical imaging system 200 have been removed to allow visualization of the internal components. The medical imaging system 200 is Figure 1 The present invention is a non-limiting example of an imaging system 100 of the present invention, and includes a radiation source 204, which in some examples can be an x-ray unit. The radiation source 204 is positioned opposite to the detector 206 and can be configured to emit x-ray radiation. As described above, the radiation source 204 may include an x-ray tube, which includes a monopolar cathode. The medical imaging system 200 further includes a base unit 208, which supports the medical imaging system 200 on the ground surface on which the medical imaging system is located. For example, the base 210 of the base unit 208 may be in coplanar contact with the ground. The base unit 208 may also include an extension 212 and a connecting portion 214, wherein the connecting portion is located in the middle of the base 210 and the extension 212.

[0032] The C-shaped arc 202 can be connected to a pivot arm 216, wherein the pivot arm is rotatably coupled to an extension 212 of a base unit 208. The detector 206 is coupled to the C-shaped arc 202 at a first end 218, and the radiation source 204 is coupled to the C-shaped arc at an opposite second end 220. As an example, the C-shaped arc 202 can be configured to rotate in opposite directions relative to the base unit 208 over a relatively wide range of angles (e.g., at least 90 degrees, at least 120 degrees, or at least 160 degrees). The C-shaped arc 202 can rotate about at least the rotation axis 222, and can additionally rotate about additional axes. The C-shaped arc 202 can rotate as described above so as to adjust the radiation source 204 and the detector 206 (located at opposite ends of the C-shaped arc) through a plurality of positions.

[0033] The base unit 208 may include an electronic controller (e.g., a control and computing unit) that processes instructions or commands sent from a user input device during operation of the medical imaging system 200. In some examples, the base unit 208 may also include an internal power source (not shown) that provides power to operate the medical imaging system 200. Alternatively, the base unit 208 may be connected to an external power source to power the medical imaging system 200. A plurality of connection lines (e.g., power cables) may be provided to transmit power, instructions, and / or data between the radiation source 204, the detector 206, and the control and computing unit. The plurality of connection lines may transmit power from a power source (e.g., an internal and / or external power source) to the radiation source 204 and the detector 206. As explained above, the plurality of connection lines may include an HV cable that provides a voltage to the cathode. The HV cable may also be referred to as a monopolar cable because the HV cable may provide a voltage to the monopolar cathode.

[0034] As explained above, the rigidity of the monopolar cable results in limited torsion and bending capabilities. However, since the C-shaped arc 202 rotates around the patient to take each image, the monopolar cable and multiple connecting wires can be mobile during imaging. Therefore, the monopolar cable and other cables / connecting wires can be accommodated in a cable chain 224 that matches the mechanical and usage constraints (e.g., limited torsion and bending) of the monopolar cable. In this way, the movement of the monopolar cable and multiple connecting wires can be minimized, which can keep the monopolar cable out of the vicinity of the patient and improve visibility, ergonomics, and sterility. In addition, the cable chain 224 can reduce the degradation of the monopolar cable and the connecting wires.

[0035] The cable chain 224 can be coupled to the medical imaging system 200 at specific attachment points, such as a C-arc joint mount 226 and a pivot arm joint mount 228. The cable chain 224 can include a C-arc joint 230 configured to couple with the C-arc joint mount 226, and a pivot arm joint 232 configured to couple with the pivot arm joint mount 228. The C-arc joint 230 and the pivot arm joint 232 can be positioned at opposite ends of the cable chain 224 relative to the length of the cable chain. During imaging, the position of the cables (e.g., power cables) of the medical imaging system 200 is adjusted. Thus, the position and orientation of the cable chain 224 that houses the cables can be adjusted via rotation of the C-arc joint 230 and the pivot arm joint 232. The C-arc joint 230 and the pivot arm joint 232 of the cable chain 224 are configured to reduce the joint rotation from approximately 175 degrees to approximately 60 degrees. Thus, the C-arc joint 230 and the pivot arm joint 232 can reduce degradation of the cables of the medical imaging system 200, resulting in increased lifespan and reliability. Figures 8 to 12The joints (eg, C-arc joint 230 and pivot arm joint 232) and joint mounts (eg, C-arc joint mount 226 and pivot arm joint mount 228) of the cable chain 224 are described in greater detail.

[0036] Figure 3 and Figure 4 A second view 301 (e.g., a front view) and a third view 401 (e.g., another side view opposite to the first view) of the medical imaging system 200 are shown, respectively. The pivot arm 216 may include a horizontal arm 215 and an arc-shaped coupling portion 217. The horizontal arm 215 may be rotatably coupled to the extension 212 and configured to rotate about a rotation axis parallel to the x-axis. The horizontal arm 215 is coupled to the coupling portion 217. The coupling portion 217 has an arc shape that matches the arc of the C-shaped arc 202 and is configured to be coupled to the C-shaped arc 202. The C-shaped arc 202 may include a track along each side of the C-shaped arc, and the coupling portion 217 may include a protrusion configured to fit within the track and move relative to the track. When the C-shaped arc 202 rotates about the axis 222 as explained above, the protrusion may move within the track until the C-shaped arc is at a desired position. The coupling portion 217 may include a locking mechanism that locks the coupling portion 217 to the C-shaped arc 202 once in the desired position.

[0037] As in Figure 3 As will be appreciated in the disclosure, the C-arc joint mount 226 may be coupled to the C-arc 202 at a midpoint between the first end 218 and the second end 220 of the C-arc 202, but other coupling locations may also be possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The C-arc joint mount 226 may include a cover secured to an outer surface (e.g., a surface facing the patient) of the C-arc 202. In some examples, the C-arc 202 may include one or more openings to receive cables / connecting wires contained in the cable chain 224, and the openings may be covered by the cover of the C-arc joint mount 226. The C-arc joint mount 226 may also include a mounting extension extending from the cover, and the mounting extension is configured to be coupled to the C-arc joint 230. The mounting extension may include an opening to receive the cable / connecting wire. In this manner, the cable chain 224 may be coupled to a fixed position on the C-arc 202 via the C-arc joint 230. As the C-arc 202 rotates relative to the pivot arm 216 , the cable chain 224 may move (eg, bend / extend) and the C-arc joint 230 may rotate relative to the C-arc joint mount 226 .

[0038] The pivot arm joint 232 may be coupled to the pivot arm joint mount 228. The pivot arm joint mount 228 may be coupled to the pivot arm 216 on a side of the horizontal arm 215 where the horizontal arm 215 transitions to the connecting portion 217. The pivot arm joint mount 228 may include an opening to accommodate cables / connecting wires and a mechanism to be rotatably mounted to the pivot arm joint 232.

[0039] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, during an imaging operation (e.g., scanning), a portion of a patient's body placed in an opening formed between the radiation source 204 and the detector 206 may be irradiated with radiation from the radiation source. For example, the patient may be supported by a patient support table 322 (wherein the patient support table includes a support surface 324 and a base) and may be disposed between the radiation source 204 and the detector 206.

[0040] As will be explained in more detail below, the cable chain 224 may include a plurality of articulated links. Each link may include a front wall, a rear wall, and two side walls surrounding a hollow interior. Each link may have side walls pivotally coupled to two other links, except for the end links at the corresponding joints, to allow the links to articulate relative to each other. The hollow interior of the link may form an interior space to accommodate the cables / connecting wires.

[0041] refer to Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 , the medical imaging system 200 is shown in a first position 501, a second position 601 and a third position 701, respectively.

[0042] The C-shaped arc 202 can be adjusted to a plurality of different positions by rotating the C-shaped arc about the axis 222. For example, in Figure 5 In the illustrated initial first position 501, radiation source 204 may be positioned vertically relative to the y-axis below detector 206. Additionally, an axis 518 passing through radiation source 204 and detector 206 (e.g., perpendicular to axis 222 about which C-arc 202 rotates) may be oriented parallel to the y-axis.

[0043] The C-shaped arc 202 can be adjusted from a first position 501 to a different second position 601 by rotating the C-shaped arc about the axis 222, such as Figure 6 In the second position, the radiation source 204 and the detector 206 are rotated about the axis 222 in a first direction (e.g., counterclockwise) about 45 degrees relative to the first position. Thus, the axis 518 can be oriented at a 45 degree angle relative to the y-axis and the x-axis. Similarly, by rotating the C-arc about the axis 222, the C-arc 202 can be adjusted from the first position or the second position to a different third position 701, such as Figure 7In the third position, the radiation source 204 and the detector 206 are rotated about the axis 222 in the second direction (e.g., clockwise) by approximately 45 degrees relative to the first position. When compared to the second position, the radiation source 204 and the detector 206 are rotated about the axis 222 in the second direction (e.g., clockwise) by approximately 90 degrees. Thus, the axis 518 may be oriented at a 45 degree angle relative to the y-axis and the x-axis.

[0044] It should be appreciated that the C-shaped arc 202 may be oriented in any direction other than Figure 5 The first position Figure 6 The second position and Figure 7 For example, the C-shaped arc 202 can be rotated to a position between the first position and the second position. By rotating the C-shaped arc 202 around the axis 222, the medical imaging system 200 can generate a three-dimensional image of a subject (e.g., a patient).

[0045] As the C-arc 202 rotates between positions, the position of cables (e.g., power cables) of the medical imaging system 200 is adjusted. Thus, the position and orientation of the cable chain 224 that houses the cables can be adjusted via rotation of the C-arc joint 230 and the pivot arm joint 232. The C-arc joint 230 and the pivot arm joint 232 of the cable chain 224 are configured to reduce the total joint rotation from approximately 175 degrees to approximately 60 degrees. This reduced joint rotation can limit the upward extension of the cable chain from each of the rotatable joints at multiple locations. Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The upward extension of the cable chain can be seen in Figures 5 to 7 In each of the positions shown, the angle between the first link in the cable chain and the axis parallel to the axis 518 is less than approximately 30 degrees. By reducing joint rotation, the cable chain 224, C-arc joint 230, and pivot arm joint 232 can cause the cables of the medical imaging system 200 to experience reduced degradation, resulting in increased life and reliability. In addition, the cable chain 224 and joints can improve visibility, ergonomics, and sterility near a patient being imaged by the medical imaging system 200.

[0046] Figure 8 An enlarged view of a pivot arm joint 232 and a pivot arm joint mount 228 of a medical imaging system 200 is shown. In some examples, the pivot arm joint 232 can be coupled to the pivot arm joint mount 228 via mating components. The pivot arm joint mount 228 can prevent translational movement of the pivot arm joint 232 while allowing the pivot arm joint to rotate about an axis parallel to the z-axis. In this manner, when a C-shaped arc (e.g., Figure 2 The position of the cable chain 224 can be adjusted when the position of the C-shaped arc 202) is adjusted via the rotation of the pivot arm joint 232 on the pivot arm joint mount 228.

[0047] The pivot arm joint 232 may include a joint cover 802 that may protect cables (e.g., power cables / connection cables) located within the pivot arm joint. The joint cover 802 may include a contour portion 804, two side portions (such as a first side portion 806), and an annular mounting portion 805. The contour portion 804 may have a flat top portion (e.g., extending along the xy plane) and an inclined portion that slopes inwardly toward the pivot arm joint mount 228 along the z-axis. The side portions may each be configured to be flush with (e.g., in coplanar contact with) a side portion of the body of the pivot arm joint 232 (the body of the pivot arm joint is disposed at Figure 8 806 and will be explained in more detail below). The joint cover 802 can be coupled to the body of the pivot arm joint 232 via an attachment device 808. In some examples, the attachment device 808 can be a bolt, a pin, or a screw. The annular mounting portion 805 can extend in an annular manner from the first side portion 806 to the second side portion and can be coupled to the profile portion 804. The annular mounting portion 805 is configured to face / adjacent the pivot arm joint mount 228.

[0048] The pivot arm joint mount 228 may include a body 810 and a base 812. The body 810 of the pivot arm joint mount 228 may be in coplanar contact with the pivot arm joint 232, and the base 812 of the pivot arm joint mount may be in coplanar contact with the pivot arm 216. In this manner, the pivot arm joint mount 228 couples the pivot arm joint 232 of the cable chain 224 to the pivot arm 216 of the medical imaging system 200. The pivot arm joint mount 228 may be coupled to the pivot arm 216 via a plurality of attachment devices 814 passing through the base 812. In some examples, the attachment devices 814 may be bolts, screws, or pins. The body 810 may be a hollow cylinder extending from the base 812 along the z-axis and may include mounting features that facilitate the coupling of the pivot arm joint 232.

[0049] Fig. 9 Shows Figure 8 The pivot arm joint 232 and the pivot arm joint mount 228 are shown without a joint cover 802 to facilitate visualization of the internal components of the pivot arm joint 232. As explained above, the pivot arm joint 232 may include a body 901 housed within the cover 802. The body 901 may include an annular mounting portion and two side arms, each of which extends upward from the annular mounting portion. The pivot arm joint 232 also includes a first side portion 902 and a second side portion 903, each of which may be located adjacent to a corresponding side portion of the joint cover when the joint cover is installed. For example, the first side portion 902 of the pivot arm joint 232 may face Figure 8 The first side portion 806 of the joint cover 802.

[0050] The first side portion 902 and the second side portion 903 can be coupled to the body 901. For example, each side arm of the body 901 can be coupled to a corresponding side portion (e.g., the first side portion 902 can be coupled to the first side arm of the body, and the second side portion 903 can be coupled to the second side arm of the body). In addition, each of the first side portion 902 and the second side portion 903 can have a flange that is configured to be coupled to the annular mounting portion of the body 901. The pivot arm joint 232 can include a surface and a fastening mechanism to facilitate coupling the pivot arm joint to the cable chain 224. For example, an end link of the cable chain 224, referred to as the first link 225, is shown coupled to the first side portion 902 and the second side portion 903.

[0051] The annular mounting portion of the body 901, together with the body 810 of the pivot arm joint mount, can define an opening 906 that aligns with the opening 910 of the pivot arm 216. Thus, the cables received by the cable chain 224 can pass into / out of the pivot arm 216 via the openings 906 and 910. Fig. 9 As shown, the pivot arm joint 232 includes a roller 904 that can be positioned closer to the top of the opening 906 than the bottom. The roller 904 can prevent or reduce degradation of the cables of the medical imaging system 200. For example, a monopolar cable located within the cable chain 224 can be configured to press against the roller 904 instead of the inner edge of the opening 906 of the pivot arm joint mount 228. For example, when the monopolar cable is located within the pivot arm joint 232, the monopolar cable can be vertically positioned below the roller 904 relative to the y-axis, which can prevent the monopolar cable from contacting the top of the inner edge of the opening 906. The roller 904 has a cylindrical shape, and its longitudinal axis can extend from the first side portion 902 to the second side portion 903. A plurality of attachment devices 908 can couple the roller 904 to the first side portion 902 and the second side portion 903. In some examples, the plurality of attachment devices 908 can be bolts, screws, or pins. Furthermore, in some examples, roller 904 can freely rotate about the longitudinal axis of the roller.Therefore, the friction between the cable and roller 904 can be further reduced.

[0052] The pivot arm joint mount 228 can be coupled to the pivot arm 216 via a plurality of attachment devices 814. In addition, the pivot arm joint 232 can be attached to the pivot arm 216 via a lip 1124 (eg, Fig.11 228, the lip is configured to cooperate with the pivot arm joint. For example, the lip of the pivot arm joint mount 228 can fit within the slot of the pivot arm joint 232. Thus, the pivot arm joint 232 can be prevented from translating relative to the pivot arm joint mount 228 while allowing the pivot arm joint to rotate about an axis parallel to the z-axis. In some examples, the rotation of the pivot arm joint 232 can be limited by a limiting device 914, which can be a bolt or a pin.

[0053] Fig.10 Shows Figure 2 The C-arc joint 230 may be identical in structure and function to the pivot arm joint 232. Thus, the C-arc joint 230 may include a body 1002, a first side portion 1004, and a second side portion 1006. In addition, the C-arc joint 230 may include a plurality of attachment devices 1008 for coupling the body 1002 to the first side portion 1004 and the second side portion 1006, and a limiting device 1010 for limiting rotational movement of the C-arc joint relative to the C-arc joint mount. The C-arc joint 230 may include a roller 1012 for reducing cable degradation, the roller being coupled to the first side portion 1004 and the second side portion 1006 via a plurality of attachment devices 1014.

[0054] The body 1002 may include an annular mounting portion 1003 and two side arms, namely a first side arm 1005 and a second side arm 1007, each of which extends upward from the annular mounting portion 1003. The first side arm 1005 may be coupled to the first side portion 1004, and the second side arm 1007 may be coupled to the second side portion 1006. The annular mounting portion 1003 includes a rear lip 1009 that is configured to fit within an annular space formed between surfaces of the C-arc joint mount when the C-arc joint 230 is coupled to the C-arc joint mount. A restriction device 1010 may be coupled to the rear lip 1009. The restriction device 1010 may be a bolt extending from the rear lip 1009 along the z-axis, along the negative z-direction.

[0055] The C-shaped arc joint 230 may include a first fin 1016 and a second fin 1018. The first fin 1016 may be coupled to the C-shaped arc joint 230 via a rod 1020. The rod 1020 may pass through the first side portion 1004 and the second side portion 1006 of the C-shaped arc joint 230 and may be held in place by a first end cap 1022 and a second end cap 1024. Similarly, the second fin 1018 may be coupled to the C-shaped arc joint 230 via a rod 1026 and two end caps. Each of the first fin 1016 and the second fin 1018 may be configured to be connected to the C-shaped arc joint 230. Figure 2 The links (e.g., end links) of the cable chain 224 are engaged.

[0056] Thus, the first side portion 1004 and the second side portion 1006 may provide structure for mounting the cable chain to the C-arc joint and transmitting movement of the cable chain 224 and / or movement of the cables / connecting wires to the annular mounting portion 1003. The first side portion 1004 and the second side portion 1006 may also provide structure for positioning the roller 1012 in a desired position relative to the opening formed by the annular mounting portion 1003, such as in front of the opening (where the opening is positioned behind the roller in the positive z-direction) and positioning it closer to the top of the opening than to the bottom of the opening.

[0057] Fig.11 The diagram shows a pivoting arm joint (e.g. Fig. 9 The pivot arm joint 232) is disengaged Fig. 9 The pivot arm joint mount 228 includes an opening 906 that is aligned with the opening 910 of the pivot arm 216. The pivot arm joint mount 228 can be connected to the pivot arm 216 via a plurality of attachment devices 814. In some examples, the attachment devices 814 can be bolts, screws, or pins. The attachment devices 814 can pass through the base 812 of the pivot arm joint mount 228 and through the outer surface 1104 of the pivot arm 216. The base 812 of the pivot arm joint mount 228 can be curved. For example, the base 812 can include a first portion 1106, a second portion 1108, and a curved portion 1110, wherein the curved portion is located in the middle of the first portion and the second portion. Each of the first portion 1106 and the second portion 1108 can be planar (eg, flat), and the bend 1110 can allow the first and second portions to lie flat on (eg, be in coplanar contact with) the outer surface 1104 of the pivot arm 216 .

[0058] The body 810 of the pivot arm joint mount 228 includes a housing portion 1114 and a mating portion 1116, wherein the housing portion is located intermediate the mating portion and the base 812. The housing portion 1114 can be cylindrical and can be configured to accommodate a cable passing through the pivot arm joint mount 228. In addition, the housing portion 1114 can be positioned closer to the pivot arm 216 than the mating portion 1116. The housing portion 1114 can include an outer circumferential surface 1118 and a planar surface 1120. When the pivot arm joint is coupled to the pivot arm joint mount 228, the planar surface 1120 can be in coplanar contact with the surface of the pivot arm joint. The planar surface 1120 can be flat in the xy plane. It should be understood that in the example where the base 812 is curved, as explained above, the outer circumferential surface 1118 away from the side of the curved portion 1110 can be longer (e.g., in the direction along the z-axis) than the top and bottom near the curved portion 1110.

[0059] The mating portion 1116 can be configured to mate with a pivot arm joint (e.g., Figure 2 1120) and may include a body 1122 and a lip 1124. The body 1122 may be annular and extend outwardly from the planar surface 1120 along the z-axis. The lip 1124 may be positioned along an edge of the body 1122, wherein the edge is distal to the housing portion 1114. In addition, the lip 1124 may extend outwardly from the circumferential surface of the body 1122 parallel to the xy plane, away from the opening 906, thereby overhanging the body 1122. In some examples, the lip 1124 may mate with a slot in the pivot arm joint. For example, the lip 1124 may be located within and / or against the pivot arm joint to prevent translational movement of the pivot arm joint while allowing rotational movement.

[0060] The lip 1124 includes a slot 1128, also referred to as a notch, which can extend inwardly from the outer circumferential edge 1130 of the lip. The slot 1128 can extend inwardly from the outer circumferential edge 1130 toward the opening 906, extending approximately 75% of the distance therebetween. In addition, the slot 1128 can extend along the length of the outer circumferential edge 1130 of the mating portion 1116. In some examples, the slot 1128 can extend around the outer circumferential edge 1130, extending approximately 5% to 10% of the circumferential distance.

[0061] The slot 1128 is configured to Fig. 9 The limiting device 914 can be engaged with the limiting device 914 of the pivot arm joint 232 of the medical imaging system 200. The limiting device 914 can be located within the slot 1128 and can move within the slot when the pivot arm joint 232 is rotated. For example, during repositioning of the C-arc of the medical imaging system 200, the limiting device 914 can translate along the length of the slot 1128 when the pivot arm joint 232 is rotated. The slot 1128 can limit the range of motion of the limiting device and, therefore, can limit the rotation of the pivot arm joint. By limiting the rotation of the pivot arm joint, the slot 1128 and the limiting device 914 can reduce bending and / or movement of cables passing through the pivot arm joint mount 228, thereby reducing degradation of the cables.

[0062] Fig.12 Shown include Figure 2206. The C-arc joint mount 226 includes an opening 1202 that is aligned with a first inner opening 1206 and a second inner opening 1208 of the C-arc 202. Thus, cables received by the cable chain 224 may be threaded into / out of the C-arc 202 via the opening 1202 and the first inner opening 1206 and / or the second inner opening 1208. For example, a cable coupled to a detector may be threaded through the second inner opening 1208, and a cable coupled to a radiation source may be threaded through the first inner opening 1206. In this manner, electrical signals may be carried from the C-arc 202 (particularly the radiation source and detector) to the base 208, and vice versa, via one or more cables via the pivot arm 216 of the medical imaging system 200. Alternatively, the first inner opening 1206 and the second inner opening 1208 may be gaps formed on the guide plate of the C-arc joint mount 226, and the cable may pass through one or more openings of the C-arc formed on the outer surface 1214 of the C-arc, as previously explained.

[0063] The C-arc joint mount 226 can be coupled to the C-arc 202 via a plurality of attachment devices 1210. In some examples, the attachment devices 1210 can be bolts, screws, or pins. The attachment devices 1210 can pass through the base 1212 of the C-arc joint mount 226 and through the outer surface 1214 of the C-arc 202. The base 1212 of the C-arc joint mount 226 can extend outward from the cylindrical body 1216 of the C-arc joint mount from three sides. For example, the base 1212 can extend outward from the cylindrical body 1216 in two directions parallel to the y-axis (e.g., above and below) and in one direction parallel to the z-axis. The bottom surface of the base 1212 can be configured to lie flat on (e.g., in coplanar contact with) the outer surface 1214 of the C-arc 202.

[0064] The cylindrical body 1216 of the C-arc joint mount 226 includes a housing portion 1218 and a mating portion 1220, wherein the housing portion 1218 is located intermediate the mating portion 1220 and the base 1212. In addition, the base 1212 can extend from the housing portion 1218. In some examples, the housing portion 1218 can be cylindrical. In other examples, the housing portion 1218 can include a cylindrical surface and a dome-shaped surface, wherein the dome-shaped surface is located distal to the mating portion 1220 of the body 1216. In addition, the housing portion 1218 can be positioned closer to the C-arc 202 than the mating portion 1220. The housing portion 1218 can include an outer circumferential surface 1222 and a planar surface 1224. When the C-arc joint is coupled to the C-arc joint mount 226, the planar surface 1224 can face and / or be adjacent to a surface of the C-arc joint. In some examples, the planar surface 1224 can be in coplanar contact with a surface of the C-arc joint. Planar surface 1224 may be flat in the xy plane.

[0065] The mating portion 1220 can be configured to mate with a C-shaped arc connector (e.g., Figure 2 1224 and 1228 and may include a body 1226 extending outwardly from a planar surface 1224 and a lip 1228 along the z-axis. The lip 1228 may be positioned along an edge of the body 1226, wherein the edge is distal to the housing portion 1218. In addition, the lip 1228 may extend outwardly from a circumferential surface of the body 1226 parallel to the xy plane. In some examples, the lip 1228 may mate with a narrow slot in the C-arc joint. For example, the lip 1228 may be located within and / or against the C-arc joint to prevent translational movement of the C-arc joint while allowing rotational movement. In addition, the space formed between the planar surface 1224 and the rear side of the lip 1228 may accommodate a corresponding lip of the C-arc joint, such as the rear lip 1009.

[0066] The lip 1228 includes a slot 1234, also referred to as a notch, which can extend inwardly from the outer circumferential edge 1236 of the lip. The slot 1234 can extend inwardly from the outer circumferential edge 1236 toward the opening 1202, extending approximately 75% of the distance therebetween. In addition, the slot 1234 can extend along the length of the outer circumferential edge 1236 of the mating portion 1220. In some examples, the slot 1234 can extend around the outer circumferential edge 1236, extending approximately 25% of the circumferential distance.

[0067] The slot 1234 is configured to receive a restriction device of a C-arc joint, such as restriction device 1010, similar to Fig.11 and Fig. 91234 and the limiting device 914. Thus, the limiting device can be located within the slot 1234 and can move within the slot when the C-arc joint is rotated. For example, during repositioning of the C-arc 202, the limiting device can translate along the length / arc of the slot 1234 when the C-arc joint is rotated. At the edge forming the slot 1234, the lip 1228 can limit the range of motion of the limiting device and, therefore, can limit the rotation of the C-arc joint. Thus, the length of the slot 1234 can be selected to reduce bending and / or movement of the cable passing through the C-arc joint mount 226, thereby reducing degradation of the cable. It should be understood that the slot 1234 of the C-arc joint mount 226 can be longer than the slot 1128 of the pivot arm joint mount 228. Thus, the C-arc joint can rotate a greater amount than the pivot arm joint. Thus, the C-arc joint can rotate relative to the C-arc joint mount within a first angular range defined by the first slot in the C-arc joint mount and the first limiting device of the C-arc joint, and the pivot arm joint can rotate relative to the pivot arm joint mount within a second angular range defined by the second slot in the pivot arm joint mount and the second limiting device of the pivot arm joint. In some examples, the first angular range is greater than the second angular range.

[0068] Fig.13A portion of a pivot arm joint 1302 and a pivot arm joint mount 1304 are shown that accommodate a plurality of cables 1306. The pivot arm joint 1302 is a non-limiting example of the pivot arm joint 232, and the pivot arm joint mount 1304 is a non-limiting example of the pivot arm joint mount 228. The cables 1306 can extend from behind the tabs 1308 of the cable chain 1310 into the portion of the pivot arm joint 1302 (e.g., between the first tab and the second tab of the pivot arm joint). The cables 1306 can then extend from the portion of the pivot arm joint 1302 through the openings 1312 in the pivot arm joint 1302 and the pivot arm joint mount 1304 and into the pivot arm 1314. The roller 1316 is in coplanar contact with one or more of the plurality of cables 1306 and can prevent the cables from rubbing against the edges of the opening 1312. In particular, the cable 1306 is positioned in front of the roller 1316 relative to the z-axis and extends below the roller 1316 so that the cable 1306 is located between the roller 1316 and the bottom portion 1305 of the lip 1303 of the pivot arm joint mount 1304. Therefore, the roller 1316 can reduce degradation of the cable 1306. In addition, the limiting device 1318 is located in the narrow slot 1320 in the pivot arm joint mount 1304 and can limit the rotation of the portion of the pivot arm joint 1302 relative to the pivot arm joint mount. This can include limiting the position of the pivot arm joint to a narrow angle range around 0 degrees, where 0 degrees represents alignment with the y-axis. The alignment of multiple cables 1306 contained in the pivot arm joint 1302 and extending into the pivot arm joint mount 1304 is determined by the angle. This can allow the cable chain to extend upward from the pivot arm joint 1302 at multiple C-arc positions. In this manner, the restriction device 1318 and the slot 1320 can increase the turning radius of the cable 1306. This reduces wear on the cable, thereby increasing the life and reliability of the cable.

[0069] Fig.14 Shows Figure 2 The cable chain 224 of the medical imaging system 200. The cable chain 224 includes a pivot arm joint 232 and a C-arc joint 230, each without a joint cover (e.g., Figure 8 The pivot arm joint 232 is coupled to the pivot arm joint mount 228, and the C-arc joint 230 is coupled to the C-arc joint mount 226. The C-arc joint 230 includes a roller 1012, and the pivot arm joint 232 includes a roller 904.

[0070] The cable chain 224 may include a plurality of links 1406, each of which is coupled to an adjacent link. A first link 225 of the cable chain 224 may be coupled to a pivot arm joint 232, and a second link 1410 of the cable chain may be coupled to a C-arc joint 230. With respect to the y-axis, the cable chain 224 may be oriented such that the first link 225 extends upward from the pivot arm joint 232, and the second link 1410 extends upward from the C-arc joint 230. In this manner, the cable chain 224 may be kept away from the vicinity of the patient being imaged, increasing the sterility and visual ergonomics of the medical imaging system 200.

[0071] The first link 225 may be coupled to the first intermediate link 1412, which in turn is coupled to the second intermediate link 1414. The first intermediate link 1412 and the second intermediate link 1414 and the remaining intermediate links (e.g., other links except the second link 1410) may be coupled to two adjacent links. Each link may be coupled to an adjacent link via a pivotable / articulated interlocking mechanism. For example, the first intermediate link 1412 may include a female end configured to interlock / match with the male end of the second intermediate link 1414. The first intermediate link 1412 may also include a male end configured to interlock / match with the female end of the first link 225. The interlocking mechanism may be engaged via a snap fit or other suitable interlocking mechanism. As previously explained, each link may include four sides to enclose a hollow interior, wherein the top and bottom of each link are open to allow cables to pass through each link.

[0072] In some examples, the plurality of links 1406 may have limited rotation / articulation in one or more angular directions (e.g., clockwise and / or counterclockwise) to allow the cable chain 224 to rotate at certain positions of the C-shaped arc (such as Figure 5 and Figure 7 In doing so, the cable chain 224 is held outside the interior region of the C-shaped arc 202. For example, the plurality of links 1406 may include links, such as a second link 1410, a third intermediate link 1416, and a fourth intermediate link 1418, that are configured to rotate / pivot within a limited angular range. In some examples, the second link 1410 may not be configured to rotate, and the angular ranges of the other links may include 0 degrees to 90 degrees, with the range from 10 degrees to 90 degrees being angular. Fig.14 , 0 degrees is aligned with the vertical axis of the C-arc joint 230 (e.g., aligned with the y-axis), and 90 degrees is rotated 90 degrees in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) relative to 0 degrees. In examples where the second link 1410 is not configured to rotate, the link may be substantially aligned with the vertical axis of the C-arc joint 230. Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, this can result in the cable chain extending upward from the C-arc joint at multiple arc positions, wherein the second link is maintained within approximately 30 degrees of the C-arc joint in the multiple C-arc positions. In some examples, the third intermediate link 1416 and the fourth intermediate link 1418 can be able to rotate freely in a first angular direction, but can be prevented from rotating beyond 0 degrees when rotating in a second angular direction (e.g., counterclockwise). It should be appreciated that other links in the plurality of links 1406 can be similarly restricted from rotating, or other links can be unrestricted from rotating. By restricting link rotation, the cable chain 224 can bend to accommodate different positions of the C-arc while maintaining the cable bend radius above a threshold radius (e.g., below which cable degradation may occur), and while preventing the cable chain 224 from entering the interior region of the C-arc (which can be defined as the space from the outer surface of the C-arc to at least the radiation source and detector).

[0073] Fig.15 The pivot arm joint 232 and the C-arc joint 230 are shown. Figure 2 A first view of the cable chain 224. Fig.16 and Fig.17 2 and 3 are respectively shown. The cable chain 224 has been removed from the medical imaging system 200 to better illustrate the components of the cable chain. Figures 15 to 17 Describe together.

[0074] The pivot arm joint 232 is located at the first end 1502 of the cable chain 224. The C-arc joint 230 is located at the second end 1504 of the cable chain 224, wherein the second end is opposite the first end 1502 relative to the length of the cable chain. In addition, the pivot arm joint 232 is coupled to the first link 225 of the cable chain 224, and the C-arc joint 230 is coupled to the second link 1410 of the cable chain. The cable chain 224 includes a plurality of links 1406, wherein each link except the first link 1408 or the second link 1410 is positioned between the first link and the second link along the length of the cable chain.

[0075] In some examples, each link in the plurality of links 1406, such as the second intermediate link 1414, may be identical. Each link may include a series of faces surrounding a hollow interior that can accommodate a cable in electrical communication with a radiation source and / or a detector. Each link includes a front 1508 and a rear 1510, wherein the rear is positioned opposite the front relative to the z-axis. Each of the front 1508 and the rear 1510 may have a planar profile parallel to the xy plane. Each link also includes a first side 1512 and a second side (the second side of the second intermediate link 1414 is not shown, but the second side of the third intermediate link 1416 and the fourth intermediate link 1418 is shown), wherein the second side is positioned opposite the first side relative to the x-axis. The first side 1512 of the link may be configured to mate with (e.g., couple with) the first side of each adjacent link of the cable chain 224. Similarly, the second side of the link may be configured to mate with the second side of each adjacent link of the cable chain 224. In this manner, the plurality of links 1406 may be coupled together in a manner that allows the cable chain 224 to be flexible. For example, the cable chain 224 may bend at the coupling point of each first side and / or second side of adjacent links. Thus, the cable chain 224 may be flexible, wherein each link has a respective axis of rotation extending parallel to the z-axis and is configured to rotate within a possibly limited range of angles. Additionally, the cable chain 224 may not be configured to bend toward and / or away from the front and rear of the plurality of links 1406. This configuration may prevent the links from rotating about the x-axis or y-axis and may prevent the cable chain from entering the interior region of the C-shaped arc.

[0076] The C-arc joint 230 may include Fig.10 The first wing 1016 and the second wing 1018 of the C-shaped arc joint 230. Each of the first wing 1016 and the second wing 1018 can be connected to the C-shaped arc joint 230 via a rod. Similarly, the pivot arm joint 232 may include a first wing and a second wing, each of which is connected to the pivot arm joint via a rod. Each of the wing and the rod can be configured to cooperate with one of the multiple links 1406 of the cable chain 224. For example, the second link 1410 can be connected to the rod of the C-shaped arc joint 230 via a narrow slot, a hook, or a similar connection method. In addition, at least a portion of each of the first wing 1016 and the second wing 1018 can be in coplanar contact with the second link 1410, so that the first wing and the second wing can be located on opposite sides of the second link.

[0077] Therefore, a cable management system for a medical imaging system is disclosed herein. The cable management system may include: a cable chain including a plurality of articulated links, the cable chain having a hollow interior configured to accommodate one or more power cables. The cable management system may also include: a first joint coupled to a first end of the cable chain and a second joint coupled to a second end of the cable chain, a first joint mount configured to couple the first joint to a first component of the medical imaging system, and a second joint mount configured to couple the second joint to a second component of the medical imaging system. The first joint may include a first limiting device configured to limit the rotation of the first joint to a first angular range relative to the first joint mount, and the second joint includes a second limiting device configured to limit the rotation of the second joint to a second angular range relative to the second joint mount. In at least some examples, the first component of the medical imaging system may be a C-shaped arc / C-shaped gantry that accommodates a radiation source and a radiation detector. The second component of the medical imaging system may be a pivot arm configured to rotate the C-shaped arc.

[0078] The technical effect of a medical imaging system including a C-shaped arc, a cable chain and two cable chain joints is that visibility, ergonomics and sterility near the patient can be improved during imaging. In addition, the monopolar cable within the cable chain can improve the image quality of the medical imaging system, and the limited rotation of the cable chain joint can reduce the degradation of the monopolar cable.

[0079] The present disclosure also provides a support for a medical imaging system, the support comprising: a C-shaped arc; a radiation source connected to a first end of the C-shaped arc; a detector connected to a second end of the C-shaped arc opposite to the radiation source and configured to receive radiation from the radiation source; a pivot arm configured to adjust the position of the C-shaped arc; and a cable chain connected to each of the C-shaped arc and the pivot arm via a rotatable joint, wherein the cable chain extends upward from each of the rotatable joints at each of a plurality of positions of the C-shaped arc. In a first example of the system, the cable chain is configured to accommodate one or more cables that are electrically connected to the radiation source and / or the detector. In a second example of the system, optionally including the first example, the rotatable joint includes a C-shaped arc joint and a pivot arm joint. In a third example of the system, optionally including one or both of the first example and the second example, the C-shaped arc joint is connected to the C-shaped arc via a C-shaped arc joint mount, and the pivot arm joint is connected to the pivot arm via a pivot arm joint mount. In a fourth example of the system, optionally including one or more or each of the first to third examples, the C-arc joint can rotate relative to the C-arc joint mount within a first angular range, the first angular range being defined by a first slot in the C-arc joint mount and a first limiting device of the C-arc joint, and wherein the pivot arm joint can rotate relative to the pivot arm joint mount within a second angular range, the second angular range being defined by a second slot in the pivot arm joint mount and a second limiting device of the pivot arm joint. In a fifth example of the system, optionally including one or more or each of the first to fourth examples, the first angular range is greater than the second angular range. In a sixth example of the system, optionally including one or more or each of the first to fifth examples, the C-arc joint includes a first annular mounting portion defining a first opening, and the pivot arm joint includes a second annular mounting portion defining a second opening. In a seventh example of the system, optionally including one or more or each of the first to sixth examples, the C-arc joint includes a first roller located in front of the first opening, and the pivot arm joint includes a second roller located in front of the second opening. In an eighth example of the system, optionally including one or more or each of the first to seventh examples, the first roller is positioned closer to a top of the first opening than a bottom of the first opening, and the second roller is positioned closer to a top of the second opening than a bottom of the second opening. In a ninth example of the system, optionally including one or more or each of the first to eighth examples, the cable chain includes a plurality of articulated links, and wherein one or more of the plurality of articulated links has limited rotation in a first angular direction.

[0080] The present disclosure also provides a support for a cable management system, the support comprising: a cable chain including a plurality of articulated links, the cable chain having a hollow interior configured to accommodate one or more power cables; a first joint connected to a first end of the cable chain and a second joint connected to a second end of the cable chain; a first joint mount configured to connect the first joint to a first component of a medical imaging system; and a second joint mount configured to connect the second joint to a second component of the medical imaging system, wherein the first joint comprises a first limiting device configured to limit the rotation of the first joint to a first angular range relative to the first joint mount, and the second joint comprises a second limiting device configured to limit the rotation of the second joint to a second angular range relative to the second joint mount. In a first example of the system, the first joint includes a first annular mounting portion defining a first opening, the first opening being configured to accommodate one or more power cables, wherein the first annular mounting portion includes a first limiting device, wherein the first joint mount includes a first lip having a first slot, and the first limiting device is configured to move within the first slot and limit rotation of the first joint via contact with the first lip at a corresponding edge of the first slot. In a second example of the system, optionally including the first example, the first joint includes a first roller located in front of the first annular mounting portion. In a third example of the system, optionally including one or both of the first and second examples, the first angular range is different from the second angular range.

[0081] The present disclosure also provides a support for a medical imaging system, the support comprising: a C-shaped arc, the C-shaped arc comprising a radiation source connected to a first end of the C-shaped arc and a detector connected to a second end of the C-shaped arc opposite the radiation source; a base; a cable, the cable is connected to the base and the radiation source and passes through the C-shaped arc and a pivot arm configured to move the C-shaped arc; and a cable chain, the cable chain is connected to the pivot arm via a pivot arm joint and connected to the C-shaped arc via a C-shaped arc joint, the cable chain is configured to accommodate the cable. In a first example of the system, the cable chain extends upward from each of the C-shaped arc joint and the pivot arm joint at each of a plurality of positions of the C-shaped arc. In a second example of the system, optionally including the first example, the cable chain comprises a plurality of articulated links, and wherein one or more of the plurality of articulated links have limited rotation in a first angular direction. In a third example of the system, optionally including one or both of the first and second examples, the C-arc joint is coupled to the C-arc via a C-arc joint mount, and the pivot arm joint is coupled to the pivot arm via a pivot arm joint mount, wherein the C-arc joint is rotatable relative to the C-arc joint mount within a first angular range defined by a first slot in the C-arc joint mount and a first limiting device for the C-arc joint, and wherein the pivot arm joint is rotatable relative to the pivot arm joint mount within a second angular range defined by a second slot in the pivot arm joint mount and a second limiting device for the pivot arm joint. In a fourth example of the system, optionally including one or more or each of the first to third examples, the first angular range is greater than the second angular range. In a fifth example of the system, optionally including one or more or each of the first to fourth examples, the C-arc joint includes a first annular mounting portion defining a first opening, and the pivot arm joint includes a second annular mounting portion defining a second opening, and wherein the C-arc joint includes a first roller positioned in front of the first opening, and the pivot arm joint includes a second roller positioned in front of the second opening.

[0082] As used herein, unless otherwise indicated, the term "about" is understood to mean ±5% of the range.

[0083] As used herein, the elements or steps listed in the singular and beginning with the word "one" or "an" should be understood as not excluding a plurality of the elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. In addition, the reference to "one embodiment" of the present invention is not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also include the cited features. In addition, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, "comprising", "including" or "having" an embodiment of an element or multiple elements with a specific characteristic may include additional such elements that do not have the characteristic. The terms "including" and "in..." are used as the concise language equivalents of the corresponding terms "including" and "wherein". In addition, the terms "first", "second" and "third" etc. are only used as marks, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements or specific positional order on their objects.

[0084] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable a person skilled in the relevant art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any included methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to a person skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insignificant differences from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A medical imaging system (200), comprising: C-shaped arc (202); a radiation source (204) coupled to a first end of the C-shaped arc (202); a detector (206) coupled to a second end of the C-shaped arc (202), opposite the radiation source (204), and configured to receive radiation from the radiation source (204); a pivot arm (216) configured to adjust the position of the C-shaped arc (202); and A cable chain (224) is coupled to the C-shaped arc (202) and each of the pivot arms (216) via rotatable joints (232, 230), wherein the cable chain (224) extends upwardly from each of the rotatable joints (232, 230) at each of a plurality of positions of the C-shaped arc (202).

2. The medical imaging system (200) of claim 1, wherein the cable chain (224) is configured to accommodate one or more cables (1306) that are electrically connected to the radiation source (204) and / or the detector (206).

3. The medical imaging system (200) of claim 2, wherein the rotatable joint comprises a C-arc joint (230) and a pivot arm joint (232).

4. The medical imaging system (200) of claim 3, wherein the C-arc joint (230) is coupled to the C-arc (202) via a C-arc joint mount (226), and the pivot arm joint (232) is coupled to the pivot arm (216) via a pivot arm joint mount (228).

5. The medical imaging system (200) of claim 4, wherein the C-arc joint (230) is rotatable within a first angular range relative to the C-arc joint mount (226), the first angular range being defined by a first slot (1234) in the C-arc joint mount (226) and a first limiting device (1010) of the C-arc joint (230), and wherein the pivot arm joint (232) is rotatable within a second angular range relative to the pivot arm joint mount (228), the second angular range being defined by a second slot (1128) in the pivot arm joint mount (228) and a second limiting device (914) of the pivot arm joint (232).

6. The medical imaging system (200) of claim 5, wherein the first angular range is greater than the second angular range.

7. The medical imaging system (200) of claim 3, wherein the C-arc joint (230) includes a first annular mounting portion (1003) defining a first opening, and the pivot arm joint (232) includes a second annular mounting portion defining a second opening (906).

8. The medical imaging system (200) of claim 7, wherein the C-arc joint (230) includes a first roller (1012) located in front of the first opening, and the pivot arm joint (232) includes a second roller (904) located in front of the second opening (906).

9. The medical imaging system (200) of claim 8, wherein the first roller (1012) is positioned closer to a top of the first opening than to a bottom of the first opening, and the second roller (904) is positioned closer to a top of the second opening (906) than to a bottom of the second opening (906).

10. The medical imaging system (200) of claim 2, wherein the cable chain (224) comprises a plurality of articulated links (1406), and wherein one or more of the plurality of articulated links (1406) have limited rotation in a first angular direction.

11. A cable management system, comprising: a cable chain (224) comprising a plurality of articulated links (1406), the cable chain (224) having a hollow interior configured to accommodate one or more power cables (1306); a first connector (230) coupled to a first end of the cable chain (224) and a second connector (232) coupled to a second end of the cable chain (224); a first connector mount (226) configured to couple the first connector (230) to a first component of a medical imaging system (200); A second joint mount (228) configured to couple the second joint (232) to a second component of the medical imaging system (200), wherein the first joint (230) includes a first limiting device (1010) configured to limit rotation of the first joint (230) to a first angular range relative to the first joint mount (226), and the second joint (232) includes a second limiting device (914) configured to limit rotation of the second joint (232) to a second angular range relative to the second joint mount (228).

12. A system according to claim 11, wherein the first joint (230) includes a first annular mounting portion (1003) defining a first opening, the first opening being configured to accommodate the one or more power cables (1306), wherein the first annular mounting portion (1003) includes the first limiting device (1010), wherein the first joint mounting seat (226) includes a first lip (1228) having a first slot (1234), and the first limiting device (1010) is configured to move within the first slot (1234) and limit the rotation of the first joint (230) via contact with the first lip (1228) at a corresponding edge of the first slot (1234).

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the first joint (230) comprises a first roller (1012) located forward of the first annular mounting portion (1003).

14. The system of claim 11, wherein the first angular range is different from the second angular range.

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