Medical image auxiliary device based on pet diagnosis

Abstract

The application provides a medical image auxiliary device based on pet diagnosis, and relates to the technical field of pet diagnosis auxiliary equipment. The medical image auxiliary device based on pet diagnosis comprises a framework, a forelimb adjusting part, a hindlimb adjusting part and a suitable fastener. One end of the framework is connected with the forelimb adjusting part, and the other end of the framework is sleeved with the hindlimb adjusting part which slides along the horizontal direction. The suitable fastener comprises a circular truncated cone cylinder, an air bag and a ring-shaped pressure-sensitive diaphragm. The inside of the circular truncated cone cylinder is formed with a fixing hole for the limbs of the pet to pass through. The inner diameter of the bottom of the circular truncated cone cylinder is larger than the diameter of the root of the limbs of the pet. The air bag is arranged on the inner wall of the circular truncated cone cylinder, and the ring-shaped pressure-sensitive diaphragm is arranged on the inner side of the air bag. In the first working state, the top surface of the circular truncated cone cylinder is flush with or slightly higher than the surface of the platform. In the second working state, the air bag is inflated to press the root of the limbs after the circular truncated cone cylinder is lifted, and the inflation is stopped when the pressure value detected by the ring-shaped pressure-sensitive diaphragm reaches the preset threshold value, so that the preliminary fixation of the limbs of the pet is completed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of pet diagnostic auxiliary equipment technology, specifically to a medical imaging auxiliary device for pet diagnosis. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of the pet economy and the continuous improvement of pet medical treatment, medical imaging diagnosis (such as X-ray, CT, MRI, etc.) has become an important means of diagnosing pet diseases.

[0003] Currently, the most common fixation methods in pet medical imaging examinations mainly involve binding and restraint straps. For example, existing technologies include pet X-ray positioning devices that use small straps on both sides of the base plate and a body strap in the middle to fix the pet. In addition, there are also solutions that use fixation posts in conjunction with straps to fix the pet's limbs.

[0004] However, bondage restraint can be restrictive for pets, easily triggering stress responses. For tense or fearful pets, bondage may exacerbate their struggles and affect the restraint effectiveness. Bondage restraint relies heavily on the operator's experience, and different operators use different restraint methods and apply varying degrees of pressure, making standardized positioning difficult and resulting in inconsistent image quality. Existing restraint devices often use universal limb fixation components, making it difficult to precisely adapt to the limb roots of pets of different sizes, resulting in insufficient restraint stability. Existing devices typically require the pet to be picked up or lifted and placed in the restraint position, which is inconvenient and can easily exacerbate the pet's panic. Existing restraint devices lack real-time monitoring and feedback control of restraint pressure, making it difficult to ensure both restraint effectiveness and pet comfort. Summary of the Invention

[0005] (a) Technical problems to be solved This invention addresses the aforementioned shortcomings of existing pet medical imaging fixation devices by providing a pet diagnostic medical imaging auxiliary device. The aim is to achieve rapid, accurate, and adaptive fixation of pets, improving the efficiency and quality of imaging examinations while reducing stress and harm to the pets.

[0006] (II) Technical Solution To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: A medical imaging aid for pet diagnosis includes a limb root fitting device. The limb root fitting device includes a skeleton, a forelimb adjuster, a hindlimb adjuster, and a fitting device. One end of the skeleton is connected to a forelimb adjuster that moves vertically, and both ends of the forelimb adjuster are fixedly connected to the fitting device. The other end of the skeleton is fitted with a hindlimb adjuster that slides horizontally, and both ends of the hindlimb adjuster are fixedly connected to the fitting device. The adapter includes a frustum cylinder, an airbag, and an annular pressure-sensitive diaphragm. The interior of the frustum cylinder forms fixing holes for the pet's limbs to pass through. The inner diameter of the bottom of the frustum cylinder is larger than the diameter of the base of the pet's limbs. The airbag is disposed on the inner wall of the frustum cylinder, and the annular pressure-sensitive diaphragm is disposed on the inner side of the airbag. The limb root fitting device is configured to have a first working state and a second working state: In the first working state, the top surface of the frustum is flush with the surface of the platform so that the pet's limbs can be placed into the fixing holes; In the second working state, after the truncated cone rises, the airbag inflates and squeezes the base of the limbs. Inflation stops when the pressure value detected by the annular pressure-sensitive diaphragm reaches the preset threshold, thus completing the initial fixation of the pet's limbs.

[0007] Preferably, the height difference d between the forelimb adjustment component and the hindlimb adjustment component is 0.7 to 0.8 times the difference between the pet's shoulder height and hip height.

[0008] Preferably, the height difference d between the forelimb adjustment component and the hindlimb adjustment component is 0.75 times the difference between the pet's shoulder height and hip height.

[0009] Preferably, the top of the platform is provided with a sliding groove, the middle of the sliding groove is provided with a bottom groove, a protrusion is fixedly connected to the edge of the bottom wall of the sliding groove, the protrusion and the platform form a circular support plate and support the frustum cylinder, and a limit hole is provided through the bottom of the sliding groove, the limit hole is located on the outside of the protrusion.

[0010] Preferably, the truncated cone is placed on a platform, a stepper motor is provided on one side of the platform, a lead screw is connected to the rotating end of the stepper motor, a nut is engaged with the lead screw, a spool is fixedly connected to the outside of the nut, and the side of the spool is fixedly connected to one end of the frame. The frame consists of a rod and a vertical plate directly below the rod, and a slot is provided on the side of the rod away from the stepper motor.

[0011] Preferably, the adapter further includes an extension plate and a baffle. The extension plate is fixedly connected to the bottom of the frustum cylinder, and the baffle is fixedly connected to the bottom of the extension plate. The baffle is an arc-shaped plate and is slidably connected to a limiting hole. The baffle supports the pet's limbs and prevents the limbs from shifting towards the sliding groove. A placement groove is formed on the inner wall of the top of the frustum cylinder. The inner side of the airbag is fixedly connected to the wall of the placement groove to form an air chamber. A plurality of springs are equidistantly connected to the inner wall of the placement groove in a circumferential direction. One end of each spring is fixedly connected to the airbag, and the other end of the spring... One end is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the placement slot. An inflation hole is provided on the outer side of the truncated cylinder and the inflation hole is connected to the air chamber. The airbag is placed in the placement slot when it is not inflated. The preset pressure threshold is 65–95 mmHg. A ring rubber plate is fixedly connected to the top of the truncated cylinder. The ring rubber plate is trumpet-shaped, and its top inner diameter is smaller than its bottom inner diameter. Several deformable slots are provided around the ring rubber plate. The deformable slots divide the ring rubber plate into multiple arc plates. The arc plates can deform independently to fit the contour of the limb when in contact with the pet's limb.

[0012] Preferably, the inner diameter of the bottom of the frustum is smaller than the inner diameter of the top of the frustum, and the baffle is adapted to the annular shape at the bottom of the frustum.

[0013] Preferably, the hind limb adjusting component includes an arc plate and a chamfered plate. The arc plate is placed in a bottom groove, and the bottom of the arc plate is connected to the chamfered plate. The arc plate and the chamfered plate form a sleeve plate, which is fitted onto the frame. A threaded hole is provided on one side of the chamfered plate, and first connecting plates are symmetrically connected to both sides of the arc plate. The end of each first connecting plate away from the arc plate is fixedly connected to the side of the frustum cylinder. A threaded rod is provided below the first connecting plate. The threaded rod is threadedly connected to the threaded hole, and one end of the threaded rod abuts against the frame to achieve horizontal locking of the hind limb adjusting component. In the initial state, the top of the first connecting plate is on the same plane as the top of all the frustum cylinders.

[0014] Preferably, the forelimb adjustment component includes a second connecting plate and a sliding block. The two ends of the second connecting plate are fixedly connected to the sides of the frustum cylinders, and the sliding block is fixedly connected to the center of the bottom of the second connecting plate. A plurality of first insertion holes are opened through one side of the sliding block. A placement box is fixedly connected to the side of the rod away from the stepper motor. A second insertion hole is opened through one side of the top of the placement box. The placement box is slidably connected to the sliding block. An insertion plate is provided below the second connecting plate. An expansion plate is fixedly connected to one side of the insertion plate. One end of the insertion plate passes through the second insertion hole and the first insertion hole in sequence and is inserted into the slot. The expansion plate is used to limit the insertion depth of the insertion plate. In the initial state, the top of the second connecting plate is on the same plane as the top of all the frustum cylinders. The height difference between the second connecting plate and the first connecting plate is adjusted to d by inserting the insertion plate into the first insertion holes of different heights.

[0015] Preferably, a gas control component is fixedly connected to the bottom of the platform. The gas control component includes a middle box, the top of which is fixedly connected to the bottom of the platform. Both sides of the middle box are connected to side boxes through neck openings. Each side box is connected to two symmetrically arranged inflation tubes of the same length. One end of each inflation tube is connected to an inflation hole. Each neck opening is equipped with a solenoid valve. The preset pressure threshold is 65–95 mmHg.

[0016] Preferably, in any of the following embodiments of the medical imaging-assisted device for pet diagnosis, the skeleton, forelimb adjustment component, hindlimb adjustment component, and adapter are all made of radiopaque material.

[0017] (III) Beneficial Effects Compared with the prior art, the present invention provides a medical imaging-assisted device for pet diagnosis, which has the following beneficial effects: 1. This medical imaging-assisted device for pet diagnosis uses a conical structure of a truncated cone to match the natural shape of the pet's limb root. The inner diameter of the bottom of the cone is larger than the diameter of the limb root to allow for easy insertion of the limbs, while the inner diameter of the top is smaller to ensure a proper fit with the limb root after elevation. The annular plate is trumpet-shaped and has deformable slots that divide it into multiple arc-shaped plates. Each arc-shaped plate can deform independently upon contact with the pet's limb, adapting to the local concave and convex contours of the limb root (such as bony protrusions, muscle depressions, etc.), achieving precise positioning based on anatomical structure and significantly improving the stability and consistency of fixation.

[0018] 2. This invention allows for rapid adaptation to the height difference between the forelimbs and hindlimbs of pets of different sizes through independent adjustment of the forelimb and hindlimb adjustment components. The height difference d is determined based on 0.7 to 0.8 times the difference between shoulder height and hip height, conforming to the actual height ratio of the pet's limb roots. The hindlimb adjustment component can slide horizontally to adapt to different body lengths. The four adjustment components rise and fall synchronously, achieving a rapid operation process of "one-time adjustment and synchronous fixation," significantly improving the efficiency of clinical examination.

[0019] 3. The limb root fixation device of the present invention has a first working state and a second working state. In the first working state, the top surface of the truncated cone is flush with the platform surface, and the pet can stand naturally and place its limbs into the fixing holes without being picked up or forcibly raised; in the second working state, the truncated cone rises as a whole to complete the fixation. The operation process of placing the pet in first and then raising it significantly reduces the pet's tension and panic, and reduces stress response during the examination process.

[0020] 4. The air control system uses a central box, side boxes, and equal-length inflation tubes to achieve synchronous and uniform inflation of the four air bladders. Solenoid valves independently control the on / off state of each air bladder, and a ring-shaped pressure-sensitive diaphragm provides real-time pressure feedback. All components work together in concert. After initial fixation of the limbs, optional auxiliary fixation can be applied to the pet's torso, rump, and neck, achieving multi-point stable restraint throughout the body and further ensuring the pet's posture stability during image capture.

[0021] 5. A d-value of 0.75 is used as the optimal initial calibration position. Based on this, the device employs the following redundancy levels: First-level elastic redundancy: The annular rubber plate and arc plate have independent cantilever elastic flexural strokes, allowing for independent deformation to accommodate actual height deviations of each limb, providing flexible buffering and avoiding rigid interference. Second-level spatial redundancy: The conical constriction structure of the frustum cylinder and the annular rubber plate ensures a continuous gradual change in the inner diameter of the fixing hole along the axial direction, enabling effective contact at the limb root within a certain stroke range, significantly reducing the dependence on the absolute accuracy of the d-value. Third-level pneumatic redundancy: During airbag inflation, the airbag expands anisotropically based on the gap between the limb and the cylinder wall, automatically filling the gap and applying pressure evenly until each annular pressure-sensitive diaphragm reaches a uniform pressure threshold. The synergistic effect of these three redundancies ensures stable and synchronous locking of the four fittings at the roots of all limbs, significantly improving the clinical reliability and applicability of the device. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a separation diagram of the air control component and the platform portion of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a separation diagram of the platform and its structure after the gas control components have been removed according to the present invention.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a top view of the platform of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 5 for Figure 3 An exploded view after removing the platform.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the adaptor of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the fitment of the present invention after removing the baffle and connecting plate.

[0029] Figure 8 for Figure 7 Separation diagram of the central cylindrical tube, airbag, and annular pressure-sensitive diaphragm.

[0030] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the hind limb adjustment component of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the forelimb adjustment component of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the air control component of the present invention.

[0033] In the diagram: 11 Platform, 12 Bottom groove, 13 Slide groove, 14 Protrusion, 15 Limiting hole, 21 Stepper motor, 22 Lead screw, 23 Lead drum, 3 Limb root fastening device, 31 Frame, 311 Rod, 312 Vertical plate, 32 Slot, 33 Fitting device, 331 Baffle, 332 Extension plate, 333 Frustum cylinder, 334 Annular rubber plate, 335 Deformable slot, 336 Inflation hole, 337 Airbag, 338 Annular pressure-sensitive diaphragm 339 Spring, 34 Rear limb adjustment component, 341 Curved plate, 342 C-shaped plate, 343 First connecting plate, 344 Threaded hole, 345 Threaded rod, 35 Forelimb adjustment component, 351 Second connecting plate, 352 Moving block, 353 First insertion hole, 354 Placement box, 355 Second insertion hole, 356 Insertion plate, 357 Expanding plate, 4 Placement slot, 5 Air control component, 51 Middle box, 52 Side box, 53 Neck opening, 54 Inflation tube. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0035] Please see Figure 1-11 A medical imaging aid for pet diagnosis includes a limb root fitting device 3. The limb root fitting device 3 includes a frame 31, a forelimb adjustment component 35, a hindlimb adjustment component 34, and a fitting component 33.

[0036] One end of the frame 31 is connected to a forelimb adjuster 35 that moves vertically, and both ends of the forelimb adjuster 35 are fixedly connected to the adapter 33. The other end of the frame 31 is fitted with a hindlimb adjuster 34 that slides horizontally, and both ends of the hindlimb adjuster 34 are fixedly connected to the adapter 33.

[0037] The fitting 33 includes a frustum-shaped cylinder 333, an airbag 337, and an annular pressure-sensitive diaphragm 338. The interior of the frustum-shaped cylinder 333 forms fixing holes for the pet's limbs to pass through. The inner diameter of the bottom of the frustum-shaped cylinder 333 is larger than the diameter at the base of the pet's limbs to ensure that the pet's limbs can be smoothly inserted into the fixing holes. The airbag 337 is disposed on the inner wall of the frustum-shaped cylinder 333, and the annular pressure-sensitive diaphragm 338 is fitted onto the inner surface of the airbag 337 to detect the contact pressure between the airbag 337 and the pet's limbs in real time.

[0038] The truncated cone 333 is placed on platform 11.

[0039] The limb root fixation device 3 is configured to have a first working state and a second working state.

[0040] In the first working state, the top surface of the truncated cone 333 is flush with or slightly higher than the surface of the platform 11. At this time, the pet can stand naturally on the platform 11, and its forelimbs and hindlimbs can be placed into the corresponding fixing holes respectively. Since the top surface of the truncated cone 333 is basically flush with the surface of the platform 11, the pet can be easily placed in without having to step over or raise its limbs, reducing disturbance to the pet during operation.

[0041] In the second working state, the frame 31 drives the four fittings 33 to rise vertically in sync. As the truncated cone 333 rises, the airbags 337 inflate and expand, compressing the base of the pet's limbs. The annular pressure-sensitive diaphragm 338 detects the pressure value between the airbags 337 and the limbs in real time. When the pressure value reaches a preset threshold (preferably 65–95 mmHg), inflation stops, completing the initial fixation of the base of the pet's limbs.

[0042] The skeleton 31, forelimb adjustment component 35, hindlimb adjustment component 34, and fitting component 33 are all made of X-ray permeable materials, such as carbon fiber, polyoxymethylene, or acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer, to ensure that no artifacts are produced in X-ray, CT and other imaging examinations and to guarantee imaging quality.

[0043] The vertical height difference d between the forelimb adjuster 35 and the hindlimb adjuster 34 is determined based on the pet's shoulder height and hip height. Specifically, d = shoulder height × 0.75 − hip height × 0.75, that is, d is 0.7 to 0.8 times (preferably 0.75 times) the difference between the pet's shoulder height and hip height.

[0044] When a pet is standing, the height of the forelimb root (armpit area) is approximately 70%–80% of its shoulder height, and the height of the hindlimb root (groin area) is approximately 70%–80% of its hip height. Through statistical analysis of a large amount of canine and cat body size data, an empirical coefficient of 0.75 was adopted to effectively accommodate the limb root height ratios of most pets. Operators only need to quickly measure the pet's shoulder and hip height before inspection to calculate the required height difference d between the forelimb adjustment component 35 and the hindlimb adjustment component 34 using the formula described above; the operation is simple and quick.

[0045] It should be noted that setting the height difference d to 0.75 times the difference between shoulder height and hip height aims to provide the optimal initial calibration position. In actual clinical practice, the standing posture of pets and individual differences may lead to deviations between the theoretically calculated value and the actual limb root height, making it difficult for the four annular rubber plates 334 to achieve absolute synchronous contact. To address this, the present invention eliminates the influence of deviation through a three-level redundancy design: First, the arc plate of the annular rubber plate 334 has an elastic flexural stroke, which can deform independently based on the calibration height, providing a buffer for height deviation and avoiding rigid interference; Second, the conical constriction structure of the frustum cylinder 333 and the annular rubber plate 334 makes the inner diameter of the fixing hole continuously and gradually change along the axial direction, so that the limb root can form effective contact within a certain stroke range, reducing the dependence on the absolute accuracy of the d value; Third, when the airbag 337 is inflated, it expands anisotropically according to the gap between the limb and the cylinder wall, automatically filling the gap and applying pressure evenly until each annular pressure-sensitive diaphragm 338 reaches a uniform threshold.

[0046] In summary, the d-value is used to quickly adjust the device to the optimal operating range. The elastic compliance of the annular plate 334, the spatial guidance of the conical cylinder, and the flexible expansion of the airbag 337 work together to form a closed-loop redundant system, ensuring stable and synchronous locking of the limb roots in the second operating state. This significantly improves the device's fault tolerance in complex clinical conditions. The forelimb adjustment component 35 includes a second connecting plate 351 and a shifting block 352. The two ends of the second connecting plate 351 are fixedly connected to the sides of the frustum-shaped cylinders 333 of the two corresponding forelimb adapters 33. The shifting block 352 is fixedly connected to the center of the bottom of the second connecting plate 351, and a plurality of first insertion holes 353 arranged vertically are provided through one side of the shifting block 352.

[0047] A placement box 354 is fixedly connected to the side of the rod 311 of the frame 31 away from the stepper motor 21. A second insertion hole 355 is provided through one side of the top of the placement box 354. The placement box 354 is slidably connected to the moving block 352, which can slide vertically within the placement box 354. An insertion plate 356 is provided below the second connecting plate 351, and an expansion plate 357 is fixedly connected to one side of the insertion plate 356. The cross-sectional area of ​​the expansion plate 357 is larger than that of the insertion plate 356, which is used to limit the insertion depth of the insertion plate 356 and prevent the insertion plate 356 from being over-inserted.

[0048] During adjustment, firstly, pull the insert plate 356 out of the second insertion hole 355 and the first insertion hole 353. Then, slide the sliding block 352 vertically to the desired height. Next, pass one end of the insert plate 356 through the second insertion hole 355 and the corresponding first insertion hole 353 in sequence, and insert it into the slot 32 of the rod body 311 to complete the locking. By inserting the insert plate 356 into the first insertion holes 353 at different heights, the second connecting plate 351 and the corresponding adapter 33 of the front limb can be adjusted in multiple positions in the vertical direction.

[0049] Initially, the top of the second connecting plate 351 is on the same plane as the tops of all the frustum cylinders 333. During adjustment, based on the calculated height difference d, the second connecting plate 351 is adjusted to a position d higher than the first connecting plate 343, thereby creating a height difference d between the frustum cylinders 333 corresponding to the forelimbs and the frustum cylinders 333 corresponding to the hindlimbs, to accommodate the height difference between the bases of the pet's forelimbs and hindlimbs.

[0050] The hind limb adjusting component 34 includes an arc plate 341 and a chamfered plate 342. The arc plate 341 is placed in the bottom groove 12 of the platform 11, and the chamfered plate 342 is connected to the bottom of the arc plate 341. The arc plate 341 and the chamfered plate 342 form a sleeve plate, which is fitted onto the frame 31 and can slide along the horizontal direction of the frame 31. A threaded hole 344 is provided on one side of the chamfered plate 342, and first connecting plates 343 are symmetrically connected to both sides of the arc plate 341. The end of each first connecting plate 343 away from the arc plate 341 is fixedly connected to the side of the corresponding frustum 333. A threaded rod 345 is provided below the first connecting plate 343. The threaded rod 345 is threadedly connected to the threaded hole 344, and one end of the threaded rod 345 abuts against the frame 31.

[0051] During adjustment, first loosen the threaded rod 345 to allow the sleeve to slide freely along the frame 31. Then slide the sleeve to the position corresponding to the pet's hind leg. Finally, tighten the threaded rod 345 so that one end of the threaded rod 345 presses against the frame 31, thereby locking the hind leg adjuster 34 in the horizontal direction.

[0052] In the initial state, the top of the first connecting plate 343 is on the same plane as the tops of all the frustum cylinders 333.

[0053] The platform 11 has a groove 13 at its top and a bottom groove 12 in its middle. A protrusion 14 is fixedly connected to the edge of the bottom wall of the groove 13. The protrusion 14 and the platform 11 form a circular support plate to support the frustum 333. A limiting hole 15 is provided through the bottom of the groove 13 and is located on the outside of the protrusion 14. A stepper motor 21 is provided on one side of the platform 11. A lead screw 22 is connected to the rotating end of the stepper motor 21. A nut is engaged with the lead screw 22. A screw spool 23 is fixedly connected to the outside of the nut. The side of the screw spool 23 is fixedly connected to one end of the frame 31. The frame 31 consists of a rod 311 and a vertical plate 312 directly below the rod 311. A slot 32 is provided on the side of the rod 311 away from the stepper motor 21.

[0054] When the stepper motor 21 rotates, it drives the lead screw 22 to rotate. The lead screw 22 drives the nut to move along the axis of the lead screw 22. The nut drives the lead drum 23 and the frame 31 to move synchronously, thereby realizing the overall vertical lifting of the frame 31 and the front limb adjustment component 35, rear limb adjustment component 34 and adapter component 33 fixed on the frame 31.

[0055] The adapter 33 also includes an extension plate 332 and a baffle 331. The extension plate 332 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the frustum 333, and the baffle 331 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the extension plate 332. The baffle 331 is an arc-shaped plate. The baffle 331 is slidably connected to the limiting hole 15, that is, the baffle 331 can rise and fall synchronously with the frustum 333 within the limiting hole 15. The baffle 331 is used to support the pet's limbs after the frustum 333 rises and prevents the limbs from shifting towards the slide groove 13, thereby ensuring the stability of the pet's limbs within the fixing hole.

[0056] The inner wall of the top of the frustum-shaped cylinder 333 has a placement groove 4. The inner side of the airbag 337 is fixedly connected to the wall of the placement groove 4 to form an air cavity. Several springs 339 are equidistantly connected to the inner wall of the placement groove 4 in a circumferential direction. One end of each spring 339 is fixedly connected to the airbag 337, and the other end is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the placement groove 4. The function of the springs 339 is to provide flexible cushioning when the airbag 337 is inflated, making the expansion process of the airbag 337 smoother. After the airbag 337 deflates, the elastic restoring force of the springs 339 helps the airbag 337 return to its initial state for easy use next time.

[0057] An inflation hole 336 is provided on the outer side of the truncated cone 333, and the inflation hole 336 is connected to the air chamber. When the airbag 337 is not inflated, it is completely placed in the placement slot 4, without occupying the internal space of the fixing hole, making it easy to put the pet's limbs in.

[0058] The inner diameter of the bottom of the truncated cone 333 is smaller than the inner diameter of the top, meaning the truncated cone 333 has an overall conical structure that is larger at the top and smaller at the bottom. The inner diameter of the bottom of the truncated cone 333 is larger than the diameter of the base of the pet's limbs to ensure that the limbs can pass through smoothly; while the inner diameter of the top is larger, providing space for the inflation of the air bladder 337. The baffle 331 is adapted to the annular shape at the bottom of the truncated cone 333, meaning that the arc-shaped contour of the baffle 331 matches the annular edge at the bottom of the truncated cone 333, forming stable support for the pet's limbs.

[0059] A ring-shaped rubber plate 334 is fixedly connected to the top of the truncated cone 333. The ring-shaped rubber plate 334 is trumpet-shaped, with its top inner diameter smaller than its bottom inner diameter, meaning that the ring-shaped rubber plate 334 gradually narrows from bottom to top. The bottom inner diameter of the ring-shaped rubber plate 334 matches the top inner diameter of the truncated cone 333, and the top inner diameter of the ring-shaped rubber plate 334 is slightly smaller than the diameter of the base of the pet's limb, so that the ring-shaped rubber plate 334 can make contact with the base of the pet's limb when the truncated cone 333 rises.

[0060] The ring-shaped rubber plate 334 has several deformable slots 335 circumferentially arranged, which divide the ring-shaped rubber plate 334 into multiple arc-shaped plates. When the ring-shaped rubber plate 334 contacts and presses against the base of the pet's limb, each arc-shaped plate can deform independently under the action of contact force, opening outward or closing inward to adapt to the local contours of the limb base in different directions. For example, the arc-shaped plates make way outward at bony protrusions and fit inward at muscle depressions, thereby achieving a precise fit based on anatomical structure.

[0061] The trumpet-shaped configuration of the annular rubber plate 334 and the several deformable slots 335 opened in its circumference constitute a passive compliant multi-point contact mechanical system. Specifically, the deformable slots 335 extend along the axial and circumferential directions of the annular rubber plate 334, breaking the originally continuous conical shell structure into multiple cantilevered arc plates that are not connected to each other in the circumferential direction and are only connected to the frustum cylinder 333 at the root.

[0062] As the truncated cone 333 rises, the tips of each arc plate first contact the base of the pet's limb. At this point, each arc plate can be considered an independent variable cross-section cantilever beam. Due to the presence of the deformation slot 335, the circumferential shear constraint between adjacent arc plates is significantly released, and the circumferential coupling stiffness approaches zero. Therefore, the bending deformation of each arc plate is determined only by the local load borne at its location and follows the elastic beam deflection formula. Based on this mechanical mechanism, when the local load on a bony protrusion in the contact area increases sharply, the corresponding arc plate undergoes a large bending deformation to avoid rigidly compressing the bony protrusion; when the local load on a muscle depression in the contact area decreases, the corresponding arc plate deforms less, filling the gap. This mechanism allows the annular adhesive plate 334 to achieve adaptive shape following of the irregular anatomical cross-section of the limb base without relying on external drives or complex sensors, solely based on its own structural characteristics, significantly improving the fixation fit and comfort.

[0063] A gas control component 5 is fixedly connected to the bottom of platform 11. The gas control component 5 includes a middle box 51, the top of which is fixedly connected to the bottom of platform 11. Both sides of the middle box 51 are connected to side boxes 52 via neck openings 53. Each side box 52 is connected to two symmetrically arranged inflation tubes 54, and the two inflation tubes 54 are of the same length. One end of each inflation tube 54 is connected to an inflation port 336 of the frustum-shaped cylinder 333. Each neck opening 53 is equipped with a solenoid valve.

[0064] The central box 51 serves as the main air source, delivering gas to the side boxes 52 through the neck openings 53 on both sides. From the side boxes 52, gas is then delivered to the corresponding two frustum-shaped cylinders 333 via two equal-length inflation tubes 54. Since the inflation tubes 54 are of equal length, the gas flow rate of the four airbags 337 is essentially the same during inflation, thus achieving synchronous and uniform inflation. Solenoid valves are used to independently control the opening and closing of each neck opening 53. When the annular pressure-sensitive diaphragm 338 of an airbag 337 detects that the pressure has reached a preset threshold, the corresponding solenoid valve closes, stopping further inflation of that airbag 337, while the other airbags 337 can continue to inflate until they each reach their preset threshold.

[0065] The working process of the pet medical imaging aid device of the present invention is as follows: Step 1: Measurement and Calculation. The operator uses a measuring stick or tape measure to measure the pet's shoulder height and hip height, and calculates the required height difference d between the forelimb adjustment component 35 and the hindlimb adjustment component 34 according to d = shoulder height × 0.75 − hip height × 0.75.

[0066] Step 2: Adjust the fixed height of the forelimbs and hindlimbs. Pull the insert plate 356 out of the second insertion hole 355 and the first insertion hole 353. Slide the sliding block 352 vertically to raise the second connecting plate 351 relative to the first connecting plate 343 by a height d. Then insert the insert plate 356 into the corresponding first insertion hole 353 and lock it in place. At this point, a height difference d is formed between the two frustum cylinders 333 corresponding to the forelimbs and the two frustum cylinders 333 corresponding to the hindlimbs.

[0067] Step 3: Adjust the horizontal position of the hind limbs. Loosen the threaded rod 345, slide the sleeve of the hind limb adjusting piece 34 horizontally to align the two frustum cylinders 333 corresponding to the hind limbs with the position of the pet's hind limbs, and then tighten the threaded rod 345 to lock it.

[0068] Step 4: Place the pet. Position the limb root securing device 3 in its first working state, at which point the top surfaces of all the truncated cones 333 are flush with or slightly higher than the surface of the platform 11. Guide the pet onto the platform 11, allowing it to stand naturally, and place its forelimbs and hindlimbs into their corresponding securing holes.

[0069] Step 5: Lifting and Fixing. Start the stepper motor 21. The stepper motor 21 drives the frame 31 through the lead screw 22, nut, and lead drum 23, causing the four fitting parts 33 to rise vertically in sync. During the lifting process, the ring plate 334 first contacts the base of the pet's limb. The arc plate deforms independently under the contact force to adapt to the limb contour.

[0070] Step Six: Inflation and Fixation. Open the solenoid valve of the air control component 5. Gas in the middle box 51 is simultaneously delivered to the four airbags 337 via the neck opening 53, side boxes 52, and equal-length inflation tubes 54. The airbags 337 inflate and expand, extending from the placement slot 4 and compressing the base of the pet's limbs. The annular pressure-sensitive diaphragm 338 monitors the pressure between the airbags 337 and the limbs in real time.

[0071] Step Seven: Stop and Lock. When the pressure value detected by a certain annular pressure-sensitive diaphragm 338 reaches a preset threshold, the corresponding solenoid valve closes, stopping further inflation of the airbag 337. After all four airbags 337 have reached the preset threshold, the initial fixation of the pet's limbs at the base is completed.

[0072] Optionally, after the limbs are secured at the base, the pet's torso, hips, and neck can be further secured to ensure the pet remains stable throughout the body during imaging. The specific structures of the torso fixation components, hip fixation components, and neck fixation components can be designed by those skilled in the art based on common knowledge.

[0073] After completing the initial and auxiliary fixation, medical imaging is performed. After imaging, the body fixation components, hip fixation components, and neck fixation components are first released, then the solenoid valve is opened to deflate. The airbag 337 contracts and returns to the placement slot 4 under the elastic restoring force of the spring 339. The stepper motor 21 is started to reverse, and the frame 31 drives the adapter 33 to descend to the first working state, allowing the pet to be removed from the fixation hole.

[0074] The skeleton 31, forelimb adjustment component 35, hindlimb adjustment component 34, fitting component 33, and all components that may enter the imaging scanning area, such as the torso fixation component, hip fixation component, and neck fixation component, are all made of radiopaque materials. Preferably, these components are made of carbon fiber, which has excellent radiopaque properties, produces almost no attenuation or artifacts under X-ray and CT scans, and is also high-strength and lightweight.

[0075] These components can also be made of engineering plastics such as polyoxymethylene or acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer. These materials also have good X-ray transmission properties, and are relatively inexpensive and easy to process.

[0076] The airbag 337 uses medical-grade flexible film material, which has minimal impact on radiation. The annular pressure-sensitive diaphragm 338 uses a flexible substrate and a piezoresistive material layer, with a relatively thin overall thickness, and does not produce obvious artifacts during image scanning.

[0077] In this invention, the preset pressure threshold is 65–95 mmHg, preferably 80 mmHg. This range is determined based on the following considerations: Normal systolic blood pressure in dogs is 90–160 mmHg, and in cats it is 80–150 mmHg. External pressure below 60 mmHg has minimal impact on limb blood flow and is considered safe. Pressure of 60–90 mmHg provides sufficient fixation with a low risk of tissue ischemia. Pressure exceeding 90 mmHg may increase the risk of tissue ischemia.

[0078] Therefore, setting the preset pressure threshold to 65–95 mmHg ensures that the airbag 337 provides sufficient fixation force to the base of the pet's limbs while preventing tissue damage or discomfort caused by excessive pressure. For pets of different sizes, an appropriate threshold can be selected within this range: 60–80 mmHg is preferred for small dogs / cats, 80–100 mmHg for medium-sized dogs, and 90–115 mmHg for large dogs.

Claims

1. A medical imaging-assisted device for pet diagnosis, characterized in that, The device includes a limb root fitting device (3), which includes: a frame (31), a forelimb adjuster (35), a hindlimb adjuster (34), and a fitting device (33). One end of the frame (31) is connected to the forelimb adjuster (35) that moves in the vertical direction. Both ends of the forelimb adjuster (35) are fixedly connected to the fitting device (33). The other end of the frame (31) is fitted with a hindlimb adjuster (34) that slides in the horizontal direction. Both ends of the hindlimb adjuster (34) are fixedly connected to the fitting device (33). The adapter (33) includes a frustum cylinder (333), an airbag (337), and an annular pressure-sensitive diaphragm (338). The interior of the frustum cylinder (333) forms fixing holes for the pet's limbs to pass through. The inner diameter of the bottom of the frustum cylinder (333) is larger than the diameter of the base of the pet's limbs. The airbag (337) is disposed on the inner wall of the frustum cylinder (333), and the annular pressure-sensitive diaphragm (338) is disposed on the inner side of the airbag (337). The limb root fitting device (3) is configured to have a first working state and a second working state: In the first working state, the top surface of the truncated cone (333) is flush with the surface of the platform (11) so that the pet's limbs can be placed into the fixing holes; In the second working state, after the truncated cone (333) rises, the airbag (337) inflates and squeezes the root of the limb until the pressure value detected by the annular pressure-sensitive diaphragm (338) reaches the preset threshold, and the inflation stops, thus completing the initial fixation of the pet's limbs.

2. The medical imaging-assisted device for pet diagnosis according to claim 1, characterized in that, The height difference d between the forelimb adjustment member (35) and the hindlimb adjustment member (34) is 0.7 to 0.8 times the difference between the pet's shoulder height and hip height.

3. The medical imaging-assisted device for pet diagnosis according to claim 1, characterized in that, The truncated cone (333) is placed on the platform (11). The top of the platform (11) is provided with a groove (13). The middle of the groove (13) is provided with a bottom groove (12). A protrusion (14) is fixedly connected to the edge of the bottom wall of the groove (13). The protrusion (14) and the platform (11) form a circular support plate and support the truncated cone (333). A limiting hole (15) is provided through the bottom of the groove (13). The limiting hole (15) is located on the outside of the protrusion (14).

4. The medical imaging-assisted device for pet diagnosis according to claim 3, characterized in that, A stepper motor (21) is provided on one side of the platform (11). A lead screw (22) is connected to the rotating end of the stepper motor (21). A nut is engaged with the lead screw (22). A spool (23) is fixedly connected to the outside of the nut. The side of the spool (23) is fixedly connected to one end of the frame (31). The frame (31) is composed of a rod (311) and a vertical plate (312) directly below the rod (311). A slot (32) is provided on the side of the rod (311) away from the stepper motor (21).

5. A medical imaging-assisted device for pet diagnosis according to claim 3, characterized in that, The adapter (33) also includes an extension plate (332) and a baffle (331). The extension plate (332) is fixedly connected to the bottom of the frustum (333), and the baffle (331) is fixedly connected to the bottom of the extension plate (332). The baffle (331) is an arc-shaped plate and is slidably connected to the limiting hole (15). The baffle (331) is used to support the pet's limbs and prevent the limbs from shifting towards the slide groove (13). The inner wall of the top of the frustum (333) is provided with a placement groove (4). The inner side of the airbag (337) is fixedly connected to the wall of the placement groove (4) to form an air chamber. The inner wall of the placement groove (4) is equidistantly connected with several springs (339) in the circumferential direction. One end of the spring (339) is fixedly connected to the airbag (337). The other end of the spring (339) is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the placement groove (4). An inflation hole (336) is provided on the outer side of the truncated cylinder (333) and the inflation hole (336) is connected to the air chamber. The airbag (337) is placed in the placement groove (4) when it is not inflated. The preset pressure threshold is 65–95 mmHg. A ring rubber plate (334) is fixedly connected to the top of the truncated cylinder (333). The ring rubber plate (334) is horn-shaped. The inner diameter of the top of the ring rubber plate (334) is smaller than the inner diameter of the bottom. Several deformable slots (335) are provided around the ring rubber plate (334). The deformable slots (335) divide the ring rubber plate (334) into multiple arc plates. The arc plates can deform independently to fit the contour of the limb when in contact with the pet's limb.

6. A medical imaging-assisted device for pet diagnosis according to claim 5, characterized in that, The inner diameter of the bottom of the frustum (333) is smaller than the inner diameter of the top of the frustum (333), and the baffle (331) is adapted to the annular shape at the bottom of the frustum (333).

7. A medical imaging-assisted device for pet diagnosis according to claim 3, characterized in that, The hind limb adjustment component (34) includes an arc plate (341) and a U-shaped plate (342). The arc plate (341) is placed in the bottom groove (12). The bottom of the arc plate (341) is connected to the U-shaped plate (342). The arc plate (341) and the U-shaped plate (342) form a sleeve plate. The sleeve plate is fitted with the frame (31). A threaded hole (344) is opened on one side of the U-shaped plate (342). First connecting plates (343) are symmetrically connected to both sides of the arc plate (341). Each of the hind limb adjustment components (34) includes an arc plate (341) and a U-shaped plate (342). The end of the first connecting plate (343) away from the arc plate (341) is fixedly connected to the side of the frustum cylinder (333). A threaded rod (345) is provided below the first connecting plate (343). The threaded rod (345) is threadedly connected to the threaded hole (344) and one end of the threaded rod (345) abuts against the skeleton (31) to achieve the locking of the hind limb adjustment component (34) in the horizontal direction. In the initial state, the top of the first connecting plate (343) is on the same plane as the top of all the frustum cylinders (333).

8. A medical imaging-assisted device for pet diagnosis according to claim 4, characterized in that, The forelimb adjustment component (35) includes a second connecting plate (351) and a sliding block (352). The two ends of the second connecting plate (351) are fixedly connected to the sides of the frustum-shaped cylinder (333). The sliding block (352) is fixedly connected to the center of the bottom of the second connecting plate (351). Several first insertion holes (353) are provided through one side of the sliding block (352). A placement box (354) is fixedly connected to the side of the rod (311) away from the stepper motor (21). A second insertion hole (355) is provided through one side of the top of the placement box (354). The placement box (354) is slidably connected to the sliding block (352). A plug plate (356) is provided below the second connecting plate (351). An expansion plate (357) is fixedly connected to one side of the plug plate (356). One end of the plug plate (356) passes through the second insertion hole (355) and the first insertion hole (353) in sequence and is inserted into the slot (32). The expansion plate (357) is used to limit the insertion depth of the plug plate (356). In the initial state, the top of the second connecting plate (351) is on the same plane as the top of all the frustum cylinders (333). The height difference between the second connecting plate (351) and the first connecting plate (343) is adjusted to d by inserting the plug plate (356) into the first insertion hole (353) at different heights.

9. A medical imaging-assisted device for pet diagnosis according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom of the platform (11) is fixedly connected to an air control component (5). The air control component (5) includes a middle box (51). The top of the middle box (51) is fixedly connected to the bottom of the platform (11). Both sides of the middle box (51) are connected to side boxes (52) through neck openings (53). Each side box (52) is connected to two symmetrically arranged inflation tubes (54), and the two inflation tubes (54) are of the same length. One end of the inflation tube (54) is connected to an inflation hole (336). Each neck opening (53) is equipped with a solenoid valve.

10. The medical imaging-assisted device for pet diagnosis according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The skeleton (31), forelimb adjustment component (35), hindlimb adjustment component (34), and adapter (33) are all made of radiation-permeable materials.

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