Patient positioning table for positioning a patient

Abstract

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 treatment tables, multiple axes, e.g., six axes, are required, each equipped with a motor. For precise movement, a position sensor is necessary for each motorized axis. Additionally, a redundant, identical sensor is used to eliminate the risk of table failure and ensure safe radiation or treatment of the patient.

[0005] These specific requirements necessitate a large number of cables that must be routed to the individual axes. For example, a six-axis examination table requires 22 cables that must be laid horizontally over a travel distance of approximately 1900 mm.

[0006] Laying the cables requires a considerable amount of space. Due to the limited space available, it is not possible to run the wiring for the axle drives along the superstructure. Therefore, an alternative solution must be found to safely route the cables while still ensuring the efficient operation of the stretcher.

[0007] Furthermore, it is of great importance to keep the step-up height for the patient as low as possible. This means that the design of the couch must be adapted accordingly to allow for 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 numerous cables in such beds, space-saving bellows solutions have traditionally been used as covers for the moving axles. However, these solutions have several disadvantages. Firstly, cleaning such bellows solutions is difficult. Secondly, due to their elasticity, they tend to develop cracks from environmental influences, and fabric remnants can detach over the product's lifespan. Furthermore, these bellows solutions are significantly less robust against external influences compared to 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 solve this problem, the invention provides a patient positioning table for positioning a patient according to claim 1. Advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims, 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 positioning table according to the invention is designed for positioning a patient. The patient positioning table comprises: - a lying board on which a patient can be positioned, - a horizontal adjustment device for horizontal displacement of the lying board in at least one direction, comprising a first drive means, - a vertical adjustment device for adjusting the height of the lying board, comprising a second drive means ( ), - a drive 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 drive module, - a conduit system, wherein the conduit system is designed to accommodate one or more supply and / or control lines, wherein the conduit system runs in an S-shape and / or is arranged 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 examination 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 radiolucency. The table allows for safe and comfortable patient positioning to achieve optimal imaging results or precise radiation delivery. It preferably features a smooth surface for easy cleaning and disinfection. Furthermore, the table can be equipped with special attachment points to securely fix 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 mechanism is used to adjust the height of the treatment table. This allows the table to be set to an ergonomic working height and the patient to be positioned comfortably. Additionally, the vertical adjustment mechanism can be used to switch between the access and operating positions.

[0021] The vertical adjustment mechanism may include a second drive mechanism that enables height adjustment of the lying surface. Examples of such drive mechanisms are: 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 movement, pneumatic drives can also be used for vertical adjustment. By controlling the air pressure, the lying board can be positioned at the desired height.

[0025] These drive mechanisms enable flexible and precise height adjustment of the treatment bed to meet the requirements of medical care. They offer comfort for the patient and facilitate the work of medical staff.

[0026] The drive module is preferably movable, travelable, and / or positionable in the longitudinal direction. The longitudinal direction is particularly in a horizontal plane. Preferably, the lying board has a head section for positioning a patient's head and a foot section for positioning the patient's feet, the head and foot sections being spaced apart longitudinally. The drive module is particularly movable forwards and backwards in the longitudinal direction. In particular, the drive module can include and / or be connected to a drive element, sensors, and / or controls, so that the drive module can be moved and / or positioned in a controlled manner over predefinable distances. The drive module is particularly designed to carry the lying board, the vertical adjustment device, and / or the horizontal adjustment device along with it during its longitudinal movement.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, arranged, and / or provided for arrangement on a floor and / or substrate. The guide section comprises at least one, preferably at least or exactly two, and in particular at least three guide elements. The guide elements can, for example, be designed as rails, in particular guide rails. The guide element, and 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, and preferably all guide elements, are aligned in the same direction and / or parallel. The guide element(s) are designed, in particular, to guide and / or act as rails for the drive module. In particular, the longitudinal traversability and / or positionability of the drive module 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 based on a composite material or a plastic.

[0028] The cable guide is designed to accommodate supply and / or control cables. Its purpose is to guide the cables neatly and safely, preventing tripping hazards, entanglements, and ensuring the movement of components is not restricted or endangered. In particular, the cable guide is designed to protect the cables against wear, breakage, and / or abrasion. The cable guide preferably has a hollow profile. Specifically, the cable guide is flexible and / or bendable in at least one dimension. The cable guide can be based on a plurality of links, such as chain links or ring segments, which are movable and / or tiltable relative to each other about at least one axis.

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

[0030] According to the invention, the cable routing in the guide section follows an S-shape. An S-shape is understood to be a curved path and / or a curved line that resembles the letter "S". Preferably, the S-shaped path of the cable routing describes a symmetrical curve. Furthermore, the S-shaped path 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 as a meandering path and / or 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 the routing of cables in the guide section, particularly in the base area, to be especially space-saving and adapted to the other components and the surrounding environment. In particular, this allows for the implementation of additional travel paths and / or cables / cable routing. Furthermore, the invention offers additional advantages. It enables high cycle counts, can be implemented in acceptable installation spaces, and ensures consistent noise levels and smooth operation. High reliability minimizes downtime, and lower product costs offer economic benefits. The use of primarily statically routed cables for patient monitoring and axis drives ensures a robust design. Simple assembly reduces installation time, as does the reduced number of components, which further contributes to a more robust design. Overall, the invention represents an attractive solution for various applications.The routing of the pipes within a closed profile ensures a high level of hygiene. All draining liquids do not penetrate the interior of the horizontal axis, 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 that the guide section comprises a longitudinally extending guide channel. The guide channel can be designed as a groove. In particular, the guide 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 routing. In other words, the cable routing can be inserted and / or guided in the guide channel or guide channel section, so that it is protected in the guide channel from external influences, e.g., force and / or dirt. The cable routing 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] Preferably, the guide section has a closed profile, in particular a profile that is closed at the top and / or sides. Specifically, the guide section channel is closed at the top and / or sides and / or longitudinally so that no dirt, liquids, and / or external forces can enter or act upon the guide section channel and / or the pipework. In particular, the guide section and / or the guide section channel is covered, closed, and / or limited at the top by a cover.

[0036] Specifically, the patient positioning table is designed to have a base section. This base section is, in particular, a lower section. A main section of the patient positioning table can be arranged on and / or connected to this base section, the main section potentially comprising the lying surface and the vertical and horizontal adjustment mechanisms. The base section is connectable to a surface and / or floor. For example, the base section is positively connected to the floor, either by means of a force-fit, friction-fit, or material bond; specifically, the base section is screwed to the floor. The base section specifically includes the guide section. Specifically, the guide section, in particular the guide elements and / or deflection modules, is fixed and / or connected to the floor, for example, by screws.

[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] Preferably, the drive module comprises a drive for moving and / or positioning the drive module along the guide section. The drive can include a motor, in particular an electric motor. Furthermore, the drive module can include a control unit and / or be connected to a control unit via data transmission, whereby the drive module can be moved, positioned, and / or placed in a targeted, controlled, and / or regulated manner by means of the drive and the control unit. The drive module or the drive can be connected to the control unit via a cable, the cable preferably being arranged in the cable routing. The drive is preferably arranged in the side section.

[0039] Furthermore, the drive module may include a sensor for detecting the movement and / or positioning of the drive module along the guide section. The sensor is preferably arranged in the side section. The sensor may be optical, inductive, or another type of sensor for detecting position and / or movement. The sensor is preferably connected to the drive module's control system via data transmission and / or configured to control and / or regulate the drive of the drive module.

[0040] Further advantages, effects, and features are shown in the attached figures and their descriptions. These illustrate: 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. Make a horizontal cut 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 positioning table 1 includes 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 positioning table 1 comprises a guide section 6. The guide section 6 is arranged on a base section 7 and screwed or connected to it. The guide section 6 has a hollow profile, which is closed in the longitudinal direction L by means of a cover 8. The drive module 9 has two side sections 10, which are, for example, positively connected to the guide section, so that the guide section 6 guides the drive 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 in 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. Here, the arrangement of the cable guide 14 in the guide section channels 12, as well as the rotatable mounting of the deflection modules 13, is more clearly visible. Furthermore, the positive engagement of the side sections 10 with the guide section 6, or the guide elements 11, is evident.

[0048] The drive module 9 has a sensor 15, which is designed to detect longitudinal movement, travel distance, and / or position. The sensor 15 is connected to a control unit for a drive of the drive module 9, so that the drive module can be positioned at desired positions and / or moved 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.Figure 4 shows a horizontal section through the guide section 6. A top view reveals the S-shaped course of the conduit 14 within the guide section. The S-shape corresponds to an elongated S or resembles an integral sign. The bends in the area of ​​the deflection modules 13 form the two bends of the S-shape. Before, between, and after the deflection modules 13, the conduit runs essentially straight. Preferably, the conduit runs essentially parallel to each other and / or in the same direction as the guide elements 11 within the guide section channels. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts 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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