Wide-angle clip-free patient positioning bracket for medical imaging system

Abstract

A patient table (46) for a medical imaging system includes a base (52). The patient table (46) also includes a carriage (50) configured to support a subject to be imaged and to move bidirectionally relative to the base (52). The patient table (46) also includes a stationary structure (78) coupled to both the base (52) and the carriage (50). The bracket (50) is configured to move relative to the stationary structure (78) without a portion of the subject being sandwiched between the bracket (50) and the stationary structure (78).

Description

Background Art

[0001] The subject matter disclosed herein relates to imaging systems, and more particularly to a wide-angle, clampless patient positioning bracket for medical imaging systems.

[0002] Non-invasive imaging techniques allow images of a patient's internal structures or features to be obtained without performing an invasive procedure on the patient. Specifically, such non-invasive imaging techniques rely on various physical principles (such as the differential transmission of X-rays through a target volume or the reflection of sound waves) to acquire data and construct an image or otherwise represent the observed internal features of the patient.

[0003] For example, in computed tomography (CT) and other X-ray-based imaging techniques, X-ray radiation passes across or is transmitted through a subject of interest (such as a human patient), and a portion of the X-ray radiation strikes an X-ray detector that collects image data. In digital X-ray systems, photodetectors generate signals representing the amount or intensity of the X-ray radiation that strikes discrete pixel regions of the X-ray detector elements or sensors. The signals can then be processed to generate an image that can be displayed for viewing. In a CT imaging system, an X-ray detector array, comprising a series of detector elements or sensors, generates similar signals at various locations as a gantry housing the X-ray source and the X-ray detector array rotates around the patient.

[0004] A patient carriage, which is part of a patient table, is used to move a patient into and out of an aperture or opening extending through the center of a gantry of a CT scanner or other medical imaging system. Specifically, a typical patient table typically includes a long fixed beam structure (e.g., an extruded beam structure) with side support structures that flank and support the patient support carriage. The long fixed beam structure has linear motion guides mounted thereon that guide the patient support carriage as it moves into and out of the gantry. Typically, this configuration can cause patients to pinch their body parts due to the gap between the moving components (e.g., the patient support carriage) and the fixed structure (e.g., the fixed beam structure). Furthermore, this gap between the side support structures and the patient support carriage can easily collect and trap dust, foreign particles, patient fluids, and other materials that are difficult to disinfect and clean due to a lack of accessibility. Furthermore, the side support structures are typically made of metal, which can provide a cold shock to a patient lying on the table when these side support structures come into contact with metal. Furthermore, because the side support structures are not configured to receive a single patient point load for entering or loading the patient onto the examination table, the width of the tray is limited by the side support structures required for loading and unloading the patient onto the patient table. Still further, the patient support tray causes discomfort to the patient during movement of the patient support tray (e.g., due to the patient overhang). Still further, the patient support tray (and the lower resting surface area used for the patient support tray to accommodate heavier patients) may cause kinesiophobia and / or claustrophobia due to the patient being able to see the movement of the patient support tray relative to the side support structures (which may also cause the patient to panic and grab the tray / support structure, resulting in the patient's fingers, hands, or other body parts being trapped in the gap). Furthermore, typical patient support trays have a foam core (e.g., due to the greater depth of the tray), which increases the depth and thickness of the tray, resulting in a higher X-ray dose to the patient due to the higher attenuation of the tray foam core cross-section. Furthermore, radiation therapy procedures may be difficult to perform using a typical patient table due to the structural limitations imposed by the presence of the side support structures. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The following summarizes certain embodiments commensurate with the scope of the originally claimed subject matter. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter, but rather, these embodiments are intended only to provide a brief overview of possible forms of the subject matter. Indeed, the subject matter may include a variety of forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments described below.

[0006] In one embodiment, a patient table for a medical imaging system is provided. The patient table includes a base. The patient table also includes a bracket configured to support a subject to be imaged and to move bidirectionally relative to the base. The patient table also includes a fixed structure coupled to both the base and the bracket. The bracket is configured to move relative to the fixed structure without a portion of the subject being sandwiched between the bracket and the fixed structure.

[0007] In another embodiment, a computed tomography (CT) imaging system is provided. The CT imaging system includes a gantry having an aperture and coupled to an imaging assembly configured to acquire imaging data of a subject. The CT imaging system also includes a patient table. The patient table includes a base. The patient table also includes a fixed structure coupled to both the base and the bracket. The patient table also includes a bracket configured to support the subject to be imaged and to move bidirectionally relative to the base. The bracket has a first width in a first direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bracket. The first width is greater than a second width of the fixed structure in the first direction.

[0008] In another embodiment, a patient table for an imaging system is provided. The patient table includes a base. The patient table also includes a bracket configured to support a subject to be imaged and to move bidirectionally relative to the base. The patient table also includes a fixed structure coupled to both the base and the bracket. The bracket includes a top surface and a bottom surface. The bracket also includes a first section and a second section along the longitudinal axis of the bracket. The first section is configured to extend beyond the fixed structure, and the second section is configured to remain above the fixed structure when the first section is extended beyond the fixed structure. The first section has a first thickness in a first direction along the longitudinal axis between the top surface and the bottom surface, and the second section has a second thickness in the first direction along the longitudinal axis. The second thickness is greater than the first thickness. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the presently disclosed subject matter will be better understood upon reading the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like characters represent like parts throughout, and in which:

[0010] Figure 1 is a combined illustration of a patient beginning to be loaded onto a cradle of a prior art patient table and a patient already loaded onto the cradle of a prior art patient table;

[0011] Figure 2is a perspective view of a patient table that may be used with a medical imaging system according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 3 According to various aspects of the present disclosure Figure 2 A top view of the patient examination table is depicted;

[0013] Figure 4 According to various aspects of the present disclosure Figure 2 an end view of a portion of the depicted patient examination table;

[0014] Figure 5 According to various aspects of the present disclosure Figure 2 An end view of the carriage of the patient table is depicted;

[0015] Figure 6 According to various aspects of the present disclosure, Figure 2 A top view of a patient on a cradle of a patient examination table is depicted;

[0016] Figure 7 According to various aspects of the present disclosure Figure 2 A perspective view of the depicted patient table's carriage;

[0017] Figure 8 According to various aspects of the present disclosure Figure 2 An end view of a carriage (e.g., having a first width) of the depicted patient table;

[0018] Figure 9 According to various aspects of the present disclosure Figure 2 an end view of a depicted patient table carriage (e.g., having a second width);

[0019] Figure 10 According to various aspects of the present disclosure Figure 2 A top view of a depicted patient table support frame (e.g., with corresponding dimensions);

[0020] Figure 11 According to various aspects of the present disclosure Figure 10 End view of the bracket in and table with associated values;

[0021] Figure 12 Depicts a patient starting to load into a Figure 2 on the bracket of the patient examination table;

[0022] Figure 13 Depicts a patient loaded onto a Figure 2 on the bracket of the patient examination table;

[0023] Figure 14Depicts aspects of the present disclosure. Figure 10 Analysis of the load conditions of the bracket in the vehicle (e.g., patient climbing load conditions);

[0024] Figure 15 Depicts the attenuation at various points during CT imaging of a patient using a typical cradle;

[0025] Figure 16 Depicts a diagram of a patient's path relative to an X-ray during a scan of the patient according to aspects of the present disclosure. Figure 2 a bracket for a patient examination table in the

[0026] Figure 17 Describes the use of various aspects of the present disclosure Figure 2 Attenuation of the patient table's bracket at various points during CT imaging of the patient;

[0027] Figure 18 Depicts a method for analyzing typical brackets and Figure 2 a table showing the results of X-ray attenuation for both the depicted patient table and the cradle; and

[0028] Figure 19 Depicts Figure 1 Typical prior art brackets and Figure 2 CT images of both brackets of the present disclosure are depicted. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] One or more specific embodiments will be described below. In order to provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of an actual implementation are necessarily described in the specification. It should be understood that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, many implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as complying with system-related and business-related constraints that may vary from implementation to implementation. Furthermore, it should be understood that such development efforts may be complex and time-consuming, but remain a routine task of design, fabrication, and manufacturing for those of ordinary skill having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0030] When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present subject matter, the articles "a," "an," "the," and "said" are intended to indicate that there are one or more elements. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements besides the listed elements. Furthermore, any numerical examples in the following discussion are intended to be non-limiting, and thus the appended numerical values, ranges, and percentages are within the scope of the disclosed embodiments.

[0031] While various aspects of the following discussion are presented in the context of medical imaging, it should be understood that the technology disclosed herein is not limited to such medical contexts. Indeed, examples and explanations are provided in such medical contexts merely to facilitate explanation by providing examples of real-world implementations and applications. However, the technology disclosed herein may also be used in other contexts, such as image reconstruction for non-destructive inspection of manufactured parts or goods (i.e., quality control or quality review applications) and / or non-invasive inspection of packages, boxes, luggage, etc. (i.e., security or screening applications). Generally speaking, the technology disclosed herein may be used in any imaging or screening context or image processing or photography field where a set or class of acquired data undergoes a reconstruction process to generate an image or volume.

[0032] The present disclosure provides embodiments of a patient table for a medical imaging system (e.g., a computed tomography (CT) imaging system, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system, a positron emission tomography (PET) imaging system, a single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging system, a nuclear medicine imaging system, an X-ray imaging system, or any combination thereof), the patient table comprising a wide-angle, clampless patient positioning and patient support bracket. The patient table comprises a base. In certain embodiments, the base is fixed. In certain embodiments, the base is configured to move in a vertical direction and / or horizontal direction relative to a floor. The patient table also comprises a bracket configured to support a subject to be imaged (e.g., a patient) and to move bidirectionally relative to the base. The patient table further comprises a fixed structure coupled to both the base and the bracket. The bracket is configured to move relative to the fixed structure without a portion of the subject being clamped between the bracket and the fixed structure.

[0033] In certain embodiments, the bracket has a first width in a first direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (or longitudinal length) of the bracket, and the first width is greater than the second width of the first structure in the first direction. In certain embodiments, the bracket is located above the fixed structure along the first width. In certain embodiments, the first width is at least 52 centimeters (cm). In certain embodiments, the bracket comprises a plurality of sections along a cross-section of the first width, wherein at least two sections are inclined relative to a center section of the plurality of sections.

[0034] In some embodiments, the thickness of the bracket varies along the longitudinal axis in both the first direction (e.g., the transverse direction or width) and the second direction perpendicular to the first direction (e.g., between the top and bottom surfaces of the bracket). In some embodiments, the bracket includes a first section and a second section along the longitudinal axis. The first section is configured to extend beyond the fixed structure (e.g., into an aperture of the frame), while the second section is configured to remain above the fixed structure (e.g., outside the aperture of the frame) when the first section is extended beyond the fixed structure. The first section has a first thickness in the second direction along the longitudinal axis, and the second section has a second thickness in the second direction along the longitudinal axis. The second thickness is greater than the first thickness.

[0035] In certain embodiments, the bracket is configured to support a single subject (e.g., patient) load so that the subject can be loaded onto the bracket and unloaded onto the bracket using only the bracket. In certain embodiments, the bracket is configured to provide a flat surface for engaging with the top of a radiotherapy examination table. In certain embodiments, the bracket lacks a foam core. In certain embodiments, the bracket has a lower X-ray attenuation than another bracket with the foam core. In certain embodiments, the bracket is made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic. In certain embodiments, the bracket is manufactured using a carbon fiber reinforced lay-up process.

[0036] The disclosed embodiments provide a patient table having a tray and lacking side supports to provide a clampless configuration. In this clampless configuration, no part of the patient is trapped between the tray and the fixed structure during movement of the tray relative to the fixed structure. The tray itself serves as the support structure for positioning the patient on the tray, eliminating the need for side supports. The disclosed configuration of the table eliminates the need for additional external supports or structures to hold and position the tray. The elimination of side supports and a wider tray protects the patient from experiencing kinesiophobia and claustrophobia. The disclosed embodiments also provide a patient table that does not provide a cold shock to the patient. Thus, the disclosed embodiments provide a better patient experience. The disclosed embodiments further provide a patient table with improved cleanability and disinfection. This reduces associated repair issues and, therefore, reduces downtime for medical imaging systems. The disclosed embodiments further provide a tray that is wider than the flat surface for interfacing with the top of a radiotherapy table. The disclosed embodiments further provide a thin, strong, and cost-effective component (i.e., a bracket) made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic. A simple carbon fiber reinforced plastic layup process for manufacturing the bracket improves production. The disclosed embodiments further include lower X-ray doses to patients due to the bracket's lower X-ray attenuation. This increases X-ray tube life and improves overall system throughput.

[0037] Figure 1FIG2 is a combined illustration of a patient 22 initially loaded onto a cradle 50 of a prior art patient table 40 (e.g., for a CT imaging system) and after the patient 22 has been loaded onto the cradle 50 of the prior art patient table 40. Prior art patient tables 40 typically include an elongated fixed beam structure 42 (e.g., an extruded beam structure) with side support structures 44 that flank and support the patient support cradle 50. The elongated fixed beam structure 42 has linear motion guides mounted thereon that guide the patient support cradle 50 as it moves in and out of the gantry. Typically, this configuration can cause the patient 22 to pinch their body parts due to the gap between the moving components (e.g., the patient support cradle 50) and the fixed structure (e.g., the fixed beam structure 42). Furthermore, this gap between the side support structures 44 and the patient support cradle 50 can easily collect and trap dust, foreign particles, patient fluids, and other materials that are difficult to disinfect and clean due to lack of accessibility. Furthermore, the side support structures 44 are typically made of metal, which can provide a cold shock to the patient 22 lying on the examination table 40 when the side support structures come into contact with the metal. Furthermore, because the side support structures 44 are not configured to receive a single patient point load for loading or unloading the patient 22 onto the examination table 40, the width of the tray 50 is limited by the side support structures 44 required for loading and unloading the patient 22 onto the patient table 40. Still further, the patient support tray 50 can cause patient discomfort during movement of the patient support tray 50 (e.g., due to patient overhang). Still further, the patient support tray 50 (and the lower resting surface area for the patient support tray 50 to accommodate heavier patients) can cause kinesiophobia and / or claustrophobia due to the patient 22 being able to see the movement of the patient support tray 50 relative to the side support structures 44 (which can also cause the patient 22 to panic and grab the tray / support structure, resulting in the patient's fingers, hands, or other body parts being trapped in the gap). Furthermore, typical patient support cradles 50 have a foam core (e.g., due to the greater depth of the cradle 50) that increases the depth and thickness of the cradle 50, which results in a higher x-ray dose to the patient 22 due to the higher attenuation of the cradle foam core cross-section. Still further, due to the structural limitations imposed by the presence of the side support structures 44, radiation therapy procedures using the prior art patient table 40 are difficult.

[0038] Although the patient table 46 of the present disclosure may be discussed in the context of a CT imaging system (see Figure 2 and Figure 3), the patient table 46 may be used with other types of medical imaging systems (e.g., magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET) imaging systems, single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging systems, nuclear medicine imaging systems, x-ray imaging systems, etc.). That is, the depicted example of a CT imaging system 10 is merely one environment in which the described patient table 46 may be implemented. Various aspects of the patient table 46 in the following figures are discussed using a coordinate system having a y-direction (or y-axis), an x-direction (or x-axis), and a z-direction (or z-axis). The coordinate system may be discussed relative to a longitudinal axis 49 of the patient table 46 (and the floating carriage 50). Figure 2 and Figure 3 yes Figure 1 1 and 2. Different views of the patient table 46 of the CT imaging system 10 in FIG. The patient table 46 includes a base 52. In some embodiments, the base 52 is fixed to a single location on the floor in the scanning room. In other words, the base 52 does not move in the y-, x-, and z-directions. In some embodiments, the base 52 is configured to move bi-directionally (e.g., extending in the x- or axial direction) along a path on the floor in the scanning room (e.g., via linear motion guides). The structure of the base 52 may be different from Figure 2 and Figure 3 The structure shown.

[0039] The patient table 46 also includes a patient support bracket 50. The bracket 50 is configured to support a subject (e.g., a patient) to be imaged. The bracket 50 is configured to move bidirectionally relative to the base 52 in the x-direction and along the longitudinal axis 49 (as indicated by arrow 62). The bracket 50 includes a first side 64 and a second side 66, both of which extend in the x-direction between a first end 68 (first longitudinal end) and a second end 70 (second longitudinal end). The first end 68 is configured to face the gantry of the imaging system and is configured to move into and out of the aperture of the gantry. The bracket 50, the first side 64, and the second side 66 have a length 72 (e.g., longitudinal length) in the x-direction. As discussed in more detail below, the thickness of the bracket varies along the longitudinal direction. The bracket 50, the first end 68, and the second end 70 have a width 74 in the z-direction. In certain embodiments, the width 74 is at least 52 cm. In certain embodiments, the width 74 may range between 42 cm and 56 cm (or greater). In some embodiments, the width 74 can be 52 cm. In some embodiments, the width 74 can be 54 cm. In some embodiments, the width 74 can be 56 cm. The width 74 of the cradle 50 is wide enough so that every part of the patient (of all sizes) is positioned on the cradle 50 without any part of the patient overhanging the cradle 50.

[0040] The patient table 46 also includes a fixed structure 78 that is coupled to the top of the base 52 (e.g., the top portion 58). Figure 3 , the fixed structure 78 is represented by a dashed line. Various roller supports (not shown) associated with the fixed structure 78 facilitate movement of the carriage relative to the fixed structure 78. The fixed structure 78 does not move in any direction relative to the top of the base 52 or the entire base 52. The entire fixed structure 78 is located below the carriage 50 in the y-direction. The fixed structure 78 includes a first side 80 and a second side 82, both of which extend in the x-direction between a first end 84 (a first longitudinal end) and a second end 86 (a second longitudinal length). The fixed structure 78, the first end 84, and the second end 86 have a width 88 in the z-direction.

[0041] The patient table 46 lacks side support structures for the tray 50. The patient table 46 does not have any additional external supports or structures to hold and position the tray 50. The width 74 of the tray 50 is greater than the width 88 of the fixed structure 78. The tray 50 is positioned above the fixed structure 78 along the width 88. Because there are no side support structures on either side of the tray 50, the tray 50 is configured to move relative to the fixed structure 78 without a portion (e.g., a finger or hand) being trapped between the tray 50 and the fixed structure 78. Furthermore, the width 74 of the tray (and the absence of any side support structures) prevents the subject from experiencing kinesiophobia and claustrophobia by preventing the stationary and moving table components from visually observing movement relative to each other during tray movement.

[0042] Bracket 50 is made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic. Specifically, bracket 50 is manufactured via a carbon fiber reinforced (or any composite material or X-ray transparent material) layup process. This manufacturing technology provides a bracket at a lower cost and improves productivity (compared to a typical bracket). When a patient is loaded onto the bracket, they will not experience cold shock (for example, because bracket 50 is not made of metal). In certain embodiments, bracket 50 lacks a foam core. In certain embodiments, bracket 50 has a lower X-ray attenuation than another bracket with a foam core. In certain embodiments, bracket 50 can be thinner and more slender than a typical bracket. As discussed in more detail below, bracket 50 is configured to support a single subject (for example, a patient) load so that the subject can be loaded onto the bracket 50 and unloaded onto the bracket using only the bracket 50. In certain embodiments, a foldable handle structure can be provided adjacent to bracket 50 to help the subject be loaded onto the bracket 50 and unloaded onto the bracket.

[0043] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 An end view of a portion of patient table 46 is depicted. Figure 5 yes Figure 2 The depicted end view of the bracket 50 of the patient examination table 46. As described above, the bracket 50 is located above the fixed structure 78, such as Figure 5 As shown. Additionally, the width 74 of the cradle 50 is greater than the width 88 of the fixed structure 78. In some embodiments, the width 74 is at least 42 cm. In some embodiments, the width 74 can range from 42 cm to 56 cm (or greater). In some embodiments, the width 74 can be 52 cm. In some embodiments, the width 74 can be 54 cm. In some embodiments, the width 74 can be 56 cm. The width 74 of the cradle 50 is wide enough so that every part of the patient (of all sizes) is positioned on the cradle 50, such that no part of the patient 22 overhangs the cradle 50, as shown. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown. In some embodiments, the width 88 of the fixed structure 78 can be greater than the width 74 of the tray 50. As depicted, the tray 50 lacks a foam core. In some embodiments, the tray 50 can include a foam core. As depicted, the patient table 46 lacks side support structures to provide a clampless configuration in which no portion of the patient 22 will be trapped between the tray 50 and the fixed structure 78 during movement of the tray 50 relative to the fixed structure 78.

[0044] like Figure 4 and 5 As depicted in the figure, the profile of the bracket 50 varies along the width 74 (or cross section). As depicted, the bracket 50 includes a plurality of segments 90 along the cross section of the width 74. The bracket 50 may include three or more segments 90 along the width 74. Each segment 90 is flat and extends in the x-direction. Each segment 90 also extends along the longitudinal length 72 (e.g., Figure 7) extends. As depicted, the bracket 50 includes at least 5 segments 90. The bracket 50 includes a center segment 92, a first pair of segments 94 located on either side of the center segment 92, and a second pair of segments 96 located on either side of both the center segment 92 and the first pair of segments 94. The center segment 92 is horizontal. The first pair of segments 94 are angled or tilted relative to the center segment 92. The second pair of segments 96 are angled or tilted relative to both the center segment 92 and the first pair of segments 94. The slope or angle of the second pair of segments 96 relative to the center segment 92 is greater than the slope or angle of the first pair of segments 94 relative to the center segment 92. In some embodiments, the bracket 50 may have a smooth curve along the width 74. In some embodiments, the bracket 50 may have any shape along the width 74. In some embodiments, the width of one or more of the segments 90 may be different from each other in the x-direction. In some embodiments, the widths of multiple segments 90 may be the same. In some embodiments, as Figure 4 As depicted, respective vertical sections 98 (extending in the z-direction) may be disposed on the outermost portion of each of the pair of sections 96. The vertical sections 98 extend along the longitudinal length 72. The arrangement of the sections 90 makes the bracket 50 more comfortable for the patient. The flat, horizontal center section 92 provides a flat surface for engaging with the top of a radiotherapy table, enabling the bracket 50 to be more easily used with radiotherapy scans. As depicted, the bracket 50 lacks a foam core. In certain embodiments, the bracket 50 may include a foam core.

[0045] The bracket 50 includes a top surface 100 and a bottom surface 102. The patient is positioned on the top surface 100, and the bottom surface 102 faces the fixed structure (see FIG. Figure 4 ). Along a cross section of the bracket 50, the bracket 50 and each segment 90 has a thickness 104 between the top surface 100 and the bottom surface 102. As discussed in more detail below, the thickness 104 varies along the longitudinal length 72 (see Figure 10 The variability of the thickness 104 along the longitudinal length 72, combined with the variability of the profile or cross-section of the bracket 50, distributes deflections and stresses across the bracket 50. The thickness 104 may also vary along the width 74.

[0046] Figure 8 yes Figure 2 An end view of a cradle 50 (having a first width) of a patient table is depicted. Figure 9 yes Figure 2 An end view of the depicted patient table support 50 (having a second width). Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown. Figure 8 In FIG, the width 74 of the bracket 50 is 54 cm (540 mm). Figure 9In the embodiment, the width 74 of the bracket 50 is 52 cm (520 mm). In certain embodiments, the width 74 may vary between 420 mm and 560 mm. Figure 8 and Figure 9 As depicted, the bracket 50 includes a depth 106 in the y-direction. In certain embodiments, the depth 106 can vary. The depth 106 and width 74 of the bracket 50 make the bracket 50 more comfortable for the patient. Figure 8 The bracket 50 in FIG. 5 is a lightweight design that weighs less and has a smaller deflection value than the bracket forming the core.

[0047] Figure 10 yes Figure 2 A top view of a patient table support 50 is depicted (eg, with corresponding dimensions). The support 50 has Figure 9 The bracket 50 includes a first side 64 and a second side 66, both of which extend in the x-direction between a first end 68 (first longitudinal end) and a second end 70 (second longitudinal end). The first end 68 is configured to face the frame of the imaging system and is configured to move into and out of the aperture of the frame. The second end 70 (i.e., the fixed end) remains outside the aperture of the frame and remains disposed on the fixed structure (e.g., when the first end 68 is disposed with the aperture of the frame). Figure 2 The bracket 50, first side 64, and second side 66 have a length 72 in the x-direction (e.g., a longitudinal length). In certain embodiments, the length 72 may also vary. The bracket 50, first end 68, and second end 70 have a width 74 in the z-direction. In certain embodiments, the width 74 is at least 42 cm. In certain embodiments, the width 74 may range from 42 cm to 56 cm (or greater).

[0048] The thickness of the bracket 50 (eg Figure 4104) varies along the longitudinal axis 49 (and the longitudinal length 72). The bracket 50 includes a first section 108 (section A) and a second section 110 (section B). Dashed line 112 indicates the division between the first section 108 and the second section 110. The first section 108 is associated with the second end 70. The second section 110 is associated with the first end 68. The first section 108 has a length 114. The second section 110 has a length 116. As depicted, the length 116 of the second section 110 is greater than the length 114 of the first section 108. The lengths 114, 116 of the sections 108, 110 may vary. The length 116 of the second section 110 is greater than the length 114 of the first section 108. As depicted, the ratio of the length 116 to the length 114 is slightly less than 2:1. In some embodiments, the ratio of the length 116 to the length 114 may vary. The thickness of the first section 108 (e.g., Figure 4 The thickness 104 in the middle is greater than the thickness of the second section 110 (e.g., Figure 4 104). As depicted, the thickness of first section 108 is 5 mm. As depicted, the thickness of second section 110 is 4 mm. Due to its greater thickness, first section 108 is considered a reinforced section. Second section 110 is considered a non-reinforced section. The thickness of each of first section 108 and second section 110 may vary. In certain embodiments, first section 108 and second section 100 may have the same thickness. In certain embodiments, in addition to varying along longitudinal length 72, the thickness of first section 108 and second section 110 may also vary along width 74.

[0049] The variability in the thickness 104 along the longitudinal length 72 , combined with the variability in the profile or cross-section of the bracket 50 , distributes deflections and stresses across the bracket 50 . Figure 11 yes Figure 10 An end view of the bracket 50 in FIG. 1 and a table 118 with associated values. As indicated in table 118, the reinforcement section (e.g., Figure 10 The first section 108 in the non-reinforced section (e.g., Figure 10 The second section 110 in the embodiment has a thickness of 4 mm. The reinforcement section has a thickness of 1.49×10 6 The non-reinforced section has a mass moment of inertia (MOI) of 1.41×10 6 Overall, the bracket 50 had a deflection of 15.4 mm. Additionally, the bracket 50 had a stress of 182 MPa. The deflections and stresses experienced by the bracket 50 were well within acceptable limits.

[0050] As described above, the cradle 50 is configured to support a single subject (patient) point load so that the subject can be loaded onto and unloaded from the cradle 50 using only the cradle 50. Specifically, as Figure 12 and Figure 13 As depicted, the cradle 50 experiences a load when the subject 22 (patient) loads the cradle 50 via one or more of their hands, placing their entire load weight on 1 or 2 points over a small area with a concentrated load.

[0051] Figure 14 Describes the Figure 10 The load condition of the bracket 50 in the 150×150mm rack is analyzed (for example, the patient climbing load condition). The boundary condition of the patient climbing load condition is that the bracket 50 is considered to be outside the rack position. 2 A concentrated load of 200 kg is applied to the side of the carriage 50. Additionally, each side of the carriage 50 is supported by four rollers. Image 154 indicates a first region 156 (closer to the end 70) where the concentrated load is applied along the side of the carriage 50. Image 158 depicts the corresponding stress curve of the carriage 50 in response to the concentrated load applied in the first region 156. The highest stresses applied to the carriage 50 are 74.4 MPa and 107 MPa. The deflection experienced by the carriage 50 is 2.6 mm.

[0052] Image 160 indicates a second region 162 (closer to the center) where the concentrated load is applied along the sides of the bracket 50. Image 164 depicts the corresponding stress curve of the bracket 50 in response to the concentrated load being applied in the second region 162. The highest stresses applied to the bracket 50 are 110 MPa and 115 MPa. The deflection experienced by the bracket 50 is 4.8 mm.

[0053] Image 166 indicates a third region 168 (closer to end 68) where the concentrated load is applied along the side of bracket 50. Image 170 depicts the corresponding stress curve of bracket 50 in response to the concentrated load being applied in third region 168. The highest stresses applied to bracket 50 are 96.4 MPa and 118 MPa. The deflection experienced by bracket 50 is 5.9 mm.

[0054] Figure 15 Depicted are attenuation at various points during imaging of a patient 22 (eg, using the CT imaging system 10 ) using a typical cradle. Figure 15An X-ray source 14 and an X-ray beam 16 emitted from the X-ray source are depicted. Depicted within the path of the X-ray beam 16 are a filter 172 (e.g., a butterfly filter), the body of the patient 22, and a typical cradle 174. The patient 22 is positioned between the filter 172 and the cradle 174. The cradle 174 is positioned below the subject 22. The filter 172 is positioned between the X-ray source 14 and the body of the patient 22. Graph 176 depicts the attenuation across the filter 172. Graph 178 depicts the attenuation across the body of the patient 22. Graph 180 depicts the attenuation across the cradle 174. A typical cradle 174 is thicker (e.g., due to a foam core) than the cradle disclosed in the present disclosure. As a result, the typical cradle has higher attenuation, which results in a higher X-ray dose to the patient 22.

[0055] Figure 16 Depicts Figure 2 The patient table bracket 50 is depicted relative to the path of X-rays passing through the patient 22 during a scan of the patient 22. As described above, the bracket 50 is made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic. In some embodiments, the bracket 50 lacks a foam core. The thinner and more slender configuration of the bracket 50 (compared to the Figure 15 ensures that a minimum amount of composite material is placed in the path traced by the x-rays 182 passing through the patient 22, as compared to a typical bracket 174 in FIG. Figure 16 Depicted.

[0056] Figure 17 Describes the use of Figure 2 The depicted attenuation of the patient table's cradle 50 at various points during imaging of the patient 22 (eg, using the CT imaging system 10 ). Figure 17 An X-ray source 14 and an X-ray beam 16 emitted therefrom are depicted. Depicted within the path of the X-ray beam 16 are a filter 172 (e.g., a butterfly filter), the body of the patient 22, and the cradle 50. The patient 22 is positioned between the filter 172 and the cradle 50. The cradle 50 is positioned below the subject 22. The filter 172 is positioned between the X-ray source 14 and the body of the patient 22. Graph 184 depicts the attenuation across the filter 172. Graph 186 depicts the attenuation across the body of the patient 22. Graph 188 depicts the attenuation across the cradle 50. As described above, the cradle 50 is also more efficient than a typical cradle (e.g., Figure 15 The bracket 174 in FIG. 5 is thinner and more slender. In addition, the bracket 50 is wider than a typical bracket. Further, in some embodiments, the bracket 50 lacks a foam core. Figure 16 As shown, the disclosed configuration of the bracket 50 (compared to Figure 15The attenuation across bracket 50 (as depicted by graph 188) is comparable to the attenuation across a typical bracket (as depicted by graph 189). Figure 15 The lower attenuation across the cradle 50 results in a lower X-ray dose to the patient 22 (compared to when a typical cradle is utilized).

[0057] Figure 18 Depicts the analysis of typical brackets and Figure 2 Table 190 shows the results of X-ray attenuation for both the depicted patient table and the bracket 50. Figure 15 A typical bracket (e.g., bracket 177 in Table 190) and a bracket 50 lacking a foam core (e.g., bracket 50 in Table 190) are shown. A portion of bracket 50 is three-dimensionally printed and used in a comparative test with the typical bracket. CT scans are performed on both the typical bracket and the bracket 50 using a CT imaging system at different kilovolt (kV) and milliampere (mA) parameters for an X-ray source, wherein the X-ray source is located below the respective brackets. Dosimeters are placed on both the typical bracket and the bracket 50 to measure dose. As depicted in Table 190, a higher dose is measured using the bracket 50 compared to the typical bracket, indicating that the X-ray dose to a patient using the bracket 50 will be lower than the X-ray dose to a patient using the typical bracket.

[0058] Additionally, the image quality of this typical bracket with a foam core and bracket 50 lacking a foam core were examined. Figure 19 Depicts the typical bracket and Figure 2 CT images of the depicted patient table and cradle 50. CT scans of both the typical cradle and cradle 50 were performed using a CT imaging system with X-ray source parameters of 80 kV and 350 mA. Image 192 is a CT image of the typical cradle. Image 194 is a CT image of cradle 50. The image quality of cradle 50 is similar to that of the typical cradle.

[0059] As described above, the wide-angle clampless patient positioning and patient support can also be used with patient examination tables for other types of medical imaging systems (e.g., magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET) imaging systems, single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging systems, nuclear medicine imaging systems, X-ray imaging systems, etc.).

[0060] Technical effects of the disclosed subject matter include providing a patient examination table having a tray and lacking side support structures to provide a clampless configuration. In this clampless configuration, no part of the patient is trapped between the tray and the fixed structure during movement of the tray relative to the fixed structure. The tray itself serves as the support structure for positioning the patient on the tray, eliminating the need for side support structures. The disclosed configuration of the examination table eliminates the need for any additional external supports or structures for retaining and positioning the tray. The elimination of side support structures and a wider tray protects the patient from experiencing kinesiophobia and claustrophobia. Technical effects of the disclosed subject matter also include providing a patient examination table that does not provide a cold shock to the patient. Thus, the disclosed subject matter provides a better patient experience. Technical effects of the disclosed subject matter also include providing a patient examination table with improved cleanability and disinfection. This reduces associated repair issues and, therefore, reduces downtime of medical imaging systems. A further technical effect of the disclosed subject matter includes providing a bracket that is wider than a flat surface for engaging with a radiotherapy table top. Still further technical effects of the disclosed subject matter include providing a thin, strong, and cost-effective component (i.e., a bracket) made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic. A simple carbon fiber reinforced plastic layup process for manufacturing the bracket improves production. A further technical effect of the disclosed subject matter includes subjecting the patient to a lower X-ray dose due to the bracket's lower X-ray attenuation. This increases the life of the X-ray tube and improves overall system throughput.

[0061] The technology presented and claimed herein is referred to and applied to physical and concrete examples of a practical nature that clearly improves upon the state of the art and, therefore, is not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Further, if any claim appended to the end of this specification contains one or more elements designated as "means for [performing] the function of ..." or "steps for [performing] the function of ...," it is intended that such elements be construed under 35 U.S.C. § 112(f). However, for any claim containing elements designated in any other manner, it is not intended that such elements be construed under 35 U.S.C. § 112(f).

[0062] This written description uses examples to disclose the subject matter, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the subject matter, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the subject matter is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those 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 patient examination table (46) for a medical imaging system, the patient examination table comprising: Base (52); a cradle (50) configured to support a subject to be imaged and to move bidirectionally relative to the base (52); and A fixed structure (78) is coupled to both the base (52) and the bracket (50), wherein the bracket (50) is configured to move relative to the fixed structure (78) without a portion of the subject being sandwiched between the bracket (50) and the fixed structure (78).

2. The patient examination table (46) according to claim 1, wherein the bracket (50) has a first width in a first direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bracket (50), and the first width is greater than a second width of the fixed structure (78) in the first direction.

3. The patient table (46) of claim 2, wherein the bracket (50) is positioned above the fixed structure (78) along the first width.

4. The patient examination table of claim 2, wherein the first width is at least 42 centimeters.

5. The patient examination table (46) of claim 2, wherein the cross-section of the bracket (50) along the first width includes a plurality of segments, wherein at least two segments are inclined relative to a center segment of the plurality of segments.

6. The patient table (46) of claim 2, wherein the thickness of the bracket (50) varies along the longitudinal axis in both the first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

7. A patient examination table (46) according to claim 6, wherein the bracket (50) includes a first section and a second section along the longitudinal axis, the first section is configured to be extended beyond the fixed structure (78), and the second section is configured to remain above the fixed structure (78) when the first section is extended beyond the fixed structure, the first section has a first thickness in the second direction along the longitudinal axis, and the second section has a second thickness in the second direction along the longitudinal axis, and the second thickness is greater than the first thickness.

8. A patient examination table (46) according to claim 1, wherein the tray (50) is configured to support a single subject point load so that the subject can be both loaded onto the tray (50) and unloaded onto the tray (50) using only the tray (50).

9. The patient table (46) of claim 1, wherein the bracket (50) is configured to provide a flat surface for engaging a radiation therapy table top.

10. The patient table (46) of claim 1, wherein the bracket (50) lacks a foam core and the bracket (50) has lower X-ray attenuation than another bracket having the foam core.

11. The patient couch (46) of claim 10, wherein the bracket (50) comprises a foam core.

12. A computed tomography (CT) imaging system, comprising: a gantry having an aperture and coupled to an imaging assembly configured to acquire imaging data of a subject; and A patient examination table (46), comprising: Base (52); a cradle (50) configured to support a subject to be imaged and to move bidirectionally relative to the base (52); and A fixed structure (78) is coupled to both the base (52) and the bracket (50), wherein the bracket (50) has a first width in a first direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the bracket (50), and the first width is greater than a second width of the fixed structure (78) in the first direction.

13. The CT imaging system of claim 12, wherein the bracket (50) is positioned above the fixed structure (78) along the first width. The CT imaging system of claim 12 , wherein the first width is at least 42 centimeters.

15. The CT imaging system according to claim 12, wherein a cross section of the bracket (50) along the first width includes a plurality of segments, wherein at least two segments are inclined relative to a center segment of the plurality of segments.

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