Bulb tube stand column device and X-ray imaging system

Abstract

The utility model provides a bulb tube stand column device and an X-ray imaging system. The bulb tube stand column device comprises a stand column, a cross arm installed on the stand column and a bulb tube, the bulb tube stand column device further comprises a bulb tube inclining device installed between the bulb tube and the cross arm, the bulb tube inclining device comprises a bulb tube maintaining assembly and an angle adjusting assembly, the bulb tube maintaining assembly comprises a clamping piece and a fixing piece, the clamping piece can maintain the bulb tube, and the angle adjusting assembly can adjust the angle of the bulb tube. The fixing piece is provided with a stop groove, the stop groove limits the inclination angle of the bulb tube, the angle adjusting assembly comprises a protrusion matched with the stop groove, and the protrusion can be controlled to enter or leave the stop groove so as to achieve the inclination movement of the bulb tube relative to the cross arm.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to medical imaging technology, and more specifically to a tube column device and an X-ray imaging system. Background Technology

[0002] In an X-ray imaging system, radiation from an X-ray source is directed at a subject, typically a patient in a medical diagnostic application. A portion of the radiation passes through the subject and impacts a detector, which is divided into a matrix of discrete elements (e.g., pixels). The detector elements are read out to generate an output signal based on the amount or intensity of radiation impacting each pixel region. The signal can then be processed to produce a medical image that can be displayed for examination on the display device of the X-ray imaging system.

[0003] X-ray imaging systems include suspended X-ray imaging systems, dual-column X-ray imaging systems, and portable X-ray imaging systems. Dual-column X-ray imaging systems consist of an X-ray tube column assembly and a detector column system. For the X-ray tube column assembly, the tube is typically supported by a crossarm mounted on a column. To meet imaging requirements, the tube needs to move horizontally and vertically, rotate around the crossarm, and tilt at a certain angle relative to the crossarm (upward or downward). Traditional tilt control mechanisms are space-consuming, structurally complex, require significant operating force, are inconvenient to control, and cannot achieve precise positioning or long-term maintenance. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application provides a tube column device and an X-ray imaging system.

[0005] An exemplary embodiment of this application provides a tube support device. The tube support device includes a column, a crossarm mounted on the column, and a tube. The tube support device further includes a tube tilting device installed between the tube and the crossarm. The tube tilting device includes a tube holding assembly and an angle adjusting assembly. The tube holding assembly includes a clamping member and a fixing member. The clamping member is capable of holding the tube. The fixing member is provided with a stop groove that defines the tilting angle of the tube. The angle adjusting assembly includes a protrusion that mates with the stop groove. The protrusion can be controlled to enter or leave the stop groove to achieve tilting movement and holding of the tube relative to the crossarm.

[0006] Specifically, the clamping member includes two clamps, and each clamp includes a first clamp unit, a second clamp unit, and a first connecting part. The end of the first clamp unit is provided with a first hole, and the end of the second clamp unit is provided with a second through hole. The first connecting part can fix the first clamp unit and the second clamp unit through the first hole and the second through hole.

[0007] Specifically, the outer ring of one of the first hole and the second through hole is provided with a first groove, and the outer ring of the other of the first hole and the second through hole is provided with a first protrusion that matches the first groove. When the first clamp unit and the second clamp unit are closed, the first groove and the first protrusion can engage.

[0008] Specifically, the fastener includes a first fixing unit and a second fixing unit that enclose each other, and the first fixing unit and the second fixing unit are fixed by a second connecting part, and the stop groove is provided on the first fixing unit or the second fixing unit.

[0009] Specifically, the tube tilting device further includes a buffer assembly positioned adjacent to the second connection portion.

[0010] Specifically, the buffer assembly includes a buffer element and a hydraulic device. One end of the buffer element is at a preset distance from the second connecting part, and the other end of the buffer element is connected to the hydraulic device.

[0011] Specifically, limit blocks are provided at both ends of the stop groove on the fixing member to limit the extreme position of the ball tube tilt.

[0012] Specifically, the angle adjustment assembly includes a bracket, a first shaft and a second shaft arranged in parallel, an elastic element, and at least one gripping part. The bracket includes a main body and two side parts. The first shaft and the second shaft are installed between the two side parts, and the protrusion is installed on the second shaft. The elastic element is wound around the first shaft, with one end supported on the main body and the other end fixed on the second shaft. At least one gripping part is installed on the side parts.

[0013] Specifically, the at least one retaining portion is mounted away from the protrusion.

[0014] Specifically, the end of the at least one gripping part has a hexagonal slot.

[0015] Specifically, the angle adjustment component includes two grips, which are respectively mounted on two side parts, and either grip can control the displacement of the protrusion.

[0016] Specifically, the second axis has an irregular cross-section.

[0017] Specifically, the X-ray tube column device further includes a X-ray tube rotating device, which includes a rotating bracket. One end of the rotating bracket is connected to the cross arm, and the other end is fixedly connected to the main body.

[0018] Specifically, a set of second protrusions is provided on the side of the main body that is connected to the rotating bracket.

[0019] Specifically, the rotating bracket includes at least one slot that can accommodate the at least one gripping part and can limit the displacement distance of the at least one gripping part.

[0020] Specifically, the rotating bracket is further fixed to the clamping member, and a third set of grooves is provided on the side of the clamping member, and a third set of protrusions that cooperate with the third set of grooves are provided on the side of the rotating bracket.

[0021] Specifically, the rotating bracket is further provided with an adjusting nut, which can adjust the initial position of the angle adjustment component.

[0022] Specifically, the end of the protrusion near the fixing member is designed to be concave in the middle.

[0023] An exemplary embodiment of this invention provides an X-ray imaging system. The X-ray imaging system includes the above-described X-ray tube column device.

[0024] Other features and aspects will become clear from the following detailed description, accompanying drawings, and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0025] The present invention can be better understood by describing exemplary embodiments of the present application in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an X-ray imaging system according to some embodiments of this application;

[0027] Figure 2 (a) to (c) are schematic diagrams of the X-ray tube assembly of some embodiments of this application tilted at different angles;

[0028] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a tube tilting device according to some embodiments of this application;

[0029] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a tube tilting device according to some embodiments of this application;

[0030] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the tube and fixing member of the tube tilting device according to some embodiments of this application;

[0031] Figure 6 This is an exploded view of the clamping component of the X-ray tube tilting device according to some embodiments of this application;

[0032] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the clamping members of the tube tilting device according to some embodiments of this application;

[0033] Figure 8 These are cross-sectional views of some embodiments of the clamping element of the X-ray tube tilting device according to some embodiments of this application;

[0034] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the angle adjustment assembly of the X-ray tube tilting device according to some embodiments of this application at a first angle;

[0035] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the angle adjustment assembly of the X-ray tube tilting device according to some embodiments of this application at a second angle; and

[0036] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a buffer component according to some embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0037] The following describes specific embodiments of this utility model. It should be noted that, in order to provide a concise description, this specification cannot exhaustively describe all features of the actual embodiments. It should be understood that, in the actual implementation of any embodiment, just as in any engineering or design project, various specific decisions are often made to achieve the developer's specific goals and to meet system-related or business-related constraints, and this can change from one embodiment to another. Furthermore, it is understood that although the efforts made in this development process may be complex and lengthy, for those skilled in the art related to the content disclosed in this utility model, modifications to design, manufacturing, or production based on the technical content disclosed in this utility model are merely conventional technical means and should not be construed as insufficient content of this utility model.

[0038] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in the claims and description shall have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this utility model pertains. The terms "first," "second," and similar words used in the specification and claims of this utility model patent application do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. The terms "an" or "a" and similar words do not indicate a quantity limitation, but rather indicate the presence of at least one. The terms "comprising" or "including" and similar words mean that the element or object preceding "comprising" or "including" encompasses the element or object listed following "comprising" or "including" and its equivalents, and do not exclude other elements or objects. The terms "connected" or "linked" and similar words are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, nor are they limited to direct or indirect connections.

[0039] Figure 1 An X-ray imaging system 100 according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the X-ray imaging system 100 includes an X-ray tube column assembly 110, a detector column assembly 120, and a detection bed assembly 130 disposed in a scanning chamber 101, and a control device 150 disposed in a control chamber 102. The X-ray tube column assembly 110 includes a column 111, a cross arm 112, and an X-ray tube assembly (including an X-ray tube 113, a collimator 114, and an X-ray tube control device 115). The cross arm 112 is used to support the X-ray tube assembly and is mounted on the column 111.

[0040] Although some embodiments of this application are described based on a dual-column X-ray imaging system, the embodiments of this application are not intended to be limiting. For example, the medical imaging system may also be other types of X-ray imaging systems, such as a portable X-ray imaging system, or other types of imaging systems, such as a computed tomography (CT) system, a positron emission tomography (PET) system, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system, etc.

[0041] For ease of description, in this application, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis are defined as follows: the x-axis and y-axis are located in the horizontal plane and are perpendicular to each other, and the z-axis is perpendicular to the horizontal plane. Specifically, the extension direction of the horizontal arm 112 or the width direction of the testing bed device is defined as the x-axis, the direction in the horizontal plane that is perpendicular to the extension direction of the horizontal arm or the length direction of the testing bed device is defined as the y-axis, and the extension direction of the column is defined as the z-axis. The z-axis is the vertical direction.

[0042] The X-ray tube support assembly 110 further includes a guide rail mounted on the floor, which is arranged along the y-axis, and the support 111 moves along the guide rail, i.e., moves along the y-axis. The cross arm 112 is also capable of moving relative to the support 111 in a vertical direction (i.e., the z-axis direction). Furthermore, a tilting device can be provided between the X-ray tube assembly and the cross arm 112, which can tilt the X-ray tube assembly at a certain angle relative to the y-axis. Of course, a rotating device can also be provided between the X-ray tube assembly and the cross arm 112, which can rotate the X-ray tube assembly around the x-axis. The specific structures of the tilting and rotating devices will be described below.

[0043] The X-ray tube contains an X-ray tube that can generate X-rays and project them onto the patient's region of interest (ROI).

[0044] The collimator 114 is typically mounted below the X-ray tube. X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube pass through the opening of the collimator 114 and irradiate the object being inspected. The size of the opening of the collimator 114 determines the irradiation range of the X-rays, i.e., the size of the field of view (FOV). As is well known, X-rays are harmful to the human body; therefore, it is necessary to control the X-rays so that they only irradiate the areas of the object to be examined, i.e., the region of interest (ROI).

[0045] The X-ray tube control device 115 is mounted on the X-ray tube assembly. The X-ray tube control device 115 includes a user interface such as a display screen and control buttons for pre-exposure preparation, such as patient selection, protocol selection, and positioning.

[0046] The detector column assembly 120 includes a first detector assembly 121, a second column 122, and a connecting portion (not shown). The connecting portion includes a connecting arm perpendicularly connected to the height direction of the second column 122 and a rotating bracket mounted on the connecting arm. The first detector assembly 121 is mounted on the rotating bracket. The detector column assembly 120 further includes a detector driving device disposed between the rotating bracket and the first detector assembly 121. Driven by the detector driving device, the first detector assembly 121 moves along a direction parallel to the height direction of the second column 122 on the plane supported by the rotating bracket. The first detector assembly 121 can also further rotate relative to the connecting arm, forming a certain angle with the column. The first detector assembly 121 has a plate-like structure with a variable orientation, so that the X-ray incident surface can be made vertical or horizontal according to the incident direction of the X-rays.

[0047] The examination bed device 130 includes a second detector assembly (not shown). The selection or use of the first detector assembly 121 and the second detector assembly can be determined based on the patient's imaging site and / or imaging protocol, or based on the position of the subject being examined obtained by the camera, for imaging examination in a supine or standing position. Figure 1 Only one example diagram of the column and testing bed is shown. Those skilled in the art should understand that any form or arrangement of the column and / or testing bed can be selected, or only the column can be installed. The column and / or testing bed are not limited to the overall scheme of this application.

[0048] In some embodiments, the control device 150 may include a source controller and a detector controller. The source controller commands the X-ray source to emit X-rays for image exposure. The detector controller selects a suitable detector from among multiple detectors and coordinates the control of various detector functions, such as automatically selecting the corresponding detector based on the position or posture of the object being inspected, or performing various signal processing and filtering functions, specifically for initial adjustment of dynamic range, interleaving of digital image data, etc. In some embodiments, the control device 150 may provide power and timing signals for controlling the operation of the X-ray source and detector.

[0049] In some embodiments, the control device 150 may also be configured to use digital signals to reconstruct one or more desired images and / or determine useful diagnostic information corresponding to the patient, wherein the control device 150 may include one or more dedicated processors, graphics processing units, digital signal processors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) or other suitable processing devices.

[0050] Of course, medical imaging systems may also include other numbers, configurations, or forms of control devices. For example, control devices may be local (e.g., located in the same location as one or more X-ray imaging systems 100, such as within the same facility and / or the same local network); in other implementations, control devices may be remote and therefore accessible only via a remote connection (e.g., via the Internet or other available remote access technologies). In certain implementations, control devices may also be configured in a cloud-like manner and may be accessed and / or used in a manner substantially similar to accessing and using other cloud-based systems.

[0051] System 100 also includes a storage device (not shown) in which the processor can store digitized signals. For example, the storage device may include a hard disk drive, floppy disk drive, optical disc read / write drive, digital universal disk drive, flash memory drive, and / or solid-state memory. The storage device may also be integrated with the processor to efficiently utilize floor space and / or meet desired imaging requirements.

[0052] System 100 also includes an input device 160, which may include a keyboard, mouse, voice-activated control device, touch screen (which may also be used as a display device described later), trackball or any other suitable input device, and the operator can input operation signals / control signals to the control device through the input device 160.

[0053] The system 100 also includes a display device 151 (e.g., a touch screen or a display screen), which can be used to display an interface for displaying a list of objects to be inspected, the placement or exposure settings of the objects to be inspected, and images of the objects to be inspected.

[0054] In such Figure 1 In the X-ray imaging system shown, the X-ray tube column assembly 110 includes the following movements: the column 111 moves along the axis (y-axis) of the horizontal arm, the horizontal arm 112 drives the X-ray tube to move along the vertical direction (z-axis), the X-ray tube rotates around the axis (x-axis) of the horizontal arm, and the X-ray tube tilts upward or downward relative to the axis (y-axis) of the horizontal arm.

[0055] Figure 2 The following are schematic diagrams showing the X-ray tube assembly of some embodiments of this application tilted at different angles, such as... Figure 2 As shown in (b), the entire X-ray tube assembly (including the X-ray tube, the constrictor 114, and the X-ray tube control device 115) is vertically connected relative to the horizontal arm 112. That is, the reference line perpendicular to the screen surface of the X-ray tube control device is parallel to the axis of the horizontal arm, or in other words, the central ray of the X-ray beam emitted by the X-ray tube is vertical. At this time, the angle of the X-ray tube assembly is 0 degrees. Figure 2 As shown in (a), the X-ray tube assembly can tilt downwards relative to the cross arm at a certain angle, for example, -15 degrees, -20 degrees, -30 degrees, or -45 degrees, etc. Figure 2 As shown in (c), the X-ray tube assembly can tilt upwards at a certain angle relative to the cross arm, for example, 15 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees or 45 degrees, etc.

[0056] To tilt the X-ray tube assembly, a tilting device is usually required to control its tilting movement. Typically, the tilting movement of the X-ray tube is manually controlled, for example, by adjusting the tilt angle using a nut or wrench. This method requires a large operating space and a large operating force, making it inconvenient to control. Alternatively, other mechanical structures can be used for control, but these are complex, occupy a large space, and require a large operating force.

[0057] To address the aforementioned problems or at least similar issues, this application provides a tube tilting device. A handle connected by a linkage controls a gear (protrusion) that can enter one of multiple stop grooves on the tube to control the tilting angle of the tube. By providing two handles and a linkage, regardless of the angle to which the tube assembly is rotated, there will always be a handle within the operator's field of vision and operating space. The gear can be controlled through either handle, and the required operating force is relatively small.

[0058] Figure 3 Schematic diagrams of the tube tilting devices according to some embodiments of this application are shown. Figure 4Schematic diagrams of the tube tilting devices according to some embodiments of this application are shown. Figure 5 The diagram shows a schematic of the ball tube and fixing member of a ball tube tilting device according to some embodiments of this application. Figure 6 An exploded view of the clamping member of the X-ray tube tilting device according to some embodiments of this application is shown. Figure 7 This application shows a schematic diagram of the clamping members of the tube tilting device according to some embodiments of the present application. Figure 8 Cross-sectional views of other embodiments of the clamping element of the tube tilting device according to some embodiments of this application are shown. For example... Figures 3 to 7 As shown, the X-ray tube support assembly 110 further includes a X-ray tube tilting device 200. The X-ray tube tilting device 200 includes a X-ray tube holding assembly 210 and an angle adjusting assembly 220. The X-ray tube holding assembly 210 includes a clamping member 211 and a fixing member 212. The clamping member 211 can hold the X-ray tube 201, and the fixing member 212 is fixedly installed on the X-ray tube 201. The fixing member 212 is provided with a stop groove 215, which limits the tilting angle of the X-ray tube 201. The angle adjusting assembly 220 includes a protrusion that cooperates with the stop groove 215. The protrusion can be controlled to enter or leave the stop groove 215 to realize the tilting movement of the X-ray tube relative to the cross arm.

[0059] In some embodiments, the X-ray tube column device 110 further includes a X-ray tube rotating device (not shown in the figure), which includes a rotating bracket 230. One end of the rotating bracket 230 is connected to the cross arm 112, and the other end is fixedly connected to the X-ray tube tilting device 200.

[0060] In other embodiments, the tube column assembly does not include a tube rotation device, and the tube tilting device 200 can be fixedly connected to the cross arm by a connecting bracket or other type of connecting component, and is not limited to the above-described solution.

[0061] Specifically, the clamping component includes two clamps, and each clamp includes a first clamp unit 211-a, a second clamp unit 211-b, and a first connecting portion 211-c. The first clamp unit 211-a has a first hole at its end, and the second clamp unit 211-b has a second through hole at its end. The first connecting portion 211-c can fix the first clamp unit 211-a and the second clamp unit 211-b through the first hole and the second through hole. In some embodiments, both the first clamp unit and the second clamp unit are semi-circular rings.

[0062] In some embodiments, the outer ring of one of the first hole and the second through hole is provided with a first groove, and the outer ring of the other of the first hole and the second through hole is provided with a first protrusion that matches the first groove. When the first clamping unit and the second clamping unit are closed, the first groove and the first protrusion can engage. Specifically, the first groove 2111 can be provided on the outer ring of the first hole, and the first protrusion 2112 can be provided on the outer ring of the second through hole. When the first clamping unit and the second clamping unit are closed, the first protrusion 2112 can enter into the first groove 2111 and engage, and the first connecting part 211-c can pass through the second through hole and be fixed in the first hole. Of course, the first groove 2111 can also be provided on the outer ring of the second through hole, and the first protrusion 2112 can be provided on the outer ring of the first hole.

[0063] Of course, the first groove 2111 and the first protrusion 2112 may not be located on the outer ring of the first hole and the second through hole, or they may be located at the end of the clamp unit but at a certain distance from the connecting hole, as long as the positions of the first protrusion 2112 and the first groove 2111 are corresponding.

[0064] By setting grooves and protrusions at the ends of the clamping units that are used for enclosure, the clamps can be directly aligned during installation, preventing misalignment between the clamping units, facilitating the fixing of the connection, and ensuring that there is no misalignment after enclosure and fixing.

[0065] like Figure 8 As shown, in some other embodiments, each clamp of the clamping member 310 includes a third clamp unit 311-a, a fourth clamp unit 311-b, and a connecting screw 311-c. The end of the third clamp unit 311-a is provided with a third hole 3111, and the end of the fourth clamp unit 311-b is provided with a fourth through hole 3112. The side of the fourth through hole 3112 away from the fourth clamp unit has an outwardly extending slope (or inclined surface). That is, the fourth clamp unit 311-b includes a first surface and a second surface arranged opposite to each other, wherein the fourth through hole 3112 penetrates the first surface and the second surface. The second surface is used to contact the third clamping unit, wherein the diameter of the fourth through hole 3112 on the first surface is larger than its diameter on the second surface. Meanwhile, the connecting screw 311-c also has a body and an extension, wherein the extension also has a bevel 3116 that matches the slope 3115 of the fourth through hole 3112. When the connecting screw 311-c is used to connect the third clamping unit 311-a and the fourth clamping unit 311-b, the bevel 3116 of the extension of the connecting screw 311-c can match and contact the slope 3115 of the fourth through hole 3112 to limit the position of the clamping unit.

[0066] Please return to the reference. Figure 5The surface of the X-ray tube 201 is provided with a protrusion 202, and the inner surface of the clamping member 211 is also provided with a bend. During assembly, the bend of the clamping member 211 can contact the protrusion 202 of the X-ray tube 201, thereby realizing the clamping member 211 holding the X-ray tube 201. The term "holding" means that the clamping member can fix the position of the X-ray tube relatively so that it cannot be displaced, but the X-ray tube can rotate relative to the clamping member.

[0067] Continue to refer to Figure 5 The fixing member 212 includes a first fixing unit 212-a and a second fixing unit 212-b that enclose each other, and the first fixing unit 212-a and the second fixing unit 212-b are fixed by a second connecting part 212-c. In some embodiments, the stop groove is provided on the fixing unit closer to the cross arm, for example, on the first fixing unit 212-a. Specifically, the fixing member 212 can be fixed to the ball tube 201 by screws, and when the ball tube 201 rotates, the fixing member 212 can rotate with the ball tube 201.

[0068] In some embodiments, the fixing member 212 is provided with a plurality of stop grooves 215, each stop groove corresponding to a different tilt angle. Preferably, the fixing member is provided with three stop grooves 215, corresponding to three positions of 0 degrees, 20 degrees and -20 degrees respectively. Of course, the fixing member 212 can also be provided with more or fewer stop grooves. For example, two stop grooves or four or more stop grooves can be provided. The number of stop grooves can be set according to the needs of shooting.

[0069] In other embodiments, the fixing member 212 may also have only one stop groove (e.g., a slot), but multiple stops are provided inside the stop groove to define multiple tilt positions. Of course, multiple grooves corresponding to tilt angles can also be set in any other suitable way. Of course, the stop groove 215 can also be set as a rack (external rack teeth), that is, the fixing member is provided with multiple consecutive toothed grooves, which can be arranged at preset intervals to achieve more tilt angle settings. Correspondingly, the protrusion (single gear tooth) in the angle adjustment component should also be set to match the shape and size of the toothed groove so that the protrusion can enter and leave the toothed groove and remain in the toothed groove.

[0070] Limit blocks 216 are respectively provided at both ends of the stop groove 215 on the fixing member 212 to limit the extreme position of the X-ray tube tilt. Specifically, the limit block 216 can block the protrusion in the angle adjustment component 220, so that the protrusion can no longer move relative to the X-ray tube, thus limiting the maximum angle or maximum position of the X-ray tube tilt. Of course, the position of the limit block 216 can be customized according to the user's needs.

[0071] In some embodiments, when the X-ray tube rotates to a certain angle range around the x-axis where the transverse arm is located, due to the gravity of the X-ray tube, when the protrusion does not enter the stop groove (remains on the surface of the fixing member), the X-ray tube may also stop and remain in its tilted position. In this way, the X-ray tube can tilt to any angle and stop, which can also meet the needs of special shooting angles or shooting protocols.

[0072] Figure 9 It shows Figure 3 The diagram shown is a schematic of the angle adjustment assembly of the X-ray tube tilting device at the first angle. Figure 10 It shows Figure 3 The diagram shows the angle adjustment assembly of the X-ray tube tilting device at the second angle. (See diagram for reference.) Figures 9 to 10 As shown, the angle adjustment assembly 220 includes a bracket 221, a first shaft 222 and a second shaft 223 arranged in parallel, an elastic element 224, and at least one gripping part 225. The bracket 221 includes a main part 2211 and two side parts 2212. The first shaft 222 and the second shaft 223 are installed between the two side parts 2212, and a protrusion 205 is provided on the second shaft 223. The elastic element 224 is wound around the first shaft 222, with one end supported on the main part 2211 and the other end fixed on the second shaft 223. At least one gripping part 225 is installed on the side part 2212.

[0073] Specifically, the protrusion 205 is fixed on the second shaft 223 by a bearing, and the end of the protrusion 205 near the fixing member is set to a concave shape in the middle. By setting the protrusion shape with a concave middle and a convex shape around the perimeter, it is convenient for the protrusion to enter and leave the stop groove to adjust the tilt angle.

[0074] Specifically, bracket 221 is connected to rotating bracket 230 on one hand, and can support the components of the entire angle adjustment assembly on the other. Specifically, the main body 2211 of bracket 221 is connected to rotating bracket 230. Preferably, a set of second protrusions 226 are provided on the side of the main body 2211 connected to the rotating bracket. Specifically, two second protrusions 226 are provided vertically on the same side of the main body 2211. Correspondingly, two grooves are provided on the rotating bracket. By providing the second protrusions 226, alignment between the rotating bracket 230 and bracket 221 can be facilitated for installation. In some embodiments, the second protrusions 226 may also be arranged diagonally or parallel to the mounting holes shown in the main body 2211. Those skilled in the art should understand that the second protrusions 226 are not limited to appearing in pairs; multiple protrusions may also be provided for installation and positioning.

[0075] In some embodiments, the first shaft 222 and the second shaft 223 are respectively fixed between two side portions 2212, the main portion 2211 is generally located on the side of the first shaft 222, and the main portion 2211 is provided with two through holes for the first shaft 222 to pass through.

[0076] In some embodiments, the cross-section of the second shaft 223 is not circular, but irregular. Preferably, the cross-section of the second shaft is a rectangular ellipse, that is, a closed shape with circular arcs at the top and bottom and a straight line in the middle. By setting the second shaft to have an irregular cross-section, deflection can be prevented, ensuring that the protrusion can always be aligned with the position of the stop groove. Of course, the cross-section of the second shaft can also be other irregular cross-sections.

[0077] In some embodiments, the elastic element 224 is wound around the first shaft 222, with one end supported on the main body 2211 and the other end pressed against the second shaft 223. Preferably, the other end presses against the side of the second shaft away from the protrusion 205, so as to always apply elastic force to the protrusion 205 towards the stop groove or towards the direction of the ball tube. Specifically, the elastic element 224 is wound around one side of the first shaft. Of course, it can also be wound around the other side or both sides simultaneously. Furthermore, even though there are three elastic elements shown in the figure, those skilled in the art should understand that any number of elastic elements can be used, and the number of elastic elements is not limited. In some embodiments, the elastic element 224 can also be a tension or compression elastic element, fixed in the corresponding position, as long as it can achieve the effect of pressing the protrusion on the second shaft towards the ball tube when no external force is applied, and when an external force is applied to the gripping part, the protrusion can leave the stop groove on the ball tube.

[0078] In some embodiments, the angle adjustment assembly of this application includes two gripping portions 225, which are respectively fixed on two side portions 2212. Each gripping portion can control the protrusion 205, and the gripping portion 225 is fixedly installed away from the protrusion 205. That is, the protrusion 205 in the angle adjustment assembly 220 is installed or fixed adjacent to the ball tube 201, while the main body 2211 of the bracket 221 and at least one gripping portion 225 are fixed on the other side (i.e., the side near the cross arm).

[0079] Preferably, at least one end of the grip portion 225 has a hexagonal slot, which allows for torque control and facilitates operations such as installation and maintenance. In some embodiments, the end of at least one grip portion 225 may also have a polygonal cross-section to achieve the same function.

[0080] In some embodiments, a linkage structure is formed between the two side portions 2212 and the second shaft 223, and each of the two side portions is connected to a gripping portion. By controlling any one of the gripping portions, the linkage structure can be rotated, thereby causing the protrusion 205 to enter or leave the stop groove.

[0081] Please return to the reference. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The rotating bracket 230 includes at least one slot 231, which can accommodate at least one gripping part 225 and can limit the displacement distance of at least one gripping part 225. Specifically, the rotating bracket is provided with two slots, which can accommodate two gripping parts respectively. The slots are configured as rectangular ellipses, and the gripping parts can move in the length direction of the slots.

[0082] In some embodiments, the rotating bracket 230 can also be used to fix the clamping member. Specifically, the rotating bracket 230 and the clamping member 211 can be fixed by the third connecting portion 232. Specifically, by setting the distance between the rotating bracket 230, the clamping member 211 and the main portion 2211 of the bracket 221, it can be ensured that the protrusion is accommodated in the stop groove and that the protrusion can leave the stop groove under the pressure of the gripping portion.

[0083] In some preferred embodiments, a third set of grooves 235 (see reference) is provided on the side of the clamping member 211. Figure 6 The third set of protrusions 236 are provided on the side of the rotating bracket 230 (with groove 235 in the middle) and the third set of grooves 235 cooperate with the third set of protrusions 236. By providing the third set of grooves and protrusions between the clamping member and the rotating bracket, it is convenient to align the clamping member and the rotating bracket when installing the clamping member, which facilitates installation and prevents deflection.

[0084] In some embodiments, the rotating bracket 230 is further provided with an adjusting nut 238, which can adjust and maintain the initial position of the angle adjusting component. Specifically, by tightening or loosening the adjusting nut 238, the accuracy of the initial X-ray tube at the 0-degree position can be adjusted, that is, to ensure that when the protrusion is located in the stop groove corresponding to 0 degrees, the central ray of the X-ray beam emitted by the X-ray tube is located in the vertical direction.

[0085] Furthermore, when controlling the tilting motion of the X-ray tube, especially when tilting it downwards, the protrusion, during the transfer from one stop groove to another, experiences a small-amplitude or short-range rapid drop due to the tube's gravity, resulting in a poor user experience. To address this issue, this application adds a buffer component to the X-ray tube tilting assembly. Figure 11 Schematic diagrams of buffer components according to some embodiments of this application are shown. Figure 11 As shown, the X-ray tube tilting device includes a buffer assembly 240, which is positioned adjacent to the second connecting portion 212-c of the fixing member.

[0086] The buffer assembly 240 includes a buffer member 241 and a hydraulic device 242. One end of the buffer member is at a predetermined distance from the second connecting portion 212-c, and the other end of the buffer member 241 is connected to the hydraulic device 242. Specifically, the buffer member is made of hard plastic. When the ball tube tilts downward, the end contacts the buffer member, so that the ball tube can stop after rapid movement and then slowly continue to tilt until it falls into a predetermined stop groove.

[0087] The X-ray tube tilting device of some embodiments of this application, by providing multiple stop grooves with tilt angles on the X-ray tube and a protrusion controlled by a linkage structure, can control the X-ray tube to tilt to a preset angle by controlling the protrusion to enter different stop grooves. Such a structure is simple and easy to control. In addition, by providing two gripping parts, controlling either gripping part can realize the control of the protrusion, so that the X-ray tube can be easily controlled no matter how much it is rotated to. Furthermore, by providing protrusions and grooves between the angle adjustment component and the rotating bracket, between the rotating bracket and the clamping member, and between the two sets of clamping units, anti-deflection can be achieved and the position can be aligned, which is convenient for installation.

[0088] Some exemplary embodiments have been described above; however, it should be understood that various modifications can be made. For example, suitable results may be achieved if the described techniques are performed in a different order and / or if components in the described system, architecture, device, or circuit are combined in a different manner and / or replaced or supplemented by other components or their equivalents. Accordingly, other embodiments also fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A pneumatic tube support assembly, comprising a column, a crossarm mounted on the column, and a pneumatic tube, the pneumatic tube support assembly further comprising a pneumatic tube tilting device mounted between the pneumatic tube and the crossarm, characterized in that, The tube tilting device includes: A tube holding assembly includes a clamping member and a fixing member, the clamping member holding the tube, the fixing member being mounted on the tube and having a stop groove defining a tilt angle of the tube; and An angle adjustment assembly includes a protrusion that engages with the stop groove, the protrusion being controllable to enter or leave the stop groove to achieve tilting movement of the tube relative to the cross arm.

2. The X-ray tube column device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The clamping member includes two clamps, and each clamp includes a first clamp unit, a second clamp unit, and a first connecting part. The end of the first clamp unit is provided with a first hole, and the end of the second clamp unit is provided with a second through hole. The first connecting part can fix the first clamp unit and the second clamp unit through the first hole and the second through hole.

3. The X-ray tube column device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The outer ring of one of the first hole and the second through hole is provided with a first groove, and the outer ring of the other of the first hole and the second through hole is provided with a first protrusion that matches the first groove. When the first clamp unit and the second clamp unit are closed, the first groove and the first protrusion can engage.

4. The X-ray tube column device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The fastener includes a first fastening unit and a second fastening unit that enclose each other, and the first fastening unit and the second fastening unit are fixed by a second connecting part. The stop groove is provided on the first fastening unit or the second fastening unit.

5. The X-ray tube column device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The tube tilting device further includes a buffer assembly positioned adjacent to the second connection portion.

6. The X-ray tube column device as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The buffer assembly includes a buffer element and a hydraulic device. One end of the buffer element is at a predetermined distance from the second connecting part, and the other end of the buffer element is connected to the hydraulic device.

7. The X-ray tube column device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Limiting blocks are provided at both ends of the stop groove on the fixing member to limit the extreme position of the ball tube tilt.

8. The X-ray tube column device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The angle adjustment component includes: The support includes a main body and two side parts; A first shaft and a second shaft are arranged in parallel, the first shaft and the second shaft are installed between the two side portions, and the protrusion is installed on the second shaft; An elastic element, wound around the first shaft, with one end supported on the main body and the other end fixed to the second shaft; and At least one gripping part is mounted on the side portion.

9. The X-ray tube column device as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The at least one retaining portion is mounted away from the protrusion.

10. The X-ray tube column device as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The end of at least one of the gripping parts has a hexagonal slot.

11. The X-ray tube column device as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The angle adjustment assembly includes two grips, which are respectively mounted on two side parts, and either grip can control the displacement of the protrusion.

12. The X-ray tube column device as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The second axis has an irregular cross-section.

13. The X-ray tube column device as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The X-ray tube column device further includes a X-ray tube rotating device, which includes a rotating bracket. One end of the rotating bracket is connected to the cross arm, and the other end is fixedly connected to the main body.

14. The X-ray tube column device as described in claim 13, characterized in that, A set of second protrusions is provided on the side of the main body that is connected to the rotating bracket.

15. The X-ray tube column device as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The rotating bracket includes at least one slot that can accommodate the at least one gripping part and can limit the displacement distance of the at least one gripping part.

16. The X-ray tube column device as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The rotating bracket is further fixed to the clamping member, and a third set of grooves is provided on the side of the clamping member, and a third set of protrusions that cooperate with the third set of grooves are provided on the side of the rotating bracket.

17. The X-ray tube column device as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The rotating bracket is further provided with an adjusting nut, which can adjust the initial position of the angle adjustment component.

18. The X-ray tube column device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The end of the protrusion near the fixing member is designed to be concave in the middle.

19. An X-ray imaging system, characterized in that, The X-ray imaging system includes the X-ray tube column device as described in any one of claims 1 to 18.

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