Patient positioning table for positioning a patient

Abstract

The invention relates to a patient positioning table (1) comprising - a lying board on which a patient can be positioned, - a horizontal adjustment device (4) for horizontal displacement of the lying board in at least one direction, comprising a first drive means, - a vertical adjustment device (3) for adjusting the height of the lying board, comprising a second drive means, - a drive module (9) that can be moved and / or positioned in a longitudinal direction, - a guide section (6) comprising at least one guide element (11), wherein the guide element (11) extends in the longitudinal direction (L) and is designed to guide the driver module (9), - a conduit (14) wherein the conduit (14) is designed to accommodate one or more supply and / or control lines, characterized in that the conduit (14) runs in an S-shape and / or is arranged in the guide section (6).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a patient support table for supporting a patient.

[0002] Patient tables, also called patient tables, are used in the medical field, particularly for medical imaging and / or for examination and / or treatment procedures, such as surgical interventions or radiation therapy. For example, a patient table can be associated with an imaging device or other medical device, such as a computed tomography device.

[0003] Patient tables can have several, in particular three, axes of movement or degrees of freedom. For example, patient tables can be adjusted in height (1st degree of freedom). A table top structure, which serves to accommodate a patient couch for positioning a patient, can be adjustable at least along its longitudinal axis (2nd degree of freedom). The patient couch itself can be adjusted along its longitudinal axis relative to the table top structure (3rd degree of freedom). For each axis of movement, at least one motor can be provided for automatic adjustment along the axis of movement. Furthermore, three further degrees of freedom can be provided, in particular three rotational degrees of freedom, e.g. for tilting or tipping.

[0004] To move such tables, multiple axes, such as six, equipped with motors are required. To ensure precise movement, a position sensor is required for each motorized axis. Additionally, a redundant, identical sensor is used to eliminate the risk of table failure and ensure safe radiation or patient treatment.

[0005] These specific requirements necessitate a large number of cables to be routed to the individual axes. For example, a six-axis table requires 22 cables to be laid horizontally over a travel distance of approximately 1,900 mm.

[0006] Routing the cables requires a considerable amount of space. Due to limited space, it is not possible to install the axle drive wiring on the superstructure. Therefore, an alternative solution must be found to route the cables safely while still ensuring the efficient operation of the bed.

[0007] Furthermore, it is crucial to keep the access height for the patient as low as possible. This means that the design of the couch must be adapted accordingly to ensure comfortable and easily accessible access for the patient. Both mechanical and electrical aspects must be carefully considered to ensure optimal functionality and safety.

[0008] To accommodate the multitude of cables in such loungers, space-saving bellows solutions have been used to cover the moving axes. However, these solutions have several disadvantages. Firstly, cleaning such bellows solutions is difficult. Furthermore, due to their elasticity, they are prone to cracking due to environmental influences, and fabric remnants can peel off over the course of the product's lifespan. Furthermore, these bellows solutions are significantly less robust against external influences than other coverings.

[0009] Current technical designs pose significant problems with axle cleanability and hygienic design. These designs allow dripping fluids to penetrate the axle, potentially coming into contact with critical drive components and mechatronic components such as motors, sensors, etc. This leads to potential damage to the affected components. The inadequate cleanability of the axle makes adequate cleaning and disinfection difficult or even impossible. This can lead to the accumulation of dirt, deposits, and bacteria, compromising the hygienic conditions of the entire system.

[0010] The German utility model DE 10 2016 004 101 U relates to a medical examination or treatment device, comprising a C-arm with a radiation source and a radiation receiver, as well as one or more supply and / or cooling lines for the radiation source and / or the radiation receiver, wherein the C-arm is arranged on a holder so as to be movable along its circumference.

[0011] The invention is therefore based on the object of providing a patient support table with a vertical and horizontal adjustment device which allows safe and space-saving laying of cables and is easy to clean and meets hygienic standards in the medical field.

[0012] To achieve this object, the invention provides a patient support table for supporting a patient according to claim 1. Advantageous embodiments emerge from the subclaims, the description, and the accompanying figures.

[0013] Regardless of the grammatical gender of a particular term, persons with male, female or other gender identities are included.

[0014] The patient support table according to the invention is designed for supporting a patient. The patient support table comprises: - a bed board on which a patient can be placed, - a horizontal adjustment device for horizontally displacing the bed board in at least one direction, comprising a first drive means, - a vertical adjustment device for adjusting the height of the bed board, comprising a second drive means ( ), - a carrier module that can be moved and / or positioned in a longitudinal direction, - a guide section comprising at least one guide element, wherein the guide element extends in the longitudinal direction and is designed to guide the driver module, - a cable guide, wherein the cable guide is designed to accommodate one or more supply and / or control lines, wherein the cable guide runs and / or is arranged in an S-shape in the guide section.

[0015] The patient support table can be designed for supporting a patient during radiation therapy. The patient support table is particularly designed for supporting a patient during a surgical procedure. Specifically, the patient support table is designed for supporting a patient during medical imaging in an MRI, CT, or other imaging system.

[0016] The table is technically designed for medical imaging and / or radiation therapy. It is made of a robust material that offers both high stability and good permeability for medical radiation. The table is capable of positioning the patient safely and comfortably to achieve optimal imaging results or deliver precise radiation therapy. It preferably has a smooth surface to facilitate easy cleaning and disinfection. Furthermore, the table can be equipped with special attachment points to securely immobilize the patient during imaging or radiation therapy and minimize movement.

[0017] The patient support table, in particular the support board, can in particular assume a climbing state and an operating state. In the climbing state, the support board is at a first height. The first height can form a minimum height and / or lowest position of the support board. In the operating state, the support board is at a height greater than the first height; in particular, the support board is at a height of at least 50 cm, preferably at least 100 cm above the floor. The first height in particular forms a climbing height, whereby a patient can climb onto, sit down, and / or lie down on the support board when the support board is arranged at climbing height.

[0018] As is generally known, the horizontal adjustment device preferably comprises a horizontal mechanism with a cantilever unit that is movable relative to a fixed and / or firmly positioned frame and / or chassis, in particular the support board, and at least partially supports the support board. "Supporting" here essentially refers to a mechanical connection to the support board provided above the cantilever unit. The load of the support board and the components supported by it is essentially absorbed by the guide of the patient support device.

[0019] The first drive means can comprise an electric motor, mechanical systems, pneumatic and / or hydraulic drives. Particularly preferably, the first drive means forms and / or comprises an electric motor. The first drive means is preferably controllable via operating elements that enable medical personnel to position the patient precisely and easily.

[0020] A vertical adjustment device is used to adjust the height of the bed board. This allows the bed to be set to an ergonomic working height and comfortably positions the patient. Additionally, the vertical adjustment device can be used to switch between the ascent mode and the operating mode.

[0021] The vertical adjustment device may include a second drive means that enables the height adjustment of the bed board. Examples of such drive means include: Electric linear actuators: Electric linear actuators use an electric motor and a lead screw to control the vertical movement of the bed. They offer precise and smooth height adjustments that can be easily controlled via user interfaces.

[0022] Electric drives: Electric drives for driving and / or operating a scissor base. The scissor base comprises, in particular, two crossed struts connected at a common point and pivoting around a common axis.

[0023] Hydraulic systems: In addition to horizontal adjustment, hydraulic systems can also be used for vertical adjustment of the bed. By pumping or releasing hydraulic pressure, the bed board can be adjusted in height.

[0024] Pneumatic systems: Similar to horizontal adjustment, pneumatic actuators can also be used for vertical adjustment. By controlling the air pressure, the bed board can be positioned at the desired height.

[0025] These drive systems enable flexible and precise height adjustment of the bed to meet the demands of medical care. They provide comfort for the patient and facilitate the work of medical staff.

[0026] The driver module is preferably movable, displaceable, and / or positionable in the longitudinal direction. The longitudinal direction lies in particular in a horizontal plane. The support board preferably has a head section for positioning a patient's head and a foot section for positioning the patient's feet, wherein the head and foot sections are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction. The driver module is in particular movable forwards and backwards in the longitudinal direction. In particular, the driver module can comprise and / or be connected to a drive means, sensors, and / or controls, such that the driver module can be moved and / or positioned in a controlled manner over predeterminable distances. The driver module is in particular designed to drive the support board, the vertical adjustment device, and / or the horizontal adjustment device during its movement in the longitudinal direction.For example, the lying board, the vertical adjustment device and / or horizontal adjustment device are arranged on and / or above the driver module.

[0027] The guide section is preferably arranged, can be arranged and / or is intended for arrangement on a floor and / or subsurface. The guide section comprises at least one, preferably at least or exactly two, in particular at least three guide elements. The guide elements can be designed, for example, as rails, in particular guide rails. The guide element, in particular the at least two guide elements, extend in the longitudinal direction. In particular, in the case of at least two guide elements, the at least two guide elements, preferably all guide elements, are aligned in the same direction and / or parallel. The guide element(s) is(are) designed, in particular, to guide and / or as rails for the driver module. In particular, the movability and / or positionability of the driver module in the longitudinal direction is limited by the longitudinal extent and / or length of the guide element(s).The guide elements are preferably designed as hollow bodies. Alternatively, the guide elements can be designed as solid bodies. The guide elements are preferably made of a metal, in particular a light metal or steel. Alternatively and / or additionally, the guide elements can be made of a composite material or a plastic.

[0028] The cable guide is designed to accommodate supply and / or control cables. This cable guide serves to guide the cables neatly and safely to avoid tripping hazards and entanglements, and to prevent restricting or endangering the movement of components. In particular, the cable guide is designed to protect accommodated cables against wear, cable breakage, and / or abrasion. The cable guide preferably has a hollow profile. In particular, the cable guide is designed to be flexible and / or bendable in at least one dimension. The cable guide can be based on a plurality of links, for example, chain links or ring segments, which are movable and / or tiltable relative to one another about at least one axis.

[0029] The cable guide is preferably designed to accommodate one or more supply and / or control cables. These can be, for example, power cables, data cables, medical gas lines, or control cables for drive systems. The cable guide comprises and / or forms, in particular, channels, rails, or cable supports. The cable guide extends and / or runs at least partially within the guide section. The cable guide can also run outside the guide section, for example, in or to the horizontal and / or vertical adjustment device. For example, the cable guide connects and / or runs between the guide section, the vertical adjustment device, and / or the horizontal adjustment device.

[0030] According to the invention, the cable routing in the guide section runs in an S-shape. An S-shape is understood to mean a curved course and / or a curved curve reminiscent of the letter "S". The S-shaped course of the cable routing preferably describes a symmetrical curve. Furthermore, the S-shaped course preferably describes a curve with an inflection point (change in curvature), wherein the inflection point is particularly preferably located in a middle section of the S-shape. In particular, an S-shape can be understood to mean a meandering course and / or can be described as a Bézier curve. Alternatively, the cable routing in the guide section can have an extended S-shape, which for example has more than two turns.

[0031] The invention enables particularly space-saving cable routing in the guide section, particularly in the floor area, and adapts it to the other components and surroundings. In particular, this also allows for additional travel paths and cables / cable routing. The invention also offers further advantages. It enables high cycle rates, can be implemented within acceptable installation spaces, and ensures consistent noise levels and smooth operation. The high reliability minimizes downtime, and the lower product costs offer economic advantages. The use of primarily statically laid cables for patient monitoring and the axis drives ensures a robust design. The simple assembly reduces assembly time, as does the smaller number of components, which further contributes to a more robust design. Overall, the invention represents an attractive solution for various applications.By routing the pipes in a closed profile, a high level of hygiene is ensured. Any draining fluids do not reach the interior of the horizontal shaft, allowing for optimal cleaning.

[0032] Optionally, it is provided that the guide section comprises two deflection modules spaced apart in the longitudinal direction. The deflection modules are preferably located at two longitudinally spaced ends of the guide element(s). In particular, it is provided that the guide section has two parallel guide elements, wherein each of the two guide elements comprises and / or is assigned to a deflection module, wherein the deflection modules are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction or are arranged at opposite ends. The deflection modules comprise or form, for example, a deflection pulley. The deflection modules can be designed in particular to guide the cable guide, for example, they comprise a guide groove for receiving the cable guide. In particular, the deflection module is designed to deflect the cable guide with a fixed radius of curvature.In particular, the deflection module deflects the cable routing with a minimum radius of curvature, preventing cable breakage and / or cable wear due to the deflection. The deflection module is preferably designed to deflect the cable routing by at least 90 degrees, in particular by at least 120 degrees, and particularly preferably by at least 180 degrees. The cable routing runs in the guide section and / or in an S-shaped course around the deflection modules. In particular, the cable routing runs parallel and / or in the same direction before, between, and / or after the deflection module.

[0033] It is particularly preferred for the guide section to comprise a guide section channel extending in the longitudinal direction. The guide section channel can be designed as a groove. In particular, the guide section channel has at least one lateral boundary, for example a wall section, at least in sections. The guide channel section preferably has a rectangular cross-section. The guide channel is designed to accommodate the cable guide. In other words, the cable guide can be inserted and / or guided in the guide channel or guide channel section so that it is protected in the guide channel against external influences, e.g. force and / or dirt. The cable guide preferably runs in front of the first deflection module, between the two deflection modules and / or after the second deflection module in the guide channel or guide channel section.

[0034] According to an optional embodiment, the guide section comprises at least two guide elements aligned in the same longitudinal direction. The guide elements are designed, for example, as guide rails. The cable routing runs at least partially between the two guide elements, in particular in the guide section channel located between the two guide elements. The cable routing is thus protected by the guide elements against lateral impacts, force impacts, and / or dirt.

[0035] The guide section preferably has a closed profile, in particular a profile that is closed upwardly and / or laterally. In particular, the guide section channel is closed upwardly and / or laterally and / or longitudinally, so that no dirt, liquids, and / or external forces can enter or affect the guide section channel and / or the cable guide. Specifically, the guide section and / or the guide section channel are covered, closed, and / or delimited at the top by a cover.

[0036] In particular, it is provided that the patient support table has a base section. The base section is in particular a lower section. A main section of the patient support table can be arranged on and / or adjoined to the base section, wherein the main section can comprise the lying board and the vertical and horizontal adjustment device. The base section is connectable to a substructure and / or floor. For example, the base section is connected to the floor in a form-fitting, force-fitting and / or material-fitting manner; in particular, the base section is screwed to the floor. The base section specifically comprises the guide section. In particular, the guide section, in particular the guide elements and / or deflection modules, are fixed and / or connected to the floor, for example, screwed.

[0037] It is preferably provided that one end of the S-shaped cable guide is mechanically connected to the carrier module. In particular, the carrier module has at least one, preferably at least two side sections. The side sections are preferably for coupling with and / or engaging in the guide section, in particular the guide elements. For example, the guide element and side section form an interface and counter-interface. The guide element and side section are designed in particular for a mechanical, positive-locking and / or captive connection. The cable guide is preferably connected to the carrier module at at least one, preferably at least two, side sections. In this case, it is preferably provided that the carrier module, during its movement in the longitudinal direction, drags the cable guide along, in particular at the attached and / or connected points.

[0038] The driver module preferably comprises a drive for moving and / or positioning the driver module along the guide section. The drive can comprise a motor, in particular an electric motor. Furthermore, the driver module can comprise a controller and / or be connected to a controller via data technology, wherein the driver module can be moved, positioned and / or placed in a targeted, controlled and / or regulated manner by means of the drive and the controller. The driver module or the drive can be connected to the controller via a cable, wherein the cable is preferably arranged in the cable guide. The drive is preferably arranged in the side section.

[0039] Furthermore, the driver module can include a sensor for detecting the movement and / or positioning of the driver module along the guide section. The sensor is preferably arranged in the side section. The sensor can be an optical, inductive, or other sensor for detecting a position and / or movement. The sensor is preferably connected via data technology to the control of the drive of the driver module and / or is designed to control and / or regulate the drive of the driver module.

[0040] Further advantages, effects, and configurations are evident from the attached figures and their descriptions. They show: Fig. 1 an external view of a patient support table, Fig. 2 a section of the patient support table including the guide section, Fig. 3 a cross-section through the guide section, Fig. 4 a horizontal section through the guide section.

[0041] Fig. Figure 1 shows an external view of a patient support table 1 according to the invention. The patient support table 1 comprises a support section 2 for supporting a support board. The support board itself is not shown here to allow a view of the support section. The support board is designed to support a patient during a procedure, medical imaging, and / or radiation therapy.

[0042] The patient support table 1 comprises a central vertical adjustment device 3 and a horizontal adjustment device 4, which are only roughly indicated here.

[0043] The vertical adjustment device 3 comprises a lifting mechanism concealed by a cover. The vertical adjustment device 5 is mechanically connected to a driver module 9. When the driver module 9 moves in a longitudinal direction L, the lifting mechanism and / or the section of the patient support table 1 above it is driven. The vertical adjustment device 3 and the horizontal adjustment device 4 each comprise a drive means. The drive means are supplied with power and / or controlled via lines. The lines are arranged completely or in sections in a cable guide.

[0044] The patient support table 1 comprises a guide section 6. The guide section 6 is arranged on a base section 7 and is screwed or connected thereto. The guide section 6 has a hollow profile, which is closed in the longitudinal direction L by a cover 8. The driver module 9 has two side sections 10, which are connected, for example, in a form-fitting manner to the guide section, so that the guide section 6 guides the driver module 9.

[0045] Fig. 2 shows a section of the patient support table 1, showing the driver module 9 and the guide section 6. The cover 8 has been omitted here so that the hollow profile and the components located therein are visible. The guide section 6 comprises two guide elements 11. The guide elements are arranged in the longitudinal direction L and form rails for the driver module 9. The side sections 10 are, for example, in engagement with the guide elements 11. The two guide elements 11 each have a guide section channel 12. Furthermore, a further guide section channel 12 is arranged between the parallel guide elements 11. The guide section channels 12 are each designed to accommodate the cable guide 14 and / or are dimensioned accordingly.

[0046] Furthermore, the guide section 6 comprises two deflection modules 13, one of which is Fig. 2. The second deflection module is arranged in the longitudinal direction L at the other end of the guide section 6. The deflection modules 13 each comprise a rotatably mounted deflection pulley. The cable guide 14 is guided around the deflection modules 13. In the area of ​​the deflection modules 13, the cable guide 14 each has a curved section which can be understood as two arches of an S-shape. Furthermore, the cable guide in the guide section 6 runs in the guide section channels 12, wherein the cable guide here runs essentially uncurved. The curvature of the cable guide 14 in the curved section is opposite at the two deflection modules 13. In the area of ​​the side sections 10, the cable guide 14 is connected to the driver module so that a movement of the driver module leads to the cable guide being driven along.

[0047] Fig. Figure 3 shows a more detailed cross-section through the guide section 6. This clearly shows the arrangement of the cable guide 14 in the guide section channels 12, as well as the rotatable mounting of the deflection modules 13. Furthermore, the positive engagement of the side sections 10 with the guide section 6, or rather the guide elements 11, is evident.

[0048] The driver module 9 has a sensor 15 designed to detect a movement in the longitudinal direction, a travel path, and / or a position. The sensor 15 is connected to a controller of a drive of the driver module 9, so that the driver module can be positioned at desired positions and / or moved or displaced accordingly.

[0049] The guide section 6 comprises a cover 16, which is designed and / or arranged to cover or close the guide section 6, in particular the guide section channels 12, at the top. The cover 16 is arranged in particular between the guide elements 11 and the driver module 6. The cover 16 preferably extends over the entire longitudinal extent L and serves as protection against liquids, dirt, and the effects of force. The cover 16 can be integrated directly into the hollow body, but can also be mounted separately.

[0050] Fig.4 shows a horizontal section through the guide section 6. A top view shows the S-shaped course of the cable guide 14 in the guide section. The S-shape corresponds to an elongated S or is similar to an integral sign. The curves in the area of ​​the deflection modules 13 form the two curves of the S shape. Before, between, and after the deflection modules 13, the cable guide runs essentially straight or uncurved. Preferably, the cable guide in the guide section channels runs essentially parallel to one another and / or in the same direction as the guide elements 11. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2016 004 101 U

[0010]

Claims

[1] Patient positioning table (1) comprising - a bed board on which a patient can be placed, - a horizontal adjustment device (4) for horizontally displacing the bed board in at least one direction, comprising a first drive means, - a vertical adjustment device (3) for adjusting the height of the bed board, comprising a second drive means, - a driver module (9) which is movable and / or positionable in a longitudinal direction, - a guide section (6) comprising at least one guide element (11), wherein the guide element (11) extends in the longitudinal direction (L) and is designed to guide the driver module (9), - a cable guide (14), wherein the cable guide (14) is designed to accommodate one or more supply and / or control lines, characterized bythat the cable guide (14) in the guide section (6) runs and / or is arranged in an S-shape. [2] Patient support table (1) according to claim 1, characterized by that the guide section (6) comprises two deflection modules (13) spaced apart in the longitudinal direction, wherein the line guide (14) in the guide section and / or the S-shaped course of the line guide (14) runs around the deflection modules (13). [3] Patient support table (1) according to claim 2, characterized by that the guide section (6) comprises a guide section channel (12) extending in the longitudinal direction (L), wherein the line guide (14) runs between the two deflection modules (13) in the guide section channel (12). [4] Patient support table (1) according to claim 3, characterized bythat the guide section (6) comprises at least two guide elements (11) aligned in the longitudinal direction (L), wherein the guide section channel (12) extends at least partially between the guide elements (11). [5] Patient support table (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a floor section, wherein the floor section is connectable to a substrate and / or floor (7), wherein the floor section comprises the guide section (6). [6] Patient support table (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one end of the S-shaped cable guide (14) is mechanically connected to the driver module (9), wherein the driver module (9) is designed to guide the end and / or the cable guide (14) during its guided movement. [7] Patient support table (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the driver module (9) comprises a drive for moving and / or positioning the driver module (9) along the guide section (6). [8] Patient support table (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the driver module (9) comprises a sensor (15) for detecting the movement and / or positioning of the driver module (9) along the guide section (6). [9] Patient support table (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the guide section (6), the guide elements (11) and / or the guide channel (12) form and / or have a closed profile.

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