Patient positioning table for positioning a patient

Abstract

The invention relates to a patient positioning table (1) for positioning a patient comprising - a lying board (2) on which a patient can be positioned, wherein the lying board (2) can be set to a climbing state at a first height and an operating state at a height greater than the first height, - a support structure for the lying board (2), - a horizontal adjustment device (5) for horizontal displacement of the lying board (2) in at least one direction, comprising a first drive means (10), - a vertical adjustment device (4) for adjusting the height of the lying board (2) and / or for switching between the ascent state and the operating state, comprising a second drive means (9), - a conduit (12), wherein the conduit (12) is designed to accommodate one or more supply and / or control lines, - an intermediate section arranged between lying board (2) and vertical adjustment device (4) - a support device (14).

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 product's lifetime. Furthermore, these bellows solutions are significantly less robust against external influences than other coverings.

[0009] The German utility model DE 20 2016 004 101 U1 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.

[0010] The relevant prior art also includes the documents DE 20 2019 106 636 U1 and US 2013 / 0 176 029 A1.

[0011] The invention is therefore based on the object of providing a patient support device with a horizontal adjustment device that allows cables to be routed in such a way that the patient support can be moved and / or moved with a plurality of degrees of freedom, even over larger areas. In particular, the object of the invention is to support the cables securely and with low wear in all states (patient ascent, patient treatment).

[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 attached 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, the bed board being capable of assuming an ascent position at a first height and an operating position at a height greater than the first height, - a support device supporting the bed board, - 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 and / or for switching between the ascent state and the operating state, comprising a second drive means, - a cable guide, wherein the cable guide is designed to accommodate one or more supply and / or control lines, - an intermediate section arranged between the lying board and the vertical adjustment device, - a support device, wherein the support device is arranged in the intermediate section, wherein the support device comprises a support section which can be pivoted about a pivot axis, wherein the support section is in a first position in the operating state and the support section is in a second position in the ascent state, wherein the support section is at a height above the pivot axis in the second position and / or the support section is at a height below the pivot axis in the first position, wherein the support device is designed to take the cable guide with it and / or support it when changing from the operating state to the ascent state and / or from the first position to the second position, wherein the cable guide rests and / or is supported in the support section in the second position and / or in the ascent state.

[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 allow for 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 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 the 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 the bed board and the support device and at least partially supports the bed board. "Supporting" here essentially refers to a mechanical connection to the bed board provided above the cantilever unit; the load of the bed 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 has a second drive mechanism that enables the height adjustment of the bed board. Examples of such drive mechanisms 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 cable routing is preferably integrated into the patient support table; specifically, the cable routing is arranged in a receiving space and / or concealed by a housing. The cable routing is designed to accommodate supply and / or control cables. This cable routing serves to route the cables neatly and safely to avoid tripping hazards, tangled cables, and to prevent restricting or endangering the movement of components.

[0027] The cable routing is 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 routing comprises and / or forms, in particular, channels, rails, or cable supports. In an optional embodiment, the cable routing extends from a floor area and / or the first height to the second height and / or the lying board. In particular, the cable routing extends between the first and second drive means.

[0028] An intermediate section in patient tables, located between the support platform and the vertical adjustment device, plays an important role in the adjustment and flexibility of the table. This intermediate section is located between the main part of the support platform, on which the patient lies, and the vertical adjustment device, which is responsible for the height adjustment. The intermediate section can, in particular, be part of a frame or a support structure. The intermediate section can, in particular, form a section of the support device or comprise the support device.

[0029] The support device is located in the intermediate section, which is arranged between the reclining board and the vertical adjustment device. The support device is arranged in the intermediate section, in particular the frame. The support device is connected to the intermediate section, for example, in a form-fitting, friction-fitting, force-fitting, and / or material-fitting manner. This support device comprises a support section pivotable about a pivot axis. Furthermore, the support device preferably comprises a fastening section for fastening and / or connecting to the intermediate section, the frame, and / or a housing section.

[0030] The support section is in a first position during operation and in a second position during ascent. In the second position of the support section, it is at a height above the pivot axis. In the first position of the support section, it is positioned at a height less than or equal to the pivot axis.

[0031] The support device is designed in such a way that it at least partially guides and / or supports the cable guide when changing to the ascending state and / or from the first position to the second position. In the second position and / or in the ascending state, the cable guide rests on the support section or is supported by it. In other words, when changing to the ascending state and / or when changing from the first to the second position, the cable guide is partially raised, in particular to the height of the second position. When changing to the first state and / or the operating state, the support section moves downwards and / or is removed or moved away as a support for the cable guide, so that the cable guide is no longer lifted or supported by the support section in the operating state.

[0032] The invention makes it possible for a section of the cable guide to be raised in the ascending state and not raised in the operating state, so that the section of the cable guide has a different location, position, height and / or course in the ascending state than in the operating state.

[0033] The support device particularly preferably forms and / or comprises a hinge. The support device and / or the hinge is based on a joint mechanism. A hinge consists in particular of two sections, preferably of two plates or elements that are connected to one another and enable movement about an axis. One section of the hinge comprises and / or forms the support section. The other section is preferably connected to the intermediate section, a frame and / or a housing; in particular, this section is connected in a displacement-resistant, position-fixed, force-fitting, form-fitting and / or material-fitting manner. The two sections, elements and / or plates are also referred to in particular as wings. The wings of the hinge are the movable parts, which are preferably made of metal, plastic or wood.

[0034] Particularly preferably, the support device, in particular the hinge, comprises a return device. The return device is designed to return the support section to its initial position as soon as an actuating force falls below the return force of the return device. The return device serves to return the support section to its original position after it has been deflected by an external force or movement, preferably to the second position. The actuating force originates, for example, from moving the reclining board into the access position; for example, the support section rests on a housing or fixed element (e.g., a pin) at the bottom.

[0035] The exact design of the return device can vary. It is preferably implemented with a spring. The spring can be either a tension or compression spring and is designed to generate a return force. This return force counteracts the deflection of the support section and ensures that it returns to its original position. When an actuating force acts on the support section and this actuating force is less than the return force of the return device, the return effect occurs. This means that the return device is activated and returns the support section to its original position through the generated return force.

[0036] The support device preferably comprises a pin-shaped, cylindrical, and / or pin-shaped actuating element. This actuating element is arranged such that it initiates, assists, and / or applies force to change the support section from the first to the second position when the height of the reclining board is adjustable and a certain minimum height is not reached.

[0037] In this specific design, the pin-shaped, cylindrical, or pin-shaped actuating element serves to enable the support section of the hinge to change from a first position to a second position. This movement occurs when the deck board transitions from an operating state to a climbing state and falls below a minimum height.

[0038] The actuating element can have different shapes, such as a pin or a peg-shaped part. The exact shape depends on the specific design and requirements of the support device. If the platform falls below a certain minimum height, the actuating element acts on the support section, wings, and / or the cable guide. For example, if the support section falls below the minimum height, it rests on the actuating element and / or supports it.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cable guide comprises and / or forms an energy chain. The energy chain, also referred to as a cable chain or energy guide chain, is a mechanical device used to securely guide cables, lines, or hoses and protect them from external influences such as abrasion, contamination, or damage.

[0040] The energy chain consists of a series of interconnected links, forming a flexible chain. These links can be made of plastic or metal, although plastic is often preferred due to its low friction and high wear resistance. Each link has a special shape that allows the links to be joined together while allowing movement in different directions.

[0041] The energy chain comprises a hollow structure or channel in which the cables, wires, or hoses can be placed. These are safely routed within the energy chain and protected from external influences. The energy chain thus provides orderly and protected cable routing.

[0042] A key advantage of an energy chain is its flexibility. The chain's links are designed to move against each other and adapt to movement. This allows the energy chain to be bent in at least one direction without kinking or damaging the cables or wires within it. The flexibility of the energy chain enables flexible movement and prevents cable breaks or line faults.

[0043] The cable guide, as described, specifically comprises a support section. In the ascending state, the support section rests on the support section or lies on it. In an optional embodiment, the cable guide has a lower flexural rigidity in the support section than outside the support section. Preferably, the cable guide can be curved or deformed both positively and negatively in the support section, whereas outside it can only be curved positively or negatively. The support section of the cable guide is the area in which the energy chain rests on the support section or is supported on it. The support section can, for example, be a structure or component on which the energy chain is placed or supported. This section ensures stable support or support of the cable guide in the ascending state.

[0044] Outside the support section, the cable guide can only be bent positively or negatively. This means it can be bent either outward (positive) or inward (negative), but not in both directions.

[0045] The patient support table preferably comprises a vertical cover. This vertical cover is located either below the intermediate section and / or at least partially surrounds the vertical adjustment device. In the operating state, the support section and / or the support section are arranged in a space formed by the vertical cover. In the ascending state, the support section and / or the support section are located outside this space formed by the vertical cover. The vertical cover can be made of plastic, metal, or another suitable material and serves to protect and surround the support section and / or the support section.

[0046] During operation, the support section and / or the bearing section are located within the installation space formed by the vertical cover. This installation space provides protection and limits the movement of the energy chain. The vertical cover ensures that the cable routing remains within this defined space and is protected from external influences such as dirt, dust, or collisions.

[0047] In the raised position, the support section and / or the support section are located outside the installation space formed by the vertical cover. This allows for the arrangement of other parts of the patient support table. Due to the lower height in the raised position, the installation space, limited by the vertical cover, is smaller than in the operating state, so less space is available for accommodating components of the patient support table in the installation space. The present invention arranges the cable routing outside the installation space, at least in the area of ​​the support section.

[0048] The described vertical cover is preferably characterized by a telescopic design and / or comprises a plurality of telescopic cover elements. In a telescopic vertical cover, several cover elements are arranged one above the other, particularly in the operating state, and can be pushed into one another, particularly in the access state. The telescopic design allows the vertical cover to adapt to different height adjustments or access states. When the bed is in the low position, the cover elements are pushed together to form a compact shelter. During a height adjustment or in the operating state, the cover elements are pushed apart to cover a greater height.

[0049] The telescoping cover elements offer flexible adaptation to specific requirements. They allow the coverage area of ​​the vertical cover to be expanded or reduced depending on the height adjustment. This ensures optimal protection and prevents the ingress of dirt, dust, or other external influences. The patient support table preferably comprises a foot section and a top section. The foot section is located below the intermediate section. The cable routing extends from the foot section into the intermediate section and can continue to the horizontal adjustment device and / or the lying board.

[0050] The foot section is the lower part, usually located near the floor or base of the patient support table. The foot section may contain various fasteners or brackets to hold the cable guide in place. The intermediate section is located above the foot section and forms the connection between the foot section and the upper section of the cable guide. From the intermediate section, the cable guide can continue to the horizontal adjustment device and / or the lying board. The horizontal adjustment device allows the lying board to move horizontally; in particular, the cable guide can follow the movement.

[0051] The horizontal adjustment device is preferably designed to move the bed board by at least 1700 mm in a longitudinal direction. This means that the energy chain allows a horizontal freedom of movement of at least 1700 mm along the longitudinal direction of the bed board. The horizontal adjustment device can comprise various mechanisms or drive systems to enable the movement of the bed board. This can be achieved, for example, by a motorized linear axis, rack and pinion mechanisms, slide rails, or other corresponding constructions.

[0052] The described vertical adjustment device comprises a second drive means arranged at a height less than or equal to the height of the intermediate section. In particular, the terms first drive unit and first drive means, as well as second drive unit and second drive means, can be used synonymously. The second drive means is part of the vertical adjustment device. This drive means can be, for example, a motor, a hydraulic or pneumatic system, or another suitable mechanism that provides the required power and control for the vertical movement. The arrangement of the second drive means at a height less than or equal to the height of the intermediate section has the advantage of enabling a compact design. By placing the drive means near the intermediate section, the space requirement can be reduced.This facilitates the integration of the vertical adjustment device into the overall design of the machine or system and enables efficient use of space.

[0053] Preferably, the first and / or second drive means comprises an encoder module and a redundant encoder module for each motion axis. An encoder module is a sensor or control device used to detect, control, and monitor the movement and position of the drive means. It can be, for example, an incremental or absolute encoder, a potentiometer, or a magnetic Hall-effect sensor. The redundant encoder module is an additional encoder module that operates independently of the first encoder module and performs the same function. It is used to increase the reliability and safety of position determination and motion detection. If one of the encoder modules fails or malfunctions, the redundant encoder module can continue to provide accurate measurements and data.

[0054] Further advantages, effects and configurations are shown in the figures and their description. Fig. 1 an external view of a patient support table according to the invention, Fig. 2 a schematic cross-sectional drawing of the patient support table, Fig. 3a, b a section of the patient support table in an operating state, Fig. 4a, b a section of the patient support table in a rising position, Fig. 5 a section of a cable routing.

[0055] 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 device for supporting a bed board 2. In this embodiment, the support section is arranged in an intermediate section 3. The intermediate section 3, in particular the support section, can be part of a frame, also called a support frame. The bed board 2 is in Fig. 2 shown without padding for simplicity, but may optionally include padding.

[0056] The patient support table 1 is in Fig. 2 is shown schematically in a cross-section. There, it can be seen that the patient support table 1 has a central vertical adjustment device 4 and a horizontal adjustment device 5 associated with the support board 2, which is only roughly indicated here.

[0057] The vertical adjustment device 4 comprises a lifting mechanism 6 that connects the intermediate section 3 and a floor or lower section. As shown in Fig. As indicated in Figure 2, the lifting mechanism 6 has a scissor mechanism. The lifting mechanism 6 is connected to a carriage 8 guided on a spindle, wherein the spindle can be rotated by means of a second, electrically operated drive means 9, in this case an electric motor. Alternatively, the spindle can preferably also act vertically upwards and be connected to the scissor mechanism via levers. The scissor mechanism of the lifting mechanism 6 is made of aluminum or glass-fiber-reinforced plastic (GRP).

[0058] The horizontal adjustment device 5 also comprises an electric motor as a first, electrically operated drive means 10.

[0059] Fig. Figure 3a shows a section of the patient support table 1, with the patient support table 1 or the support board 2 in an operating state. The section shows a portion of the intermediate section 3, the horizontal adjustment device 5, the support board 2, and a vertical cover 11. The vertical cover 11 comprises a plurality of cover elements 11a. The cover elements 11a are essentially congruent and / or can be enlarged or reduced while maintaining the same dimensions. The size or volume of the cover elements 11a decreases from top to bottom.

[0060] The support board 2 is in an operating state. The operating state is characterized in particular by the support board 2 being at a height position higher than a climbing height. The height position is, for example, the height of the support board 2 during a treatment, radiation therapy, imaging, or procedure. The rest position corresponds, for example, to a support board 2 not moved in a horizontal direction. Furthermore, a section of the cable guide 12 is shown, which runs essentially horizontally in the section shown.

[0061] Fig. 3b shows a cross section through the patient support table 1 from Fig. 3a. The cross-section shows the route of the cable routing 12, which is actually concealed by the vertical cover 11. The cable routing 12 runs partially within an installation space 13 defined by the uppermost cover element 11a.

[0062] A support device 14 comprises a support section 15 and a second section 16, also called a fastening section. The support device 14 forms a hinge. The support device 14 comprises a pivot axis 17. The second section 16 is connected, for example, by screwing, to the intermediate section, in particular the carrier. The support device or the second section is thus connected to the intermediate section 4 in a displacement-proof manner. The support section 15 is pivotable about the pivot axis 17.

[0063] The support section 15 is in a first position. In the first position, the support section 15 is located below the pivot axis. In other words, in the first position, the cable guide does not rest on the support section 15.

[0064] Fig. 4a shows the section of the patient support table 1 from Fig. 3a, wherein the patient support table 1 or the lying board 2 are in a rising state.

[0065] The support platform 2 is in an ascent state. The ascent state is characterized in particular by the support platform 2 being at a lower height than in the operating state. In particular, the cover elements 11a of the vertical cover 11 are arranged at least partially within one another, similar to a telescopic rod. The installation space 13 defined by the vertical cover 11 or the cover elements 11a is smaller in the ascent state than in the operating state. Furthermore, the ascent state can be characterized by a horizontal position and / or position of the patient support in a rest position. The rest position corresponds, for example, to a support platform 2 that has not been moved horizontally.

[0066] The visible section of the cable guide 12 does not run horizontally in the ascent state. The cable guide 12 is arranged near the vertical cover, higher up or closer to the deck board 2, thus at a greater distance from the vertical cover. If the cable guide 12 continued to run only horizontally, it would collide with the uppermost cover element 12 and / or the intermediate section 4.

[0067] Fig. 4b shows a cross section through the patient support table 1 from Fig. 4a. The cross-section shows the route of the cable routing 12, which is actually concealed by the vertical cover 11. The cable routing 12 essentially runs outside the installation space 13 defined by the uppermost cover element 11a.

[0068] To prevent a collision between the cable guide and the vertical cover 11 or intermediate section 4, the support section 15 of the support device 14 changes to a second position in the ascending state. In the second position, the support section 15 lies above the pivot axis. Furthermore, in the ascending state or in the second position, the cable guide rests on the support section 15. In the second position, the support section 15 supports the cable guide 12 such that, in this area, also called the support section 18, it lies above the height of the pivot axis 17 and / or lies outside the installation space.

[0069] Fig. 5 shows a cable guide 12 designed as an energy chain. This consists of a plurality of individual chain links 12a, which are made, for example, of plastic parts with a rectangular cross-section. The individual chain links 12a are interconnected and pivotable relative to each other about corresponding pivot axes 12b, so that a defined movement or flexibility, as indicated by the two arrows in Fig. 5. The chain links 12a can thus pivot relative to one another, allowing the energy chain to essentially roll up and stretch. Movement of the chain links 12a relative to one another is only possible around the pivot axes 12b; movement in other spatial directions or planes is not possible. This means that the flexibility of the energy chain is only present in a defined plane.

[0070] The cable guide 12, in particular the energy chain, can comprise a flexible sheath 12c that completely surrounds the energy chain and consists, for example, of a suitable plastic film. This sheath 12c forms a closed surface that allows for easy cleaning.

Claims

[1] Patient support table (1) for supporting a patient comprising - a bed board (2) on which a patient can be placed, the bed board (2) being capable of assuming an ascent state at a first height and an operating state at a height greater than the first height, - a support device carrying the bed board (2), - a horizontal adjustment device (5) for horizontally displacing the bed board (2) in at least one direction, comprising a first drive means (10), - a vertical adjustment device (4) for adjusting the height of the bed board (2) and / or for changing between the ascent state and the operating state, comprising a second drive means (9), - a cable guide (12), wherein the cable guide (12) is designed to accommodate one or more supply and / or control lines, - an intermediate section (3) arranged between the lying board (2) and the vertical adjustment device (4), characterized bya support device (14), wherein the support device (14) is arranged in the intermediate section (3), wherein the support device (14) comprises a support section (15) which can be pivoted about a pivot axis (17), wherein the support section (15) is in a first position in the operating state and the support section (15) is in a second position in the ascent state, wherein the support section (15) in the second position lies at a height above the pivot axis (17) and / or the support section (15) in the first position lies at a height below or equal to the pivot axis (17), wherein the support device (14) is designed to entrain and / or support the cable guide (12) during a change from the operating state to the ascent state and / or from the first position to the second position, wherein the cable guide (12) rests and / or is supported in the support section (15) in the second position and / or in the ascent state. [2] Patient support table (1) according to claim 1, characterized by that the support device (14) forms and / or comprises a hinge. [3] Patient support table (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the support device (14) comprises a return device, wherein the return device is designed to bring the support section (15) into an initial position as soon as an actuating force falls below a return force of the return device. [4] Patient support table (1) according to claim 3, characterized by that the return device comprises a return spring, wherein the return force forms a spring tension force of the return spring. [5] Patient support table (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized byin that the support device (14) comprises a pin-shaped, cylindrical and / or pin-shaped actuating element, wherein the actuating element is arranged to initiate, assist and / or effect by applying force the change of the support section (15) from the first to the second position during a height adjustment of the reclining board (2) from the operating state to the ascent state when a minimum height is undershot. [6] Patient support table (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the cable guide (12) forms and / or comprises an energy chain. [7] Patient support table (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized byin that the cable guide (12) has a support section (18), wherein the support section (18) is supported and / or rests on the support section (15) in the ascending state, wherein the cable guide (12) in the support section (18) has a lower flexural rigidity than outside the support section (18) and / or the cable guide (12) in the support section is both positively and negatively curvable or deformable. [8] Patient support table (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bya vertical cover (11), wherein the vertical cover (11) is arranged below the intermediate section (3) and / or at least partially surrounds the vertical adjustment device (4), wherein the support section (15) and / or the support section (18) is arranged in the operating state in a construction space (13) formed by the vertical cover (11), wherein the support section (15) and / or the support section (18) is arranged outside the construction space (13) formed by the vertical cover (11) in the ascent state. [9] Patient support table (1) according to claim 8, characterized by that the vertical cover (11) forms a telescopic vertical cover (11) with a plurality of telescopic cover elements (11a). [10] Patient support table (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bya foot section and a superstructure section, wherein the foot section is arranged below the intermediate section (3), wherein the cable guide (12) extends from the foot section into the intermediate section (3), to the horizontal adjustment device (5) and / or the lying board (2). [11] Patient support table (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the horizontal adjustment device (5) is designed to move the lying board (2) in a longitudinal direction by at least 1700 mm. [12] Patient support table (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the first drive means (10) is arranged at a height greater than or equal to the height of the intermediate section (3). [13] Patient support table (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the second drive means (9) is arranged at a height less than or equal to the height of the intermediate section (3). [14] Patient support table (1) according to claim 12 or 13, characterized by that the first and / or the second drive means (9, 10) comprises one encoder module and one redundant encoder module per movement axis. [15] Patient support table (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the cable guide (12) is designed to accommodate at least 10 cables.

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