Patient treatment couch for positioning and / or supporting a patient during radiotherapy

Abstract

The invention relates to a patient treatment couch for positioning and / or supporting a patient during radiotherapy, comprising a couch board section for accommodating a patient, a base section for attachment to a floor, a roll-pitch assembly arranged between the base section and the couch board section designed to pivot the couch board section about a roll axis and / or a pitch axis, characterized by a cover unit for concealing the roll-pitch assembly and / or as a crush protection for hands, wherein the cover unit forms a shell cover and comprises at least two cover shells, wherein one of the cover shells forms a roll cover shell and the other of the cover shells forms a pitch cover shell, wherein the roll cover shell is designed and / or arranged to compensate for roll movement of the roll-pitch assembly, wherein the pitch cover shell is designed and / or arranged to compensate for pitch movement of the roll-pitch assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a patient treatment bed for positioning and / or supporting a patient during radiotherapy. The patient treatment bed includes: a treatment bed board portion for accommodating a patient; a base portion for attachment to a floor; and a roll-tilt assembly disposed between the base portion and the treatment bed board portion, designed to allow the treatment bed board portion to pivot about a roll axis and / or a tilt axis. Background Technology

[0002] Patient treatment beds are widely used in various medical fields for transporting and positioning patients during imaging, treatment, and / or hospital care. Furthermore, patient treatment beds play a crucial role in radiotherapy, where precise positioning and stability are essential to ensure accurate treatment delivery.

[0003] The patient treatment bed used in radiotherapy must be exceptionally radiation-resistant and capable of highly precise patient positioning. This is crucial to ensuring that radiation is accurately directed to the target area while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. In radiotherapy, patient treatment beds are typically designed for high stability and precision. The bed must be able to hold the patient in a fixed position to minimize movement during treatment. This is usually achieved through the use of immobilization devices and specialized positioning aids. For patient positioning, the treatment bed includes mechanisms for horizontal and vertical adjustment, as well as mechanisms for tilting (pitch, roll).

[0004] Mechanisms used for tilting, rotating, and positioning patients must be designed to prevent accidental interference. This is crucial to avoid pinching hands, patients, or staff. Therefore, safety covers and protective devices are integral parts of the design to minimize the risk of injury. Covers are used to prevent such interference.

[0005] The use of lids is also for aesthetic reasons, but more importantly, it's for regulatory compliance. These lids must be exceptionally easy to clean, hygienic, and suitable for use with medical devices. At the same time, these lids must be able to withstand strong ionizing radiation to ensure their functionality and integrity throughout the product's entire lifecycle.

[0006] The use of covers is also for aesthetic reasons, but more importantly, it is for regulatory compliance. These covers must be exceptionally easy to clean, hygienic, and suitable for use as medical devices. Simultaneously, these covers must be able to withstand strong ionizing radiation to ensure their functionality and integrity throughout the product's lifespan. Furthermore, the covers should be designed for easy assembly and disassembly for maintenance and upkeep, and their movement should be smooth and quiet, without any unusual noise.

[0007] Existing patient treatment beds typically impose significant limitations on the available treatment volume, hindering the effectiveness and flexibility of radiotherapy procedures. This limitation is primarily caused by physical impacts between the treatment bed cover and the gantry, or between the treatment bed cover and the gantry cover, especially when the treatment bed is adjusted to specific roll and pitch positions. These impacts not only restrict the possible patient positioning range but can also disrupt the smooth operation of the equipment. Furthermore, existing covers for treatment beds with roll and pitch functions are often bulky, adding unnecessary complexity to the system. These covers are also typically difficult to clean, posing a challenge to maintaining hygiene standards, especially in clinical environments requiring stringent hygiene. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The objective of this invention is to provide a patient treatment bed specifically designed for radiotherapy to address these problems. The goal is to develop a treatment bed that significantly improves upon the limitations of existing technologies, thereby providing enhanced compatibility with treatment equipment and expanded positioning flexibility. Furthermore, this invention seeks to create a solution that incorporates a more compact and streamlined design for the cover, thereby ensuring ease of cleaning and compliance with stringent hygiene requirements while maintaining robustness against the effects of ionizing radiation.

[0009] This problem is solved by the present invention, particularly by the patient treatment bed, the use of the patient treatment bed, and the radiotherapy equipment. Preferred and / or advantageous embodiments are derived from the dependent claims, the description, and the drawings.

[0010] A patient treatment bed is configured to position and / or support a patient or object for radiotherapy. The patient treatment bed is preferably fixed. Alternatively, it may be movable. The patient can be positioned on the patient treatment bed, particularly in a lying position. Specifically, the patient treatment bed includes devices for securing and / or fixing the patient. Examples of such devices include patient-conformable straps, clips, and custom-made pads to ensure stability and comfort during treatment.

[0011] The patient treatment bed may be part of a radiotherapy system and / or may be used or positioned near the treatment area of ​​a LINAC (Linear Accelerator). The patient treatment bed is specifically designed for height adjustment, allowing the patient to be lowered or raised as needed. Furthermore, the patient treatment bed is preferably designed for horizontal movement of the patient and / or the treatment bed panel portion, for example, in two orthogonal directions (e.g., longitudinal and transverse directions).

[0012] This horizontal movement capability is crucial for precise positioning, ensuring accurate alignment of the patient with the radiation beam. The combination of vertical and horizontal adjustment allows for fine-tuning of the patient's position, which is essential for targeting the treatment area while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.

[0013] The patient treatment bed includes a treatment bed panel designed to accommodate a patient. This panel is often referred to as the patient support panel or includes a patient support panel. The treatment bed panel, particularly the patient support panel, is configured to provide a stable and comfortable surface for the patient during radiotherapy. The treatment bed support panel can be made of a variety of materials, each selected based on its specific properties. Preferably, the treatment bed panel, particularly the patient support panel, is based on a carbon fiber composite material, which provides strength, rigidity, and light weight. Carbon fiber is particularly advantageous in radiotherapy settings because it is X-ray permeable, meaning it does not interfere with the radiation beam, thus allowing for precise targeting of the treatment area. Furthermore, the treatment bed panel, particularly the patient support panel, can be based on or made of high-density polyethylene and specialized medical-grade plastics, providing durability and ease of cleaning.

[0014] The treatment bed panel, especially the patient support panel, is constructed to ensure minimal deflection and maximum stability. The treatment bed panel, particularly the patient support panel, preferably features a modular design, allowing for easy attachment of accessories such as fixation devices and positioning aids. This modularity is important for customizing settings to meet the specific needs of each patient and treatment plan.

[0015] Preferably, the treatment bed panel, particularly the patient support panel, includes an indexing system that allows for repositioning, ensuring that the patient can be placed in the exact same position during each treatment. The treatment bed panel, particularly the patient support panel, may include markings, especially radiopaque markings, for positioning and / or position verification. Optionally, the treatment bed panel may have built-in channels or slots for fastening straps and other fixation devices, thereby enhancing patient stability and safety during treatment.

[0016] The patient treatment bed includes a base section designed to be attached to the floor. This base section is configured to provide stability and support for the entire treatment bed structure. It can be constructed to form a firm connection with the floor, thereby ensuring that the treatment bed remains stationary during patient positioning and treatment.

[0017] The base section can serve as the foundation or pedestal of the patient treatment bed. It may include a lifting mechanism, such as a scissor lift, to allow for vertical adjustment of the patient treatment bed. This allows the patient to be raised or lowered to a desired height, facilitating precise alignment with the radiation beam.

[0018] To enhance safety and functionality, the base portion is preferably enclosed. This enclosure protects the internal mechanisms from dust and debris and also prevents accidental contact with moving parts, thereby reducing the risk of injury to patients and healthcare personnel. The enclosure can be achieved using durable materials that are easy to clean and disinfect, ensuring compliance with healthcare standards. Preferably, the base portion may incorporate features for horizontal movement, allowing the patient treatment bed to move in two orthogonal directions, such as longitudinal and transverse directions.

[0019] The base design also takes into account the need for robustness and durability. It must be able to support the weight of the patient and any additional equipment used during treatment. The materials used in its construction should be abrasion-resistant, tear-resistant, and resistant to the effects of ionizing radiation, thereby ensuring long-term reliability and safety.

[0020] The patient treatment bed includes a roll-tilt assembly positioned between a base portion and a treatment bed plate portion. The roll-tilt assembly is designed to allow the treatment bed plate portion to pivot about a roll axis and / or a pitch axis, thereby providing precise adjustment of the patient's position during radiotherapy. The roll-tilt assembly allows the treatment bed plate portion to rotate about two main axes: the roll axis and the pitch axis. This capability allows for optimal alignment of the patient with the radiation beam, ensuring precise targeting of the treatment area while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.

[0021] Roll and pitch assemblies can be constructed using a variety of mechanical components such as bearings, actuators, and control systems. These components work together to provide smooth and precise movement. Roll and pitch assemblies may include electrically operated actuators capable of automatic adjustment controlled via a user interface or integrated software.

[0022] Preferably, the roll-pitch assembly is configured as a universal joint mechanism and / or a pan-tilt mechanism. For example, the roll-pitch assembly involves the use of a pan-tilt mechanism. The roll-pitch assembly may include two intersecting and orthogonally arranged axes of rotation. This pan-tilt setup (also known as a universal joint suspension) allows independent rotation about both the roll and pitch axes. The pan-tilt mechanism ensures that the treatment bed section can be precisely tilted and rotated, thus providing enhanced flexibility for patient positioning.

[0023] The patient treatment bed includes a cover and at least two covers, wherein one cover forms a roll cover and the other cover forms a pitch cover. The roll cover is designed and / or arranged to compensate for the roll movement of the roll-pitch assembly, thereby ensuring that the roll-pitch assembly is covered in all roll settings.

[0024] Similarly, the pitch cover is designed and / or arranged to compensate for the pitch movement of the roll-pitch assembly, thereby ensuring that the roll-pitch assembly is covered in all pitch settings. The cover serves multiple purposes, including concealing the roll-pitch assembly and providing pinch protection for the hands. This is crucial for ensuring the safety of both patients and healthcare personnel to prevent accidental injury during adjustment.

[0025] The cover is typically made of durable, lightweight materials such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or medical-grade plastic. These materials are chosen for their strength, ease of cleaning, and abrasion resistance. Additionally, these materials must be resistant to ionizing radiation to maintain their integrity and functionality in a radiotherapy environment.

[0026] The cover is preferably configured as a rigid cover. Advantageously, the cover is resistant to ionizing radiation and / or invisible in X-ray images. In particular, the cover is based on carbon fiber composites, polycarbonate, boron nitride nanotubes (BNNT), polyetherimide (PEI), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyimide (PI), polyamide (PA), polysulfone (PSU), and / or graphite and / or made thereof. These materials ensure that the rigid cover is both durable and suitable for use in environments with ionizing radiation, while also meeting the requirements of X-ray imaging. Other materials can also be used, such as polystyrene produced by a low-pressure process or polyamide with fiber-reinforced inserts produced by a high-pressure process.

[0027] In particular, the roll cover and pitch cover are designed to move in tandem with the roll-pitch assembly. This ensures that the assembly remains covered regardless of its position. Optionally, the roll cover compensates for roll movement by rotation along the roll axis, while the pitch cover compensates for pitch movement by tilting along the pitch axis. The covers can be secured to the roll-pitch assembly using flexible joints that allow for smooth movement, ensuring seamless movement of the cover and assembly and providing continuous coverage. Preferred configurations include telescopic covers that can extend and retract as needed, allowing the cover to adjust its length to fully cover the assembly regardless of its position. The covers can also be segmented, with each segment capable of moving independently, allowing for more precise adjustment and ensuring that the assembly is always covered, even during complex movements.

[0028] The roll cover is designed to dynamically adjust during roll and / or pitch movement of the roll-pitch assembly. For roll movement, it may include a mechanism in which the roll cover shortens or partially slides into another cover element and / or housing on one side, while on the opposite side, the roll cover extends or unfolds to maintain continuous coverage of the roll-pitch assembly.

[0029] In particular, during roll movement, the roll cover on the downward-moving side will retract. This retraction can be achieved through a telescopic design where the cover sections and / or shells slide into each other, or through a flexible joint mechanism that allows the cover to fold or retract. On the opposite side, the roll cover will extend to compensate for the upward movement. This extension can be achieved using a spring-loaded mechanism, an electric actuator that pushes the cover outward, or by connecting the cover portion to the moving frame, thereby ensuring that the roll-tilt assembly remains fully covered. Pitch movement can include similar and / or analogous mechanisms.

[0030] The shell is designed to meet stringent safety and hygiene standards. It provides a barrier against accidental contact with the moving parts of the roll-up and pitch components, thus reducing the risk of injury. The materials used are easy to clean and sterilize, ensuring the patient treatment bed remains hygienic and suitable for medical use. Overall, the shell and its roll-up and pitch covers are key components of the patient treatment bed, providing safety, functionality, and durability in radiotherapy settings.

[0031] Preferably, the cover shells are movable relative to each other in the vertical direction. This feature allows the cover shells to adjust their position to accommodate the movement of the roll-pitch assembly, thereby ensuring continuous coverage and protection. For example, cover units and / or cover shells can be designed to extend into each other. In this configuration, a cover unit consists of multiple cover shells that slide into each other as sections, similar to parts of a telescope.

[0032] While the covers can move relative to each other in the vertical direction, they are specifically fixed relative to each other in the horizontal plane. This means that the covers maintain their horizontal alignment and positioning, thereby ensuring stability and preventing any lateral movement that could damage the coverage or protection of the roll-pitch assembly.

[0033] The covers are preferably designed to slide in and out of each other to compensate for pitch and / or roll movements. This feature allows the covers to dynamically adjust their position, ensuring continuous coverage of the roll / pitch assembly during its movement. For example, in the case of pitch movement, the covers can slide vertically relative to each other. As the roll / pitch assembly tilts forward or backward, one side of the cover can retract by sliding into the adjacent cover, while the cover on the opposite side extends by sliding out. This telescopic mechanism ensures that the roll / pitch assembly remains covered regardless of its pitch angle. Similarly, for roll movement, the covers can slide horizontally relative to each other. As the roll / pitch assembly tilts left or right, the lowered side of the cover can retract by sliding into the adjacent cover, while the raised side extends by sliding out. This ensures continuous coverage of the roll / pitch assembly during roll movement.

[0034] Preferably, the caps are designed to be receptive to each other to compensate for pitch and / or roll movements. This means that the caps can nest into each other, providing a compact and efficient way to adjust their length. For example, during a pitch movement, a cap on one side can nest into an adjacent cap, reducing its overall length, while the cap on the opposite side extends by sliding out. This nesting mechanism ensures that the caps can dynamically adjust their length, providing continuous coverage of the roll-pitch assembly. Furthermore, the caps can be designed so that liquid flows out from the top downwards without entering the interior.

[0035] Optionally, at least one of the cover housings has a protrusion, and a cover housing receiving or receiving the protrusion has a receiving portion corresponding to the protrusion. The protrusion and the receiving portion form a guiding system and / or interlock to restrict vertical movement. The protrusion on one cover housing can be designed to precisely fit into the receiving portion of an adjacent cover housing. This mechanism ensures that the cover housings move together in a controlled manner, thereby providing stability and preventing accidental vertical displacement. The guiding system formed by the protrusion and the receiving portion allows for smooth and precise adjustment, thereby ensuring that the cover housing maintains continuous coverage of the roll-pitch assembly during its movement.

[0036] The protrusion can be a ridge or track extending along the edge of the cover, while the receiving portion can be a corresponding groove or channel on an adjacent cover. When the covers are assembled, the protrusion slides into the receiving portion, creating a safety interlock that guides vertical movement. This design ensures that the covers move uniformly, maintaining their alignment and preventing any gaps or misalignments that could impair coverage of the roll-pitch assembly. The materials used for the protrusion and receiving portion are typically the same as those used for the cover, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or medical-grade plastic. These materials provide the interlocking mechanism with the necessary strength and durability, ensuring long-term reliability and functionality.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, one of the cover shells forms an intermediate cover shell, which is disposed between the roll cover shell and the pitch cover shell. The intermediate cover shell is designed and / or arranged to at least partially compensate for roll and pitch movements. The intermediate cover shell serves as a transition element bridging the roll and pitch cover shells. The intermediate cover shell is used to ensure continuous coverage and smooth movement of the cover system during both roll and pitch adjustments. By being positioned between the roll and pitch cover shells, the intermediate cover shell can accommodate combined movement of the roll and pitch assemblies, thereby providing flexibility and stability. The intermediate cover shell is preferably designed to move together with both the roll and pitch cover shells. The intermediate cover shell can slide in and out or extend and retract into and out of adjacent cover shells, thereby allowing the intermediate cover shell to extend or retract as needed to accommodate the movement of the roll and pitch assemblies.

[0038] Specifically, the roll-pitch assembly includes a base frame and a pitch frame, wherein the base frame is fixedly connected to and / or rests on the base portion. The pitch frame can pivot about a pitch axis, wherein the pitch axis rests on the base frame and / or is guided through an opening in the base frame. The base frame and the pitch frame form a structural frame, which can be configured as a frame, box, or chassis. These frames are designed to be rigid and stable, thus providing a solid foundation for the roll-pitch assembly. These frames can be constructed from materials such as high-strength plastics or metals (including aluminum or steel) to ensure durability and resistance to mechanical stress. The shaft, especially the pitch axis, is designed as a rotational axis. These shafts are mechanical components that pass through specific portions of the frame (e.g., openings or holes). For example, the pitch axis can be guided through an opening in the base frame, allowing the pitch frame to pivot smoothly about the axis. The shaft can be supported by one or more bearings, which facilitates smooth and controlled rotational movement. These bearings can be ball bearings, roller bearings, or other types suitable for the specific mechanical requirements of the roll-pitch assembly.

[0039] Preferably, the base frame is securely attached to the base portion of the patient treatment bed via a fixed connection such as bolts or welding, or by resting on a base portion with a stable interface. This ensures that the base frame remains stationary and provides a reliable support structure for the pitch frame. The pitch frame, which can pivot about a pitch axis, allows for precise adjustment of the angle of the treatment bed portion. This pivoting mechanism is important for achieving the desired patient positioning during radiotherapy. The pitch axis, guided through the base frame, ensures that the pitch frame can move freely and accurately, thereby maintaining the stability and alignment of the entire assembly.

[0040] Preferably, the roll-tilt assembly includes a roll frame, wherein the roll frame and the roll shaft are pivotable. The roll shaft rests on the tilt frame and / or is guided through an opening in the tilt frame, such that the roll shaft follows the pivoting of the tilt frame about the tilt shaft. The roll frame forms a structural component that supports the roll shaft and allows its pivoting movement. The frame can be constructed of materials such as high-strength plastics or metals (including aluminum or steel) to ensure durability and stability. The roll frame is designed to pivot about the roll shaft, thereby allowing the treatment bed section to tilt laterally. The roll shaft, as a axis of rotation, is supported by the tilt frame. This means that the roll shaft is either directly mounted on the tilt frame or passes through an opening in the tilt frame. The opening can be a precision-machined hole or slot that allows smooth rotation of the roll shaft. Bearings can be used to support the roll shaft, thereby providing low-friction movement and ensuring precise control of the pivoting action. Depending on mechanical requirements, these bearings can be ball bearings, roller bearings, or other suitable types.

[0041] Optionally, the cover unit is mechanically connected vertically via top and bottom cover shells, wherein the top cover shell is mechanically connected to the treatment bed plate portion, and the bottom cover shell is mechanically connected to the base portion. The top cover shell is designed to move in sync with the treatment bed plate portion. This mechanical connection ensures that any vertical adjustment of the treatment bed plate portion is reflected by the top cover shell, thereby maintaining continuous coverage and protection of the roll-tilt assembly. The connection can be achieved through various means, such as brackets, hinges, or sliding mechanisms, which securely attach the top cover shell to the treatment bed plate portion. These connections are designed to be robust and durable, capable of withstanding repeated movements without compromising the integrity of the cover unit. Similarly, the bottom cover shell is mechanically connected to the base portion. This connection ensures that the bottom cover shell remains stationary relative to the base portion, thereby providing a stable foundation for the cover unit.

[0042] In particular, the cover is designed to be shape-stable, thus providing a rigid and durable cover for the roll-pitch assembly. Mechanically, the cover is constructed from high-strength materials such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or medical-grade plastics, which ensures its structural integrity and resistance to deformation under stress.

[0043] The present invention also relates to a radiotherapy device comprising a patient, a control unit for controlling and / or adjusting a roll-pitch assembly, and a linear accelerator (LINAC) or radiation source for generating therapeutic radiation. The patient treatment bed is arranged and / or designed such that the patient can be positioned at a desired irradiation angle.

[0044] The LINAC is a component of a radiotherapy device responsible for generating high-energy X-rays or electron beams to treat cancerous tissue. The LINAC connects to a gantry, a rotating structure that allows the radiation source to move around the patient. This movement delivers radiation from multiple angles, ensuring precise targeting of the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.

[0045] The patient treatment bed, integrated with LINAC, plays a crucial role in patient positioning and treatment accuracy. The treatment bed is designed to be highly adjustable, allowing for precise control of the patient's position. A roll-pitch assembly, controlled by a control unit, enables the treatment bed to pivot around roll and pitch axes, ensuring the patient is positioned at the precise angle required for effective irradiation. The control unit manages the movement of the roll-pitch assembly, allowing for adjustments to the patient's position. This ensures the patient remains in the correct position throughout treatment, even with minor adjustments required during the procedure. The control unit can be integrated with LINAC's control system, providing a seamless interface for radiation therapy technicians to manage radiation delivery and patient positioning.

[0046] Another objective of this invention relates to the use of a patient treatment bed for positioning a patient at an adjustable irradiation angle within a radiotherapy apparatus. The patient treatment bed, equipped with roll and pitch components and optionally controlled by a dedicated control unit, allows for precise adjustment of the patient's position. This ensures optimal alignment with the therapeutic radiation beam generated by a linear accelerator (LINAC) or other radiation source. The patient treatment bed's ability to pivot about roll and pitch axes, combined with its vertical and horizontal adjustability, enables accurate positioning at a variety of irradiation angles. This improves the effectiveness of radiotherapy by allowing targeted delivery of radiation to the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. Integration of the patient treatment bed with the radiotherapy apparatus ensures seamless operation and improved patient outcomes.

[0047] Features disclosed in connection with specific embodiments of the invention may be combined with features of other embodiments, even if such combinations are not explicitly stated. In particular, features belonging to different claim classes, such as methods, apparatus, and uses, are considered interchangeable, provided that such combinations are technically feasible and do not depart from the core inventive concept. These combinations are within the scope of the invention as disclosed herein.

[0048] This invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described herein. Variations, modifications, and alternative configurations falling within the scope of the appended claims and equivalent to the disclosed embodiments are also covered in this invention. Unless otherwise stated, the terminology used in the claims and specification should not be interpreted in a restrictive manner, but rather in its broadest technically feasible meaning, as understood by those skilled in the art.

[0049] This invention aims to solve one or more technical problems as identified herein or which are obvious to those skilled in the art. However, the invention is not limited to solving the explicitly stated problems, but also covers any other advantages or improvements achieved through its implementation. Attached Figure Description

[0050] Further embodiments, functionalities, and effects of the present invention will be apparent from the accompanying drawings and description.

[0051] Figure 1 A radiotherapy device with a patient treatment bed is shown;

[0052] Figure 2 A portion of a patient treatment bed including a roll-tilt assembly is shown;

[0053] Figure 3a , Figure 3b , Figure 3c , Figure 3d The roll and pitch components are shown after different roll and / or pitch movements;

[0054] Figure 4 An embodiment of the cover unit is shown;

[0055] Figures 5a to 5i A portion of a patient treatment bed is shown for various roll and / or pitch movements. Detailed Implementation

[0056] Figure 1 A radiotherapy device 1 is shown. The radiotherapy device 1 includes a patient treatment bed 2 and a linear accelerator 3. The linear accelerator 3 includes a gantry 4 and a beam exit 5. The linear accelerator 3 and the patient treatment bed 2 are arranged such that a patient positioned on the patient treatment bed 2 can be treated with radiation from the linear accelerator 3 during radiotherapy.

[0057] The patient treatment bed 2 includes a treatment bed board portion 7 and a base portion 8. The patient portion 7, particularly the upper part of the patient treatment bed 2, provides accommodation and fixation for the patient. The treatment bed board portion 7 preferably includes a flat or curved surface and defines a horizontal plane. The surface of the treatment bed board portion 7 is preferably transparent to X-rays and high-energy photon beams.

[0058] The base portion 8, particularly the lower part of the patient treatment bed 2, connects the patient treatment bed 2 to the ground and may include mechanisms for vertical (V) and horizontal (H) movement of the patient. The treatment bed board portion 8 includes mechanisms for rotation (R) and tilt (T) movement, thereby allowing for optimal positioning of the patient for treatment. The base portion 8 is preferably covered and / or shielded by a cover 9.

[0059] The radiotherapy device 1 and the patient treatment bed 2 include a control unit 10 configured to control and / or manipulate the rotational and tilting movements, as well as the horizontal and vertical movements of the patient treatment bed 2. The control unit 10 may also be integrated with the control unit of the linear accelerator 3 to ensure coordinated patient positioning and radiotherapy.

[0060] Figure 2 A portion of the roll-tilt assembly 11 is shown. The roll-tilt assembly 11 is positioned between the treatment bed plate portion 7 and the base portion 8. The depicted assembly is modular and includes a base frame 12, a tilt frame 13, and a roll frame 14. Frames 12 to 14 form a rigid structure, typically made of a metallic material such as steel, or of plastic or graphite. The frames are partially nested within another frame.

[0061] The base frame 12 forms the lowest part in the vertical direction V and is fixed and / or securely mounted. The base frame 12 is located on the base portion 8. In other words, the base frame 12 is connected to the floor via the base portion 8. As part of a height adjustment mechanism, particularly via a mechanism in the base portion 8, the base frame 12 can also be adjusted in height and / or longitudinal direction. For example, the base frame 12 forms a trapezoidal frame in a top view. To minimize weight and improve radial transparency, the edges of the frame are essentially solid, such that in a top view, the interior of the frame is reinforced only by individual supports.

[0062] The pitch frame 13 at least partially surrounds the base frame 12. The pitch frame 13 is designed in the shape of a frame and is substantially rectangular in top view. The pitch frame 13 can pivot and / or rotate about the pitch axis 15. The pitch axis 15 is particularly formed as a mechanical axis, such as a rod-shaped or cylindrical metal axis. The pitch frame 13 is securely connected to the pitch axis 15, particularly by material locking, such as welding, form locking, or force locking.

[0063] The pitch axis 15 extends through the base frame 12 and / or is rotatably received or mounted on the base frame. For this purpose, the base frame 12 includes two opposing base frame openings 16 through which the pitch axis 15 extends. Specifically, the base frame openings 16 may include bearings, particularly rolling bearings, for mounting the pitch axis 15. Thus, the pitch axis rests on the base frame 12. In other words, by connecting the base frame and the pitch frame via the pitch axis, the base frame 12 and the pitch frame 13 can tilt relative to each other. This relative movement allows the patient treatment bed 2 to perform pitch movements.

[0064] The roll-tilt assembly 11 includes a roll frame 14, which is substantially frame-shaped and substantially trapezoidal or rectangular in top view. The roll frame 14 has a support portion 18 on its upper side for the treatment bed plate portion 7. The roll frame 14 at least partially surrounds the tilt frame 13. The roll frame 14 can pivot and / or rotate about a roll axis 17.

[0065] The roll axis 17 is essentially a mechanical rotating axis and is oriented in the longitudinal direction of the patient treatment bed. The roll axis 17 rests on the tilt frame 13. Specifically, the roll axis 17 extends through an opening 18 in the tilt frame. Here, the axis can be mounted via bearings. With this arrangement, during the tilt movement of the tilt frame 13, the roll axis is also tilted, i.e., the roll axis 17 follows the tilt movement. To prevent the entry of dirt and liquids, and to prevent hands or objects from entering and being trapped, the roll-tilt assembly 11 is surrounded by a cover unit 19.

[0066] Figure 3aThe pitch frame 13 and roll frame 14 are depicted in a pitch-rear position (also known as a head-down position), showing a downward-sloping rear section and an upward-sloping front section. Therefore, the roll axis 17 is tilted from the front top to the rear bottom.

[0067] Figure 3b The same frames 12 to 14 are shown tilted forward (also known as the head-up position), with the front tilting downward and the rear tilting upward. The roll axis 17 tilts from the front bottom to the rear top.

[0068] Figure 3c The rolling movement to the left is shown, with the left side of the rolling frame 14 tilting downwards and the right side tilting upwards.

[0069] Figure 3d The roll movement to the right is depicted, showing the right side of the roll frame 14 tilting downwards and the left side tilting upwards. The roll-pitch assembly 11, covered by the cover unit 19, is shown adapting to these movements.

[0070] Figure 4 An exemplary embodiment of a cover unit 19 is shown, which in particular surrounds the roll-tilt assembly 11 from the side. The cover unit 19 is connected to the base portion 8 and the treatment bed plate portion 7, thereby forming a protective housing consisting of a plurality of cover shells 20. These cover shells 20, made of rigid plastic, are telescopically connected, thereby allowing relative vertical movement.

[0071] The base cover 20a is mechanically attached to the base frame 12, while the pitch cover 20b, which is mechanically connected to the base cover 20a, is characterized by a protrusion 21 fitted into the receiving portion 22 of the base cover 20a, thereby allowing limited movement while ensuring a secure fit.

[0072] The intermediate cover 20c, which is telescopically connected to and / or interacts with both the pitch cover 20b and the roll cover 20d, enables seamless movement. The intermediate cover 20c is mechanically attached to the pitch frame 13.

[0073] The roll cover 20d is telescopically connected to the intermediate cover 20c, thereby ensuring safe movement.

[0074] Figures 5a to 5c The sections used for various rolling movements are shown. Figure 5b The neutral position at 0º roll is shown. Figure 5a It shows a 4º backward roll, and Figure 5c A 4º forward roll is shown. During these movements, the rolling cover 20d adapts by receiving or extending the intermediate cover 20c.

[0075] Figures 5d to 5f The section shown is used for various pitch movements. Figure 5e This shows the neutral position at 0º pitch. Figure 5d It shows a 4º rightward tilt, also known as a head-down tilt, and Figure 5f A 4º leftward tilt is shown, also known as a head-up tilt. The tilt cover 20b is similarly adapted to the base cover 20a.

[0076] Figures 5g to 5i It depicts a combination of roll and pitch movements. Figure 5h The neutral position is shown at 0° roll and pitch. Figure 5g It shows a 4º rightward tilt (also known as head down) and a 4º backward roll (also known as head up), and Figure 5i This is illustrated by a 4º leftward pitch and a 4º forward roll. The retractable, nested shell of cover unit 19 effectively accommodates these combined movements, thereby ensuring that the mechanical parts remain covered and protected.

Claims

1. A patient treatment bed (2) for positioning and / or supporting a patient for radiotherapy, comprising: - Treatment bed board section (7), used to accommodate the patient. - Base portion (8), for attachment to the floor, - A roll-tilt assembly (11) disposed between the base portion (8) and the treatment bed portion (7) is designed to allow the treatment bed portion (7) to pivot about a roll axis (17) and / or a tilt axis (15). The feature is a cover unit (19) for concealing the roll-tilt assembly (11) and / or for protection against hand compression, wherein the cover unit (19) forms a shell cover and includes at least two cover shells (20), wherein one of the cover shells (20) forms a roll cover shell (d) and the other cover shell (20) forms a pitch cover shell (20b), wherein the roll cover shell (20b) is designed and / or arranged to compensate for roll movement of the roll-tilt assembly (11), and wherein the pitch cover shell (20b) is designed and / or arranged to compensate for pitch movement of the roll-tilt assembly (11).

2. The patient treatment bed (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cover (20) is capable of moving relative to each other in the vertical direction (V).

3. The patient treatment bed (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The cover (20) is designed to slide into and out of each other to compensate for pitch and / or roll movements, and / or the cover (20) is designed to receive each other to compensate for pitch and / or roll movements.

4. The patient treatment bed (2) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, One of the cover shells (20) has a protrusion (21), and the cover shell (20) receiving or receiving the cover shell has a receiving portion (22) corresponding to the protrusion (21), wherein the protrusion (21) and the receiving portion (22) form a guiding system and / or interlock to restrict the vertical movement.

5. The patient treatment bed (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, One of the cover shells (20) forms an intermediate cover shell (20c), wherein the intermediate cover shell (20c) is arranged between the roll cover shell (20d) and the pitch cover shell (20), wherein the intermediate cover shell (20c) is designed and / or arranged to at least partially compensate for roll and pitch movements.

6. The patient treatment bed (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The roll-pitch assembly (11) includes a base frame (12) and a pitch frame (13), wherein the base frame (12) is fixedly connected to and / or rests on the base portion (8), wherein the pitch frame is pivotable about the pitch axis (15), wherein the pitch axis (15) rests on the base frame (12) and / or the pitch axis (15) is guided through an opening in the base frame.

7. The patient treatment bed (2) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The roll-pitch assembly (11) includes a roll frame (14), wherein the roll frame and the roll axis are pivotable, wherein the roll axis rests on the pitch frame (13) and / or the roll axis (17) is guided through an opening in the pitch frame (13) such that the roll axis (17) follows the pivoting of the pitch frame (13) about the pitch axis (15).

8. The patient treatment bed (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The mechanical connection of the cover unit (19) is made in the vertical direction (V) via top and bottom cover shells (20), wherein the top cover shell (20) is mechanically connected to the treatment bed board portion (7) and the bottom cover shell (20) is mechanically connected to the base portion (8).

9. The patient treatment bed (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The cover (20) is designed to be rigid and / or form a hard shell.

10. A radiotherapy device (1) comprising a patient treatment bed (2) according to any of the preceding claims, a control unit (10) for controlling and / or adjusting the roll-pitch assembly (11), and a linear accelerator (3) or radiation source for generating therapeutic radiation, wherein the patient treatment bed (2) is arranged and / or designed such that a patient can be positioned at a desired irradiation angle.

11. The use of a patient treatment bed (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 for positioning a patient at an adjustable irradiation angle in a linear accelerator (2) and / or a radiotherapy device (1).

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