Object table for imaging inspection apparatus and imaging inspection apparatus

Abstract

The utility model relates to an object table for imaging inspection equipment, the imaging inspection equipment is used for inspecting an object which can be arranged on the object table, and the object table is configured to be arranged at the edge of a detection area of the imaging inspection equipment, so that the object to be inspected is arranged in the detection area to execute inspection. Wherein the object table has a connecting unit extending along the table edge at least in some regions at the table edge, said connecting unit being designed to be detachably connected to a connecting element of at least one fitting that can be used for inspection. According to the utility model, the connection unit is provided with a coupling unit, the coupling unit is configured to form a coupling device with the accessory in a connection state that the connection unit is connected with the connection element, and the coupling device is used for transmitting at least data or energy. In addition, the utility model relates to imaging inspection equipment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to an object table for an imaging inspection device, which is used to perform inspections on objects that can be placed on the object table. The object table is configured to be arranged at the edge of the detection area of the imaging inspection device so that the object to be inspected can be placed in the detection area for inspection. The object table at least partially has a connection unit extending along the table edge at the table edge, and the connection unit is configured to be detachably connected to the connection element of at least one accessory available for inspection. The utility model also relates to an imaging inspection device for performing inspections on objects, which has an object table for placing objects and at least one accessory. Background Art

[0002] Imaging inspection devices, such as magnetic resonance devices, computed tomography scanners, etc., and object tables for imaging inspection devices are widely known in the prior art, so that in principle no separate literature proof is required for this. This type of device is used to perform inspections on objects in order to at least partially determine the structure of the objects. Such inspections are usually used in material testing, but also in the field of diagnostic creation of biological materials, organisms, etc. Therefore, the object can be, for example, an object as a result of an industrial production process, but can also be an object in the decomposition products in mining, the body of an organism, etc.

[0003] In medical technology, imaging by means of magnetic resonance (MR), also known as magnetic resonance tomography (MRT; English: magnetic resonance imaging, MRI), is characterized by a high contrast especially in soft tissues.

[0004] To perform an inspection, magnetic field pulses are generated by a magnetic field source and the object is loaded with them. The magnetic field can have a magnetic flux density in the range of several hundred teslas. Due to the atomic-level interaction between the object and the magnetic field, so-called MR signals can be triggered in the object in such a way that, in particular, proton spins are first oriented, and the MR signals are generated due to the action of radiofrequency magnetic pulses. The MR signals can be detected by local coils preferably arranged in the inspection area of the object, for example on the surface of the object, and evaluated by an evaluation unit of the magnetic resonance device. The evaluation unit can be a component of the magnetic resonance device or can be connected to the magnetic resonance device and / or the local coil as a separate unit. As a result of the evaluation, for example, an image of the structure of the object can be provided.

[0005] During normal operation, i.e., especially during the inspection of an object, the magnetic field strength that occurs usually causes very large values of the magnetic flux density, for example, values in the range of approximately 1 T to approximately 7 T, etc. The large magnetic flux density can also be effective outside the detection range of the magnetic resonance device and can affect other devices here, such as accessories. The accessories can be, for example, bags, basins, etc. that can be used as needed for performing the inspection. In addition, the accessories can also be an electrocardiograph (ECG), a blood pressure measuring device, and / or the like. As needed, additional or multiple accessories can also be provided.

[0006] The accessories are preferably arranged in the room where the imaging inspection device is also installed. Thereby, it is easy for the personnel performing the inspection to pick up the corresponding accessories when needed. In particular, electrical and / or electronic accessories that can be used wirelessly, for example, during normal operation, at least temporarily require power supply and / or require a communication connection to a communication network, such as an external evaluation unit, headquarters, and / or the like. Such functions are usually not easily provided in the room where the imaging inspection device is installed. Therefore, such accessories are at least temporarily arranged outside the area of the imaging inspection device, especially outside the examination room where the imaging inspection device is installed. However, this is disadvantageous for the use of the imaging inspection device. Summary of the Utility Model

[0007] The object on which the present utility model is based is to provide a storage feasibility for electrical or electronic accessories, which storage feasibility avoids the above problems and enables the arrangement in the area of the imaging inspection device.

[0008] As a solution, a table for an object of an imaging inspection device and an imaging inspection device are proposed by means of the present utility model.

[0009] Advantageous improvements are derived from the features of the description.

[0010] Regarding this type of table for an object, in particular, it is proposed by means of the present utility model that the connecting unit has a coupling unit, wherein the coupling unit is configured to form a coupling device with the accessory in the set state in which the connecting unit is connected to the connecting element, and wherein the coupling device is used for transmitting at least data or energy.

[0011] Regarding this type of imaging inspection device, in particular, it is proposed by means of the present utility model that the table for an object is configured according to the present utility model.

[0012] The present utility model is particularly based on the following concept: The connecting unit can be combined with the coupling unit, and the coupling unit allows for communication and / or energy coupling with the accessory. The accessory is correspondingly configured. The accessory can have a corresponding coupling module, which is configured to form an energy and / or communication coupling with the coupling unit. Thereby, a coupling device can be manufactured.

[0013] The accessory can be an existing accessory that can be correspondingly coupled to a separate charging station or communication station. Through the connection unit, a coupling unit can be provided, and the accessory can be detachably arranged in the area of the imaging examination device, i.e., at the object table, where at the same time communication and / or energy coupling can be achieved. Therefore, it is no longer necessary to couple the accessory outside the room where the imaging examination device is installed to the corresponding station.

[0014] The coupling device can be configured to achieve a wired coupling. For this purpose, it can be proposed that the coupling unit and the coupling module of the accessory have corresponding electrical contacts, which can be detachably connected to each other when the accessory is mechanically connected to the coupling unit by means of its connecting element. Therefore, an energy coupling can be established via the coupling device, which allows, especially when the accessory has an electrical energy storage device for its normal operation, to supply electrical energy to the accessory. Therefore, it is feasible to charge the energy storage device of the accessory with electrical energy, so that the accessory is almost always ready for operation and can be used for inspection purposes as needed. In principle, the same also applies to the case where the coupling device can alternatively or additionally form a communication coupling. Subsequently, it is feasible to call, for example, the data stored in the accessory via the communication coupling and to transmit the data to the evaluation unit or the headquarters for further data processing or storage. In addition, it is also feasible to provide data for the normal operation of the accessory via the coupling device, for example, when the accessory has a program-controlled computer unit, etc. In addition, operating data, such as parameters, etc., can also be transmitted to the accessory. Thus, it is feasible to keep the accessory updated regarding its normal operation in the state of being arranged at the object table.

[0015] Overall, the present utility model allows for further improvement in the use of accessories. Here, at the same time, it can be achieved that the accessory can be stored in the area of the object table or the imaging examination device, so that the accessory can be used almost immediately when needed without the need for personnel, etc., to search for the accessory. In addition, it can be achieved that the accessory can be stored close to the operation. In addition, it is feasible to arrange the accessory at a preset location so that the accessory is available as soon as possible, for example, in case of an emergency, etc.

[0016] In addition, the accessory can be arranged in a protected manner so that the accessory is damaged as little as possible during the regular execution of the examination with the imaging examination device. Although the accessory can be arranged near the imaging examination device, it can be achieved that the operation of the imaging examination device is basically not disturbed. On the contrary, it can be achieved that the normal operation of the imaging examination device basically does not interfere with the accessory.

[0017] However, the present utility model is not limited to the application of a single accessory. Of course, multiple accessories can be provided, and the accessories can be correspondingly arranged at the object stage. It can be proposed that each accessory is provided with its own connection unit having a corresponding coupling unit. However, in addition, it can also be proposed that the connection unit is configured to be detachably connected to multiple accessories or their connection elements. Preferably, the coupling unit is configured to operate multiple accessories.

[0018] The connection unit can have a mechanical connection member that allows for a detachable connection to the connection element of the accessory. The connection element can be configured to be adjusted corresponding to the connection unit. For example, the connection unit can have one or more hooks or eyelets that can be connected to the corresponding mating elements of the connection element. In addition, of course, it is also feasible that the connection unit is configured as a connection unit that extends continuously along the edge of the stage, for example, of the type according to a groove. The groove can be configured as an undercut groove, for example, of the type according to a T-shaped groove, a dovetail groove, etc. In this case, it can be proposed that the groove is configured to be open at one end, whereby a correspondingly configured connection element, for example, a connection element of the type according to a mushroom head element, can be introduced into the groove.

[0019] However, it can also be proposed that the connection element is designed such that the connection element can be detachably connected to the connection unit at a preset position of the connection unit. For example, for this purpose, the connection element can be configured to be movable such that the connection element can engage the corresponding contour of the connection unit from the rear, such that the connection element can be fixed in the connection unit, for example, of the type according to a snap closure.

[0020] By means of the connection between the connection element and the connection unit, the coupling device is configured such that the transmission of data and / or energy can be achieved. The connection element can be configured correspondingly. However, it can also be proposed that the coupling device is realized by means of the coupling module of the accessory. Of course, a combination thereof can also be provided. The coupling device does not need to be configured identically for all accessories with respect to functionality. The connection unit can have a coupling unit configured for different coupling feasibility or coupling devices.

[0021] The object stage is preferably a device that allows an object to be set and moved into or out of the detection area for inspection purposes. The detection area, sometimes also referred to as the scanning area, can be formed, for example, by a through-opening of an imaging inspection device, and the through-opening has corresponding ports at the axial end sides. The ports can then provide corresponding edges. However, the detection area can also be formed, for example, by an open C-shaped bottom, such as a gantry. The C-shaped arm can then provide an edge, for example. Therefore, the object stage can be used to: especially in the case where the through-opening is the detection area, introduce an object into the through-opening through the port of the through-opening of the imaging inspection device for inspection purposes.

[0022] For the purpose of introducing an object into the detection area, the object table preferably can have a correspondingly adapted and movable object support, which can be moved into the detection area, in particular through an opening. The object table can be fixedly arranged at the edge of the detection area, in particular in the area of the through-opening of the imaging examination device. In addition, of course, it can also be proposed that the object table is movably configured and can be arranged as required at the edge of the detection area, in particular in the area of the through-opening of the imaging examination device, so that the object arranged on the object table is moved into the detection area or through-opening and / or removed from the detection area or through-opening again. The object can be arranged on the object support. Preferably, due to gravity, the object can basically remain arranged or positioned on the object support.

[0023] The coupling unit can be electrically connected to an electrical energy source and / or a communication unit. The electrical energy source and / or the communication unit can be arranged in the object table itself. Of course, the electrical energy source and / or the communication unit can also be at least partially arranged in the imaging examination device or even outside the imaging examination device. The coupling unit is connected to the energy source and / or the communication unit so that the desired functionality regarding energy and / or data transmission can be achieved.

[0024] The energy source can be formed, for example, by an energy supply network, in particular a public energy supply network.

[0025] The communication unit can provide a communication connection to a communication network, in particular the Internet.

[0026] According to an improvement, it is proposed that the coupling unit is an electrical coupling unit configured for wired or wireless electrical coupling of accessories. Thereby, it is possible to establish an energy coupling between the connection unit and the accessory. If a wired electrical coupling is provided, it can be proposed that the coupling unit, for example, has a busbar, for example two busbars or multiple busbars, which can be contacted by the connection elements of the accessory or the corresponding electrical contacts of the coupling module. The electrical contacts can be formed, for example, integrally in the connection elements of the accessory. By connecting the connection element to the connection unit, an electrical connection to the busbar can be achieved through the corresponding contacts of the coupling module or the connection element in order to implement a coupling device according to the type of electrical coupling. Alternatively or additionally, it can be proposed that the electrical coupling unit is configured for wireless electrical coupling of accessories. In this case, it can be proposed to use an energy field for wireless electrical coupling.

[0027] According to another design, the coupling unit is configured as a communication coupling unit for wired or wireless communication coupling of the accessory. Of course, this design can also be combined with the previously described improvement for wired or wireless electrical coupling of the accessory for the purpose of energy transfer. The coupling unit can also be configured as a wired coupling unit and can have corresponding communication lines for communication coupling, and these communication lines can be detachably contacted through a correspondingly configured coupling module of the accessory. Thus, wired coupling can be achieved. However, communication coupling can also be achieved wirelessly, for example, by using an electric field and / or a magnetic field, light, especially infrared light, and / or the like. For this purpose, the coupling unit can be correspondingly configured. The coupling module of the accessory is preferably also correspondingly configured so that a coupling device capable of transmitting data can be achieved.

[0028] According to an advantageous improvement, it is also proposed that the object stage has a control unit configured to detect the connection to at least one accessory. Thus, it is feasible to determine whether the accessory is arranged at the object stage and thus is quickly available. In addition, it can be proposed that the control unit also detects the operating state of the accessory. For example, it can be detected whether the accessory is sufficiently supplied with electrical energy for wireless operation. It can also be proposed that the control unit detects which parameters for normal operation are stored in the accessory. For example, the program version of the computer program for the computing unit for operating the accessory can also be queried. The control unit can provide this data for output to the user or also further support the use of the imaging examination device. For example, it can be proposed to transmit the quantity, type, operating state, and / or the like to a central department.

[0029] In addition, it is proposed that the coupling unit has at least two electrical conductors for wired coupling of the accessory, and these electrical conductors extend at least partially parallel to the table edge. In this way, it can be achieved that a connection to the accessory can be established along the extension of the coupling unit, and this connection provides a continuous coupling area to achieve the coupling device. Preferably, within the extension range of the electrical conductors, it is feasible to establish a coupling device with the accessory at almost any position, for example. The electrical conductors can be formed by a connection unit or can be integrated into the connection unit.

[0030] According to an improvement, it is proposed that the coupling unit has at least one field coupling element for wireless coupling of the accessory. With the help of the field coupling element, wireless transmission of energy and / or data can be achieved using a field. The field can be, for example, a magnetic field, an electric field, light, and / or the like. The field coupling element is preferably formed along the extension of the coupling unit or the connection unit. The field coupling element can be configured for wireless coupling of at least one accessory. However, it can also be proposed that the field coupling element is configured for wireless coupling of exactly one accessory. It is also feasible that the field coupling element is configured for wireless coupling of multiple accessories.

[0031] It can also be proposed that the coupling unit has a plurality of field coupling elements, and the field coupling elements are arranged at preset positions of the connection unit. Herein, the corresponding field coupling elements preferably constitute wireless coupling for exactly one accessory. The field coupling elements can be constituted substantially identically. However, it can also be proposed that the field coupling elements are constituted specifically for adjustment to the corresponding accessories. For example, it can be proposed that one field coupling element is only constituted for energy transmission, while another field coupling element is only constituted for data transmission. The transmission of data can be set unidirectionally or bidirectionally, for example. A combination thereof can also be provided.

[0032] It is proposed that at least one field coupling element is at least constituted for inductive coupling or at least constituted for capacitive coupling. In particular, it can be proposed that at least one field coupling element is constituted for inductive coupling. Thereby, it is feasible to implement the coupling device by using a magnetic field. The magnetic field is preferably an alternating magnetic field. In this way, the field coupling element can not only transmit electrical energy but also transmit data. Depending on the need, the coupling can be constituted either unidirectionally or bidirectionally.

[0033] Furthermore, it is proposed that at least one field coupling element is constituted for capacitive coupling. The field coupling element can, in the same way as the field coupling element constituted for inductive coupling, implement coupling by using an electric field, especially an alternating electric field. Herein, it is feasible to transmit not only energy but also data. A combination thereof can also be realized.

[0034] It is also proposed that at least one field coupling element has a flat or flat - planar structure. The structure can be arranged on a substrate, such as a printed circuit board, etc. Preferably, the structure is formed by a conductive material, such as copper, aluminum, silver, their alloys, etc. The structure can be constituted, for example, spirally, especially according to the type of an Archimedean coil, in a spiral shape, and / or in a meandering shape, etc. Herein, depending on the need, multiple layers can also be provided. For example, multiple layers are provided by using multiple printed circuit boards arranged adjacent to each other in an up - and - down stacked manner, so that, for example, in the case of an inductive field coupling element configured as a coil, the number of windings per unit area can be maximized.

[0035] For both inductive coupling and capacitive coupling, the coupling unit has suitable means for operating the corresponding field coupling elements in a corresponding manner. Each accessory has a corresponding mating element, so that inductive coupling or capacitive coupling can be realized.

[0036] According to an improved solution, the control unit is configured to operate at least one coupling element, in particular in a frequency range not used by the imaging examination device. The improved solution is based on the idea that the field coupling element utilizes an alternating field, for example an alternating magnetic field for inductive coupling and an alternating electric field for capacitive coupling. For this purpose, the control unit can have suitable electronic devices such as an inverter and / or the like. In addition, an encoding unit can be provided, which can enable not only energy transfer but also data transfer.

[0037] Preferably, the control unit operates at least one field coupling element in a frequency range not used by the imaging examination device. Thereby, spectral decoupling of energy transfer and / or data transfer from the normal operation of the imaging examination device can be achieved. Thus, it is feasible to implement and operate the coupling device, more precisely in a manner substantially independent of the operation of the imaging examination device.

[0038] Furthermore, it is proposed that the coupling unit has a plurality of field coupling elements, which are arranged side by side along the extension direction of the connecting unit at the table edge, wherein the extension direction of the table edge coincides with the extension direction of the connecting unit. Thereby, it is feasible to arrange the corresponding fittings at almost any position on the table edge. The fittings can be arranged, for example, at positions that are advantageous for operation and performing examinations. The field coupling elements can be arranged at a preset spacing from each other. The extension direction of the connecting unit preferably matches the extension direction of the table edge, such that the two extension directions can coincide. However, the extension direction does not need to be straight. The extension direction can also have one or more bends, corners, and / or the like.

[0039] Preferably, locking elements are arranged in the region of at least one corresponding field coupling element along the extension direction. By means of the locking elements, it is possible to determine one or more preset positions for connecting the corresponding fittings to the connecting unit. For example, it can be proposed that the locking elements can be formed or arranged in the region of the corresponding field coupling element. For example, if the connecting unit is formed by a correspondingly configured connecting groove, the locking element can be configured such that when the connecting element of the fitting moves in the groove, the corresponding locking element can provide a tactile feedback, such that the user can be shown at which location there is a corresponding field coupling element for forming the coupling device. Thus, a line-of-sight connection does not need to exist.

[0040] According to an improved solution, it is proposed that the control unit is configured to operate the field coupling elements in a time-division multiplexing manner. In principle, of course, there is the feasibility of operating the field coupling elements jointly, in particular simultaneously. However, it is advantageous that the field coupling elements can be operated in a time-division multiplexing manner, whereby the consumption of the control unit in terms of energy supply or the capacity for communication can be limited.

[0041] Furthermore, it is proposed that the object table has a disinfection unit which is configured to disinfect at least partially at least one fitting connected to the connection unit. This improvement is particularly applicable in cases where the fitting can come into contact with a plurality of different objects to be inspected. Thereby, it can be avoided that contaminants, in particular germs, may be transferred from one object to another. This is of course particularly advantageously applicable if the object is a human or animal body to be inspected with respect to its structure.

[0042] Regarding the imaging inspection device, it is also proposed that the imaging inspection device is configured to detect the connection of at least one fitting to the object table. Thereby, it can be achieved that on the inspection device side there is information about whether the fitting is arranged at the object table and connected to the object table. This information can be further processed, for example, by providing corresponding data that can be fed to further data processing. It can also be proposed that in the area of the imaging inspection device it can be displayed which fittings are connected to the object table. This is advantageous for preparing the inspection in which, depending on the object to be inspected, its state and / or the like, the corresponding fittings should be available for use at least temporarily during the inspection. Overall, further improvements can be achieved.

[0043] The features and feature combinations mentioned in the description above and the features and feature combinations mentioned and / or shown individually in the following description of the figures and / or in the figures can be used not only in the respectively given combinations but also in other combinations without departing from the scope of the utility model.

[0044] The embodiments described below are preferred embodiments of the utility model. The features, feature combinations given above in the description and also the features and feature combinations mentioned and / or shown individually in the following description of the embodiments and / or in the figures can be used not only in the respectively given combinations but also in other combinations. Thus, the following embodiments are also included or considered to be disclosed by the utility model, which are not explicitly shown and described in the figures, but are known and can be derived from the described embodiments by separate feature combinations. The features, functions and / or effects shown according to the embodiments can each individually represent separate features, functions and / or effects of the utility model that can be considered independently of each other, and each of them also independently improves the utility model. Therefore, the embodiments should also include combinations different from those in the described embodiments. In addition, the described embodiments can also be supplemented by other features, functions and / or effects of the features, functions and / or effects already described of the utility model. Description of the Drawings

[0045] In the figures, the same reference signs denote the same features or functions.

[0046] Regardless of the grammatical gender of specific terms, it includes people with male or female gender identities.

[0047] The drawings show:

[0048] Figure 1 There is shown a magnetic resonance examination device having a magnetic resonance apparatus and an MR local coil connected to the magnetic resonance apparatus, the MR local coil being arranged at a patient for performing an examination on the patient;

[0049] Figure 2 There is shown according to Figure 1 a perspective view of a magnetic resonance apparatus having an object table arranged at an edge of an access opening of the magnetic resonance apparatus;

[0050] Figure 3 There is shown according to Figure 2 a partial schematic perspective view of a lower side of a table edge of the object table;

[0051] Figure 4 There is shown a schematic sectional view in a region of the table edge; and

[0052] Figure 5 Another design for the object table is shown in a schematic side view. Detailed Description

[0053] Figure 1 In a partially cut-away view, there is shown a magnetic resonance examination device 10 having a magnetic resonance apparatus 14 as an imaging examination device and a local coil 16. The magnetic resonance examination device 10 is currently used for performing an imaging method for a medical examination of a patient 12 as an object to be examined. However, the magnetic resonance examination device 10 is not limited to the said application and can be used in a large number of other examinations of objects.

[0054] The magnetic resonance apparatus 14 has a main magnet 18 for generating a strong, in particular temporally constant, main magnetic field in a direction 20. The magnetic resonance apparatus 14 also has an access opening 22 as a detection region, which is currently provided as a tunnel and is used to accommodate the patient 12. The access opening 22 is currently configured substantially cylindrically and is surrounded by the main magnet 18 in the circumferential direction. In principle, however, the access opening 22 can be configured differently.

[0055] The magnetic resonance apparatus 14 also has a patient support device 24 or object support device that enables the patient 12 to be moved into the access opening 22. For this purpose, the patient support device 24 has an examination table 26 as an object table that is at least partially movably arranged within the access opening 22. However, the present utility model is not limited to the said structure of the detection region.

[0056] The magnetic resonance device 14 also has a gradient coil unit 28. By means of the gradient coil unit 28, a magnetic field gradient can be generated, and the magnetic field gradient can be used for position encoding during an imaging examination. The gradient coil unit 28 is currently controlled by a gradient control unit 32 of the magnetic resonance device 14. The main magnet 18 and the gradient coil unit 28 form a magnetic field source.

[0057] The magnetic resonance device 14 also has a radio frequency antenna unit 34. In this design, the radio frequency antenna unit 34 is configured as a body coil and is fixedly integrated into the magnetic resonance device 14. The radio frequency antenna unit 34 is controlled by a radio frequency antenna control unit 36 of the magnetic resonance device 14. By this means, it is feasible to generate a radio frequency magnetic resonance sequence in the examination area 30. In the normal operation of the magnetic resonance device 14, it is possible to excite the atomic nuclei at the patient 12 in the examination area 30. MR signals are generated by the relaxation of the excited atomic nuclei. The MR signals can be received by means of the radio frequency antenna unit 34.

[0058] To control the components of the magnetic resonance device 14, the magnetic resonance device 14 has a device control unit 38. The device control unit 38 centrally controls the magnetic resonance examination device 10, for example, regarding the execution of a pre-determined examination on the patient 12, in particular the execution of a pre-determined imaging gradient echo sequence. In addition, the device control unit 38 has an evaluation unit (not further shown), by means of which the received MR signals detected during the examination can be evaluated.

[0059] The magnetic resonance device 14 also has a user interface 40, and the user interface is communicatively connected to the control unit 38. The user interface 40 has a display unit 42 and an input unit 44, and the display unit and the input unit are respectively communicatively connected to the control unit 38. Data and information, evaluation results, such as imaging results, regarding evaluation parameters and / or the like can be visually shown via the display unit 42. The display unit 42 can have, for example, a monitor, etc. By means of the user interface 40, it is feasible for the user of the magnetic resonance device 14 and the magnetic resonance examination device 10 to transmit data to the device control unit 38, such as parameters for performing an examination, control data, information, and / or the like.

[0060] From Figure 1As can be seen, a local coil 16 is provided in the examination area 30 at the patient 12. The local coil 16 is currently arranged at the surface of the patient 12 in the examination area 30. The local coil 16 has a connecting cable 46, and the connecting cable 46 is connected to the connecting cable 54 of the magnetic resonance device 14 in a communication technology and / or signal technology manner in the connection area 52. For this purpose, a coil connection element 48 is provided in the connection area 52, and the coil connection element 48 is currently fixedly connected to the connecting cable 46. The coil connection element 48 is currently configured as a plug.

[0061] An equipment connection element 50 is also provided in the connection area 52, and the equipment connection element 50 is currently fixedly connected to the connecting cable 54. By means of the coil connection element 48 and the equipment connection element 50, a detachable connection between the local coil 16 and the magnetic resonance device 14 can be achieved in the connection area 52. In this way, it is possible to couple the corresponding local coil 16 with the corresponding magnetic resonance device 14. The equipment connection element 50 can be configured as a socket. The connection area 52 is currently a standardized connection area, so that the connection between any local coil 16 and any magnetic resonance device 14 can be realized based on this standard. Currently, not only the coil connection element 48 but also the equipment connection element 50 has a shielding part.

[0062] In Figure 1 there is only one connection unit 52 for connecting the only local coil 16. Of course, in an alternative design, it can be proposed that there are multiple connection units 52, and the connection units 52 allow connecting more than one unique local coil. In addition, it can be proposed that the equipment connection element 50 can be arranged at any suitable part of the examination couch 26. It can also be proposed that there are more than one unique equipment connection element 50, and multiple equipment connection elements 50 are preferably arranged at different positions, especially at different positions of the examination couch 26. The radio frequency antenna unit 34 can be configured to be adjusted correspondingly as needed. The magnetic resonance examination device 10 also has a power supply device 56. The power supply device 56 is currently connected to a three-phase power supply network 58.

[0063] Figure 2 A perspective view of the magnetic resonance device 14 is shown, and the magnetic resonance device 14 has an object table or examination couch 26 arranged at the edge of the through-opening 62 of the through-opening 22 of the magnetic resonance device 14. The object table or examination couch 26 is currently configured to be movable and has rollers (not shown) for this purpose. The object table 26 can be arranged at the magnetic resonance device 14 as needed.

[0064] The object table or examination couch 26 has an object support or patient support 82 on which the patient 12 can be placed. The patient support 82 is configured to be movable in the longitudinal direction of the examination couch 26 such that the patient 12 placed on the patient support 82 can be placed in the through-opening 22 as needed by means of the patient support 82.

[0065] It can also be seen from Figure 2 that the object table 26 has a table edge 60. According to a first design of the present invention, the table edge 60 is shown enlarged in Figure 3 and Figure 4 shown enlarged.

[0066] Figure 3 shows a partial perspective view of the lower side of the table edge 60, while Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view in the region of the table edge 60. It can be seen from Figure 3 and Figure 4 that a connection unit 64 configured as a T-shaped groove is formed along the table edge 60. The connection unit 64 is configured to be detachably connected to a connection element 66 of a fitting that can be used for examination, currently an electrocardiograph (EKG) 68. Thereby, the fitting can be set up and stored at the object table 26. The EKG 68 is currently designed for wireless operation and has an unshown electrical energy storage in the form of a battery for its normal operation.

[0067] The connection unit 64 currently has a coupling unit 70 which in turn has two electrical conductors 76. The electrical conductors 76 can be configured, for example, as metal tracks, in particular copper tracks. The electrical conductors 76 are connected to an unshown electrical energy source which currently provides electrical energy in the form of a low voltage, for example approximately 24 V DC voltage. The electrical energy source can be electrically coupled to the energy supply device 56, for example, and obtain electrical energy from the energy supply device 56.

[0068] The connection unit 64 is configured to be detachably connected to the connection element 66 of the EKG 68. The connection element 66 has electrical contact pins 84 which contact the electrical conductors 76 in the connected state. Thereby, a coupling device 72 can be provided by means of which the EKG 68 can be supplied with electrical energy in the connected state to charge the battery.

[0069] In an alternative design, it can be proposed that the coupling device 72 can be used not only for transmitting electrical energy but also for transmitting data. According to one design, the EKG 68 can be used to trigger during an examination of an object. In this case, the data is preferably evaluated immediately. In addition, for example, control parameters or operating parameters such as temperature, the charge state of the energy storage, and / or the version of the operating program of the EKG 68 can be transmitted. Furthermore, data generated, for example, from the normal operation of the EKG 68 can be transmitted to the control unit 74 alternatively or additionally via the coupling device 72( Figure 5 ), by means of which the data can be evaluated. Subsequently, the data or its evaluation can be provided by the control unit 74 for further use.

[0070] In another design, it can be proposed that according to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , only data is transmitted via the coupling device 72.

[0071] Figure 5 Another design for the object table or examination couch 26 is shown in a schematic side view. Different from the above design, in this design, it is proposed that the connection unit 64 has a field coupling element 78, which is currently configured for inductive coupling. Here, in an alternative design, it can also be proposed that the field coupling element 78 is configured for capacitive coupling.

[0072] The control unit 74 is configured to operate the field coupling element 78. Here, the control unit 74 operates the field coupling element 78 in a frequency range not used by the magnetic resonance device 14. Thereby, spectral decoupling of the use of the magnetic resonance device 14 from the operation of the control unit 74 and the field coupling element 78 can be achieved.

[0073] In this design, the field coupling element 78 is configured as an electrical coil having a coil axis, which is currently oriented transversely to the through-opening 62. The electrical coil that can be used as a coupling coil can be configured as a flat or planar-flat structure on a printed circuit board. The electrical coil can be configured in a spiral shape, for example, in the manner of an Archimedean coil, or in a spiral and / or meandering shape. Here, multiple layers can also be used, for example, when using multiple printed circuit boards, in order to increase the number of windings of the corresponding coil per unit area. Furthermore, the coil axis is currently oriented substantially horizontally. The field coupling elements 78 are arranged side by side along the extension direction of the connection unit 64. The extension direction of the table edge 60 coincides with the extension direction of the connection unit 64.

[0074] In the region of the respective field coupling element 78, a respective locking element 80 is also provided. This enables, in particular when the connecting unit 64 is configured in the form of a T-slot, introducing the respective connecting element 66 at the respective end of the T-slot and arranging it in the region of the respective field coupling element 78. A haptic feedback can be achieved by the locking element 80, which enables the position of the respective field coupling element 78 to be detected haptically when the connecting element 66 is pushed through the T-slot, so that the coupling device 72 is produced wirelessly.

[0075] The control unit 74 is also configured to detect which of the field coupling elements 78 is coupled to an accessory, such as an EKG 68. Only the field coupling elements 78 in which the respective coupling device 72 is formed are operated. If a plurality of accessories are coupled to the respective field coupling elements 78, the control unit 74 can be configured to operate the field coupling elements 78 in a time-division multiplexed manner.

[0076] The embodiments are only used to illustrate the present invention and should not limit the present invention.

Claims

1. An object table (26) for an imaging inspection device (14), the imaging inspection device (14) being used to inspect an object (12) that can be arranged on the object table (26), wherein the object table (26) is configured to be arranged at the edge of an inspection area (22) of the imaging inspection device (14) so ​​as to arrange the object (12) to be inspected in the inspection area (22) for inspection, wherein the object table (26) has a connection unit (64) extending along the table edge (60) at least partially at the table edge (60), the connection unit (64) being configured to be detachably connected to a connection element (66) of at least one accessory (68) that can be used for inspection, It is characterized in that The connecting unit (64) has a coupling unit (70), wherein the coupling unit (70) is designed to form a coupling device (72) with the accessory (68) in a connected state in which the connecting unit (64) is connected to the connecting element (66), wherein the coupling device (72) is used to transmit at least data or energy.

2. The object stage according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The coupling unit (70) is designed as an electrical coupling unit for electrically coupling the accessory (68) in a wired or wireless manner.

3. The object stage according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The coupling unit (70) is designed as a communication coupling unit for wired or wireless communication coupling with the accessory (68).

4. The object stage according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that A control unit (74) is provided, which is designed to detect a connection to the at least one accessory (68).

5. The object stage according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The coupling unit (70) has at least two electrical conductors (76) for wired coupling of the accessory (68), the electrical conductors (76) extending at least partially parallel to the table edge (60).

6. The object stage according to claim 4, It is characterized in that The coupling unit (70) has at least one field coupling element (78) for wireless coupling of the accessory (68).

7. The object stage according to claim 6, It is characterized in that The at least one field coupling element (78) is designed at least for inductive coupling or at least for capacitive coupling.

8. The object stage according to claim 7, It is characterized in that The at least one field coupling element (78) has a flat or planar structure.

9. The object stage according to claim 6, It is characterized in that The control unit (74) is designed to operate the at least one field coupling element (78).

10. The object stage according to claim 9, It is characterized in that The control unit (74) is designed to operate the at least one field coupling element (78) in a frequency range not used by the imaging examination device (14).

11. The object stage according to claim 6, It is characterized in that The coupling unit (70) has a plurality of field coupling elements (78) which are arranged side by side at the platform edge (60) along the extension direction of the connecting unit (64), wherein the extension direction of the platform edge (60) coincides with the extension direction of the connecting unit (64).

12. The object stage according to claim 11, It is characterized in that A locking element (80) is arranged along the extension direction in the region of the respective field coupling element (78).

13. The object stage according to claim 11, It is characterized in that The control unit (74) is designed to operate the field coupling element (78) in a time-multiplexed manner.

14. The object stage according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that A disinfection unit is provided, which is designed to at least partially disinfect the at least one accessory (68) connected to the connecting unit (64).

15. An imaging inspection device (14) for performing an inspection on an object (12), the imaging inspection device (14) having an object table (26) for arranging the object (12) and at least one accessory (68), It is characterized in that The object table (26) is an object table according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. The imaging inspection device according to claim 15, It is characterized in that The imaging examination device (14) is configured to detect the connection of at least one accessory (68) to the object table (26).

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