Medical imaging device with rail system and wiper unit

Abstract

The invention relates to a medical imaging device (1) comprising a gantry (20), a carriage (F) and a rail system (L), wherein the gantry (20) can be mounted movably by means of the carriage (F) and the rail system (L) such that a translational movement of the gantry (20) can be carried out along the rail system (L), wherein, when mounted on the rail system (L), a set of wheel-rail contacts (RL) is formed between the carriage (F) and the rail system (L), and wherein, on the carriage (F), along an axis of translational movement (AT), at least one first wiper unit (A) shaped to fit the rail system (L) is arranged upstream and / or downstream of a respective wheel-rail contact (RL), which, when mounted on the rail system (L), is in positive contact with the rail system (L).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a medical imaging device comprising a carriage, a rail system and a wiper unit arranged on the carriage and adapted to the shape of the rail system.

[0002] When a gantry of a medical imaging device is moved in a treatment room relative to an object, for example a patient who is positioned on a patient support device of the medical imaging device, it should be ensured during operation that the movement in the room can be carried out as smoothly as possible and that the rectification of operational disruptions and possible maintenance work is reduced to a minimum.

[0003] In a sliding gantry, the orientation and movement of the gantry are typically fixed by the rails. If such rail-guided systems are operated in an environment where contamination can occur, it is desirable to ensure that the rail system is reliably cleaned of contaminants that could damage the system or impede its operation. Known applications, for example, use a brush assembly on the medical imaging device or as a cover on the rails. However, reliable prevention or removal of contamination cannot always be guaranteed. Furthermore, low-maintenance and cost-effective operation is always desirable.

[0004] The object of the invention is to provide an improved mobile medical imaging device.

[0005] The problem is solved according to the invention by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments with expedient further developments are the subject matter of the dependent claims. Regardless of the grammatical gender of a particular term, persons of male, female or other gender identities are included.

[0006] The invention relates to a medical imaging device comprising a gantry, a carriage and a rail system, wherein the gantry can be mounted movably by means of the carriage and the rail system in such a way that a translational movement of the gantry can be carried out along the rail system, wherein, when mounted on the rail system, a set of wheel-rail contacts is formed between the carriage and the rail system, and wherein, on the carriage along an axis of the translational movement, at least one first wiper unit, which is form-fitted to the rail system, is arranged upstream or downstream of a respective wheel-rail contact, and which, when mounted on the rail system, is in positive contact with the rail system.

[0007] In particular, the rail system may be at rest relative to a base and / or be firmly anchored relative to the base. The rail system may be embedded in the base. The rail system may, in particular, form a linear guide for the carriage. The rail system may, in particular, define the axis(es), i.e., the path, of the translational movement. The rail system may, for example, comprise at least one pair of rails arranged parallel to each other.

[0008] For example, the medical imaging device may also include an examination table for positioning an object being examined. The examination table may be stationary relative to the rail system and / or relative to the base, and / or firmly anchored relative to the rail system and / or relative to the base. The object being examined may, for example, be a person being examined, particularly a patient, and / or be positioned on the examination table, particularly in a stationary position relative to the examination table.

[0009] The translational movement can occur relative to the rail system, the base surface, the examination table, and / or the object under investigation. The translational movement can be essentially horizontal. For example, the translational movement can occur along a straight path and / or a curved path. The base surface can be essentially horizontal. The base surface can be, for example, a floor, particularly the floor of an examination room, and / or include a base plate and / or a support.

[0010] In particular, the medical imaging device may include a computed tomography (CT) scanner. Accordingly, the gantry is then configured as a CT gantry. The CT gantry may, for example, have a support frame and a rotor rotatably mounted relative to the support frame, with the radiation source and the radiation detector arranged on the rotor. The radiation source and the radiation detector may work together to acquire a projection data set of the object under investigation. The CT gantry may, for example, have an opening. In particular, the rail system, the examination table, and the opening may be arranged relative to each other such that the translational movement of the CT gantry inserts the examination table into the opening, especially together with the object under investigation mounted on the examination table.

[0011] The medical imaging device can, for example, also be selected from the imaging modality group, which, in addition to a computed tomography (CT) scanner, includes an X-ray machine, a C-arm X-ray machine, a molecular imaging (MI) machine, a single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) machine, a positron emission tomography (PET) machine, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine, and combinations thereof, such as a PET-CT machine and a PET-MR machine. Furthermore, the medical imaging device can include a combination of an imaging modality, selected, for example, from the imaging modality group, and a radiation therapy modality. The radiation therapy modality can, for example, include a radiation unit for therapeutic irradiation.

[0012] In particular, the medical imaging device may be provided with a drive mechanism. The drive mechanism may be specifically designed to power the translational movement of the carriage.

[0013] In particular, the rail system may comprise a set of rails, and the carriage may have a set of wheels, the set of wheels being arranged to roll on the set of rails. For example, the carriage may have a direct wheel drive for each wheel of the set of wheels, which interacts with that wheel. The direct wheel drive may, for example, comprise an electric motor, in particular an electric wheel hub motor. In particular, the direct wheel drives of the wheels of the set of wheels may together form the drive system.

[0014] In particular, the set of rails and the set of wheels can be configured to form the wheel-rail contact system. For example, each rail of the set can be a round rail, and / or each wheel of the set can be a concave roller and / or designed to roll on a round rail. The rails and / or the wheels can be made of steel, for example. The round rails can advantageously be integrated into the floor without a cover or drive elements, allowing patient beds and instrument tables to pass over them.

[0015] The driving force for the translational movement of the computed tomography gantry can, for example, be transferred from the carriage to the rail system based on a force transmission, in particular a frictional transmission, between the wheels of the set of wheels and the rails of the set of rails.

[0016] The wiper unit is adapted to the rail system such that, when the carriage is mounted on the rail system, the first wiper unit is in positive contact with the rail system, i.e., in particular with at least one rail of the rail system. During translational movement, the wiper unit is guided positively over the rail system, specifically the surface of a rail, so that contaminants on the rail system are mechanically removed by the wiper unit. That is to say, the wiper unit is designed to mechanically remove contaminants from the rail system during the translational movement of the medical imaging device. This includes, in particular, that contaminants are wiped off a rail along the rail system by the wiper unit and pushed away with the translational movement of the medical device.

[0017] The wiper unit can extend at least over the length of each wheel-rail contact perpendicular to the axis of translational movement. In particular, the wiper unit can extend at least over the length of each rail of the rail system perpendicular to the axis of translational movement. For example, the wiper unit can also extend at least over the surrounding substrate around the rail system or its embedding. The wiper unit can then also be in positive contact with the surrounding substrate or the embedding. Advantageously, this allows for the removal of contaminants and / or better prevents them from redepositing onto the rail system.

[0018] Advantageously, the form-fitting contact of the wiper unit ensures that contaminants are reliably removed from the rail system, thus preventing any impairment of the medical imaging device or its operation. This is particularly advantageous due to its placement on the carriage, ensuring it is effective during every translational movement of the medical imaging device. Such a wiper unit can also be a component that is easy to manufacture and comprises few individual parts.

[0019] In particular, the first wiper unit can be spring-loaded and connected to the carriage. This means the wiper unit has a spring-loaded suspension on the carriage. Advantageously, the spring-loaded suspension is designed such that when the carriage is mounted on the rail system, the wiper unit is pressed onto the rail system by the spring in the suspension. Advantageously, the wiper unit is always in contact with the rail system. Advantageously, contamination can be removed more reliably by the wiper unit. Advantageously, even if the wiper unit wears down during the operating life of the medical device, contact and thus reliable cleaning of the rail system can be ensured for a longer period.

[0020] In particular, the part of the first stripping unit that is in contact with the rail system can be formed in one piece. This means that, specifically, the part of the stripping unit that is positively engaged with the rail system can be formed in one piece. The stripping unit as a whole can also be formed in multiple parts. For example, the stripping unit can include a holding unit, which is intended for connection with the carriage and holds the form-fitting, positively engaged, one-piece part of the stripping unit. Furthermore, the stripping unit A can also be divided into sections along its extension perpendicular to the axis of translational movement. In other embodiments, the stripping unit can also be formed as a single piece.Advantageously, the one-piece design of the first wiper unit, in the area of ​​contact with the rail system, avoids gaps that could reduce the cleaning effect of the rail system. The wiper unit can also be advantageously constructed from just a few components.

[0021] The part of the first wiper unit that is in contact with the rail system can, in particular, comprise a plastic, for example a rigid PVC, a rigid rubber, a metal or a composite material, for example a laminate or a fiber composite material.

[0022] Advantageously, a simple and durable provision of a shape-adapted scraper unit using widely available materials can be ensured, which can also guarantee the safe mechanical removal of contaminants.

[0023] In particular, it can be provided that the first wiper unit is positioned upstream of at least one wheel-rail contact in the direction of the nearest outward-facing front face of the carriage along the axis of translational movement. The first wiper unit is therefore arranged on the side of each wheel-rail contact facing the nearest outward-facing front face of the carriage. Advantageously, at least one wiper unit is located in alignment with each wheel-rail contact along the translational movement.

[0024] Furthermore, it can be provided that a second wiper unit is assigned to each wheel-rail contact, positioned downstream of the respective wheel-rail contact along the axis of translational movement and towards the nearest outward-facing front of the carriage. This means that a second wiper unit is also arranged on the side of each wheel-rail contact facing away from the nearest outward-facing front of the carriage. Advantageously, a wiper unit is located both upstream and downstream of each wheel, which removes contaminants particularly reliably. The second wiper unit can be essentially identical in design to the first wiper unit. However, it can, for example, also have a different extent perpendicular to the axis of translational movement.

[0025] However, the use of only one first wiper unit according to the previously described design variant in conjunction with a respective wheel-rail contact can already be sufficient and advantageously cost-effective, since the number of wiper units is reduced.

[0026] Furthermore, the first scraper unit can be designed so that, in a projection perpendicular to the axis of translation, it is flush with the nearest outward-facing front of the carriage. Advantageously, contaminants are held in front of the carriage by the scraper unit and can be more easily removed from the rail system by personnel. The scraper unit can also advantageously serve as a safety device against crushing by ensuring that safe maximum distances are maintained.

[0027] Furthermore, the first and / or second wiper unit may extend over a large portion of the carriage's length perpendicular to the axis of translational movement. This may include, in particular, the first and / or second wiper unit extending over the entire length of the carriage perpendicular to the axis of translational movement. It may also be provided that the first wiper unit is arranged circumferentially around the carriage. That is, the first wiper unit may be formed not only along the side of the carriage that extends perpendicular to the axis of translational movement, but also along the sides of the carriage that run parallel to the axis of translational movement. The wiper unit may, in particular, follow an outer contour of the carriage.

[0028] The wiper unit can be designed such that, in addition to its positive contact with the rail system, it also makes contact with the surface beneath the medical imaging device, even away from the rail system or the wheel-rail contacts. This allows the wiper unit to advantageously remove contaminants from the path of movement of the medical imaging device, which could potentially enter the rail system, and / or prevent contaminants from getting under the carriage of the medical imaging device. However, it is also possible for the wiper unit to have areas that do not make contact with the surface.

[0029] In particular, it can be provided that, when the carriage is mounted on the rail system, the distance between the underside of the first wiper unit and a surface beneath the carriage along the entire length of the first wiper unit is a maximum of 15 mm, preferably a maximum of 8 mm. This advantageously ensures, for example, safe distances to prevent crushing. This can be particularly advantageous with a circumferential arrangement of the wiper unit, as this allows for safe distances on all sides. However, even an extension across one front side of the carriage perpendicular to the translational movement can improve the safety of the medical imaging device, while simultaneously eliminating the need for further safety devices, at least in this area.In particularly advantageous designs, this is also implemented with a flush connection between the wiper unit and the carriage, as described above.

[0030] According to a further development of the medical imaging device, the medical imaging device also includes a lifting device, wherein the carriage and the gantry can be lifted from a bearing on the rail system and rotated about a vertical axis of rotation by means of the lifting device during the operation of the medical imaging device.

[0031] For example, the rail system comprises a first pair of rails arranged parallel to each other and a second pair of rails arranged parallel to each other, wherein the carriage and the gantry can be moved from a bearing on the first pair of rails to a bearing on the second pair of rails by means of the lifting device. For example, the axis of translational movement is then along one pair of rails when supported on the first pair of rails and along the second pair of rails when supported on the second pair of rails. For example, the rail system comprises only one pair of rails, wherein the medical imaging device can be rotated 180° and placed back onto the same pair of rails.The latter may be necessary in connection with the use of the medical imaging device in combination with two examination tables arranged along the pair of rails, although a front and back of the medical imaging device must be taken into account.

[0032] In particular, the first wiper unit can be arranged on the carriage so that it is deflectable in the lifting direction, such that the distance between the underside of the first wiper unit and the surface beneath the carriage remains at most 15 mm, preferably at most 8 mm, even when the carriage is lifted along the entire length of the wiper unit. Advantageously, safe distances can also be ensured when lifting the medical imaging device, for example, to prevent the risk of crushing.

[0033] The deflection can result solely from the force of gravity acting on the scraper unit. However, it can also be motor-assisted. In particular, it can be provided that a spring-loaded suspension of the scraper unit on the carriage has a spring travel which, when the carriage is lifted, allows the scraper unit to deflect towards the base relative to the carriage, so that a distance of a maximum of 15 mm, preferably a maximum of 8 mm, between the scraper unit and the base is ensured.

[0034] The necessary spring travel can result in particular from the height at which the medical imaging device is regularly lifted during operation and from the design of the wiper unit. In addition to lifting during operation, there may also be a way to lift the medical imaging device for maintenance purposes, although in this case it is not necessarily required to guarantee a maximum distance or to adjust the deflection range of the wiper unit.

[0035] Furthermore, it may be provided that the first wiper unit has connecting means which interact with counter-connecting means on the carriage in such a way that repeated, non-destructive removal and attachment of the wiper unit from the carriage is possible without the use of tools.

[0036] For example, a recess may be provided on the carriage that allows the wiper unit or a retaining element of the wiper unit to be inserted into the carriage. However, other options are also possible. It may also be the case that, instead of tool-free removal and attachment, a tool is required. For example, corresponding holes or similar features may be provided on the carriage or the wiper unit, which, in conjunction with screws, allow for repeated attachment and removal. The former, however, allows for a conveniently simple replacement of the wiper unit, even for inexperienced users, and also advantageously eliminates the need for any tools.

[0037] Furthermore, it may be provided that the carriage has a collision sensor comprising a collision strip following a contour of the carriage, which is positioned in front of the first scraper unit at least in the direction of the nearest, outwardly facing front of the carriage.

[0038] In particular, the collision sensor can be configured to trigger a change in the state of the medical imaging device upon detection of a collision with the collision bar, specifically to stop the movement and / or an image acquisition sequence. This advantageously avoids damage to the colliding object and / or the medical imaging device and / or unnecessary radiation exposure.

[0039] In particular, the collision sensor can be configured to trigger a visual or audible warning signal upon detecting a collision with the collision bar, especially in addition to a previously described change in state. This allows medical personnel to be alerted to such an event and react accordingly in a timely manner.

[0040] In addition to the collision bar, the collision sensor may also include at least one collision measuring probe, which is designed to detect a deflection of the collision bar, in particular a deflection of the collision bar relative to the vehicle.

[0041] The collision detection probe can be configured to detect the deflection of the collision bar tactilely or non-contactly, for example, by using a pressure-sensitive piezoelectric sensor or a laser-based optical distance sensor. Other configurations are also possible.

[0042] For example, the collision strip can comprise a metal, a plastic, such as a rigid PVC, or a composite material, such as a laminate or a fiber-reinforced plastic composite.

[0043] The collision strip can be arranged, in particular, at least on one front of the carriage, i.e., in front of the carriage along the axis of translational movement. The collision strip can extend over the entire height of the carriage perpendicular to the base or only partially extend beyond it. Advantageously, it can be formed not only along the first side but also on at least one other side of the carriage, so that collisions can be detected on other sides as well.

[0044] In particular, the collision strip can be arranged close to the floor of the trolley. This means that when the trolley is mounted on the rail system, the distance between the underside of the collision strip facing the surface beneath the medical imaging device and the surface can be less than 2 cm, advantageously less than 10 mm, and particularly less than 8 mm. Specifically, the collision strip can be designed such that, when the trolley is mounted on the rail system, the distance between the underside of the collision strip and the surface beneath the trolley is a maximum of 8 mm. In this way, the collision strip on the trolley can also advantageously ensure that maximum distances, for example with regard to the risk of crushing, are maintained.

[0045] In particular, it can be provided that the collision strip has an opening in the alignment of each wheel-rail contact, which allows access to the scraper unit according to the invention. The opening can extend at least over the dimensions of a respective wheel or at least over the dimensions of the scraper unit parallel to the first side of the carriage, i.e., perpendicular to the axis of translational movement.

[0046] In particular, the collision strip can obstruct access to a wiper unit, a section of the wheels, or a specific wheel-rail contact. Advantageously, an opening in the collision strip can provide access to a specific wiper unit, a specific wheel, and / or the area of ​​a wheel-rail contact, and / or any other components on the carriage located in the area of ​​the wheel or a specific wheel-rail contact. This can advantageously facilitate maintenance, cleaning, and / or replacement.

[0047] The opening can extend over only a portion of the collision bar's height or over its entire height. For example, the collision bar may have a continuous frame extending across its entire length, with the openings extending over only a portion of the bar's height.

[0048] Furthermore, it may be provided that the respective openings of the collision strip are fitted with a cover. This allows, in particular, an uninterrupted collision strip to be achieved, which is advantageous for safe deployment.

[0049] The cover can be made of the same material as the collision strip. However, a different material may also be used.

[0050] The cover can be attached to the collision strip via fasteners that require a tool, such as screws, to remove and attach the cover in front of the opening. Preferably, however, the cover has fasteners that interact with corresponding fasteners on the collision strip in such a way that repeated opening and closing of the opening—i.e., repeated removal and attachment of the cover—is possible without the need for a tool. This is advantageous because no special tool is required, and it facilitates operation, even for untrained personnel.

[0051] For example, the cover can be hinged to the collision strip. In this case, the connecting and counter-connecting elements can each be interacting hinge components located on the cover and the collision strip, respectively. For instance, the cover can be attached to the collision strip using a tongue-and-groove mechanism. Alternatively, the cover can simply be inserted into a recess on the collision strip. Here, too, ease of use and implementation is advantageous. Furthermore, there may be other ways to attach the cover to the collision strip that eliminate the need for tools to repeatedly open and close the opening.

[0052] In particular, it can be provided that the cover is rigidly connected to the collision strip during operation of the medical imaging device and / or secured against unintentional opening, for example, in the event of a collision in the area of ​​the cover. This can be ensured by the design of the connecting and counter-connecting elements themselves or by additional fixing means, such as a latch or fixing hook. The latter are advantageously designed in such a way that opening and closing is possible repeatedly and without the use of tools.

[0053] Within the scope of the invention, features described in relation to different embodiments of the invention can be combined to form further embodiments of the invention. The use of the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not preclude the possibility that the feature in question may be present multiple times.

[0054] The invention is explained below with reference to exemplary embodiments and the accompanying figures. The representation in the figures is schematic, highly simplified, and not necessarily to scale. The Fig. Figure 1 shows a section of a medical imaging device with a wiper unit in a front view according to one variant. Fig. Figure 2 shows a section of a medical imaging device with a scraper unit in a front view according to another variant, Fig. Figure 3 shows a side view of a medical imaging device with one arrangement of wiper units on the carriage. Fig. Figure 4 shows a side view of a medical imaging device with another arrangement variant of a wiper unit on the carriage, Fig. Figure 5 shows a carriage of a liftable, rotatable medical imaging device with a wiper unit in a top view, Fig. Figure 6 shows a section of a liftable medical imaging device with a wiper unit in a front view according to one variant in a lifted state. Fig. 7 and Fig. Figure 8 each shows a section of a liftable medical imaging device with a wiper unit in a front view according to a further variant in two states, and Fig. Figure 9 shows a section of a medical imaging device with a wiper unit and a collision bar in a front view.

[0055] Fig. Figure 1 shows a lower section of a medical imaging device 1 with a carriage F and a scraper unit A in a front view according to one variant.

[0056] The medical imaging device 1 comprises a gantry 20, a carriage F, and a rail system L, wherein the gantry 20 can be movably mounted by means of the carriage F and the rail system L such that a translational movement of the gantry 20 can be performed along the rail system L, wherein, when mounted on the rail system L, a set of wheel-rail contacts RL is formed between the carriage F and the rail system L. Furthermore, on the carriage F, at least one first wiper unit A, which is form-fitted to the rail system L, is arranged upstream or downstream of each wheel-rail contact RL along the axis of the translational movement AT, and which, when mounted on the rail system L, is in positive contact with the rail system L.

[0057] The rail system L is fixed relative to the base U and forms a linear guide for the carriage F. The base U can be substantially horizontal. For example, the base U can be a floor, particularly the floor of an examination room, and / or a floor slab and / or a support. Specifically, the rail system L comprises a set of rails in the form of a pair of rails arranged parallel to each other. This set is embedded in the base U. The translational movement of the medical imaging device 1 can then occur substantially horizontally along the axis of translation AT, which is defined by the rail system L, and horizontally to the base.

[0058] The medical imaging device 1 may also include an examination table for holding an object under examination (not shown here), which rests relative to the rail system L and / or the base area U.

[0059] The medical imaging device 1 comprises, for example, a computed tomography (CT) scanner with a CT gantry 20. The CT gantry 20 has an opening OE. In particular, the rail system L, the examination table, and the opening OE are arranged relative to each other such that the examination table is inserted into the opening OE by the translational movement of the CT gantry 20. However, the medical imaging device 1 can also correspond to a different imaging modality or be a combination with a radiation modality.

[0060] The set of rails is still designed as round rails, with the carriage F having a set of wheels R, here designed as concave rollers, the set of wheels R being arranged to roll on the set of rails. The carriage F can have a direct wheel drive for each wheel R, for example an electric motor, which interacts with the wheel, the wheel direct drives together forming a drive system for powering the translational movement of the carriage F. However, other implementations are also possible.

[0061] In the representation in Fig. Figure 1 shows a wiper unit A according to the invention on the right side, indicated only by the dashed line, so that the arrangement of wheel R to rail is recognizable. According to the invention, a wiper unit A is assigned to each wheel-rail contact RL. This includes, as shown here in Fig. 1. It is provided that at least one first scraper unit A is provided separately for each wheel-rail contact RL. However, this may also include, as in Fig. Figure 2 illustrates that, for example, two wheel-rail contacts RL arranged at the same height relative to the axis of translational movement AT are assigned a common, first wiper unit A.

[0062] The wiper unit A assigned to each wheel-rail contact RL in the Fig. The exemplary variant shown in Figure 1 extends over the area of ​​each wheel-rail contact RL and also over the surrounding environment around each rail, in particular its embedding. In other embodiments, this may be configured differently. The wiper unit A is adapted to the rail system L, i.e., in particular to the shape of the respective rail, and is in positive contact with the rail system L when the medical imaging device 1 is mounted on it. During the translational movement of the medical imaging device 1 along the axis of translational movement AT, the wiper unit A is guided positively over the rail system L, in particular the surface of each rail of the set of rails, so that contaminants on the rail system L are mechanically removed by the wiper unit A during the translational movement, i.e., wiped off and pushed away.Furthermore, in this variant, the scraper unit A is also shaped to fit the surrounding surface around the rail and is in positive contact here as well, so that the removal of contaminants is also possible here.

[0063] In the advantageous embodiment shown, each wiper unit A is connected to the carriage F via at least one spring-loaded suspension S. For clarity, a gap between wiper unit A and rail L is shown in the illustration. However, the spring-loaded suspension S is advantageously designed such that, when the carriage F is mounted on the rail system L, the wiper unit A is pressed onto the rail system L by the spring in the suspension S, thus maintaining advantageous contact with the rail system L at all times, and particularly even after wear of the wiper unit A.

[0064] Furthermore, at least the part of the wiper unit A that is in contact with the rail system L is advantageously designed as a single piece and can, for example, comprise a plastic, such as rigid PVC, a hard rubber, a metal, or a composite material, such as a laminate or a fiber-reinforced composite. The wiper unit A as a whole can also be designed in multiple parts. For example, the wiper unit A can also include a retaining unit, which is intended for connection to the carriage or the spring-loaded suspensions S and holds the form-fitting, positively engaging, single-piece part of the wiper unit A.

[0065] The respective wiper unit A is also positioned in front of a respective wheel-rail contact RL in the direction of the nearest outwardly facing front side FS of the carriage F along the axis AT of the translational movement (see also, for example, Fig. 3), so that along the translational movement at least one scraper unit A is in line with a respective wheel-rail contact RL.

[0066] Fig. Figure 2 shows a section of a medical imaging device 1 with a scraper unit A in a front view according to another variant.

[0067] The wiping unit A is constructed similarly here as in Fig. 1 and also connected to the carriage F via sprung suspensions S, however, in the variant shown here, the scraper unit A extends differently than in Fig. 1 over a large part, and in particular the entire, extent of the carriage F perpendicular to the axis of translational movement AT. Thus, a common wiper unit A extends over two wheel-rail contacts RL.

[0068] The wiper unit A is designed such that, apart from the positive-locking contact with the rail system L, it is also in contact with the base U under the medical imaging device 1 away from the rail system or the wheel-rail contacts RL, and in particular between the wheel-rail contacts RL. Advantageously, contaminants can also be removed from the path of movement of the medical imaging device 1 by the wiper unit A.

[0069] In other embodiments, the scraper unit A may have areas along its length that are not in contact with the base surface U. Advantageously, when the carriage F is mounted on the rail system L, the distance between an underside of the scraper unit A and the base surface U under the carriage F along the entire length of the scraper unit A may be a maximum of 15 mm, preferably a maximum of 8 mm, so that safe distances can be ensured, for example, to prevent the risk of crushing by the scraper unit A.

[0070] Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 4 shows a side view of a medical imaging device 1 with a variant arrangement of one or more wiper units A on the carriage F. For the sake of clarity, only the rail system L and not the base area U are shown here.

[0071] In Fig. Figure 3 shows, in a side view, at least one first scraper unit A assigned to each wheel-rail contact RL, which is positioned upstream of at least one wheel-rail contact RL in the direction of the nearest outward-facing front face FS of the carriage F along the axis AT of the translational movement. That is, the scraper units A are each arranged in the direction of an outer edge of the carriage F relative to a respective wheel-rail contact RL on the carriage, so that during a translational movement in either direction along the axis AT of the translational movement, at least one scraper unit A is aligned with a respective wheel-rail contact RL and has cleaned the rail before the carriage with its wheels R moves over it. The scraper units A shown here can be arranged, for example, as in Fig. 1 or in Fig. 2 be trained.

[0072] It can also be provided, shown here with dashed lines, that a second wiper unit A is assigned to each wheel-rail contact RL. This second wiper unit is positioned downstream of the wheel-rail contact RL in the direction of the nearest outward-facing front face FS of the carriage F along the axis AT of the translational movement. In other words, a second wiper unit A is also arranged on the side of each wheel-rail contact RL facing away from the nearest outward-facing front face FS of the carriage F. Thus, a wiper unit A is present both upstream and downstream of each wheel-rail contact RL. The second wiper unit A can be essentially identical in design to the first wiper unit A. However, it can also differ in design from the first wiper unit A and, for example, have a different extent perpendicular to the axis of translational movement AT.

[0073] Fig. Figure 4 shows a side view of a further variant with a circumferential wiper unit A. This means that the first wiper unit A is not only formed along the side of the carriage F that extends perpendicular to the axis AT of the translational movement, but also on the sides of the carriage F that run parallel to the axis AT of the translational movement. In particular, the wiper unit A can follow an outer contour of the carriage F.

[0074] The wiper unit A can also be designed such that, apart from the positive-locking contact with the rail system L, it is also in contact with the base surface U away from the rail system or the wheel-rail contacts RL, so that contaminants are removed from the path of movement of the medical imaging device by the wiper unit and / or it is also prevented from contaminants getting under the carriage F of the medical imaging device 1. For an advantageous embodiment, however, it can at least be provided that, when the carriage F is mounted on the rail system L, the distance between an underside of the wiper unit A and a base surface U under the carriage F along the entire extent of the wiper unit A is a maximum of 15 mm, preferably a maximum of 8 mm, so that safe clearances can even be provided all around the carriage F by the wiper unit A.

[0075] In all previously described variants and as in Fig. 3 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 4, it can also be provided that the first scraper unit A, in a projection perpendicular to the axis of translational movement AT, is flush with the nearest outwardly facing front face FS of the carriage along the axis of translational movement AT, or, in the case of a rotating arrangement, also with the sides of the carriage F that are parallel to the axis of translational movement AT. Advantageously, contaminants are retained by the scraper unit in front of the carriage F and can, if necessary, be more easily removed from the rail system L by personnel. Advantageously, the scraper unit A can be used particularly advantageously to maintain safety distances on the carriage F.

[0076] Fig. Figure 5 shows an example of a medical imaging device 1 comprising a lifting device HV, wherein the carriage F and the gantry 20 can be lifted from a bearing on the rail system L by means of the lifting device HV during operation of the medical imaging device 1 and rotated about a vertical axis of rotation RT. Specifically, only the carriage F and not the gantry 20 is illustrated here for clarity.

[0077] In particular, the rail system L here exemplifies a first pair of rails arranged parallel to each other and a second pair of rails arranged parallel to each other, wherein the carriage F and the gantry 20 can be moved from a bearing on the first pair of rails to a bearing on the second pair of rails by means of a lifting device HV. Each axis of translational movement is then oriented to the respective pair of rails on which the carriage F is mounted. However, other configurations are also possible.

[0078] The medical imaging device 1 shown here features, by way of example, a circumferential wiper unit A. However, it could also have a wiper unit A of a different design.

[0079] In advantageous embodiments, a medical imaging device 1, which can be lifted by means of a lifting device HV, can have a wiper unit A arranged on the carriage F so that it is deflectable in the lifting direction, such that the distance d between the underside of the wiper unit A and the base U under the carriage F is a maximum of 15 mm, preferably a maximum of 8 mm, even when the carriage F is lifted along the entire extent of the wiper unit A. Such a wiper unit A is exemplified in the following variants. Fig. Illustrated in 6 to 8.

[0080] This shows Fig. 6 a medical imaging device 1 in a raised position with a wiper unit A similar to that in Fig. 2, which extends over the entire length of the carriage F perpendicular to the axis AT of the translational motion. However, it could also be circumferential, as in Fig. 5 indicated, his.

[0081] In particular, it can be provided that the spring-loaded suspensions S of the wiper unit A on the carriage F have a spring travel f which, when the carriage F of the wiper unit A is lifted, allows a deflection in the direction of the base U relative to the carriage F (indicated by the arrows on the suspensions S), so that the distance d of a maximum of 15 mm, preferably a maximum of 8 mm, between the wiper unit A and the substantially horizontal base U is ensured. Advantageously, even when the medical imaging device 1 is lifted, safe distances can be ensured, for example, to prevent the risk of crushing.

[0082] In this training variant, the wiper unit A is connected to the carriage along its entire length by means of suspensions S, which allow only a single, combined deflection for the entire wiper unit A. This can be disadvantageous if the wiper unit A has protrusions or similar features, as seen here in the area of ​​the form-fitting in the region of the rail system L embedded in the base U, and maximum safety distances d are still to be guaranteed, as this can, for example, lead to limitations regarding the maximum possible protrusions. If, for instance, a maximum distance d of 8 mm is to be guaranteed along the entire length of the wiper unit A, even when the carriage F is lifted and rotated, then in the example shown here, any protrusion would only have a height of less than 8 mm, so that lifting and, if necessary, rotating the medical imaging device would even be possible.

[0083] Another variant is in the Fig. 7 and Fig. Figure 8 shows the same medical imaging device 1 in a state mounted on the rail system L ( Fig. 7) and an elevated state ( Fig. 8) shows and which overcomes this disadvantage via separately designed suspensions S with different spring travels f1, f2 in different areas of the wiper unit A.

[0084] In particular, the wiper unit A is divided into several sections. However, the part of the wiper unit A that is in direct contact with the rail system L remains a single, continuous piece. The sections divide the wiper unit A into sections of similar design. However, the subdivision could also be chosen differently. Furthermore, each section is equipped with at least one independent spring-loaded suspension S on the carriage F, which can have different spring travels f1, f2. When the medical imaging device 1 is lifted, as in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 8, the different spring travels f1, f2 allow for different deflections of the various sections. For example, a section of the wiper unit A between the sections adapted to the rail system L can deflect more than the section of the wiper unit A that is adapted to the rail system L. In this way, a greater overall stroke height for the medical imaging device can be achieved, while simultaneously ensuring a maximum distance d between the underside of the wiper unit A and the base U.

[0085] Here, as in the previously described implementations of the medical imaging device 1, any gaps occurring between the carriage F and the wiper unit A may be covered with (flexible) covers to avoid gaps between the carriage F and the wiper unit A.

[0086] Fig. Figure 9 shows a section of a medical imaging device 1 with a scraper unit A and a collision bar K in a front view.

[0087] The medical imaging device 1 and the wiper unit A can essentially be configured, for example, as shown in Fig. The system is described in section 1. The carriage F has a collision sensor comprising a collision strip K that follows the contour of the carriage F and is positioned in front of the first scraper unit A at least in the direction of the nearest, outwardly facing front side FS of the carriage F. The collision strip can, for example, comprise a metal, a plastic (e.g., rigid PVC), or a composite material (e.g., a laminate or a fiber-reinforced plastic composite).

[0088] In particular, the collision sensor may be configured to cause a change in the state of the medical imaging device 1 upon detection of a collision with the collision bar K, in particular to stop the movement and / or an image acquisition sequence, and / or to trigger a visual or audible warning signal.

[0089] In addition to the collision bar K, the collision sensor also includes at least one collision measuring probe, which is designed to detect a deflection of the collision bar K in response to a collision, in particular a deflection of the collision bar K relative to the carriage F. The deflection can be detected tactilely or without contact, for example by means of a pressure-sensitive piezoelectric sensor or a laser-based optical distance sensor.

[0090] The collision strip K is arranged, in particular, at least on one front of the carriage F, i.e., upstream of the carriage along the axis of translational movement. Advantageously, especially in the case of a rotating medical imaging device 1, it is formed not only along one front side FS, but also on at least one other side of the carriage F, so that collisions can also be detected on other sides of the carriage. Furthermore, the collision strip K is arranged close to the ground, advantageously such that, when the carriage F is mounted on the rail system L, the distance between the underside of the collision strip K and the base U under the carriage is a maximum of 8 mm. In this way, the collision strip on the carriage advantageously ensures that maximum distances are maintained, for example, to prevent crushing injuries.

[0091] In particular, the collision strip K further features an opening O in the alignment of each wheel-rail contact RL, which allows access to the scraper unit A. The opening O extends at least across the dimensions of the scraper unit A parallel to the first side of the carriage F, i.e., perpendicular to the axis of translational movement AT.

[0092] The opening O here extends only over a portion of the height of the collision bar K. This means the collision bar has a continuous frame. However, the opening O could also extend over the entire height of the collision bar K.

[0093] Furthermore, each opening O of the collision strip is advantageously provided with a cover SK. This allows, in particular, an uninterrupted collision strip K to be achieved. The cover SK can be made of the same or a different material as the collision strip K.

[0094] According to an advantageous embodiment, the cover SK has connecting elements V which interact with counter-connecting elements GV on the collision strip K in such a way that repeated opening and closing of the opening O is possible without the use of tools. This eliminates the need for special tools and facilitates operation, even for untrained personnel. In the illustrated case, the cover is hinged to the collision strip, as shown on the right. In this case, the connecting elements V and counter-connecting elements GV are each interacting hinge components located on the cover SK and the collision strip K, respectively. However, the cover SK can also be attached to the collision strip K in other ways, for example, by means of a tongue-and-groove mechanism.

[0095] Here, as in the variants described above, the first wiper unit A can also have connecting elements which interact with counter-connecting elements on the carriage F in such a way that the wiper unit A can be removed from the carriage without the use of tools, thus ensuring an advantageously simple replacement of the wiper unit A, even for inexperienced users, and advantageously eliminating the need for any tools.

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