Collimator replacement system

Abstract

According to the collimator replacement system, during replacement operation, for example, when a collimator installed on a detector needs to be taken down, an examination bed moves in the second direction and in the direction close to the detector, so that a fixing part can be in butt joint with the collimator on the detector; and the collimator is disassembled by moving the examination bed along the direction far away from the detector. When the collimator needs to be installed on the detector, the collimator is fixed to the fixing part of the examination bed, the examination bed moves in the direction close to the detector, for example, the fixing part moves to the position below the detector, so that the collimator can be in butt joint with the detector, and the collimator continues to move along with the examination bed till the collimator completely stretches into the detector. And the collimator is clamped by the detector, so that the collimator on the examination couch can be transferred to the detector, and replacement of the collimator is realized. The examination couch does not need to be rotated, so that the operation step of rotating the examination couch and the time required by rotating the examination couch are omitted, and the replacement efficiency of the collimator is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of medical technology, and in particular to collimator replacement systems. Background Technology

[0002] In SPECT (Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography), collimators are mounted on the detector for specific diagnostic purposes. Nuclear scanning systems typically require different collimators to achieve different diagnostic goals, thus necessitating the periodic replacement of the collimators in the detector as needed.

[0003] In related technologies, the collimator is replaced by a collimator replacement cart. However, during the process of using the collimator replacement cart, the inspection bed needs to be rotated to avoid the collimator replacement cart, which affects the efficiency of the collimator replacement. Utility Model Content

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a collimator replacement system to address the problem of low replacement efficiency in existing collimator replacement vehicles.

[0005] A collimator replacement system is used in a detector of a medical imaging device, the detector being capable of fixing or releasing a collimator, the collimator replacement system comprising:

[0006] An examination bed, wherein at least one side of the examination bed along a first direction is provided with a fixing part for supporting a collimator, and when the collimator is located in the fixing part, the collimator protrudes from the fixing part;

[0007] The examination bed is configured to be operably movable along a second direction so that a collimator carried by one of the fixing part and the detector can be connected to the other, the second direction being the distribution direction of the examination bed and the detector, and the second direction being perpendicular to the first direction.

[0008] In one embodiment, the examination bed is provided with fixing parts on both sides along the first direction, and each fixing part corresponds to fixing one collimator; or,

[0009] The examination bed is provided with fixing parts on both sides along the first direction, and the two fixing parts cooperate to fix the collimator.

[0010] In one embodiment, the fixing part includes a fixing groove for accommodating a portion of the collimator.

[0011] In one embodiment, the fixing groove is recessed downward from the upper surface of the inspection bed, and the collimator is configured with a snap-fit ​​protrusion for engaging with the fixing groove.

[0012] In one embodiment, the fixing part includes two baffles spaced apart along the first direction, and the gap between the two baffles forms the fixing groove.

[0013] In one embodiment, at least one of the two baffles can move closer to or further away from the other baffle; and / or,

[0014] The fixing part includes a guide groove, and the guide groove and the baffle are arranged along the second direction.

[0015] In one embodiment, the ground is provided with a guide portion arranged along the second direction, the guide portion being marked; the examination bed is provided with a collection unit, which collects the marks to move the examination bed along the second direction; and / or,

[0016] The collimator replacement system also includes a drive unit, the inspection bed is connected to the drive unit, and the drive unit is used to drive the inspection bed to move along the second direction.

[0017] In one embodiment, the collimator replacement system further includes a replacement cart located on the side of the examination bed away from the detector, the replacement cart being provided with a storage slot for storing the detector.

[0018] In one embodiment, a pusher is provided in the storage slot, the pusher being movable along the second direction to push the collimator located in the storage slot to the fixing part.

[0019] In one embodiment, the collimator replacement system further includes a first lifting module, which is used to drive the replacement cart or the inspection bed to rise or fall in the height direction so that the height of the bottom wall of the storage tank is not lower than the height of the bearing surface of the fixing part.

[0020] The aforementioned collimator replacement system uses a fixing part on the inspection bed to secure the collimator. During replacement operations, such as removing a collimator mounted on a detector, the inspection bed moves along a second direction and towards the detector, allowing the fixing part to align with the collimator on the detector. For example, if the fixing part moves below the detector, the detector releases the collimator, allowing it to fall onto the fixing part, thus transferring the collimator from the detector to the fixing part. The collimator can be removed by moving the inspection bed away from the detector. When installing a collimator on a detector, the collimator is fixed to the fixing part of the inspection bed. The inspection bed moves towards the detector, for example, if the fixing part moves below the detector, allowing the portion of the collimator protruding from the fixing part to align with the detector. As the inspection bed continues to move until the collimator is fully inserted into the detector and the detector clamps the collimator, the collimator on the inspection bed can be transferred to the detector, completing the collimator replacement operation. The replacement process does not require rotating the inspection bed, thus eliminating the need to reserve extra space for the inspection bed to move. It also eliminates the operation steps and time required for rotating the inspection bed, thereby improving the efficiency of collimator replacement. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a collimator replacement system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0022] Figure 2 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the collimator connected to the fixing part in the collimator replacement system.

[0023] Figure 3 for Figure 1 The diagram shown illustrates the collimator in a different position within the collimator replacement system.

[0024] Figure 4 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the collimator connected to the detector in the collimator replacement system.

[0025] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the collimator and inspection bed in the collimator replacement system provided in the first embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 6 for Figure 5 Top view of the inspection bed in the collimator replacement system shown;

[0027] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the inspection bed in the collimator replacement system provided in the second embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 8AA schematic diagram of the inspection bed in the collimator replacement system provided in the third embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 8B A schematic diagram of the inspection bed in the collimator replacement system provided in the fourth embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 9 for Figure 8B Side view of the examination bed in the collimator replacement system shown;

[0031] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a replacement vehicle provided in one embodiment of this application.

[0032] Reference numerals: 100, Replacement vehicle; 101, Vehicle body; 110, Support column; 111, Fixed column; 112, Sliding column; 113, Reinforcing rod; 114, Roller; 120, Storage cabinet; 121, Storage slot; 210, First lifting module; 500, Medical imaging equipment; 520, Detector; 530, Collimator; 531, Snap-fit ​​protrusion; 700, Examination bed; 701, Bed board; 702, Base; 710, Fixing part; 711, Fixing slot; 712, Baffle; 713, Guide slot; 720, Position detection piece; 730, Guide part. Detailed Implementation

[0033] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0034] In the description of this application, it should be understood that if terms such as "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential" appear, these terms indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0035] Furthermore, where the terms "first" and "second" appear, these terms are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, where the term "multiple" appears, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0036] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0037] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the use of descriptions such as "above" or "below" the second feature indicates that the first and second features are in direct contact or indirect contact via an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. Similarly, "below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0038] It should be noted that if an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. If an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. If so, the terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this application are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0039] See Figures 1 to 4As shown, an embodiment of this application provides a collimator replacement system applied to the detector 520 of a medical imaging device 500. The detector 520 can fix or release the collimator 530. The collimator replacement system includes an examination bed 700. At least one side of the examination bed 700 along a first direction is provided with a fixing part 710 for supporting the collimator 530. When the collimator 530 is located in the fixing part 710, the collimator 530 protrudes from the fixing part 710. The examination bed 700 is configured to be operably movable along a second direction so that the collimator 530 supported by one of the fixing part 710 and the detector 520 can be connected to the other. That is to say, by moving the examination bed 510, the collimator 530 carried on the fixed part is connected to the detector 520, or by moving the examination bed 510, the collimator 530 carried on the detector 520 is connected to the fixed part. For example, when it is necessary to remove the collimator 530 installed on the detector 520, by moving the examination bed 700, the fixed part 710 can be aligned with and inserted into the collimator 530 carried on the detector 520; when it is necessary to install the collimator 530 on the detector 520, by moving the examination bed 700, the fixed part 710 can insert the collimator 530 it carries into the detector 520. The second direction is the distribution direction of the examination bed 700 and the medical imaging device 500, and the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction. In a practical application scenario, the first direction is the width direction of the examination bed 700, and the second direction is the length direction of the examination bed 700, that is, the axial direction of the scanning aperture of the medical imaging device 500.

[0040] When performing a replacement operation, such as when it is necessary to remove the collimator 530 installed on the detector 520, the inspection bed 700 moves along the second direction and in the direction close to the detector 520 so that the fixing part 710 can mate with the collimator 530 on the detector 520; for example, the fixing part 710 moves to the bottom of the detector 520, the detector 520 releases the collimator 530, and the collimator 530 can fall onto the fixing part 710, thereby transferring the collimator 530 from the detector 520 to the fixing part 710; the collimator 530 can be removed by moving the inspection bed 700 in the direction away from the detector 520. When it is necessary to install the collimator 530 on the detector 520, the collimator 530 is fixed to the fixing part 710 of the inspection bed 700. The inspection bed 700 moves in a direction close to the detector 520; for example, the fixing part 710 moves to below the detector 520, allowing the portion of the collimator 530 protruding from the fixing part 710 to engage with the detector 520. As the inspection bed 700 continues to move until the collimator 530 is fully inserted into the detector 520 and the detector 520 clamps the collimator 530, the collimator 530 can be transferred from the inspection bed 700 to the detector 520, thus completing the collimator 530 replacement operation. During the replacement process, there is no need to rotate the inspection bed 700, eliminating the need for additional movement space for the inspection bed 700 and saving the operation steps and time required for rotating the inspection bed 700, thereby improving the efficiency of the collimator 530 replacement.

[0041] In one embodiment, the medical imaging device 500 can be a SPECT device, with a detector 520 used to detect single photons (gamma rays) emitted by a radioactive isotope and convert the gamma rays into electrical signals. A collimator 530 is mounted on the side of the detector 520 facing the scanned object. The collimator 530 is used to restrict the path of gamma rays entering the detector 520, ensuring that only gamma rays from a specific direction are detected, thereby improving spatial resolution. Simultaneously, the collimator 530 can reduce the influence of scattered rays, improving image clarity and contrast. The collimator replacement system is used to remove the collimator 530 mounted on the detector 520 to install another collimator 530 on the detector 520. In other embodiments, the medical imaging device can also be a PET (Positron Emission Computed Tomography) device or a CT (Computed Tomography) device, etc.

[0042] In some embodiments, the fixing part 710 on the examination bed 700 can fix various types of collimators 530, such as pinhole collimators 530, high-energy collimators 530, parallel hole collimators 530, fan-shaped beam collimators 530, tapered beam collimators 530, or slit collimators 530, etc.

[0043] See Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, the examination bed 700 is provided with a fixing part 710 on one side along the first direction, for example in... Figure 8A In one embodiment, the fixing part 710 is configured as a fixing groove 711, and the collimator 530 is vertically inserted into the fixing groove 711. The inspection bed 700 can transport one collimator 530 at a time.

[0044] See Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, the examination bed 700 has fixing parts 710 on both sides along the first direction, and each fixing part 710 corresponds to fixing one collimator 530. In this way, the examination bed 700 can carry and transport two collimators 530 at a time, improving replacement efficiency. See also... Figure 8B As shown, taking the fixing part 710 as the fixing groove 711 and the collimator 530 as the pinhole collimator 530 as an example, the collimator 530 can be placed vertically and inserted into the fixing groove 711. When the fixing part 710 is provided on both sides of the inspection bed 700, the inspection bed 700 can transport two pinhole collimators 530 at the same time. When the fixing part 710 is provided on only one side of the inspection bed 700, the inspection bed 700 can transport one pinhole collimator 530 at a time.

[0045] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, when the collimator 530 is transported to the area below the detector 520 in a vertical position, the detector 520 can correspondingly switch from a horizontal to a vertical position to facilitate docking with the collimator 530, such as... Figure 3 As shown. After the detector 520 and collimator 530 are connected in place, as... Figure 4 As shown, detector 520 can be reset to a horizontal state.

[0046] In some embodiments, taking a medical imaging device 500 with two detectors 520 as an example, the medical imaging device 500 includes a frame, which may include a fixed frame and a rotating frame that can rotate relative to the fixed frame. The detectors 520 are mounted on the rotating frame and can rotate with the rotating frame. Figure 1As shown, when the two detectors 520 are in a horizontal state and located on the upper and lower sides of the examination bed 700 respectively, the rotating frame can be rotated, for example, by rotating 90 degrees, so that the two detectors 520 can be rotated to the front and rear sides of the examination bed 700 respectively. Correspondingly, the detectors 520 also switch from a horizontal state to a vertical state, so that subsequent docking operations with the collimator 530 can be performed.

[0047] See Figure 9 As shown, in one embodiment, the examination bed 700 has fixing parts 710 on both sides along the first direction. The two fixing parts 710 cooperate to fix the collimator 530, thereby increasing the contact area between the examination bed 700 and the individual collimator 530, improving the load-bearing stability of the collimator 530, and reducing the possibility of the collimator 530 shaking. For example, the fixing part 710 is constructed as a limiting plate. Limiting plates are respectively provided on both sides of the upper surface of the examination bed 700. The collimator 530 can be placed horizontally between the two limiting plates. The limiting plates abut and limit the collimator 530, ensuring the smooth transport of the collimator 530. It can be understood that when the collimator 530 is transported horizontally, the detector 520 does not need to switch from a horizontal state to a vertical state to achieve docking between the two.

[0048] In other embodiments, the collimator 530 can also be placed on the upper surface of the limiting plate away from the inspection bed 700, that is, the two ends of the collimator 530 along the first direction respectively overlap the upper surface of the limiting plate. In this way, the collimator 530 can also be supported. For collimators 530 with large self-weight, such as high-energy collimators 530, the high-energy collimator 530 can be placed horizontally on the fixing parts 710 on both sides. The fixing parts 710 on both sides cooperate to support the collimator 530, thereby improving the stability of the high-energy collimator 530 and ensuring the reliability of the subsequent docking between the collimator 530 and the detector 520.

[0049] See Figure 8B As shown, in one embodiment, the fixing part 710 is configured as a fixing groove 711, which is used to accommodate a portion of the collimator 530. For example, in the attached... Figure 7In the illustrated embodiment, the fixing part 710 includes two baffles 712 spaced apart along a first direction. The gap between the two baffles 712 forms a fixing groove 711. When the collimator 530 is inserted into the fixing groove 711, the two baffles 712 respectively abut and limit the movement of the collimator 530 on both sides, thereby guiding and controlling the pushing and pulling direction of the collimator 530. In some embodiments, the dimensions of the two baffles 712 can be set according to actual needs. For example, the length of the baffles 712 along the second direction is less than the length of the collimator 530 along the second direction, so that when the collimator 530 is located between the two baffles 712, it can protrude relative to the baffles 712, thereby facilitating the engagement of the portion of the collimator 530 protruding from the baffles 712 with the detector 520.

[0050] See Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, the fixing part 710 includes not only the two baffles 712 mentioned above, but also a guide groove 713, which is arranged along the second direction with the baffles 712. Thus, before the collimator 530 engages with the baffle 712 near the detector 520, the guide groove 713 can guide and control the pushing and pulling direction of the collimator 530, improving the reliability of the collimator 530 engaging with the fixing groove 711.

[0051] See Figure 7 As shown, in one embodiment, at least one of the two baffles 712 is movable along a first direction to adjust the size of the fixing slot 711. For example, before inserting the collimator 530, the distance between the two baffles 712 can be greater than the size of the collimator 530 along the first direction. This provides the collimator 530 with a larger insertion space, allowing it to be placed into the fixing slot 711 without precise alignment. Furthermore, because the distance between the two baffles 712 is greater than the size of the collimator 530, contact wear between the collimator 530 and the baffles 712 is reduced during insertion. After the collimator 530 is placed in the fixing slot 711, one baffle 712 can move closer to the other baffle 712 to clamp the collimator 530, improving the limiting reliability of the collimator 530. Simultaneously, by adjusting the distance between the two baffles 712, different sizes of collimators 530 can be accommodated, improving the usability of the collimator replacement system. Furthermore, when the inspection bed 700 delivers the collimator 530 to dock with the detector 520, the collimator 530 can be released by moving one of the baffles 712 away from the other baffle 712, making it easier to snap the collimator 530 into the detector 520.

[0052] In some embodiments, a drive module (not shown) can be integrated on the examination bed 700. A baffle 712 is connected to the output end of the drive module, and the drive module drives the baffle 712 to move along a first direction to adjust the distance between the two baffles 712. In other embodiments, the position of the baffle 712 can be adjusted manually, and after adjustment, the baffle 712 is locked to the examination bed 700.

[0053] See Figure 6 As shown, in one embodiment, the examination bed 700 is provided with a positioning detection element 720 for detecting the position of the collimator 530. After the positioning detection element 720 detects that the collimator 530 is fully positioned between the two baffles 712, it feeds a signal back to the drive module, causing one baffle 712 to move closer to the other baffle 712 to clamp the collimator 530. In some embodiments, the positioning detection element 720 can be a photoelectric sensor. Taking a through-beam photoelectric sensor as an example, the transmitter and receiver are respectively installed on both sides of the examination bed along a first direction. When the collimator blocks the light beam, it indicates that the collimator is in position. In other embodiments, the positioning detection element 720 can also be a proximity switch or a camera, etc., to determine whether the collimator is in position by acquiring the position of the collimator. In other embodiments, the positioning detection element 720 may not be provided, and the positioning may be determined manually.

[0054] In addition to providing two baffles 712 to form a fixing groove 711, in some embodiments, see [reference] Figure 8B As shown, a fixing groove 711 can also be recessed downwards from the upper surface of the examination bed 700, allowing the lower part of the collimator 530 to engage within the fixing groove 711 of the examination bed 700. In this way, when the collimator 530 is not being transported, the upper surface of the examination bed 700 can be made relatively flat, improving the flatness of the examination bed 700. See reference. Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments, the collimator 530 is constructed with a snap-fit ​​protrusion 531 for engaging with the fixing groove 711. In this way, the size of the fixing groove 711 can be adapted to the size of the snap-fit ​​protrusion 531, and the area of ​​the fixing groove 711 does not need to be too large, reducing manufacturing costs.

[0055] See Figure 2 As shown, in one embodiment, a guide portion 730 is arranged on the ground along the second direction, and the examination bed 700 is slidably connected to the guide portion 730. The guide portion 730 can guide and limit the movement of the examination bed 700 along the second direction, so that the collimator 530 located on the fixed portion 710 is better aligned with the detector 520, which is beneficial to improving the delivery accuracy of the collimator 530.

[0056] In some embodiments, the guide portion 730 is provided with markings; the examination bed 700 is provided with a collection unit that collects the markings to enable the examination bed 700 to move automatically along a second direction. For example, the guide portion 730 may have a magnetic strip or other magnetic marking embedded in it, and the collection unit may be a magnetic sensor. The examination bed 700 detects the position of the magnetic strip using the magnetic sensor to achieve automatic movement of the examination bed 700. In another embodiment, the guide portion 730 may be marked with optical markings (such as black and white lines or QR codes), and the collection unit may be a camera or a photoelectric sensor. The examination bed 700 detects the position of the markings using the camera or photoelectric sensor to achieve automatic movement. In one embodiment, the guide portion 730 may include two guide rails spaced apart along a first direction. The guide rails slide in cooperation with both sides of the examination bed 700 along the first direction, and the guide rails are provided with markings.

[0057] In one embodiment, the collimator changing system further includes a drive unit (not shown), to which the inspection bed 700 is connected. The drive unit is used to move the inspection bed 700 along a second direction. The drive unit can be a linear motor, a lead screw motor, an electric push rod, or a telescopic cylinder, etc.

[0058] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the examination bed 700 includes a bed board 701 and a base 702, with a fixing part 710 disposed on the surface of the bed board 701 opposite to the base 702. See also... Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the bed board 701 and the base 702 move together in a second direction to deliver the collimator 530 to the location of the detector 520, or to remove the collimator 530 from the detector 520. See also... Figure 3 As shown, in some other embodiments, when the fixing part 710 moves to below the detector 520, the bed board 701 can also move relative to the base 702 in a second direction to gradually insert the collimator 530 into the detector 520 until it is fully engaged with the detector 520.

[0059] See Figure 1As shown, in one embodiment, the collimator replacement system further includes a replacement cart 100 located on the side of the inspection bed 700 away from the detector 520. The replacement cart 100 is provided with a storage slot 121 for storing the detector 520. In some embodiments, the replacement cart 100 includes a cart body 101 and a storage cabinet 120 disposed on the cart body 101. The storage slot 121 is disposed on the storage cabinet 120, and the storage cabinet 120 is provided with at least two storage slots 121, which are capable of storing the collimator 530 to be removed and the collimator 530 to be installed, respectively. By setting up the replacement cart 100, the collimator 530, placed in a storage location such as the collimator 530 platform, can be easily transferred to the inspection bed 700, and then easily transported to the detector 520 via the inspection bed 700. Simultaneously, after the inspection bed 700 transports the collimator 530 removed from the detector 520, the replacement cart 100 can be used to reposition the collimator 530 back to its storage location. In other embodiments, the collimator 530 can be manually picked up and placed on the inspection bed 700; or a robotic arm can pick up the collimator 530 and place it on the inspection bed 700.

[0060] In one embodiment, a pusher (not shown) is provided within the storage slot 121. The pusher is movable in a second direction to push the collimator 530 located within the storage slot 121 to the fixing part 710. The height of the bottom wall of the storage slot 121 is not lower than the height of the bearing surface of the fixing part 710. For example, the bottom wall of the storage slot 121 is flush with the bearing surface of the fixing part 710, i.e., at the same horizontal height. Thus, after the pusher pushes the collimator 530 out of the storage slot 121, the collimator 530 directly rests on the bearing surface of the fixing part 710 (when the fixing part 710 includes the aforementioned fixing slot 711, the bearing surface is the bottom wall of the fixing slot 711), improving transfer efficiency and enhancing the automation of collimator 530 replacement. In other embodiments, the height of the bottom wall of the storage tank 121 may be higher than the height of the bearing surface of the fixing part 710, so that after the pusher pushes out the collimator 530, the collimator 530 will slowly fall onto the bearing surface of the fixing part 710.

[0061] In some embodiments, the pusher may include a drive unit and a pusher portion connected to the drive unit. The drive unit drives the pusher portion to move, causing the pusher portion to abut against the collimator 530 to push the collimator 530 out. For example, in one embodiment, the pusher may be in the form of an electric push rod. The electric push rod extends into the storage slot 121 and abuts against the collimator 530 to be installed in the storage slot 121. By extending the electric push rod, the collimator 530 is pushed out until it is mated with the fixing part 710.

[0062] In some embodiments, a pusher may also be provided on the detector 520 to push the collimator 530 on the detector 520 out in the second direction, so that the collimator 530 docks with the fixing part 710.

[0063] In other embodiments, the collimator 530 in the fixing part 710 or detector 520 can be gripped by the gripping part of the robotic arm, such as the gripper, and then the collimator 530 can be transferred to the inspection table 700 by the movement of the robotic arm.

[0064] See Figure 10 As shown, in one embodiment, the collimator replacement system further includes a first lifting module 210 disposed on the replacement cart 100. The first lifting module 210 is used to drive the replacement cart 100 to rise or fall in the height direction so that the height of the bottom wall of the storage tank 121 is not lower than the height of the bearing surface of the fixing part 710. For example, the bottom wall of the storage tank 121 is flush with the bearing surface of the fixing part 710, that is, at the same horizontal height. In this way, after the collimator 530 is pushed out of the storage tank 121, the collimator 530 will overlap the bearing surface of the fixing part 710 without manual intervention, thus improving replacement efficiency.

[0065] See Figure 10 As shown, in one embodiment, the replacement vehicle 100 includes a vehicle body 101 and a storage cabinet 120 disposed on the vehicle body 101. The vehicle body 101 includes a plurality of arrayed support columns 110. Each support column 110 includes a fixed column 111 and a sliding column 112 slidably connected to the fixed column 111. A first lifting module 210 is disposed on the fixed column 111, and the storage cabinet 120 is disposed on the sliding column 112. The sliding column 112 is connected to the output end of the first lifting module 210. Thus, when the first lifting module 210 is activated, it can directly drive the sliding column 112 to move along the height direction, thereby driving the storage cabinet 120 disposed on the sliding column 112 to move synchronously, thereby raising the storage slot 121 to a predetermined height and aligning it with the fixing part 710.

[0066] In one embodiment, one of the fixed post 111 and the sliding post 112 is provided with a telescopic hole, and at least part of the other is inserted through the telescopic hole. For example, in the embodiment shown in the figure, the sliding post 112 is constructed with a telescopic hole, and the fixed post 111 is inserted through the telescopic hole, that is, the sliding post 112 is sleeved on the outside of the fixed post 111. By moving the sliding post 112 up and down relative to the fixed post 111, the height of the storage cabinet 120 changes. Of course, in other embodiments, the fixed post 111 may also be provided with a telescopic hole, and the sliding post 112 may be sleeved on the inside of the fixed post 111, and the height of the storage cabinet 120 may be changed by moving the sliding post 112 up and down relative to the fixed post 111.

[0067] In some embodiments, the first lifting module 210 may also be disposed on the examination bed 700 to drive the examination bed 700 to rise or fall in the height direction, so that the storage slot 121 and the fixing part 710 are at the same horizontal plane. In other embodiments, the height of the storage slot 121 on the changing cart 100 may correspond exactly to the position of the fixing part 710 on the examination bed 700, in which case the first lifting module 210 is not required.

[0068] See Figure 1 or Figure 10 As shown, in one embodiment, the vehicle body 101 includes a plurality of arrayed support columns 110, and the storage cabinet 120 is connected to the top of each support column 110. The storage cabinet 120 can be a cuboid structure. The storage cabinet 120 is supported by the plurality of support columns 110, so that the force distribution of the storage cabinet 120 is relatively uniform, ensuring the stability during the transportation process.

[0069] See Figure 1 or Figure 10 As shown, further, along the second direction, a reinforcing rod 113 is provided between two adjacent support columns 110, and the structural strength of the vehicle body 101 is further enhanced by the reinforcing rod 113.

[0070] See Figure 1 or Figure 10 As shown, in one embodiment, the bottom of the vehicle body 101 is provided with a plurality of rollers 114, for example in Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, there are four rollers 114, which roll on the ground to allow the changing vehicle 100 to move smoothly on the ground.

[0071] Taking the installation of collimator 530 onto detector 520 as an example, the process of a collimator replacement system provided in one embodiment is described as follows:

[0072] The replacement cart 100 carrying the collimator 530 is moved to the end of the inspection bed 700 away from the detector 520; wherein, by lifting or lowering the replacement cart 100 or the inspection bed 700, the height of the bottom wall of the storage slot 121 of the replacement cart 100 is not lower than the height of the bearing surface of the fixed part 710 of the inspection bed 700.

[0073] The collimator 530 is inserted into the fixing part 710 of the inspection bed 700; wherein, a pusher can be provided in the storage slot 121 of the replacement cart 100, and the collimator 530 is pushed out in the second direction by the pusher. Since the bottom wall height of the storage slot 121 is not lower than the bearing surface of the fixing part 710, the collimator 530 extending out of the storage slot 121 can overlap or fall on the bearing surface of the fixing part 710.

[0074] When the position detection element of the inspection bed 700 is triggered, it is considered that the collimator 530 is fixed in place, and the fixing part 710 clamps the collimator 530.

[0075] The examination bed 700 moves in a direction close to the detector 520 to move the collimator 530 to the position where the detector 520 is located. When the collimator 530 is placed vertically on the fixing part 710, the detector 520 can switch from a horizontal state to a vertical state during the movement of the examination bed 700 so as to engage with the vertically placed collimator 530. When the collimator 530 is placed horizontally on the two fixing parts 710, the detector 520 does not need to switch states.

[0076] The examination bed 700 continues to move until the collimator 530 is inserted into the detector 520. At this time, the fixing part 710 releases the collimator 530, and the detector 520 clamps the collimator 530, thereby installing the collimator 530 from the examination bed 700 onto the detector 520.

[0077] After the replacement is completed, confirm that the collimator 530 is fixed in place on the detector 520, and the inspection bed 700 and detector 520 can be reset to their initial positions.

[0078] Correspondingly, if the collimator 530 is to be removed from the detector 520, the inspection bed 700 moves in the second direction so that the fixing part 710 is located below the detector 520. The detector 520 releases the collimator 530 or the detector 520 pushes out the collimator 530 so that the collimator 530 can fall on the fixing part 710. After it is locked in place, the fixing part 710 clamps the collimator 530.

[0079] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0080] The above embodiments merely illustrate several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A collimator replacement system applied to a detector (520) of a medical imaging device (500), the detector (520) being capable of fixing or releasing a collimator (530), characterized in that, The collimator replacement system includes: An examination bed (700) is provided with a fixing part (710) for carrying a collimator (530) on at least one side along a first direction. When the collimator (530) is located in the fixing part (710), the collimator (530) protrudes from the fixing part (710). The examination bed (700) is configured to be operably movable along a second direction so that a collimator (530) carried by one of the fixing part (710) and the detector (520) can be connected to the other, the second direction being the distribution direction of the examination bed (700) and the detector (520), and the second direction being perpendicular to the first direction.

2. The collimator replacement system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The examination bed (700) is provided with fixing parts (710) on both sides along the first direction, and each fixing part (710) is fixed to one collimator (530); or, The examination bed (700) is provided with fixing parts (710) on both sides along the first direction, and the two fixing parts (710) cooperate to fix the collimator (530).

3. The collimator replacement system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fixing part (710) includes a fixing groove (711) for accommodating a portion of the collimator (530).

4. The collimator replacement system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The fixing groove (711) is recessed downward from the upper surface of the inspection bed (700), and the collimator (530) is constructed with a snap-fit ​​protrusion (531) for engaging with the fixing groove (711).

5. The collimator replacement system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The fixing part (710) includes two baffles (712) spaced apart along the first direction, and the gap between the two baffles (712) forms the fixing groove (711).

6. The collimator replacement system according to claim 5, characterized in that, At least one of the two baffles (712) can move closer to or further away from the other baffle (712); and / or, The fixing part (710) includes a guide groove (713), which is arranged along the second direction with the baffle (712).

7. The collimator replacement system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The ground is provided with guide sections (730) arranged along the second direction, and the guide sections (730) are provided with markings; the examination bed (700) is provided with a collection section, which collects the markings to move the examination bed (700) along the second direction; and / or, The collimator replacement system also includes a drive unit, to which the inspection bed (700) is connected, the drive unit being used to drive the inspection bed (700) to move along the second direction.

8. The collimator replacement system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The collimator replacement system also includes a replacement cart (100) located on the side of the inspection bed (700) away from the detector (520), and the replacement cart (100) is provided with a storage slot (121) for storing the detector (520).

9. The collimator replacement system according to claim 8, characterized in that, A pusher is provided in the storage slot (121), which is movable in the second direction to push the collimator (530) located in the storage slot (121) to the fixing part (710).

10. The collimator replacement system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The collimator replacement system also includes a first lifting module (210), which is used to drive the replacement vehicle (100) or the inspection bed (700) to rise or fall in the height direction so that the height of the bottom wall of the storage tank (121) is not lower than the height of the bearing surface of the fixing part (710).

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