Systems and methods for scheduling filter maintenance of an imaging system

Abstract

Various systems and methods for scheduling filter maintenance of an imaging system are described herein. An example method for scheduling filter maintenance of an imaging system includes detecting, via a sensor, that a pressure differential across a filter is below a threshold, providing, via a display of the imaging system, an alert to an operator that the pressure differential across the filter is below the threshold, and scheduling filter maintenance based on the pressure differential being below the threshold.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] The embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein relate to systems and methods for determining when it is necessary to clean the gantry air filters of a computed tomography (CT) imaging system to improve the temperature regulation and operational efficiency of the CT imaging system. In some embodiments, when it is determined that cleaning of the gantry air filters of the CT imaging system is necessary, a filter cleaning device coupled to the CT imaging system is initiated.

[0002] Imaging systems such as computed tomography (CT) imaging systems include components that generate heat during operation, such as detectors, X-ray generators, and processors. To cool the system, cooler air (e.g., from the ambient environment) can be drawn in and circulated through the rack via one or more inlets in the rack using one or more fans. At least one filter is positioned adjacent to the inlet to prevent dust and other particles in the air from entering the rack and interfering with its operation. As the filter traps more dust and particles, it allows less air through the inlet, thus reducing its cooling capacity. To ensure that the flow rate through the filter remains sufficient to cool the rack components, the filter is cleaned and / or replaced during scheduled maintenance intervals. However, in some environments, the filter may need to be cleaned more frequently or between regularly scheduled maintenance appointments, and in other environments, less frequent cleaning may be required, thus the time between maintenance appointments may be longer. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention describes concepts in more detail in specific embodiments. It should not be used to identify essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor should it be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0004] In one aspect described herein, an exemplary method for scheduling filter maintenance of an imaging system includes: detecting via a sensor that the pressure difference across the filter is higher than a threshold; providing an alarm to an operator via a display of the imaging system that the pressure difference across the filter is higher than the threshold; and scheduling filter maintenance based on the pressure difference being lower than the threshold.

[0005] In another aspect described herein, an exemplary imaging system includes: a housing; an air inlet located within the housing; a filter located adjacent to the inlet; a display including a user interface; one or more sensors adjacent to the filter for measuring pressure differential across the filter; and a processor. The processor includes instructions for performing: determining that the pressure differential is above a threshold; providing an alarm to an operator via the user interface of the display that the pressure differential is above the threshold; and scheduling filter maintenance based on a pressure differential below the threshold. Attached Figure Description

[0006] The accompanying drawings included in this application are intended to help further understand the embodiments of this application and form part of the specification. They, together with the textual description, are used to explain the implementation methods of this application and to elucidate the principles of this application. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other embodiments can be obtained based on these drawings without any inventive effort. In the drawings:

[0007] Figure 1 A perspective view of an imaging system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0008] Figure 2 A block diagram of an imaging system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0009] Figure 3 Depicting Figure 1 and Figure 2 An exemplary rack for an imaging system includes a pressure sensor positioned adjacent to a filter at an air inlet.

[0010] Figure 4 A first example of a filter cleaning device for a filter at the rack inlet is depicted.

[0011] Figure 5 A second example of a filter cleaning device for a filter at the rack inlet is depicted.

[0012] Figure 6 A third example of a filter cleaning device for a filter at the rack inlet is depicted.

[0013] Figure 7 A fourth example of a filter cleaning device for a filter at the rack inlet is depicted.

[0014] Figure 8 A flowchart representing the method for maintaining the scheduling filter is depicted.

[0015] Figure 9 A flowchart depicts another method for representing the maintenance of scheduling filters.

[0016] Figure 10 A flowchart depicts an additional method for representing the maintenance of scheduling filters.

[0017] Figure 11 An exemplary alert that can be provided to users to indicate that the filter needs maintenance is required is described. Detailed Implementation

[0018] Embodiments of this disclosure will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein Figure 1 and Figure 2 Exemplary imaging systems (e.g., computed tomography (CT) imaging systems) that can be used with the exemplary systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein are depicted. Alternatively, other types of imaging systems may be used. Figures 3 to 7 Various exemplary systems, such as those described herein, for scheduling filter maintenance of imaging systems are depicted. Figures 8 to 10 Various exemplary flowcharts are depicted to represent methods for scheduling the maintenance of imaging systems as described herein.

[0019] Specifically, this paper describes the use of imaging systems (such as...) Figure 1 and Figure 2 Exemplary systems and methods used in conjunction with the imaging system described herein include at least one sensor (e.g., one or more sensors) positioned adjacent to a filter at the inlet of the imaging system's housing (e.g., a rack housing). The sensor monitors a pressure differential across the filter (e.g., how much the air pressure changes before and after the filter). The measured pressure differential indicates how much dirt is on the filter (e.g., the degree of filter clogging, how dirty the filter is, etc.). A filter with too much dirt will prevent sufficient airflow for cooling components of the imaging system. The exemplary apparatus and systems described herein may also include one or more filter cleaning devices. Filter cleaning devices may include vacuum devices, brushes / bristles, adhesives or sticky sheets, blowers, additional filter materials, or combinations thereof. In some examples, when a computing device (e.g., based on the pressure differential measured by the sensor) determines that the filter has accumulated too much dirt, the computing device signals the filter cleaning device to activate and clean the filter. Additionally and / or alternatively, the computing device provides operators with alerts for scheduled maintenance and / or automatic scheduled maintenance. In this way, it can be ensured that the filters of the imaging system are clean enough to allow sufficient air to pass through the filters to cool the imaging system, even between regularly scheduled preventative maintenance appointments.

[0020] Figure 1 An exemplary imaging system 100 is shown. Figure 1 The imaging system 100 shown may be a computed tomography (CT) system. However, other types of imaging systems may be used in conjunction with the methods, apparatus, and systems described herein, including but not limited to photon-counting computed tomography (PCCT) systems, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems, positron emission tomography (PET) systems, single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) systems, and / or combinations of imaging systems. Specifically, the imaging system 100 is configured to image a subject 112 (such as a patient, an inanimate object, one or more manufactured parts) and / or foreign objects (such as dental implants, stents, and / or contrast agents present in the body). Figure 1The imaging system 100 includes a gantry 102, which may further include at least one X-ray source 104 configured to project an X-ray radiation beam 106 (see [link]). Figure 2 An X-ray source 104 is configured to project an X-ray radiation beam 106 toward a detector array 108 positioned on the opposite side of the gantry 102, used to image a subject 112 lying on an examination table 114. Specifically, the X-ray source 104 is configured to project an X-ray radiation beam 106 toward a detector array 108 positioned on the opposite side of the gantry 102. Although Figure 1 A single X-ray source 104 is depicted, but in some embodiments, multiple X-ray sources and detectors may be employed to project multiple X-ray radiation beams for acquiring projection data at the same or different energy levels corresponding to the patient. In some embodiments, the X-ray source 104 can achieve dual-spectrum imaging via rapid peak kilovolt (kVp) voltage switching. In the embodiments described herein, the X-ray detector employed is a photon counting detector capable of distinguishing X-ray photons of different energies.

[0021] In some embodiments, the imaging system 100 further includes an image processor unit 110 configured to reconstruct an image of the target volume of the subject 112 using iterative or analytical image reconstruction methods. For example, the image processor unit 110 may use an analytical image reconstruction scheme, such as filtered back projection (FBP), to reconstruct an image of the patient's target volume. Alternatively, the image processor unit 110 may use iterative image reconstruction schemes, such as advanced statistical iterative reconstruction (ASIR), conjugate gradient (CG), maximum likelihood expectation maximization (MLEM), model-based iterative reconstruction (MBIR), etc., to reconstruct an image of the target volume of the subject 112. In some examples, in addition to iterative image reconstruction methods, the image processor unit 110 may also use analytical image reconstruction methods, such as FBP.

[0022] In some imaging system configurations, such as CT imaging systems, an X-ray source projects a cone-shaped beam of X-ray radiation, defined relative to the XYZ Cartesian coordinate system, often referred to as the "imaging volume." The X-ray beam passes through the object being imaged, such as a patient or subject. After being attenuated by the object, the X-ray beam strikes an array of detector elements. The intensity of the attenuated X-ray beam received at the detector array depends on the attenuation of the X-ray beam by the object. Each detector element in the array generates a separate electrical signal, which is a measurement of the X-ray beam attenuation at the detector location. Attenuation measurements from all detector elements are acquired individually to produce a transmission distribution.

[0023] In some CT systems, a gantry rotates the X-ray source and detector array around the object being imaged within the imaging volume, causing the angle at which the X-ray beam intersects the object to continuously change. A set of X-ray radiation beam attenuation measurements (e.g., projection data) from the detector array at a given gantry angle is called a "view." A "scan" of the object comprises a set of views taken at different gantry angles or viewing angles during one rotation of the X-ray source and detector.

[0024] Figure 2 Examples similar to Figure 1 An exemplary imaging system 200 of the imaging system 100. With Figure 1 Same, Figure 2 The imaging system described herein is a CT imaging system, but the apparatus and methods described herein can be used with a variety of other imaging systems. According to various aspects of this disclosure, the imaging system 200 is configured for imaging a subject 204 (e.g., a patient, ...). Figure 1 Imaging is performed on the subject 112. In one embodiment, the imaging system 200 includes a detector array 108 (see [link to image processing system]). Figure 1 The detector array 108 further includes a plurality of detector elements 202 that together sense an X-ray radiation beam 106 passing through the subject 204 (such as a patient) to acquire corresponding projection data (see [link]). Figure 2 In some embodiments, the detector array 108 may be fabricated as a multi-layer configuration comprising multiple rows of units or detector elements 202, wherein one or more additional rows of detector elements 202 are arranged in a parallel configuration for acquiring projection data. Detector elements 202 may also be referred to as pixels or detector pixels.

[0025] In some embodiments, the imaging system 200 is configured to traverse different angular positions around the subject 204 to acquire desired projection data. Therefore, the gantry 102 and the components mounted thereon may be configured to rotate about a center of rotation 206 to acquire projection data, for example, at different energy levels. Alternatively, in embodiments where the projection angle relative to the subject 204 varies over time, the mounted components may be configured to move along a generally curved path rather than along a segment of a circle.

[0026] Therefore, as the X-ray source 104 and detector array 108 rotate, detector array 108 collects data of the attenuated X-ray beam. The data collected by detector array 108 then undergoes preprocessing and calibration to adjust the data to represent the line integral of the attenuation coefficient of the scanned subject 204. The processed data is typically referred to as a projection. In some examples, individual detectors or detector elements 202 in detector array 108 may include photon counting detectors that record interactions of individual photons into one or more energy bins.

[0027] The acquired projection dataset can be used for Base Material Decomposition (BMD). During BMD, the measured projections are converted into a set of material density projections. The material density projections can be reconstructed to form a set of material density maps or images for each corresponding base material (such as bone, soft tissue, and / or contrast agent maps). The density maps or images can then be correlated to form a 3D volumetric image of the base material (e.g., bone, soft tissue, and / or contrast agent) in the imaging volume.

[0028] Once reconstructed, the base material image generated by imaging system 200 reveals the internal features of subject 204 represented by the densities of the two base materials. Density images can be displayed to illustrate these features. In conventional protocols for diagnosing medical conditions (such as disease states), and more generally, for diagnosing medical events, radiologists or physicians will consider a hard copy or display of the density image to identify features of interest. Such features may include lesions, size, and shape of specific anatomical structures or organs, as well as other features that should be identifiable in the image based on the individual practitioner's skill and knowledge.

[0029] In one embodiment, the imaging system 200 includes a control mechanism 208 to control the movement of components, such as the rotation of the gantry 102 and the operation of the X-ray source 104. In some embodiments, the control mechanism 208 further includes an X-ray controller 210 configured to provide power and timing signals to the X-ray source 104. Additionally, the control mechanism 208 includes a gantry motor controller 212 configured to control the rotational speed and / or position of the gantry 102 based on imaging requirements.

[0030] In some embodiments, control unit 208 further includes a data acquisition system (DAS) 214 configured to sample analog data received from detector element 202 and convert the analog data into digital signals for subsequent processing. DAS 214 may be further configured to selectively aggregate a subset of data from detector element 202 into a so-called macro detector. Data sampled and digitized by DAS 214 is transmitted via collector loop 213 to a computer or computing device 216. In one example, computing device 216 stores the data in a storage device or mass storage device 218. For example, storage device 218 can be any type of non-transitory memory and may include hard disk drives, floppy disk drives, optical disc read / write (CD-R / W) drives, digital universal optical disc (DVD) drives, flash memory drives, and / or solid-state storage drives.

[0031] Additionally, computing device 216 provides commands and parameters to one or more of the DAS 214, X-ray controller 210, and rack motor controller 212 for system operation, such as data acquisition and / or processing. In some embodiments, computing device 216 controls system operation based on operator input. Computing device 216 receives operator input, such as commands and / or scan parameters, via an operator console 220 operably coupled to computing device 216. Operator console 220 may include a keyboard (not shown) or a touchscreen to allow the operator to specify commands and / or scan parameters.

[0032] Although Figure 2 An operator console 220 is illustrated, but more than one operator console may be coupled to the imaging system 200, for example, to input or output system parameters, request checks, plot data, and / or view images. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the imaging system 200 may be coupled via one or more configurable wired and / or wireless networks (such as the Internet and / or VPNs, wireless telephone networks, wireless LANs, wired LANs, wireless WANs, wired WANs, etc.) to multiple displays, printers, workstations, and / or similar devices, located locally or remotely, either within an institution or hospital or in entirely different locations.

[0033] In one implementation, for example, imaging system 200 includes or is coupled to a Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) 224. In an exemplary specific implementation, PACS 224 is further coupled to a remote system (such as a radiology information system, a hospital information system) and / or to an internal or external network (not shown) to allow operators in different locations to supply commands and parameters and / or obtain access to image data.

[0034] The computing device 216 operates the inspection table motor controller 226 using operator-provided and / or system-defined commands and parameters. This inspection table motor controller, in turn, controls the inspection table 114, which may be an electric inspection table. Specifically, the inspection table motor controller 226 can move the inspection table 114 to properly position the subject 204 within the rack 102, thereby acquiring projection data corresponding to the target volume of the subject 204.

[0035] As previously noted, DAS 214 samples and digitizes the projection data acquired by detector element 202. Subsequently, image reconstructor 230 uses the sampled and digitized X-ray data to perform high-speed reconstruction. Although Figure 2Image reconstructor 230 is illustrated as a separate entity, but in some embodiments, image reconstructor 230 may be part of computing device 216. Alternatively, image reconstructor 230 may not be present in imaging system 200, and alternatively, computing device 216 may perform one or more functions of image reconstructor 230. Furthermore, image reconstructor 230 may be located locally or remotely and may be operatively connected to imaging system 200 using a wired or wireless network. Specifically, one exemplary embodiment may use computing resources in a "cloud" network cluster for image reconstructor 230.

[0036] In one embodiment, image reconstructor 230 stores reconstructed images in storage device 218. Alternatively, image reconstructor 230 may send reconstructed images to computing device 216 to generate usable patient information for diagnosis and evaluation. In some embodiments, computing device 216 may send reconstructed images and / or patient information to a display or display device 232 having a user interface and communicatively coupled to computing device 216 and / or image reconstructor 230. In some embodiments, reconstructed images may be sent from computing device 216 or image reconstructor 230 to storage device 218 for short-term or long-term storage.

[0037] Information can be transmitted via slip ring 213 between components residing in gantry 102 and external devices such as computing device 216 and / or image reconstructor 230, which facilitates electronic communication across the rotating gantry. In some examples, the gantry and internal components (e.g., control mechanism 208, X-ray source 104, detector array 108) may be collectively defined as a PCCT scanner, and thus computing device 216 and image reconstructor 230 may reside outside the scanner.

[0038] An exemplary imaging system 200 includes at least one sensor 234. The exemplary sensor 234 may include one or more sensors. In some examples, the sensor includes one or more flow rate sensors (e.g., mass flow rate sensors, air flow rate sensors, etc.) to measure the inlet air filter (e.g., adjacent to the housing or rack housing of the imaging system) of the inlet air filter. Figure 3The sensor measures the airflow velocity through the filter (302). In some examples, the sensor includes two flow rate sensors. In such examples, a first flow rate sensor measures the airflow velocity at a point on one side of the filter (e.g., before the filter), and a second flow rate sensor measures the airflow velocity at a point on the other side of the filter (e.g., after the filter). In this way, the difference in flow rates measured before and after the filter indicates the pressure difference across the filter. In other examples, one or more differential pressure transducers may be positioned adjacent to the filter to measure the pressure difference across the filter. An increase in the pressure difference across the filter indicates the level of dirt accumulated by the filter.

[0039] In other examples, one or more pressure sensors may be positioned adjacent to the filter to determine the pressure exerted on the filter by the air passing through it. An increase in pressure may indicate that more dirt has accumulated on or on the filter. In other examples, additional sensors capable of measuring pressure differentials or otherwise determining that dirt has accumulated on the air filter may be used. In some examples, other suitable airflow characteristic measuring devices may be used, including other sensors, instruments, or valves. For example, an optical sensor measures the amount of light passing through the filter. As dirt accumulates on the sensor, less light passes through the filter.

[0040] In some examples, based on signals from sensor 234, computing device 216 determines whether a measured value or a value determined based on sensor measurements (e.g., pressure, pressure difference, optical change, etc.) meets a threshold. If the measured or determined value meets the threshold, the computing device may provide an alert to the operator via a display (e.g., using a user interface). In some examples, computing device 216 may optionally or additionally automatically schedule cleaning. Scheduling cleaning may include determining when the imaging system is not in use (e.g., for imaging scans) and scheduling the runtime of the filter cleaning equipment. Alternatively or additionally, scheduling cleaning may include scheduling the time for technicians to clean filters based on technician availability and the imaging system's schedule (e.g., when the imaging system is scheduled for imaging scans). In some examples, scheduling cleaning may include creating maintenance tasks to be added to the next schedule, being an appointment for a periodic schedule for preventative maintenance, and / or an appointment for the next schedule for unexpected maintenance (e.g., once an appointment is scheduled, the task is stored and added, but no additional appointment is scheduled). Exemplary computing device 216 may track cleaning tasks and determine whether the filter was successfully cleaned and the time when the filter was last cleaned and / or replaced. In the example of a technician cleaning a filter, the technician can provide confirmation that the filter has been cleaned or replaced.

[0041] An exemplary imaging system 200 may include a filter cleaning device 236. The filter cleaning device 236 may include a vacuum unit, a brush / bristles, an adhesive or sticky sheet, a blower, additional filter material, or a combination thereof. In some examples, when a computing device (e.g., based on a pressure difference measured by sensor 234) determines that the filter has accumulated too much dirt, the computing device 216 signals the filter cleaning device 236 to activate and clean the filter. The exemplary filter cleaning device may perform the filter cleaning task at a time scheduled by the computing device. It may be combined with... Figures 4 to 7 Exemplary implementations of the filter cleaning device are described in more detail. In some examples, one or more filter cleaning devices and / or portions of the exemplary cleaning devices may be combined and / or rearranged.

[0042] Figure 3 An exemplary rack 102 of the imaging system 200 is depicted. Figure 3 This is a simplified schematic diagram of rack 102, depicting a filter 302 positioned above an inlet 304. Exemplary sensors 234 (e.g., pressure sensors) are positioned adjacent to each filter. Inlet 304 may be an air inlet operable to draw in air to cool one or more components of the rack, including detector 108, X-ray source 104, and / or any computing devices located within the rack. Air may be drawn in and circulated through the rack via one or more blowers 306 or fans. In some examples, blowers 306 are positioned behind the respective inlets 304 to draw in air through them. Exemplary filter 302 may be a HEPA filter to prevent contaminants (e.g., dust, particles, etc.) from entering the rack via inlets 304, thereby preventing the accumulation of contaminants within rack 102, which could interfere with the function of imaging system 200. Although one filter 302 and inlet 304 are depicted, multiple filters 302 and inlets 304 may be included in the exemplary rack 102. Additionally, filter 302 and inlet 304 can be positioned at any location on the rack where inlet 304 may be needed to accommodate cooling of components of the imaging system 200, or where the inlet may be positioned based on the positioning requirements of other components of the rack 102. As described herein, sensor 234 can be positioned adjacent to the filter and operable to detect when the filter requires cleaning. Ideally, sensor 234 is positioned between filter 302 and blower 306.

[0043] Pressure sensor 234 (e.g., via a wired connection, via a wireless connection) is communicatively coupled to converter 308 (e.g., a serial converter). Converter 308 converts the signal from the pressure sensor into a pressure differential value. Converter 308 is further connected to switch 310 (e.g., an Ethernet switch) or other communication device. Switch 310 is communicatively coupled to computing device 216. In some examples, pressure sensor 234 and / or computing device 216 are operable to determine the elevation of imaging system 200, which may affect the value of the pressure differential determined by the signal from sensor 234. Alternatively, the elevation is manually provided by the operator when setting up the imaging system. Sensor 234 can determine a baseline measurement or pressure differential under a known system configuration (e.g., during calibration). Additionally or alternatively, sensor 234 can update the baseline measurement when a filter is replaced. A pressure differential threshold is defined based on the baseline measurement and the elevation of the imaging system. That is, if the pressure differential is below the pressure differential threshold, filter 302 may need to be cleaned or replaced. In some examples, the pressure differential threshold is defined in a lookup table. In other examples, the pressure difference threshold is defined as a percentage of the baseline pressure difference measurement.

[0044] In some examples, different types of sensors may be used, measuring different values ​​to determine when the filter needs cleaning or replacement. In such examples, a baseline value is established during calibration or filter installation. A threshold can then be determined as a percentage above or below the baseline value. For example, if an optical sensor is used to determine the amount of dirt on the filter, a reduction in the amount of light passing through the filter exceeding a predefined percentage of the measured baseline light amount will be out of range (e.g., above the threshold, below the threshold) and will indicate that the filter needs cleaning.

[0045] In some examples, exemplary pressure sensor 234 and computing device 216 provide an operator or technician with a system scorecard, which may include the pressure difference across filter 302. The operator or technician is notified before a scheduled preventative maintenance appointment whether the filter needs to be replaced or cleaned. Additionally, the measured pressure difference may be recorded over time, and computing device 216 may analyze trends for each filter 302 of the imaging system 200, even predicting when a filter 302 will need to be replaced or cleaned. Based on the trend data, a pressure difference limit or threshold may be established for each filter 302. The pressure limit may be a fixed value or may be expressed as a transfer function using variables such as temperature, system duty cycle, and site elevation, which more accurately determines when the filter needs cleaning or replacement. Computing device 216 may notify the user of the trend and alert the operator when cleaning or replacement of the filter is needed, particularly between scheduled preventative maintenance appointments. In some examples, predictive modeling may be used based on the pressure difference data collected by sensor 234 to estimate the remaining time until the pressure difference falls below a certain threshold, thereby allowing proactive service scheduling.

[0046] Although Figure 3 A single sensor 234 positioned adjacent to each filter is depicted, but multiple sensors 234 can alternatively be used. Using multiple sensors allows for redundancy in the event of a sensor failure. Additionally, using multiple sensors provides the ability to determine whether there is more dust clogging on one side of the filter relative to the other, or on one side of the rack relative to the other. Using multiple sensors also allows for cross-calibration of the sensors.

[0047] Figure 4An exemplary filter cleaning device 326 including a vacuum device 402 is depicted. The exemplary vacuum device includes a suction inlet 404 positioned adjacent to the filter 302. The suction inlet 404 may be substantially the width of the filter 302, such that a single pass of the vacuum device 402 can clean the entire width of the filter 302. The exemplary vacuum device 402 is operated via one or more motors 406 or actuators. The motor 406 drives the vacuum device along a set of tracks 408. The motor 406 may be coupled to any suitable device for moving the vacuum device 402 along the set of tracks 408, including but not limited to drive gears, drive belts or chains, one or more wheels, and / or any combination thereof. The set of tracks 408 is positioned on either side of the filter 302. The set of tracks 408 has a length approximately equal to the length of the filter 302. An exemplary vacuum device 420 includes an outlet 410 coupled to a collection tank 412 via a flexible hose 414. An exemplary flexible hose has a length that allows the vacuum device 402 to travel to the farthest end of the set of tracks 408 and remain coupled to the collection box 412 via the flexible hose 414.

[0048] During operation, motor 406 can move vacuum unit 402 from a starting position 416 (e.g., adjacent to the top of filter 302) to a second position 418 (e.g., adjacent to the bottom of filter 302) and then back to the starting position 416. During the movement of vacuum unit 402, suction inlet 404 is adjacent to filter 302 and in operation to remove dirt from the surface of filter 302 and collect the dirt in collection box 412. In this way, dirt is removed from the surface of filter 302 and contained. In some examples, the collection box may alternatively be integrated with vacuum unit 402, such that collection box 412 moves with vacuum unit and flexible hose 414 is not required. During periodic preventive maintenance, technicians can empty collection box 412 and check vacuum unit 402 and motor 406 for any repairs or replacements required. In some such examples, if vacuum unit 402 or motor 406 becomes inoperable, an error message can be provided to the user via a display and maintenance services can be scheduled.

[0049] Figure 5An exemplary filter cleaning device 326 including a brush 502 is depicted. The exemplary brush may include a plurality of soft bristles 504 (e.g., nylon bristles) that remove dust and dirt from the surface of a filter 302 without damaging the filter 302. The bristles 504 may be of any length sufficient to clean the surface of the filter 302. Additionally or alternatively, the exemplary brush 502 may include adhesive and / or silicone components to trap dust and dirt. The exemplary brush 502 may have a width approximately equal to that of the filter 302 to allow the brush 502 to clean the surface of the filter 302 in a single pass. The exemplary brush 502 is coupled to a set of tracks 506 along which the brush 502 moves. The set of tracks 506 may be approximately equal to the length of the filter 302. A motor 508 or actuator may be coupled to the brush 502 and operable to move the brush 502 along the set of tracks 506. Motor 508 may be coupled to any suitable device for moving brush 502 along the set of tracks 506, including but not limited to drive gears, drive belts or chains, one or more wheels and / or any combination thereof.

[0050] Collection box 510 may be positioned adjacent to the bottom edge of filter 302 to collect dust and dirt removed from the surface of filter 302 using brush 502. In some examples, collection box 510 may include comb 512 or other scraping device to facilitate removal of captured dirt from the bristles 504 of brush 502. For example, comb 512 may be positioned above the opening of collection box 510 such that brush 502 passes over comb 512 and bristles 504 move through the teeth of comb 512 to clean bristles 504. In some examples, collection box 510 includes adhesive areas to capture and / or remove dust and dirt from the bristles 504 of brush 502. Exemplary collection box 510, brush 502, and / or comb 512 may be cleaned or replaced during periodically scheduled preventative maintenance. In some examples, if motor 508 is inoperable and therefore a cleaning task cannot be performed, an alarm or error message may be provided to the operator or maintenance technician to schedule service.

[0051] Figure 6An exemplary filter cleaning apparatus 326 is depicted, which includes a filter disc 602 on a set of rotating rollers 604. The length of the filter disc 602 is at least twice the length of the filter 302. When too much dirt accumulates on the filter disc 602, the dirty portion of the filter disc 602 is wound onto a first roller of the set of rotating rollers 604, and a new section of the filter disc 602 is simultaneously unwound from a second roller of the set of rotating rollers 604. Each roller 604 may be positioned within a housing 606. The housing 606 of the first roller 604 retains dust and dirt from the dirty portion within the housing 606, and the housing 606 of the second roller 604 retains dust and dirt without contaminating the clean section of the filter disc 602. In some examples, each roller 604 includes a corresponding motor 608 operable to rotate the corresponding roller 604. In such examples, the motor 608 may operate synchronously based on a single signal. Alternatively, motor 608 is attached to one of the rollers (e.g., the first roller), and the other roller (e.g., the second roller) rotates freely.

[0052] In some examples, filter 602 is a pre-filter and may be a thin material that allows most dust and dirt to collect on its surface without significantly affecting airflow through filter 302. In some examples, the pre-filter may be a mesh material to capture most dirt without significantly affecting airflow. Alternatively, filter 602 is a HEPA filter that provides sufficient air filtration while being flexible enough to wrap around the roller 604. In some examples, if motor 608 is inoperable and therefore cannot perform a cleaning task, an alarm or error message may be provided to the operator or maintenance technician to dispatch service.

[0053] Figure 7 An exemplary filter cleaning apparatus 326 is depicted, comprising an adhesive sheet 702 positioned above a roller 704. The height and width of the exemplary adhesive sheet may correspond to the height and width of a filter 302. To clean the filter 302, the adhesive sheet 702 can be unfolded over the filter 302. In some examples, the adhesive sheet is unfolded by moving the roller from a first end (e.g., the bottom end) of the filter 302 to a second end (e.g., the top end). A motor 706 may facilitate the movement of the roller (e.g., along a track). In some examples, the adhesive sheet 702 extends over the edge of the filter 302 to hold the adhesive sheet 702 in place while cleaning the filter 302. In some examples, the adhesive sheet 702 is sufficient to clean the filter 302. After cleaning the surface of the filter 302, the motor 706 is activated to rewind the adhesive sheet 702 onto the roller 704 as the roller 704 returns to its initial position at the first end of the filter 302.

[0054] In some examples, after the adhesive sheet 702 is unfolded over the filter 302, a blower or fan 708 (shown for clarity) on the opposite side of the filter (e.g., inside the imaging system housing or rack housing) blows air across the filter 302 to push dirt off the surface of the filter 302 and onto the adhesive sheet 702. In such examples, the fan 708 operates for a period of time (e.g., 10 seconds) to facilitate the removal of dirt from the surface of the filter 302. In some such examples, the material of the adhesive sheet 702 may include vents or openings to guide airflow while also allowing dust or dirt to be trapped. For example, the adhesive sheet 702 may include micropores or mesh areas operable to collect some dirt while allowing air blown into the adhesive sheet 702 from the fan 708 to pass through. In some examples, one end or edge of the adhesive sheet 702 is not fixed (e.g., not adhered to the surface adjacent to the filter 302) to allow air to escape. After cleaning the surface of filter 302, motor 706 is activated to rewind adhesive sheet 702 onto roller 704 as roller 704 returns to its initial position at the first end of filter 302.

[0055] Figure 8 This is a flowchart depicting an exemplary method 800 for scheduling filter maintenance of an imaging system. The exemplary method begins at step 802, establishing a baseline pressure difference on filter 302 or across the filter. It can be used in combination with... Figure 2 The described sensor 324 determines an exemplary baseline pressure difference. The sensor may provide a signal to a computing device 216, which then analyzes the signal and determines the baseline pressure difference. Preferably, the baseline pressure difference is determined after a new filter 302 has been installed. In such an example, a maintenance technician may provide input indicating that a new filter 302 has been installed via a user interface of the imaging system, and sensor 234 measures the baseline pressure difference. The baseline pressure difference is used as a comparison value to determine when the filter 302 should be cleaned or replaced. In examples where sensor 234 is measuring different values, a baseline value can be similarly determined so that future measurements can be compared to the baseline value.

[0056] The method continues at step 804: sensor 234 is used to monitor the pressure difference across the filter. (As in combination) Figure 2As discussed, sensor 234 may include one or more sensors. If the imaging system includes multiple filters, each filter may include at least one sensor 234. While monitoring the pressure difference via sensor 324, computing device 216 determines at step 806 whether the pressure difference is outside a first predetermined range. For example, computing device 216 may determine whether the pressure difference is below a threshold set based on a baseline pressure difference. In some such examples, the threshold may be a percentage of the baseline pressure difference. That is, if the measured pressure difference decreases by a predefined percentage, the pressure difference is below the threshold. In other examples where the sensor is measuring different values, computing device 216 may determine when the measured value is outside a range (e.g., outside a range or a threshold) compared to the baseline value. If the pressure difference is not below the first threshold or the measured value is not outside the first range, the method returns to step 904 to continue monitoring. In some examples, monitoring is continuous, while in others, monitoring is periodic (e.g., performed at set time intervals, such as hourly, daily, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, computing device 216 may determine the need for filter cleaning or replacement based on data trends or predictive modeling of measured pressure differences over a set time period.

[0057] If the pressure differential exceeds a first threshold or the measured value is outside a first range, an alarm is provided to the operator via the display 232 of the imaging system 200 in step 808. In some examples, the alarm is a pop-up alarm. Alternatively, the alarm may be included in a list of tasks to be performed by the operator. Other alarms may be provided to remote monitoring or dispatching systems (e.g., fleet-wide monitoring stations remote from the imaging system 200) or to maintenance technicians.

[0058] The method continues in step 810 by scheduling filter maintenance. In some examples, scheduling filter maintenance involves determining the timing based on the imaging system 200's schedule (e.g., a schedule of imaging scans to be performed using the imaging system). In such examples, filter maintenance is scheduled during times when the imaging system is not used for patient scans. Additionally, the scheduled filter maintenance can be automatically rescheduled if additional imaging scan time is required. In some examples, a filter cleaning device 236 (such as those described herein) is used. Figures 4 to 7The filter cleaning device automatically performs filter maintenance during scheduled periods. In some examples, scheduling filter maintenance includes adding filter maintenance tasks to future or existing periodically scheduled preventative maintenance appointments for the imaging system. In such examples, computing device 216 can track tasks to add them to a list of tasks to be performed by maintenance technicians. In other examples, filter maintenance scheduling also includes scheduling service appointments with technicians based on technician availability and / or the scheduling of the imaging system. In some examples, scheduling filter maintenance includes prompting the user to select or schedule a time for filter maintenance or for filter cleaning device 236 to run a filter cleaning task.

[0059] At step 812, after scheduling filter maintenance, the computing device determines whether the filter cleaning was successful. In the example where filter cleaning is performed using filter cleaning device 236, this may be based on the pressure difference measured using one or more sensors 234. If the pressure difference is no longer below a threshold or other measurements are no longer out of range, the computing device 216 may determine that the filter cleaning was successful. Alternatively, if the filter cleaning is performed by a technician, the technician may provide confirmation that filter 302 has been cleaned or replaced via operator console 220. If the filter maintenance is successful, an alarm indicating successful filter cleaning is provided to the operator via display 232 in step 814. If the filter is replaced (as instructed by the technician), the method may return to step 802 to establish a new baseline pressure difference. If the filter cleaning is unsuccessful, an alarm may be provided to the user in step 816, including a prompt to schedule a maintenance appointment (or additional maintenance appointment). In such examples, filter cleaning may be unsuccessful because one or more components of filter cleaning device 236 are not operational. In the example of prompting an operator to schedule a service appointment, computing device 216 may provide appointment options in step 818 based on technician availability and / or imaging system schedules. Alternatively, the method may automatically schedule appointments with maintenance technicians or additional appointments with maintenance technicians. Method 800 completes.

[0060] Figure 9 This is a flowchart depicting an exemplary method 900 for scheduling filter maintenance of an imaging system. The exemplary method begins at step 902, establishing a baseline pressure difference on filter 302 or across the filter. It can be used in conjunction with... Figure 2The described sensor 324 determines an exemplary baseline pressure difference. The sensor may provide a signal to a computing device 216, which then analyzes the signal and determines the baseline pressure difference. Preferably, the baseline pressure difference is determined after a new filter 302 has been installed. In such an example, a maintenance technician may provide input indicating that a new filter 302 has been installed via a user interface of the imaging system, and sensor 234 measures the baseline pressure difference. The baseline pressure difference is used as a comparison value to determine when the filter 302 should be cleaned or replaced. In examples where sensor 234 is measuring different values, a baseline value can be similarly determined so that future measurements can be compared to the baseline value.

[0061] The method continues at step 904: sensor 234 is used to monitor the pressure difference across the filter. (As in combination) Figure 2 As discussed, sensor 234 may include one or more sensors. If the imaging system includes multiple filters, each filter may include at least one sensor 234. While monitoring the pressure difference via sensor 324, computing device 216 determines at step 906 whether the pressure difference is outside a first predetermined range. For example, computing device 216 may determine whether the pressure difference is below a first threshold set based on a baseline pressure difference. In some such examples, the first threshold may be a percentage of the baseline pressure difference. That is, if the measured pressure difference increases by a predefined percentage, the pressure difference is below the first threshold. In other examples where the sensor is measuring different values, computing device 216 may determine when the measured value exceeds a first range (e.g., exceeds a range or threshold) compared to a baseline value. If the pressure difference is not below the first threshold or the measured value does not exceed a range, the method returns to step 804 to continue monitoring. In some examples, monitoring is continuous, while in others, monitoring is periodic (e.g., performed at set time intervals, such as hourly, daily, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, computing device 216 may determine the need for filter cleaning or replacement based on data trends or predictive modeling of measured pressure differences over a set time period.

[0062] If the pressure difference is higher than a first threshold or the measured value exceeds a first range, the method continues to step 908 and determines whether the pressure difference is outside a second predetermined range. For example, computing device 216 may determine whether the pressure difference is lower than a second threshold set based on a baseline pressure difference. In some such examples, the second threshold may be a percentage of the baseline pressure difference. That is, if the measured pressure difference decreases by a second predefined percentage, which is greater than a percentage of the first threshold, then the pressure difference is below the second threshold. In other examples where the sensor is measuring different values, computing device 216 may determine when the measured value exceeds a second range (e.g., exceeds a range or threshold) compared to a baseline value. Additionally or alternatively, computing device 216 may determine the need for filter cleaning or replacement based on data trends or predictive modeling of measured pressure differences over a set time period.

[0063] If the pressure differential is not lower than a second threshold or the measured value does not exceed a second range, an alarm is provided to the operator via the display 232 of the imaging system 200 in step 910. In some examples, the alarm is a pop-up alarm. Alternatively, the alarm may be included in a list of tasks to be performed by the operator. Other alarms may be provided to a remote monitoring or dispatching system (e.g., a fleet-wide monitoring station remote from the imaging system 200) or to maintenance technicians.

[0064] The method continues in step 912 by scheduling filter maintenance. In some examples, scheduling filter maintenance involves determining the timing based on the imaging system 200's schedule (e.g., a schedule of imaging scans to be performed using the imaging system). In such examples, filter maintenance is scheduled during times when the imaging system is not used for patient scans. Additionally, the scheduled filter maintenance can be automatically rescheduled if additional imaging scan time is required. In some examples, a filter cleaning device 236 (such as those described herein) is used. Figures 4 to 7 The filter cleaning device automatically performs filter maintenance during scheduled periods. In some examples, scheduling filter maintenance includes adding filter maintenance tasks to future or existing periodically scheduled preventative maintenance appointments for the imaging system. In such examples, computing device 216 can track tasks to add them to a list of tasks to be performed by maintenance technicians. In other examples, filter maintenance scheduling also includes scheduling service appointments with technicians based on technician availability and / or the scheduling of the imaging system. In some examples, scheduling filter maintenance includes prompting the user to select or schedule a time for filter maintenance or for filter cleaning device 236 to run a filter cleaning task.

[0065] At step 914, after scheduling filter maintenance, the computing device determines whether the filter cleaning was successful. In the example where filter cleaning is performed using filter cleaning device 236, this can be determined based on the pressure difference measured using one or more sensors 234. If the pressure difference is no longer above a threshold or other measurements are no longer out of range, the computing device 216 can determine that the filter cleaning was successful. Alternatively, if the filter cleaning is performed by a technician, the technician can provide confirmation that the filter 302 has been cleaned or replaced via operator console 220. If the filter maintenance is successful, an alarm indicating successful filter cleaning is provided to the operator via display 232 in step 916. If the filter is replaced (as instructed by a technician), the method can return to step 902 to establish a new baseline pressure difference in the case of filter replacement.

[0066] If, at step 908, the pressure differential exceeds the second threshold or other measured value is outside the second range, or if filter cleaning is unsuccessful at step 914, an alarm may be provided to the user in step 918, including a prompt to schedule a maintenance appointment (or additional maintenance appointment). In such an example, filter cleaning may fail because one or more components of the filter cleaning device 236 are not operational. In the example of prompting the operator to schedule a service appointment, the computing device 216 may provide appointment options in step 920 based on technician availability and / or the imaging system schedule. Alternatively, the method may automatically schedule appointments with maintenance technicians or additional appointments with maintenance technicians. Method 900 is completed.

[0067] Figure 10 This is a flowchart depicting an exemplary method 1000 for scheduling filter maintenance of an imaging system 200. The exemplary method begins at step 1002, establishing a baseline pressure difference on filter 302 or across the filter. It can be used in combination with... Figure 2 The described sensor 324 determines an exemplary baseline pressure difference. The sensor may provide a signal to a computing device 216, which then analyzes the signal and determines the baseline pressure difference. Preferably, the baseline pressure difference is determined after a new filter 302 has been installed. In such an example, a maintenance technician may provide input indicating that a new filter 302 has been installed via a user interface of the imaging system, and sensor 234 measures the baseline pressure difference. The baseline pressure difference is used as a comparison value to determine when the filter 302 should be cleaned or replaced. In examples where sensor 234 is measuring different values, a baseline value can be similarly determined so that future measurements can be compared to the baseline value.

[0068] The method continues at step 1004: the pressure difference across the filter is monitored using sensor 234. (As in combination) Figure 2The sensor 234 discussed may include one or more sensors. If multiple filters are included in the imaging, each filter may include at least one sensor 234. In conjunction with monitoring the pressure difference via sensor 324, the computing device may also monitor or track the amount of time that has elapsed since the last filter cleaning or replacement. If the computing device determines in step 1006 that the amount of time since the last filter cleaning or replacement has exceeded a threshold amount of time, the method proceeds to step 1010. The method continues to monitor the pressure difference and proceeds to step 1008 until the amount of time since the last filter cleaning or replacement has exceeded the threshold amount of time. At step 1008, the computing device 216 determines whether the pressure difference is outside a first predetermined range. For example, the computing device 216 may determine whether the pressure difference is below a threshold set based on a baseline pressure difference. In some such examples, the threshold may be a percentage of the baseline pressure difference. That is, if the measured pressure difference decreases by a predefined percentage, the pressure difference is below the threshold. In other examples where the sensor is measuring different values, the computing device 216 may determine when the measured value is outside a range (e.g., outside a range or a threshold) compared to the baseline value. If the pressure difference is not lower than a first threshold or the measured value does not exceed a first range, the method returns to step 1004 to continue monitoring. In some examples, monitoring is continuous, while in others, monitoring is periodic (e.g., performed at set time intervals, such as hourly, daily, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the computing device 216 may determine the need for filter cleaning or replacement based on data trends or predictive modeling of the measured pressure difference over a set time period.

[0069] If the pressure differential exceeds a threshold or if the measured value is outside the range, an alarm is provided to the operator via the display 232 of the imaging system 200 in step 1010. In some examples, the alarm is a pop-up alarm. Alternatively, the alarm may be included in a list of tasks to be performed by the operator. Other alarms may be provided to remote monitoring or dispatching systems (e.g., fleet-wide monitoring stations remote from the imaging system 200) or to maintenance technicians.

[0070] The method continues in step 1012 by scheduling filter maintenance. In some examples, scheduling filter maintenance involves determining the timing based on the imaging system 200's schedule (e.g., a schedule of imaging scans to be performed using the imaging system). In such examples, filter maintenance is scheduled during times when the imaging system is not used for patient scans. Additionally, the scheduled filter maintenance can be automatically rescheduled if additional imaging scan time is required. In some examples, a filter cleaning device 236 (such as those described herein) is used. Figures 4 to 7The filter cleaning device automatically performs filter maintenance during scheduled periods. In some examples, scheduling filter maintenance includes adding filter maintenance tasks to future or existing periodically scheduled preventative maintenance appointments for the imaging system. In such examples, computing device 216 can track tasks to add them to a list of tasks to be performed by maintenance technicians. In other examples, filter maintenance scheduling also includes scheduling service appointments with technicians based on technician availability and / or the scheduling of the imaging system. In some examples, scheduling filter maintenance includes prompting the user to select or schedule a time for filter maintenance or for filter cleaning device 236 to run a filter cleaning task.

[0071] At step 1014, after scheduling filter maintenance, the computing device determines whether the filter cleaning was successful. In the example where filter cleaning is performed using filter cleaning device 236, this may be based on the pressure difference measured using one or more sensors 234. If the pressure difference is no longer below a threshold or other measurements are no longer out of range, the computing device 216 may determine that the filter cleaning was successful. Alternatively, if the filter cleaning is performed by a technician, the technician may provide confirmation that the filter 302 has been cleaned or replaced via operator console 220. If the filter maintenance is successful, an alarm indicating successful filter cleaning is provided to the operator via display 232 in step 1016. If the filter is replaced (as instructed by the technician), the method may return to step 1002 to establish a new baseline pressure difference. If the filter cleaning is unsuccessful, an alarm may be provided to the user in step 1018, including a prompt to schedule a maintenance appointment (or additional maintenance appointment). In such examples, filter cleaning may be unsuccessful because one or more components of filter cleaning device 236 are not operational. In the example of prompting an operator to schedule a service appointment, computing device 216 may provide appointment options in step 1020 based on technician availability and / or imaging system schedules. Alternatively, the method may automatically schedule appointments with maintenance technicians or additional appointments with maintenance technicians. Method 1000 completes.

[0072] While this document describes several exemplary methods for scheduling filter cleaning, it should be understood that portions of the exemplary methods may be removed, combined, rearranged, or added. For example, a portion of method 800 may be added to method 900 or 1000, a portion of method 900 may be added to method 800 or 1000, and / or a portion of method 1000 may be added to method 800 or 900. Similarly, additional steps may be added to or removed from any of the exemplary methods. Additionally, steps described herein may be rearranged and performed in a different order than in the described examples.

[0073] Figure 11Examples of indicators depicting statistics about filter 302 that can be provided to the operator via display 232 are shown. In some examples, the alarm may also provide indications of which filters may require cleaning or replacement. Alarms may include a combination of text and icons, which may be color-coded based on the alarm. Additionally, alarms may include an interactive device (e.g., a button) that the operator must select to confirm the alarm. Indicator 1102 may be displayed to the operator when no filter problem is detected. That is, the pressure difference across the filter is not below a threshold, and the filter does not require cleaning. Indicator 1104 may be displayed to the operator when the computing device 216 determines that the filter needs cleaning based on the pressure difference measured by sensor 234. For example, if a warning to clean the filter is ignored for a period of time and the pressure difference remains below the threshold and / or the pressure difference has further decreased, indicator 1106 may be displayed to the operator. Figure 11 In addition to the examples depicted, other indicators may be used.

[0074] The embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described above are merely illustrative embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims, including any equivalents included within the scope of the claims. Various modifications are possible and will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Any combination of non-mutually exclusive features described herein is intended to be within the scope of the claims. That is, features of the described embodiments may be combined with any suitable aspect described above, and optional features of any aspect may be combined with any other suitable aspect. Similarly, features listed in dependent claims may be combined with non-mutually exclusive features of other dependent claims, particularly where the dependent claims are subordinate to the same independent claim. In some jurisdictions that require single-claim dependents, such single-claim dependents may have been used in practice, but this should not be construed as meaning that features in dependent claims are mutually exclusive.

Claims

1. A method for scheduling the maintenance of filters in an imaging system, the method comprising: The pressure difference across the filter is detected by a sensor; If the pressure difference across the filter exceeds a first threshold, a first alarm is provided to the operator via the display of the imaging system; as well as Filter maintenance is scheduled based on the pressure difference being higher than the first threshold.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising monitoring the pressure difference across the filter via the sensor.

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising establishing a baseline pressure difference, wherein the first threshold is a decrease in the measured value from the pressure difference.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein scheduling filter maintenance includes adding the filter maintenance task to an existing preventative maintenance schedule.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the threshold includes a first threshold and a second threshold, and the method further includes: The sensor detects that the pressure difference across the filter is higher than the second threshold. Provide the operator with a second alarm that the pressure difference across the filter exceeds the second threshold; as well as Maintenance appointments are scheduled based on the pressure difference being higher than the second threshold.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein scheduling maintenance appointments is based on the availability of maintenance technicians and the schedule of the imaging system.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein scheduling filter maintenance includes determining the time when the imaging system is capable of performing filter cleaning tasks based on the imaging system's schedule.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein running the filter cleaning task includes operating a filter cleaning device positioned adjacent to the filter within the imaging system.

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising providing the user with a notification that the filter has been successfully cleaned after the filter cleaning task has been performed.

10. The method of claim 8, further comprising providing a notification that the filter cleaning task was unsuccessful and prompting the operator to schedule an appointment with a maintenance technician.

11. The method of claim 1, wherein scheduling filter maintenance includes prompting the operator to select a time for filter maintenance.

12. An imaging system, the imaging system comprising: case; An air inlet is provided, the inlet being located within the housing; A filter, positioned adjacent to the inlet; The display includes a user interface; One or more sensors are located adjacent to the filter, and the one or more sensors are used to measure the pressure difference across the filter. and Processor, the processor being used for: It is determined that the pressure difference is higher than a threshold. The operator is provided with an alarm via the user interface of the display when the pressure difference exceeds the threshold. as well as Filter maintenance is scheduled based on the pressure difference being higher than the threshold.

13. The imaging system of claim 12, wherein the processor is configured to schedule filter maintenance based on the imaging system's schedule to determine when the imaging system is capable of performing filter cleaning tasks.

14. The imaging system of claim 12, further comprising a filter cleaning device, wherein scheduling the filter maintenance includes scheduling the time for operating the filter cleaning device.

15. The imaging system of claim 12, wherein the processor is further configured to: Determine that the pressure difference across the filter is higher than a second threshold. Provide the operator with a second alarm that the pressure difference across the filter exceeds the second threshold; and Maintenance appointments are scheduled based on the pressure difference being higher than the second threshold.

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