Magnetic resonance imaging device with illumination unit

Abstract

This utility model relates to a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, the MRI device comprising: a scanning unit; a patient receiving area at least partially surrounded by the scanning unit, wherein the scanning unit has a housing at least partially surrounding the patient receiving area; and an illumination unit, wherein the illumination unit has at least one illumination element disposed in the patient receiving area at the housing, characterized in that the housing has a stepped position element extending into the patient receiving area and having a raised support surface, wherein the raised support surface constitutes a support for and / or placement of at least one illumination element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention is based on a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, which includes: a scanning unit; a patient receiving area at least partially surrounded by the scanning unit, wherein the scanning unit has a housing that at least partially surrounds the patient receiving area; and an illumination unit, wherein the illumination unit has at least one illumination element disposed within the patient receiving area at the housing. Background Technology

[0002] Regardless of the grammatical gender of a particular term, persons of either male or female gender are included.

[0003] During a patient's MRI scan, bodily fluids and / or fluids administered to the patient during the scan, such as contrast agents and / or injection solutions, may leak out. This leaked fluid can then seep into the gaps and / or joints between the two components. On the one hand, this leaked fluid can damage the components of the MRI equipment. On the other hand, it makes cleaning the MRI equipment difficult. Furthermore, patients sneezing or coughing during the scan can also contaminate the patient receiving area.

[0004] Furthermore, cleaning the patient reception area of ​​the MRI machine presents several difficulties. Due to its length, the patient reception area is difficult for medical cleaning personnel to reach. Additionally, the presence of gaps and / or crevices between two components within the patient reception area leads to high cleaning costs for medical cleaning staff. Moreover, during cleaning, cleaning fluid may seep into the gaps and / or crevices between the two components of the illumination unit and the patient reception area, potentially causing contaminated cleaning agent to reach these gaps and result in undesirable contamination. Utility Model Content

[0005] The primary objective of this invention is to enable medical cleaning personnel to clean the patient reception area of ​​an MRI scanner simply and in a time-saving manner. This objective is achieved by an MRI scanner according to this invention. Advantageous design features are described herein.

[0006] This invention relates to a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device comprising: a scanning unit; a patient receiving area at least partially surrounded by the scanning unit, wherein the scanning unit has a housing at least partially surrounding the patient receiving area; and an illumination unit having at least one illumination element disposed within the patient receiving area at the housing. According to this invention, the housing has a stepped position element extending into the patient receiving area, having a raised support surface, wherein the raised support surface constitutes a support for and / or placement of at least one illumination element.

[0007] Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) devices preferably include medical and / or diagnostic MRI devices designed and / or configured for detecting medical and / or diagnostic image data of a patient, particularly medical and / or diagnostic MRI image data. For this purpose, the MRI device includes a scanning unit. The scanning unit preferably includes a magnet unit for detecting medical and / or diagnostic image data. Here, the scanning unit, particularly the magnet unit, advantageously includes a basic magnet, a gradient coil unit, and a radio frequency (RF) antenna unit. The RF antenna unit is fixedly disposed within the scanning unit and designed and / or configured to emit excitation pulses.

[0008] The basic magnet configuration is used to generate a uniform basic magnetic field having a defined magnetic field strength, such as 3T or 1.5T. In particular, the basic magnet configuration is used to generate a strong and constant basic magnetic field. The uniform basic magnetic field is preferably disposed and / or present within the patient-accommodating area of ​​the magnetic resonance imaging device. Gradient coil units are configured to generate a magnetic field gradient for position encoding during imaging.

[0009] The patient accommodation area is designed and / or constitutes an area for accommodating patients, particularly the area to be examined, for medical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations. The patient accommodation area preferably includes an area accessible to the patient during the MRI examination. The field of view (FoV) and / or isocenter of the MRI scanner are preferably located within the patient accommodation area. The FoV preferably includes the detection area of ​​the MRI scanner, within which conditions exist for detecting medical image data, particularly MRI image data, within the patient accommodation area, such as a uniform fundamental magnetic field. The isocenter of the MRI scanner preferably includes a region and / or point within the MRI scanner that has optimal and / or ideal conditions for detecting medical image data. In particular, the isocenter includes the most uniform magnetic field region within the MRI scanner.

[0010] The patient receiving area is preferably cylindrically formed and / or cylindrically surrounded by the scanning unit of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, particularly the magnet unit. Specifically, the scanning unit, especially the magnet unit, includes a housing that at least partially surrounds the patient receiving area. Preferably, the housing cylindrically surrounds the patient receiving area. Here, the housing can be integrally formed with and / or a single piece of the radio frequency (RF) antenna unit of the magnet unit and include the side of the RF antenna unit facing the patient receiving area. Furthermore, the housing can also include a unit separate from the RF antenna unit, wherein the housing is disposed between the patient receiving area and the RF antenna unit.

[0011] Furthermore, the outer shell of the patient receiving area is surrounded by the housing unit of the scanning unit, particularly the magnet unit. In addition to the outer shell of the patient receiving area, the housing unit also has other units, such as a front baffle unit, a rear baffle unit, and a side baffle unit, which constitute the front, rear, and side regions of the scanning unit, particularly the magnet unit.

[0012] The illumination unit is configured to illuminate a patient accommodating area. For this purpose, the illumination unit has at least one illumination element. Here, the at least one illumination element is disposed within a housing surrounding the patient accommodating area. Here, the at least one illumination element can include either an active illumination element or a passive illumination element. In the case of an active illumination element, the light to be emitted is generated directly within the illumination element. For example, an active illumination element can include an LED and / or other light-generating elements. In the case of a passive illumination element, light is generated outside the illumination element and conducted to the illumination element and emitted thereby by means of a light conductor, such as an optical fiber. Here, the light-generating element can be disposed outside the scanning unit, for example, to avoid, for example, the interaction between the gradient pulse and / or HF pulse and the scanning unit.

[0013] At least one lighting element is preferably positioned next to the examination bed, or rather, next to the area that constitutes the space for accommodating the examination bed. Preferably, the lighting unit has two lighting elements positioned on either side of the examination bed, or rather, next to the area designed to accommodate the examination bed. Thus, the examination bed, or the area designed to accommodate the examination bed, is located between the two lighting elements.

[0014] The lighting unit preferably has a lighting control unit configured to control light generation, such as lighting duration and / or lighting intensity and / or lighting color.

[0015] To accommodate at least one lighting element, the housing has a stepped position element with a raised support surface extending into the patient accommodating area. The support surface is preferably raised relative to a support surface and / or base surface disposed below the stepped position element, designed to accommodate an examination bed. The raised support surface serves to support and / or accommodate at least one lighting element.

[0016] This invention enables the elevation of at least one lighting element. In particular, it makes it difficult and / or prevents liquid from entering the transition area between the at least one lighting element and the housing, because the stepped positioning element and the elevation of the at least one lighting element cause the liquid to preferably flow downwards due to gravity. This also allows for simple and particularly time-saving cleaning of the patient receiving area, especially the housing with at least one lighting element.

[0017] Another advantage is that, within the patient receiving area, the gaps and / or crevices between the two components, particularly between the housing surrounding the patient receiving area and at least one lighting element, are minimized. This also makes it difficult and / or prevents liquid from entering between the two components, particularly between the housing surrounding the patient receiving area and at least one lighting element. In this regard, it is particularly possible to minimize hard-to-reach and / or hard-to-clean gaps between the components.

[0018] In an advantageous improvement to the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, at least one illumination element comprises a main housing element disposed in the region extended by a raised support surface and a housing. A light-emitting element is preferably disposed within the main housing element. For example, the light-emitting element can comprise a light-generating element, such as an LED. Alternatively, light can be coupled into the main housing element via a light conductor and / or via an optical fiber to form the light-emitting element. The main housing element preferably includes at least one transparent and / or translucent surface, particularly a light-transmitting surface, disposed on the side of the main housing element facing the patient receiving area. Here, the light-transmitting surface can also be opaque, for example, in the case of a frosted glass-like surface and / or a ground glass-like surface. By disposing the main housing element in the region extended by the raised support surface and the housing, it is advantageous to prevent undesirable liquid intrusion into the transition area between the at least one illumination element and the housing. Consequently, it is possible to achieve simple and time-saving cleaning of the patient receiving area, particularly the housing with at least one illumination element, for medical cleaning personnel.

[0019] In an advantageous improvement to the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, at least one illumination element has an extension element, and a stepped position element has an edge extending longitudinally parallel to the patient receiving area, wherein the edge includes a connecting line between the two faces of the stepped position element, and wherein the extension element is disposed in the region of the main housing element facing the edge. Here, the first face of the stepped position element preferably includes a raised support surface for supporting and / or accommodating at least one illumination element. The second face of the stepped position element preferably includes a vertical face of the stepped position element. This arrangement of the extension element in the region of the illumination element, particularly the main housing element, facing the edge, enables advantageous drainage and / or diversion of liquid reaching at least one illumination element. In particular, this protects the transition and / or gap between at least one illumination element and the housing, particularly the raised support surface of the stepped position element, from liquid intrusion. This allows for simple and time-saving cleaning of the patient receiving area, particularly the housing with at least one illumination element.

[0020] In an advantageous improvement to the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, a stepped positioning element has a vertical surface, wherein an extension element of the illumination element is disposed at the main housing element such that the extension element abuts against the vertical surface. The vertical surface preferably extends over the entire height and length of the stepped positioning element. Here, the vertical surface is disposed between the base surface of the lower portion of the stepped positioning element and the raised support surface. The vertical surface is preferably vertically disposed within the patient receiving area with an inclination of at least 60°, preferably at least 70°. Particularly advantageously, an extension element of at least one illumination element abuts against the side of the vertical surface facing the patient receiving area. In other words, the extension element at least partially covers the vertical surface. In particular, when the extension element abuts against the vertical surface, the extension element and the vertical surface are in contact with each other.

[0021] The design of this invention has the following advantages: the gaps and / or clearances between the housing and at least one lighting element, especially between the extension element and the vertical surface, can be minimized. Furthermore, in this area, at least one lighting element, especially the extension element, covers the housing, especially the vertical surface, making liquid intrusion difficult. In particular, intrusion of liquid in the direction of gravity-induced flow at the at least one lighting element is prevented in the area covered by the at least one lighting element with the vertical surface. Moreover, this arrangement of the at least one lighting element at the housing, especially at the stepped position element, also advantageously prevents the intrusion of liquid splashes and / or surrounding scattering droplets.

[0022] In an advantageous improvement to the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, an extension element can be provided with a height comprising at least 50% of the height of the vertical plane. Preferably, the extension element covers at least 50% of the vertical plane. Preferably, the extension element covers at least 55% of the vertical plane. Preferably, the extension element covers at least 60% of the vertical plane. Preferably, the extension element covers at least 65% of the vertical plane. Preferably, the extension element covers at least 70% of the vertical plane. Preferably, the extension element covers at least 75% of the vertical plane. Particularly preferably, the extension element covers approximately 80% of the vertical plane. Here, the extension element particularly comprises a height comprising approximately 80% of the height of the vertical plane. This makes it difficult for liquid to intrude between the housing and at least one illumination element. In particular, it prevents liquid from intruding in the direction of gravity-induced flow at the at least one illumination element within the coverage area of ​​the at least one illumination element having a vertical plane. Furthermore, this arrangement of the at least one illumination element at the housing, especially at the stepped position element, also advantageously prevents the intrusion of liquid splashes and / or surrounding scattering droplets.

[0023] In an advantageous improvement to the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, a stepped positioning element has a length extending in the z-direction, and an extension element has a length extending in the z-direction, wherein the length of the extension element includes a value at least as large as the length of the stepped positioning element. This enables advantageous coverage of the housing, particularly the stepped positioning element, at the leading and / or trailing edge regions of at least one illumination element, also by the extension element of at least one illumination element. This also makes undesirable liquid intrusion between the housing, particularly the stepped positioning element, and at least one illumination element, especially at the end regions of the stepped positioning element, difficult and / or prevents undesirable liquid intrusion between the housing, particularly the stepped positioning element, and at least one illumination element, especially at the end regions of the stepped positioning element. This also enables simple and rapid cleaning of the patient receiving area.

[0024] In an advantageous improvement to the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, it can be proposed that the housing, particularly a stepped position element, includes a lower base surface, wherein the lower base surface is integrally formed with the housing and includes a fluid collection area. The lower base surface of the stepped position element and the raised support surface of the stepped position element are staggered relative to each other via the vertical surface of the stepped position element. When the examination bed is moved to or is within the patient receiving area, the receiving area for receiving the examination bed preferably abuts the lower base surface of the stepped position element. The lower base surface of the stepped position element is integrally formed with the housing. In other words, the lower base surface of the stepped position element and the housing are formed by a single component, such that there are no structural gaps and / or gaps at the lower base surface. The lower base surface of the stepped position element includes a fluid collection area. Therefore, the fluid collection area is located in the lower region in the direction of gravity-induced fluid flow at the housing, particularly below at least one illumination element. This also makes undesirable liquid intrusion between the housing and at least one lighting element difficult and / or prevents such undesirable intrusion. Furthermore, easy liquid removal is also possible because the area, especially the liquid collection area, can be easily cleaned. In particular, good accessibility of the liquid collection area for medical cleaning personnel is provided when cleaning the patient reception area.

[0025] In an advantageous improvement to the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, the liquid collection area can be proposed to form a flat surface, particularly a horizontally oriented surface, with the underlying base, and / or include grooves. Preferably, the grooves extend in the z-direction of the MRI device and / or in the longitudinal direction of the patient receiving area. The advantages of this design are that it advantageously makes further outflow of liquid from the liquid collection area difficult and / or prevents further outflow of liquid. Furthermore, this also allows for simple removal of liquid, as the liquid remains in the liquid collection area as long as it is present. This also allows for simple cleaning of the patient receiving area by medical cleaning personnel, thereby advantageously saving labor and costs when cleaning the patient receiving area.

[0026] In an advantageous improvement to the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, at least one illumination element includes at least one end region, wherein the at least one illumination element extends beyond the stepped position element in the longitudinal direction of the patient receiving area with at least one end region. Preferably, the at least one illumination element has two end regions, particularly a tail-side end region and a front-side end region, the tail-side end region facing the tail side of the scanning unit, and the front-side end region facing the front side of the scanning unit. Because at least one end region of the at least one illumination element, preferably both end regions, protrudes beyond the stepped position element, the length of the at least one illumination element is greater than the length of the stepped position element of the housing. The advantage of this design is that it advantageously makes undesirable intrusion of liquid between the housing, particularly the stepped position element, and the at least one illumination element, also at the front end region and / or the tail end region, difficult and / or reduces such undesirable intrusion.

[0027] In an advantageous improvement to the magnetic resonance imaging device, at least one end region of at least one illumination element includes a cover that covers the front or rear side of the stepped position element of the housing. Preferably, the cover of at least one end region of at least one illumination element completely covers the front or rear side of the stepped position element. The advantage of this design is that it advantageously makes undesirable liquid intrusion between the housing, particularly the stepped position element, and at least one illumination element, also at the front end region and / or the rear end region, difficult and / or reduces such undesirable liquid intrusion.

[0028] In an advantageous improvement to the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, at least one end region of at least one illumination element can be provided with an interface. The interface is preferably configured for transmitting data and / or signals to the at least one illumination element. Here, the interface can be configured for transmitting light generated and / or produced outside the at least one illumination element, coupled into the at least one illumination element via the interface, and emitted therefrom by the illumination element. In this case, the illumination unit preferably includes a light generating element and / or a light-generating element disposed outside the patient accommodating area. Here, light transmission to the at least one illumination element can be carried out by means of an optical fiber and / or a light conductor. Alternatively, the interface can also include a means for transmitting control signals to control the at least one illumination element. Here, the at least one illumination element can also include a light generating element and / or a light-generating element, such as an LED and / or other light generating elements that are deemed meaningful by those skilled in the art.

[0029] The advantage of the design of this invention is that the interface for data transmission and / or signal transmission is located in a protected position at at least one illumination element. Furthermore, data transmission and / or signal transmission to at least one illumination element is performed within the opening area of ​​the patient accommodating region, which advantageously reduces and / or prevents undesirable interactions with magnetic resonance data detection.

[0030] In an advantageous improvement to the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, it can be proposed that the MRI device has a front baffle unit with an insertion horn, wherein the insertion horn has a recess, and at least one end region of at least one illumination element has a stepped protrusion, the interface being disposed at said stepped protrusion, and the stepped protrusion being covered by a baffle surrounding the recess of the insertion horn. The stepped protrusion of at least one end region extends away from the end region in a direction from the illumination element toward the insertion horn.

[0031] A front baffle unit is configured to cover the front side of the scanning unit. For this purpose, the front baffle unit has an insertion flare and at least one additional front baffle element, such as an annular front baffle element, which is positioned at the front side around the access opening of the patient receiving area. The insertion flare surrounds and / or encloses the opening area of ​​the patient receiving area and / or the transition from the patient receiving area to the front side of the scanning unit. The insertion flare has a recess on the side facing the patient receiving area. Preferably, the insertion flare has two recesses positioned on opposite sides and each covering the end region of the front side of one of the two illumination elements, particularly the interface of the illumination element. Preferably, a first recess in the left edge region and a second recess in the right edge region surround the access opening at the insertion flare. Furthermore, the recesses of the insertion flare can form a lead for receiving an interface leading to at least one illumination element. Such a lead can, for example, include an optical fiber and / or an optical conductor.

[0032] The design of this invention has the following advantages: it enables data and / or signal transmission to at least one lighting element from a protected location at that lighting element. Furthermore, data and / or signal transmission via the front baffle unit advantageously prevents unwanted interference with magnetic resonance data detection.

[0033] In an advantageous improvement to the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, it can be proposed that the end region of at least one illumination element has a surface that forms a plane with the insertion flare. This enables a flush and / or smooth transition between the at least one illumination element and the insertion flare. In particular, this enables a stepless transition between the insertion flare and the at least one illumination element.

[0034] In an advantageous improvement to the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, the housing has a void in the transition region between the housing and at least one illumination element, in the direction of gravity-induced flow of the liquid at the housing. Preferably, in the void region, the thickness of the housing wall is configured to be smaller than the thickness of the housing wall in the region adjacent to the void. Here, the transition region between the housing and at least one illumination element includes the upper end of at least one illumination element at the housing. This advantageously achieves a protected arrangement in the transition region between the housing and at least one illumination element.

[0035] In an advantageous improvement to the magnetic resonance imaging device, the cavity has an upper edge region oriented in a direction opposite to the gravitational flow direction of the liquid in the housing, wherein the upper edge region extends inward toward the inner housing at approximately 90°. Thereby, the cavity forms a notch in the transition region of the housing at the upper edge region. The upper edge region, being a transition region, particularly the upper transition region between the housing and at least one illumination element, provides advantageous protection. By extending inward toward the inner housing at approximately 90°, the upper edge region forms an undercut and / or protrusion, and advantageously protects the transition region between the housing and at least one illumination element from the influence of liquid flowing out of the housing.

[0036] In an advantageous improvement to the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, at least one illumination element includes an edge region with a sealing lip, wherein the sealing lip abuts against the housing within a clearance. Preferably, the edge region with the sealing lip of the at least one illumination element includes the upper edge region of the at least one illumination element and is located at the at least one illumination element in a transition region between the housing and the at least one illumination element. The sealing lip preferably comprises an elastic material capable of adhering tightly to the housing within the clearance. In particular, when the sealing lip abuts against the housing within the clearance, the sealing lip and the housing are in contact with each other. This allows for an advantageous seal in the transition region between the housing and the at least one illumination element, thereby also advantageously preventing unwanted liquid intrusion.

[0037] In an advantageous improvement to the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, a sealing lip is pre-tightened against the housing. Specifically, the sealing lip is pre-tightened on the housing, particularly on the side facing the patient receiving area, ensuring a tight fit against the housing. This advantageously compensates for tolerances, such as form tolerances, between components, particularly between the housing surrounding the patient receiving area and at least one illumination element. Furthermore, even with tolerances, a seal is ensured in the transition area between the housing and at least one illumination element. Additionally, this advantageously prevents unwanted liquid intrusion, allowing for quick and time-saving cleaning of the patient receiving area.

[0038] In an advantageous improvement to the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, at least one illumination element extends longitudinally through the entire patient housing area surrounded by the housing. This enables advantageous illumination and / or lighting of the patient housing area. In particular, this achieves uniform lighting of the entire patient housing area, thereby contributing to high patient comfort during MRI examinations.

[0039] In an advantageous improvement to the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, it can be proposed that the device includes a patient support device with an examination bed, wherein the examination bed is configured to be movable within the patient accommodating area, and wherein, in the position of the examination bed within the patient accommodating area, at least one illumination element is laterally disposed beside the examination bed. This allows for an advantageous position for the at least one illumination element. In particular, this advantageously prevents direct glare from the patient during the MRI examination. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Other advantages, features and details of this invention will become apparent from the embodiments described below and from the accompanying drawings.

[0041] The attached diagram shows:

[0042] Figure 1 A schematic diagram illustrates a magnetic resonance device with an illumination unit according to the present invention;

[0043] Figure 2 The schematic diagram shows the illuminated housing of the MRI machine surrounding the patient accommodation area.

[0044] Figure 3 The diagram shows a cross-section through the housing containing the stepped position element and the lighting element.

[0045] Figure 4 The illumination element is shown in the transition area to the insertion flare, positioned on the housing.

[0046] Figure 5This illustrates an illumination element positioned on the housing without an insert flare.

[0047] Figure 6 The previous view shows a lighting element with an interface.

[0048] Figure 7 Showing the rear view of the lighting element and its insertion into the horn, and

[0049] Figure 8 The upper region of the lighting element with a sealing lip is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0050] exist Figure 1 The image schematically illustrates a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device 10 according to the present invention. The MRI device 10 includes a scanning unit configured as a magnet unit 11. The scanning unit, particularly the magnet unit 11, includes a basic magnet 12, a gradient coil unit 13, and a radio frequency antenna unit 14. Furthermore, the MRI device 10 has a patient receiving area 15 for receiving a patient 16 for MRI examination. In this embodiment, the patient receiving area 15 is cylindrically configured and cylindrically surrounded in the circumferential direction by the scanning unit, particularly the magnet unit 11. Furthermore, the scanning unit, particularly the magnet unit 11, has a housing 17 cylindrically surrounding the patient receiving area 15. Here, the housing can be integrally configured with the radio frequency antenna unit 14 of the magnet unit 11 and includes a side facing the patient receiving area 15 for accommodating the radio frequency antenna. Additionally, the housing 17 can also include a unit separate from the radio frequency antenna unit 14, wherein the housing 17 is disposed between the patient receiving area 15 and the radio frequency antenna unit 14. However, in principle, different configurations of the patient receiving area 15 are conceivable at any time.

[0051] To position the patient 16, and in particular the area to be examined, within the patient receiving area 15, the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device 10 includes a patient support device 18. The patient support device 18 includes a base unit 19 and an examination bed 20 movable about the base unit 19. The examination bed 20 is configured to movably position the patient 16, and in particular the area to be examined, within the patient receiving area 15. Specifically, the examination bed 20 is movably supported here in the longitudinal direction of the patient receiving area 15 and / or in the z-direction.

[0052] Furthermore, the magnetic resonance imaging device 10 includes an illumination unit 21 configured to illuminate the patient accommodating area 15. The illumination unit 21 has at least one illumination element 22 disposed within the patient accommodating area 15 and at the housing 17 of the patient accommodating area 15. In this embodiment, the illumination unit 21 includes two illumination elements 22 disposed on opposite sides of the patient accommodating area 15. Here, the two illumination elements 22 are disposed within the patient accommodating area 15 such that a accommodating area 23 for the examination bed 20 is provided between the two illumination elements 22. Here, when the examination bed 20 is positioned within the patient accommodating area 15, the two illumination elements 22 are respectively disposed beside the examination bed 20. Furthermore, the two illumination elements 22 extend in the longitudinal direction 24 of the patient accommodating area 15 through the entire patient accommodating area 15 surrounded by the housing 17.

[0053] In this embodiment, the two illumination elements 22 are formed by passive illumination elements 22 configured to emit light. To generate light and / or light signals, the illumination unit 21 has at least one light generating element 25, such as an LED, which is positioned outside the patient accommodating area 15. Transmission of light and / or light signals from the at least one light generating element 25 to the illumination elements 22 is preferably carried out by means of an optical conductor 26, for example, a light conductor. Furthermore, the illumination unit 21 has an illumination control unit 27 configured to control the illumination unit 21.

[0054] The basic magnet 12 of the magnet unit 11 is configured to generate a strong and particularly constant basic magnetic field 28. Here, the basic magnet 12 can be configured, for example, as a superconducting basic magnet 12 or as a permanent magnet. The gradient coil unit 13 of the magnet unit 11 is configured to generate a magnetic field gradient, which is used for position encoding during imaging. The gradient coil unit 13 is controlled by a gradient control unit 29 of the magnetic resonance imaging device 10. The radio frequency antenna unit 14 of the magnet unit 11 is configured to excite the polarization occurring in the basic magnetic field 28 generated by the basic magnet 12. The radio frequency antenna unit 14 is controlled by a radio frequency antenna control unit 30 of the magnetic resonance imaging device 10 and delivers a high-frequency magnetic resonance sequence into the patient receiving area 15 of the magnetic resonance imaging device 10.

[0055] The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device 10 includes a system control unit 31 for controlling the basic magnet 12, the gradient control unit 29, and the radio frequency antenna control unit 30. The system control unit 31 centrally controls the MRI device 10, such as the execution of a predetermined imaging gradient echo sequence. Furthermore, the system control unit 31 includes an evaluation unit (not shown in detail) for assessing medical image data detected during an MRI examination.

[0056] Furthermore, the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device 10 includes a user interface 32 connected to a system control unit 31. Control information, such as imaging parameters and reconstructed MRI images, can be displayed to medical personnel on a display unit 33 of the user interface 32, for example, on at least one monitor. Additionally, the user interface 32 has an input unit 34, by which information and / or parameters can be input by a medical operator during the measurement process.

[0057] The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device 10 shown may, of course, include other components typically found in MRI devices 10. Furthermore, the general operating mode of the MRI device 10 is known to those skilled in the art, thus omitting a detailed description of the other components.

[0058] exist Figures 2 to 8 The image shows in detail the lighting unit 21, particularly one of the two lighting elements 22, disposed within the housing 17 within the patient accommodating area 15. Figures 2 to 8 The example shows only one lighting element 22 of the lighting unit 21, wherein in Figures 2 to 8 The embodiment shown includes two lighting elements 22 of the lighting unit 21.

[0059] In order to place the lighting element 22 within the patient receiving area 15, and particularly within the housing 17 of the patient receiving area 15, the housing 17 has a stepped positioning element 35. Figure 2 and Figure 3 Here, the stepped position element 25 extends into the patient receiving area 15 and has a raised support surface 36. The raised support surface 36 serves to support and / or house the lighting element 22. Furthermore, the stepped position element 35 has a vertical surface 37 and a lower base surface 38. The vertical surface 37 comprises a substantially vertically oriented surface of the position element 35 within the patient receiving area 15, having an inclination of at least 60°, preferably at least 70°. Here, the vertical surface 37 is disposed between the lower base surface 38 and the raised support surface 36. Here, the stepped position element 35 is integrally formed with the housing 17. In the transition region between the vertical surface 37 and the raised support surface 36, the stepped position element 35 has an edge 39 (…). Figure 2 and Figure 3 Edge 39 is oriented parallel to the longitudinal direction 24 of the patient accommodation area 15.

[0060] The lighting element 22 includes a main housing element 40, which abuts against the outer casing 17 and is supported on a raised support surface 36 of a stepped position element 35. Here, the raised support surface 36 of the stepped position element 35 and the outer casing 17 extend into a region in which the lighting element 22, particularly the main housing element 40, is disposed. In addition to the main housing element 40, the lighting element 22 also includes an extension element 41. Here, the extension element 41 and the main housing element 40 are integrally formed. The extension element 41 is disposed on the main housing element 40 in the region of the main housing element 40 facing the edge 39 of the stepped position element 35.

[0061] Here, the extension element 41 of the lighting element 22 is disposed at the main housing element 40 such that the extension element 41 abuts against the vertical surface 37 of the stepped position element 35. Here, the extension element 41 includes a height 42, which includes at least 50% of the height 43 of the vertical surface 37. Preferably, the extension element 41 covers at least 50% of the vertical surface 37. Preferably, the extension element 41 covers at least 55% of the vertical surface 37. Preferably, the extension element 41 covers at least 60% of the vertical surface 37. Preferably, the extension element 41 covers at least 65% of the vertical surface 37. Preferably, the extension element 41 covers at least 70% of the vertical surface 37. Preferably, the extension element 41 covers at least 75% of the vertical surface 37. Particularly advantageously, the extension element 41 covers approximately 80% of the vertical surface 37. However, the extension element 41 does not completely cover the vertical surface 37, allowing the lower portion of the base surface 38 of the vertical surface 37 to be freely accessible. Figures 2 to 4 ).

[0062] The base surface 38 of the lower part of the stepped position element 35 includes a liquid collection area 44. Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 The liquid collection area 44 comprises a substantially flat surface, particularly a horizontally formed surface. Here, the liquid collection area 44 is disposed in the transition between the lower base surface 38 and the vertical surface 37. Alternatively, the liquid collection area 44 may also include a groove, which may be disposed in the transition between the lower base surface 38 and the vertical surface 37.

[0063] The stepped position element 35 has a length extending in the z-direction and / or the longitudinal direction 24 of the patient receiving area 15. Furthermore, the extension element 41 of the illumination element 22 also has a length extending in the z-direction and / or the longitudinal direction 24 of the patient receiving area 15. Here, the length of the extension element 41 includes a value at least as large as the length of the stepped position element 35. The illumination element 22 also has a front end region 45, wherein the front end region 45 extends beyond the stepped position element 35 in the longitudinal direction 24 and / or z-direction of the patient receiving area 15. In particular, here, the illumination element 22 has a length extending in the z-direction and / or the longitudinal direction 24 of the patient receiving area 15, and this length is greater than the length of the stepped position element 35. Figure 5 Here, the front end region 45 has a cover 46 that covers the front side of the stepped position element 35. Furthermore, the lighting element 22 also has a rear end region that covers the rear side of the stepped position element 35 (not shown in detail here).

[0064] Furthermore, the front end region 45 of the lighting element 22 includes an interface 47 for coupling light and / or optical signals into the lighting element 22. Figures 5 to 7 Therefore, the front end region 45 of the lighting element 22 has a stepped protrusion 48, and an interface 47 is provided at the stepped protrusion. The stepped protrusion 48 includes the central region of the front stepped protrusion 45. Furthermore, the stepped protrusion 48 extends away from the lighting element 22 in the longitudinal direction.

[0065] Furthermore, the magnetic resonance imaging device 10 has a housing unit 49 that surrounds the scanning unit, particularly the magnet unit 11. The housing unit 49 has a front baffle unit 50. The front baffle unit 50 includes an insertion flare 51 and at least one additional baffle element 52 disposed at the front side 53 of the scanning unit, particularly the magnet unit 11. The insertion flare 51 is disposed in the transition region from the patient receiving area 15 to the front side 53. The insertion flare 51 has a recess 54 that covers a stepped protrusion 48 with an interface 47 at the end region 45 of the front side of the illumination element 22, thereby enabling a protected arrangement of the interface 47, as particularly in… Figure 7 This is visible in the rear view of the insertion flare 51 containing the lighting element 22. Furthermore, the opening 54 of the insertion flare 51 can also form a lead for accommodating the interface 47 from the lighting unit 21 to the lighting element 22. (As shown...) Figure 4As can be seen, the front end region 45 of the lighting element 22 includes a surface 55, which forms a plane with the surface 56 of the insertion port 51.

[0066] In the transition between the housing 17 and the lighting element 22, particularly in the direction of the gravity-induced flow 57 of the liquid at the housing 17, the housing 17 has a void 58. The void 58 has an upper edge region 59, which extends inwardly into the housing 17 at approximately 90°. Thus, the upper edge region 59 forms an undercut and / or protrusion. In the transition between the housing 17 and the lighting element 22, the lighting element 22 has an edge region with a sealing lip 60. This edge region of the lighting element 22 with the sealing lip 60 is here disposed within the void 58 at the housing 17. Specifically, the lighting element 22 is disposed at the housing 17 such that the sealing lip 60 abuts against the housing within the void. Figure 2 and Figure 8 Here, the sealing lip 60 is pre-tightened at the lighting element 22, so that the sealing lip abuts against the housing 17 in a pre-tightened manner, especially against the housing within the gap 58. This also compensates for tolerances, such as form tolerances, between the housing 17 and the lighting element 22, and ensures a reliable seal in the transition area between the housing 17 and the lighting element 22.

[0067] Although the details of the present invention have been described in detail through preferred embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the disclosed examples and other variations can be derived by those skilled in the art without departing from the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, the MRI device comprising: a scanning unit; a patient receiving area at least partially surrounded by the scanning unit, wherein the scanning unit has a housing at least partially surrounding the patient receiving area; and an illumination unit, wherein the illumination unit has at least one illumination element disposed within the patient receiving area at the housing. Its features are, The housing has a stepped position element with a raised support surface extending into the patient receiving area, wherein the raised support surface constitutes a support for and / or placement of the at least one lighting element.

2. The magnetic resonance device according to claim 1, Its features are, The at least one lighting element includes a main housing element disposed in the area extended by the raised support surface and the outer shell.

3. The magnetic resonance device according to claim 2, Its features are, The at least one illumination element has an extension element, and the stepped position element has an edge extending parallel to the longitudinal extension of the patient receiving area, wherein the edge includes a connecting line between two faces of the stepped position element, and wherein the extension element is disposed in the region of the main housing element facing the edge.

4. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of claims 2 or 3, Its features are, The stepped position element has a vertical surface, wherein an extension element of the at least one lighting element is disposed at the main housing element such that the extension element abuts against the vertical surface.

5. The magnetic resonance device according to claim 4, Its features are, The extension element includes a height that comprises at least 50% of the height of the vertical surface.

6. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of claims 4 or 5, Its features are, The extension element has a height that includes approximately 80% of the height of the vertical plane.

7. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 6, Its features are, The stepped position element has a length extending in the z-direction, and the extension element has a length extending in the z-direction, wherein the length of the extension element includes a value that is at least as large as the length of the stepped position element.

8. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The housing, particularly the stepped position element, includes a lower base surface, wherein the lower base surface is integrally formed with the housing and includes a liquid collection area.

9. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to claim 8, Its features are, The liquid collection area forms a flat surface with the base surface of the lower part, especially a horizontally oriented surface, and / or includes grooves.

10. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The at least one lighting element includes at least one end region, wherein the at least one end region extends beyond the stepped position element in the longitudinal direction of the patient receiving area.

11. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to claim 10, Its features are, At least one end region of the at least one lighting element includes a cover, wherein the cover covers the front or rear side of the stepped position element of the housing.

12. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of claims 10 or 11, Its features are, At least one end region of the at least one lighting element has an interface.

13. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to claim 12, Its features are, A front baffle unit is provided with an insertion flare, wherein the insertion flare has a recess, wherein at least one end region of at least one lighting element has a stepped protrusion, the interface is disposed at the stepped protrusion, and the stepped protrusion is covered by a baffle surrounding the recess of the insertion flare.

14. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to claim 13, Its features are, The end region of the at least one lighting element has a surface that forms a plane with the surface of the inserted horn.

15. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, In the direction of the gravity-induced flow of the liquid at the housing, in the transition region between the housing and the at least one lighting element, the housing has an open portion.

16. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to claim 15, Its features are, The void has an upper edge region oriented in a direction opposite to the direction of gravity-induced flow of the liquid in the housing, wherein the upper edge region extends inward in the housing at approximately 90°.

17. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 16, Its features are, The at least one lighting element includes an edge region having a sealing lip, wherein the sealing lip rests against the housing within the void.

18. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to claim 17, Its features are, The sealing lip is pre-tightened and abuts against the housing.

19. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The at least one lighting element extends longitudinally through the entire patient accommodation area surrounded by the housing.

20. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, A patient support device is provided with an examination bed, wherein the examination bed is configured to be movable within the patient accommodation area, wherein, in the position of the examination bed within the patient accommodation area, the at least one lighting element is laterally disposed beside the examination bed.

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