Floating cradle patient table with multi-modality imaging capability

Abstract

To provide a patient table (46) for a computed tomography (CT) imaging system (10).SOLUTION: The patient table (46) includes a base (52). The patient table (46) also includes a floating cradle (50) configured to support a subject (22) to be imaged and to move bi-directionally relative to the base (52). The patient table (46) further includes a fixed structure (78) coupled to the base (52). The patient table (46) further includes a plurality of rollers (84) mounted on the fixed structure (78). The rollers (84) are configured both to guide and to support the floating cradle (50). The floating cradle (50) is configured to guide itself when extending beyond the fixed structure (78).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The subject matter disclosed herein relates to imaging systems and, more particularly, to a floating cradle patient table with multi-modality imaging capabilities. [Background technology]

[0002] Noninvasive imaging techniques allow images of internal structures or features of a patient to be obtained without subjecting the patient to invasive procedures. In particular, such noninvasive imaging techniques rely on various physical principles, such as the differential transmission of x-rays or the reflection of acoustic waves through a target volume, to acquire data and construct an image or otherwise represent the observed internal features of the patient.

[0003] For example, in computed tomography (CT) and other x-ray based imaging techniques, x-ray radiation is directed at an object of interest, such as a human patient, and a portion of the radiation strikes a detector from which image data is collected. In digital x-ray systems, a photodetector generates a signal that represents the amount or intensity of radiation incident on individual pixel areas on the detector surface. The signal is processed to generate an image that can be displayed and viewed. In CT imaging systems, a detector array, which includes a series of detector elements, generates similar signals through various positions as the gantry is displaced around the patient.

[0004] The patient is moved into and out of the bore of the gantry of the CT scanner via a patient table. A typical CT patient table typically includes a long stationary beam structure (e.g., a push-beam structure) on which a linear motion guide rail is attached to guide the patient support cradle when moving into and out of the gantry. Such a structure of the patient table imposes constraints on the layout of the room size for the CT system installation. In addition, the maneuvering of the gantry cover of the gantry brings difficulties to field engineers when performing service due to the long beam structure of the CT patient table. Overall, the structure of a typical CT table is bulky, which complicates the packaging, transportation, rigging, and installation. Furthermore, the long beam structure of the CT patient table does not allow or support the use of some radiology, treatments, or procedures (e.g., interventional radiography, image-guided therapy, fluoroscopy, angiography, etc.) in conjunction with other imaging devices (e.g., fixed-radiology, fluoroscopy, fixed C-arm, mobile C-arm, etc.). In particular, due to the scan range movement of the CT patient table cradle for CT scans, the patient tables of these other imaging devices cannot be used for CT-based radiology, treatments, or procedures. The CT gantry requires floor-mounted linear motion guide rails, and larger scans are required to enable this. Furthermore, to enable this, the structure of the CT patient table becomes very complex and bulky (and expensive), and the length of the table is significantly increased (e.g., 80 percent), which increases the deflection of the table cradle and creates challenges with respect to image quality. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Certain embodiments commensurate in scope with the originally claimed subject matter are summarized below. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter; rather, these embodiments are intended only to provide a brief summary of possible forms of the subject matter. Indeed, the subject matter may encompass a variety of forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments set forth below.

[0006] In one embodiment, a patient table for a computed tomography (CT) imaging system is provided. The patient table includes a base. The patient table also includes a floating cradle configured to support a subject to be imaged and move bidirectionally relative to the base. The patient table further includes a fixed structure coupled to the base. The patient table further includes a plurality of rollers attached to the fixed structure. The plurality of rollers are configured to guide and support the floating cradle. The floating cradle is configured to guide itself when extended beyond the fixed structure.

[0007] In another embodiment, a computed tomography (CT) imaging system is provided. The CT imaging system includes a gantry coupled to an imaging component configured to acquire imaging data of a subject. The CT imaging system also includes a patient table. The patient table includes a base. The patient table also includes a floating cradle configured to support a subject to be imaged and move bidirectionally relative to the base. The patient table further includes a fixed structure coupled to the base. The patient table further includes a plurality of rollers attached to the fixed structure. The plurality of rollers are configured to guide and support the floating cradle. The floating cradle is configured to guide itself when extended beyond the fixed structure.

[0008] In a further embodiment, a patient table for an imaging system is provided. The patient table includes a base. The patient table also includes a floating cradle configured to support a subject to be imaged and move bidirectionally relative to the base. The patient table further includes a fixed structure coupled to the base. The fixed structure includes a pair of beams that sandwich a portion of the floating cradle. The pair of beams extend in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the floating cradle. A first length of the floating cradle along the longitudinal axis is greater than a respective length of the pair of beams in the direction of each beam.

[0009] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the disclosed subject matter will become better understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a combined pictorial and block diagram of a computed tomography (CT) imaging system as described herein. [Diagram 2] 2 is a perspective view of a patient table (eg, having a base configured to move vertically) of the CT imaging system of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] 2 is a perspective view of a patient table (eg, having a fixed base) of the CT imaging system of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a side view of a patient table of the CT imaging system of FIG. 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a top view of a patient table of the CT imaging system of FIG. 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 6 is a cross-sectional view of the patient table of FIG. 5 taken along line 6-6 (eg, with side support rollers) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7]7 is a cross-sectional view of the patient table of FIG. 4 taken along line 7-7 (eg, with a floating cradle with a step along the side), according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 8 is a cross-sectional view of the patient table of FIG. 7 taken along line 8-8, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 7 is a cross-sectional view of the patient table of FIG. 4 taken along line 7-7 (eg, having a floating cradle with tapered sides) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 7 is a cross-sectional view of the patient table of FIG. 4 taken along line 7-7 (eg, with a floating cradle lacking a side step) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 7 is a cross-sectional view of the patient table of FIG. 4 taken along line 7-7 (e.g., with a floating cradle with rounded sides) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] 4 is a schematic diagram of the patient table of FIG. 3 with a patient positioned on a floating cradle (eg, the floating cradle is outside the gantry) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] 4 is a schematic diagram of the patient table of FIG. 3 with a patient positioned on a floating cradle (eg, the floating cradle is within the gantry) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] 6 is a cross-sectional view of the patient table of FIG. 5 (eg, with side drive rollers) taken along line 6-6, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] 7 is a cross-sectional view of the patient table of FIG. 4 (e.g., with drive rollers on the sides of the floating cradle) taken along line 7-7 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] 5 is a top view of a portion of a patient table of the CT imaging system of FIG. 4 (eg, having a single friction drive) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 5 is a top view of a portion of a patient table of the CT imaging system of FIG. 4 (eg, having multiple synchronized friction drives) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] 4 is a side view of a patient table (eg, with an adjustable cable retractor) of the CT imaging system of FIG. 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] 4 is a side view of a patient table (eg, with anti-collision sensors) of the CT imaging system of FIG. 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] An image comparing the stress analysis of a conventional cradle and a floating cradle is shown. [Figure 21] 4 is a schematic diagram of a CT scanner and the patient table of FIG. 3 in a scanning room sized for a typical patient table and a smaller scanning room made possible by the patient table of FIG. 3 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22] 4 is a schematic diagram of a CT scanner and the patient table of FIG. 3 in a scanning room (eg, during normal operation and in service) in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 23] FIG. 3 is a side view of the patient table of FIG. 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 24] 3 is a schematic diagram of a scanning room having a CT scanner with the patient table of FIG. 2 and a mobile C-arm imaging system (eg, during a CT scanning room procedure) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 25] 3 is a schematic diagram of a scanning room having a CT scanner with the patient table of FIG. 2 (during a stationary radiography scanning procedure) and a mobile C-arm imaging system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26] 3 is a schematic diagram of a scanning room having a CT scanner with the patient table of FIG. 2 and a ceiling-mounted C-arm imaging system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] One or more specific embodiments are described below. In order to provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of an actual implementation are described herein. It should be understood that in the development of such an actual implementation, as with any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made that vary from implementation to implementation in order to achieve the developer's particular goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints. Moreover, it should be understood that such a development effort may be complex and time-consuming, but is nevertheless a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0012] When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present subject matter, the articles "a," "an," "the," and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. Additionally, any numerical examples in the following discussion are intended to be non-limiting, and thus, additional numerical values, ranges, and percentages are within the scope of the disclosed embodiments.

[0013] Although aspects of the following discussion are provided in the context of medical imaging, it should be understood that the disclosed technology is not limited to such a medical context. Indeed, the provision of examples and explanations in such a medical context is only for ease of explanation by providing real-world examples and applications. However, the disclosed techniques may also be utilized in other contexts, such as image reconstruction for non-destructive testing of manufactured parts or goods (i.e., quality control or quality screening applications), and / or non-invasive inspection of packages, boxes, luggage, etc. (i.e., security or screening applications). In general, the disclosed technology may be useful in any imaging or screening context, or in image processing or photography fields, where a set or type of acquired data undergoes a reconstruction process to generate an image or volume.

[0014] The present disclosure provides an embodiment of a patient table for a medical imaging system (e.g., a computed tomography (CT) imaging system) that includes a floating cradle. The patient table includes a base. In certain embodiments, the base is fixed. In certain embodiments, the base is configured to move bidirectionally in a vertical direction (e.g., relative to a floor). The patient table also includes a floating cradle that supports a subject to be imaged and is configured to move bidirectionally relative to the base (which provides availability of a useful scan range on both sides of the patient table). The patient table further includes a fixed structure coupled to the base. The patient table further includes a plurality of rollers (e.g., guide rollers) attached to the fixed structure. The plurality of rollers are configured to guide and support the floating cradle. The floating cradle is configured to guide itself when extended beyond the fixed structure.

[0015] In a particular embodiment, the fixed structure includes a pair of beams (e.g., extruded beams) that sandwich a portion of the floating cradle, the pair of beams extending in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the floating cradle. A first length of the floating cradle along the longitudinal axis is greater than a respective length of each beam of the pair of beams in that direction. The fixed structure includes a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the first side configured to face a gantry of a CT imaging system. The floating cradle is configured to enable scanning of a subject on the floating cradle on at least one of the first side and the second side with an imaging system separate from the CT imaging system and an imaging system (e.g., C-arm imaging) different from the CT imaging system. This allows multiple imaging devices to be utilized in one room.

[0016] In certain embodiments, the plurality of rollers includes a first set of rollers disposed above the floating cradle and a second set of rollers disposed below the floating cradle. In certain embodiments, the first set of rollers is configured to hold the floating cradle on a fixed structure. In certain embodiments, at least one roller of the second set of rollers is configured to support the floating cradle and at least one roller of the second set of rollers is configured to drive bidirectional movement of the floating cradle relative to the base. In certain embodiments, the second set of rollers includes a friction drive roller configured to drive bidirectional movement of the floating cradle relative to the base and a pair of rollers sandwiching the friction drive roller and configured to support the floating cradle. In certain embodiments, the second set of rollers includes a roller configured to support the floating cradle and a pair of friction drive rollers adjacent the roller and configured to drive bidirectional movement of the floating cradle relative to the base.

[0017] In certain embodiments, the plurality of rollers includes a third set of rollers disposed on a first side and a second side of the floating cradle, both of which extend between a top surface and a bottom surface of the floating cradle. In certain embodiments, at least one roller of the third set of rollers is configured to guide bidirectional movement of the floating cradle relative to the base. In certain embodiments, at least one roller of the third set of rollers is configured to hold the floating cradle on a fixed structure. In certain embodiments, at least one roller of the third set of rollers is configured to drive movement of the floating cradle bidirectionally relative to the base. In certain embodiments, the third set of rollers includes a first roller disposed on a first side of the floating cradle and a second roller disposed on a second side of the floating cradle, both of which are configured to drive movement of the floating cradle bidirectionally relative to the base.

[0018] In certain embodiments, the patient table includes a cable retractor (e.g., an adjustable cable retractor) including a first end structure coupled to the fixed structure, a second end structure coupled to a longitudinal end of the floating cradle, and a cord extending between the first end structure and the second end structure. The cable retractor is configured to prevent the longitudinal end of the floating cradle from extending more than a certain distance from the fixed structure. The cable retractor is also configured to be adjustable to change or set the fixed distance. In certain embodiments, the patient table includes a sensor (e.g., an anti-collision sensor) coupled to the longitudinal end of the floating cradle. The sensor is configured to sense an object and send a signal to stop movement of the floating cradle to avoid a collision with the object.

[0019] The disclosed embodiments provide a patient table with a floating cradle that reduces the size of the room required for the CT scanner. The disclosed embodiments also allow for easier transport, handling, and installation. For example, the symmetrical configuration of the fixed structure and the floating cradle allows for mirrored installation of the table to the gantry (i.e., either of the longitudinal ends can be installed adjacent to the gantry). The disclosed embodiments further include easier serviceability due to the ease of maneuvering the gantry cover resulting in less downtime of the CT imaging system. The disclosed embodiments provide an enhanced platform for a patient table utilized with multiple imaging modalities (e.g., due to the availability of useful scan ranges on both sides of the patient table). The disclosed embodiments further include reduced costs due to not using long beam structures. The disclosed embodiments further provide a low-cost solution for a multi-modality intervention / imaging environment in a common scanning room. The disclosed embodiments further provide faster scan flow in this multi-modality intervention / imaging environment.

[0020] With the foregoing in mind, and referring to FIG. 1, an exemplary computed tomography (CT) imaging system 10 is shown. The CT imaging system 10 includes a gantry 12. The gantry 12 has an x-ray source 14 that projects an x-ray beam 16 toward a detector assembly 15 on the opposite side of the gantry 12. The x-ray source 14 projects the x-ray beam 16 through a post-patient collimator assembly 13, which determines the size and shape of the x-ray beam 16. The detector assembly 15 includes a collimator assembly 18, a number of detector modules 20 (e.g., detector elements or sensors), and a data acquisition system (DAS) 32. The multiple detector modules 20 detect the projected x-rays that pass through a subject or object 22 being imaged, and the DAS 32 converts the data into a digital signal for subsequent processing. Each detector module 20 in a conventional system generates an analog electrical signal that represents the intensity of the incident x-ray beam, and thus the attenuated beam as it passes through the subject or object 22. During a scan to acquire x-ray projection data, gantry 12 and the components mounted thereon rotate about a center of rotation 25 (eg, an isocenter) to collect attenuation data from multiple view angles relative to an imaging volume.

[0021] Rotation of gantry 12 and operation of x-ray source 14 are governed by a control system 26 of CT imaging system 10. Control system 26 includes an x-ray controller 28, which provides power and timing signals to x-ray source 14, a collimator controller 29, which controls the length and width of the aperture of pre-patient collimator 13 (and thus the size and shape of x-ray beam 16), and a gantry motor controller 30, which controls the rotational speed and position of gantry 12. An image reconstructor 34 receives sampled and digitized x-ray data from DAS 32 and performs high speed image reconstruction. The reconstructed image is applied as an input to computer 36, which stores the image in storage device 38. Computer 36 also receives commands and scan parameters from an operator via console 40. An associated display 42 allows the operator to observe the reconstructed image and other data from computer 36. The commands and parameters provided by the operator are used by computer 36 to provide control signals and information to DAS 32, x-ray controller 28, collimator controller 29, and gantry motor controller 30. In addition, computer 36 operates a table motor controller 44, which controls a motorized table 46 (e.g., a patient table) to position subject 22 and gantry 12. In particular, table 46 moves a portion of subject 22 through a gantry opening or bore 48.

[0022] Although the patient table 46 in this disclosure is discussed in the context of a CT imaging system, the patient table 46 may be utilized with other types of medical imaging systems (e.g., magnetic resonance imaging systems, nuclear medicine imaging systems, etc.). Aspects of the patient table 46 in the following figures are discussed using a coordinate system having a y-direction (or y-axis), an x-direction (or x-axis), and a z-direction (or z-axis). The coordinate system may be discussed relative to a longitudinal axis 49 of the patient table 46 (and floating cradle 50). FIGS. 2 and 3 are perspective views of the patient table 46 of the CT imaging system 10 of FIG. 1. FIGS. 4 and 5 are side and top views, respectively, of the patient table 46 of the CT imaging system of FIG. 3. The patient table 46 includes a base 52. In certain embodiments, the base 52 is fixed at one location on the floor of the scan room. In other words, the base 52 does not move in the y-direction, the x-direction, and the z-direction. In certain embodiments, the base 52 is configured to move bidirectionally (e.g., via a linear motion guide rail) along a path (e.g., extending in an x-direction or axial direction) on the floor within the scanning room. As depicted, the base 52 is configured to move bidirectionally (e.g., telescopically) in a y-direction or vertical direction (as indicated by arrow 54). As depicted, the base 52 includes multiple sections 56 that telescopically extend relative to one another in the y-direction with the largest section 56 at the top and the smallest section 56 at the bottom. In certain embodiments, the arrangement of the multiple sections 56 may be reversed, with the largest section 56 at the bottom and the smallest section 56 at the top. Movement of the base 52 in the Y-direction allows the height of the floating cradle 50 relative to the floor to be adjusted.

[0023] In certain embodiments, the base 52 may be fixed in the Y direction, as depicted in FIG. 3. Thus, the height of the floating cradle 50 cannot be adjusted relative to the floor via the base 52. As depicted in FIG. 3, the base 52 may include a number of bars 60 extending in the y, x, and z directions that form the base 52. The structure of the base 52 may be different than that depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0024] The patient table 46 also includes a floating cradle 50. The floating cradle 50 is configured to support a subject (e.g., a patient) to be imaged. The floating cradle 50 is configured to move bidirectionally (as indicated by arrow 62) along the X-direction and longitudinal axis 49 relative to the base 52. The floating cradle 50 includes both a first side 64 and a second side 66 that extend in the x-direction between a first end 68 and a second end 70 (second longitudinal length). The first end 68 is configured to face a gantry (e.g., gantry 12 of FIG. 1) of the CT imaging system and is configured to be movable in and out of the bore of the gantry. The first side 64 and the second side 66 have a length 72 (e.g., longitudinal length) in the x-direction and a width 74 in the z-direction. As depicted in FIG. 2, the entire edge of each of the first side 64 and second side 66 includes a step 76 .

[0025] The patient table 46 further includes a fixed structure 78 coupled to a top of the base 52 (e.g., top 58). The fixed structure 78 does not move in any direction relative to the top of the base 52 (the entire base 52 in FIG. 3). The fixed structure 78 includes a pair of beams or beam structures 80 (e.g., extruded beams) coupled to the base 52. The pair of beams 80 extend in the X direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 49. Each beam 80 of the pair of beams has a respective length 82 (e.g., longitudinal length). The length 72 of the floating cradle 50 is greater than the respective length 82 of each beam 80. In certain embodiments, the respective length 82 of each beam 80 may be in a range of about 20 percent to 75 percent of the length 72 of the floating cradle 50. The portions of the floating cradle 50 without the base 52 and fixed structure 78 are considered to be floating (e.g., free of guide rails or any supporting structure). These portions of the floating cradle 50 also guide themselves when extended beyond the fixed structure 78.

[0026] The patient table 46 further includes a plurality of rollers 84 mounted to the fixed structure 78. The plurality of rollers 84 are configured to guide and support the floating cradle 50, as described in more detail below. In certain embodiments, the plurality of rollers 84 includes a first set of rollers disposed above the floating cradle 50 and a second set of rollers disposed below the floating cradle 50. In certain embodiments, the first set of rollers is configured to hold the floating cradle 50 on the fixed structure. In certain embodiments, at least one roller of the second set of rollers is configured to support the floating cradle 50 and at least one roller of the second set of rollers is configured to drive bidirectional movement (as indicated by arrow 62) of the floating cradle 50 relative to the base 52. In certain embodiments, the second set of rollers includes a friction drive roller configured to drive bidirectional movement of the floating cradle 50 relative to the base 52 and a pair of rollers configured to sandwich the friction drive roller and support the floating cradle 50. In certain embodiments, the second set of rollers includes a roller configured to support the floating cradle 50 and a pair of friction drive rollers adjacent the rollers and configured to drive movement of the floating cradle 50 in both directions relative to the base 52.

[0027] In certain embodiments, the plurality of rollers 84 includes a third set of rollers disposed on the first side 64 and the second side 66 of the floating cradle 50, both of which extend between the top and bottom surfaces of the floating cradle 50. In certain embodiments, at least one roller of the third set of rollers is configured to guide bidirectional movement of the floating cradle 50 relative to the base 52. In certain embodiments, at least one roller of the third set of rollers is configured to hold the floating cradle 50 on the fixed structure 78. In certain embodiments, at least one roller of the third set of rollers is configured to drive bidirectional movement of the floating cradle 50 relative to the base 52. In certain embodiments, the third set of rollers includes a first roller disposed on a first side 64 of the floating cradle 50 and a second roller disposed on a second side 66 of the floating cradle 50, both of which are configured to drive movement of the floating cradle 50 in both directions relative to the base 52.

[0028] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the patient table 46 of Figure 5 taken along line 6-6 (e.g., with side support rollers). As mentioned above, the patient table 46 includes a number of rollers 84. The size, location, and number of rollers 84 may be different than depicted in Figure 6 for optimization to minimize localized stress on the floating cradle 50. In certain embodiments, each roller 84 may be a durable rubber covered with a polymer sheath to prevent wear on the floating cradle 50.

[0029] As depicted, the plurality of rollers 84 includes a first set 86 of rollers 84 disposed above the floating cradle 50 and a second set 88 of rollers 84 disposed below the floating cradle 50. The first set 86 of rollers 84 contacts an upper surface 89 of the floating cradle 50. The first set 86 of rollers 84 is configured to hold the floating cradle 50 on the fixed structure 78. In other words, the first set 86 of rollers 84 is load-bearing. As depicted, the first set 86 of rollers 84 includes three rollers 84 on each side of the floating cradle 50 (see FIGS. 2-5). However, the number of rollers 84 in the first set 86 of rollers 84 may be different.

[0030] The second set 88 of rollers 84 contacts a bottom surface 91 of the floating cradle 50. At least one roller 84 of the second set 88 of rollers 84 is configured to support the floating cradle 50. Also, at least one roller 84 of the second set 88 of rollers 84 is configured to drive bidirectional movement of the floating cradle 50 relative to the base. The second set 88 of rollers 84 includes a friction drive roller 90 configured to drive bidirectional movement of the floating cradle relative to the base 52 (as indicated by arrows 62). The friction drive roller 90 is coupled to and driven by a drive motor 92. As depicted, the second set 88 of rollers 84 includes a pair of rollers 94, 96 that sandwich the friction drive roller 90. The pair of rollers 94, 96 is configured to support the floating cradle 50 on the bottom surface 91. The rollers 94 are disposed on a front side 98 (facing the gantry of the CT imaging system) and the rollers 96 are disposed on a rear side 100 (disposed away from the gantry). The second set 88 of rollers 84 extends in the z-direction between the pair of beams 80. As depicted, the second set 88 of rollers 84 includes three rollers 84. However, the number of rollers 84 in the second set 88 of rollers 84 may be different. In certain embodiments, the second set 88 of rollers 84 includes a roller 84 configured to support the floating cradle 50 and a pair of friction drive rollers configured to sandwich the roller 84 and drive the movement of the floating cradle 50 relative to the base 52 in both directions.

[0031] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the patient table 46 of FIG. 4 taken along line 7-7. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the patient table 46 of FIG. 7 taken along line 8-8. The first set 86 of rollers 84 and the second set 88 of rollers 84 are as described in FIG. 6. As depicted in FIGS. 7 and 8, each end 102 of each roller 84 of the second set 88 of rollers 84 extends into a respective one of the pair of beams 80. Additionally, the first set 86 of rollers 84 contact the top surface of the floating cradle 50 on a step 76 located along the edge adjacent the first side 64 and the second side 66.

[0032] The plurality of rollers 84 also includes a third set 104 of rollers 84. The third set 104 of rollers 84 is disposed on the first side 64 and the second side 66 of the floating cradle 50. Both the first side 64 and the second side 66 extend between the top surface 89 and the bottom surface 91 of the floating cradle 50. The third set 104 of rollers 84 is configured to guide bidirectional movement of the floating cradle 50 relative to the base 52. As depicted, the rollers 84 of the third set 104 of rollers contact each side 64, 66 of the floating cradle 50. The third set 104 of rollers 84 includes two rollers 84 on each side 64, 66 of the floating cradle 50 (see FIGS. 2-5). However, the number of rollers 84 of the third set 104 of rollers 84 on each side 64, 66 of the floating cradle 50 may be different.

[0033] In certain embodiments, at least one roller 84 of the third set 104 of rollers 84 is configured to hold the floating cradle 50 on the fixed structure 78. In certain embodiments, at least one roller 84 of the third set 104 of rollers 84 is configured to drive bidirectional movement of the floating cradle 50 relative to the base 52. In certain embodiments, the third set 104 of rollers 84 includes a first roller 84 disposed on the first side 64 of the floating cradle 50 and a second roller 84 disposed on the second side 66 of the floating cradle 50, and both the first roller 84 and the second roller 84 are configured to drive bidirectional movement of the floating cradle 50 relative to the base 52.

[0034] 8, each roller 84 in a first set 86 of rollers 84 has an axis of rotation 106 that extends in the z-direction. Each roller 84 in a second set 88 of rollers 84 has an axis of rotation 108 that also extends in the z-direction. Each roller 84 in a third set 104 of rollers 84 has an axis of rotation 110 that extends in the y-direction. The respective axes of rotation of different sets of rollers 84 may be different in certain embodiments.

[0035] 9-11 are alternative arrangements of rollers 84 when the shape of the floating cradle 50 varies on the sides 64, 66. Although the arrangements of rollers 84 are only depicted for the second side 66 of the floating cradle 50, these arrangements can also be utilized on the first side 64 of the floating cradle 50. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the patient table of FIG. 4 taken along line 7-7. As depicted in FIG. 9, the side 66 of the floating cradle 50 has a tapered end 112. The tapered end 112 has a top surface 114 and a bottom surface 116. One or more rollers 84 of the third set 104 of rollers 84 contact the top surface 114 of the tapered end 112. One or more rollers 84 of the third set 104 of rollers 84 also contact the bottom surface 116 of the tapered end 112. Each roller 84 of the third set 104 of rollers 84 that contacts the tapered end 112 (top surface 114 or bottom surface 116) is configured to hold the floating cradle 50 on a fixed structure while simultaneously guiding bidirectional movement of the floating cradle 50 relative to the base. As depicted, the axis of rotation 110 of each roller 84 of the third set 104 of rollers 84 is parallel to the surface of the tapered end 112 (e.g., top surface 114 or bottom surface 116) that is contacted by the respective roller 84.

[0036] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the patient table 46 of FIG. 4 taken along line 7-7. As depicted in FIG. 9, the side 66 of the floating cradle 50 lacks a step (i.e., is straight). One or more rollers 84 of the first set 86 of rollers 84 contact the top surface 89 of the floating cradle 50. Each roller 84 of the first set 86 of rollers 84 is configured to hold the floating cradle 50 on a fixed structure. One or more rollers 84 of the second set 88 of rollers 84 contact the top surface 114 of the tapered end 112. One or more rollers 84 of the third set 104 of rollers 84 contact the side 66. Each roller 84 of the third set 104 of rollers 84 is configured to guide bidirectional movement of the floating cradle 50 relative to the base. As depicted, the axis of rotation 106 of each roller 84 of the first set 86 of rollers 84 extends in the z-direction. Also as depicted, the axis of rotation 110 of each roller 84 in the third set 104 of rollers 84 extends in the y direction.

[0037] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the patient table 46 of FIG. 4 taken along line 7-7. As depicted in FIG. 9, the sides 66 of the floating cradle 50 are rounded. One or more rollers 84 of a first set 86 of rollers 84 contact a top surface 89 of the floating cradle 50. Each roller 84 of the first set 86 of rollers 84 is configured to hold the floating cradle 50 on a fixed structure. One or more rollers 84 of a second set 88 of rollers 84 contact a top surface 114 of the tapered end 112. One or more rollers 84 of a third set 104 of rollers 84 contact the sides 66. In particular, each roller 84 of the third set has a concave surface 118 to correspond to the rounded sides 66. Each roller 84 of the third set 104 of rollers 84 is configured to guide bidirectional movement of the floating cradle 50 relative to the base. As depicted, the axis of rotation 106 of each roller 84 in the first set 86 of rollers 84 extends in the z-direction. Also as depicted, the axis of rotation 110 of each roller 84 in the third set 104 of rollers 84 extends in the y-direction.

[0038] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of the patient table 46 of FIG. 3 with a patient 120 (e.g., subject) positioned on the floating cradle 50. As depicted in FIG. 12, the floating cradle 50 is in a home position where both the patient 120 and the floating cradle 50 are outside the gantry (not shown) of the CT imaging system. In the home position, the majority of the floating cradle 50 is located behind 100 the base 52 and the fixed structure 78. The center of gravity of the patient 120 (indicated by arrow 122) is also located behind 100 the base 52 and the fixed structure 78. This allows the front roller 124 and the middle roller 126 of the first set 86 of rollers 84 to act as load bearings to hold the floating cradle 50 on the fixed structure 78, as indicated by arrows 128 and 130, respectively. This also causes rear roller 132 of second set 88 of rollers 84 to support floating cradle 50 as indicated by arrow 134 .

[0039] FIG. 13 is another schematic diagram of the patient table 46 of FIG. 3 with a patient positioned on the floating cradle 50. As depicted in FIG. 13, the patient 120 is within the scanning range with both a portion of the patient 120 and a portion of the floating cradle 50 located inside the gantry 12 of the CT imaging system. With both a portion of the patient 120 and a portion of the floating cradle 50 located inside the gantry 12, the majority of the floating cradle 50 is located at the front 98 of the base 52 and the fixed structure 78. The center of gravity 122 of the patient 120 is also located at the front 98 of the base 52 and the fixed structure 78. This allows the middle roller 126 and the rear roller 136 of the first set 86 of rollers 84 to act as load receivers and hold the floating cradle 50 on the fixed structure 78, as indicated by arrows 138 and 140, respectively. This also allows the front roller 142 of the second set 88 of rollers 84 to support the floating cradle 50, as indicated by arrow 144.

[0040] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the patient table 46 of FIG. 5 taken along line 6-6 (e.g., with side drive rollers). The structure of the patient table 46 of FIG. 14 is similar to that of FIG. 6, except for the second set 88 of rollers 84. The second set 88 of rollers 84 contacts the bottom surface 91 of the floating cradle 50. A pair of friction drive rollers 146, 148 of the second set 88 of rollers 84 are configured to drive the movement of the floating cradle 50 in both directions (as shown by arrows 62) relative to the base 52. This may provide better cradle traction. The friction drive roller 146 is disposed adjacent the front 98 of the fixed structure 78. The friction drive roller 148 is disposed adjacent the rear 100 of the fixed structure 78. Each friction drive roller 146, 148 is coupled to and driven by a respective drive motor 150, 152. The second set 88 of rollers 84 also includes a roller 154. The roller 154 is centrally located between the pair of friction drive rollers 146, 148 and is sandwiched between the pair of friction drive rollers 146, 148.

[0041] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the patient table 46 of FIG. 4 taken along line 7-7 (e.g., with drive rollers on the sides of the floating cradle 50). In certain embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 15, each roller 84 (e.g., roller 96) of the second set 88 of rollers 84 is configured to contact the bottom surface 91 of the floating cradle 50 and support the floating cradle 50. Further, as depicted in FIG. 15, the third set 104 of rollers 84 includes a friction drive roller 156 (e.g., contacting the first side 64 of the floating cradle 50) configured to drive bidirectional movement of the floating cradle 50 relative to the base 52. The friction drive roller 156 is coupled to and driven by a drive motor 158. In certain embodiments, the other rollers 84 of the third set 104 of rollers 84 may be configured to guide bidirectional movement of the floating cradle 50 relative to the base 52.

[0042] FIG. 16 is a top view of a portion of the patient table 46 (e.g., having a single friction drive) of the CT imaging system of FIG. 4. As depicted in FIG. 16, the third set 104 of rollers 84 includes a single roller 84 disposed on and in contact with the first side 64 of the floating cradle 50. The single roller 84 is a friction drive roller or wheel 160 (driven by a drive motor) configured to drive bidirectional movement (as indicated by arrows 62) of the floating cradle 50 relative to the base. The third set 104 of rollers 84 also includes a pair of rollers 84 disposed on and in contact with the second side 66 of the floating cradle 50. The pair of rollers 84 on the second side 66 of the floating cradle 50 are configured to guide bidirectional movement of the floating cradle 50 relative to the base.

[0043] FIG. 17 is a top view of a portion of the patient table 46 of the CT imaging system of FIG. 4 (e.g., having multiple synchronous friction drives). As depicted in FIG. 17, the third set 104 of rollers 84 includes a pair of friction drive rollers or wheels 162, 164 disposed on and contacting the first side 64 of the floating cradle 50. The third set 104 of rollers 84 also includes a pair of friction drive rollers or wheels 166, 168 disposed on and contacting the second side 66 of the floating cradle 50. The friction drive rollers 162, 164, 166, 168 (driven by respective drive motors) are configured to drive the movement of the floating cradle 50 in both directions (as indicated by arrow 62) relative to the base. This configuration allows for multiple synchronous friction drives on both sides 64, 66 of the floating cradle 50.

[0044] 15-17 may be spring-loaded to be in high pressure contact with the floating cradle 50 at all times during movement of the floating cradle 50 to avoid traction loss. In certain embodiments, a housing associated with each friction drive roller may be configured to protect the patient from being pinched by the friction drive roller.

[0045] In certain embodiments, the home position of the floating cradle 50 (i.e., the position when the floating cradle 50 is not disposed in the gantry) may be adjustable. FIG. 18 is a side view of the patient table 46 of the CT imaging system of FIG. 3. The patient table 46 includes a cable retractor 170 (e.g., an adjustable cable retractor). The cable retractor 170 includes a first end structure 172 coupled to the fixed structure 78 (e.g., the back 100). The cable retractor 170 also includes a second end structure 174 coupled to the longitudinal end 70 of the floating cradle 50. The cable retractor 170 further includes a cord 176 extending between the first end structure 172 and the second end structure 174. The first end structure 172 serves as a housing for the cord 176 and also includes a torsion spring that provides tension to the cord 176 when coupled to the longitudinal end 70. The cable retractor 170 is configured to prevent the longitudinal end 70 of the floating cradle 50 from extending more than a fixed or set distance 178 from the fixed structure 78. The cable retractor 170 is also configured to be adjusted to change or set the fixed distance 178 based on the size of the scan room. The cable retractor 170 allows the home position of the floating cradle 50 to be maintained with a hard stop.

[0046] 19 is a side view of the patient table 46 of the CT imaging system of FIG. 3. The patient table 46 includes a sensor 180 (e.g., an anti-collision sensor) coupled to the longitudinal end 70 of the floating cradle 50. The sensor 180 is configured to sense an object (e.g., a person, a wall, etc.) and send a signal (e.g., to the table motor controller 44 of FIG. 1) that stops the movement of the floating cradle 50 in the z-direction to avoid a collision with the object. In certain embodiments, another sensor 180 may be located at the longitudinal end 68 of the floating cradle 50.

[0047] FIG. 20 shows images comparing the stress analysis of a typical cradle and a floating cradle. Image 182 shows where the supports are on the typical cradle. As depicted in image 182, the cradle has fixed supports at one end and roller supports below that. Image 184 shows where the supports are on the floating cradle. As depicted in image 184, fixed supports are provided at the contact line of the retainer roller along the side of the floating cradle as described above. Also, as described above, three rollers provide support at the bottom of the floating cradle. Images 186 and 188 are stress plots for the typical cradle and the floating cradle, respectively. As depicted in images 186 and 188, for similar loading conditions and cradle cross sections, the deflection and stress of the floating cradle are similar to the deflection and stress of the typical cradle.

[0048] FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram of a CT scanner (e.g., gantry 12) and patient table 46 of FIG. 3 in a scan room 190 sized for a typical patient table and a smaller scan room 192 made possible by the patient table 46 of FIG. 3. As described above, the patient table 46 includes an adjustable cradle home position. The scan room 190 has a room length 194 of approximately 5000 millimeters (mm). In the scan room 190, during use, the floating cradle 50 can be pulled back a first distance 196 (i.e., away from the gantry 12 in the x-direction) to form a gap 198 between the gantry 12 and the patient table 46. The first distance 196 can be up to approximately 205 mm, taking into account the room length 194. The floating cradle 50 is pulled back to a default cradle home position indicated by arrow 200. In the scan room 190, the second distance 202 between the floating cradle 50 (in the default cradle home position) and the wall 204 may be up to about 580 mm. However, if an operator needs to access the space between the wall 204 and the floating cradle 50, a portion of the floating cradle can be moved a distance in the X direction into the gantry opening 48. Furthermore, by having an adjustable cradle home position, the patient table 46 can be placed and utilized in a smaller scan room (e.g., scan room 192). The scan room 192 has a room length that provides a distance savings (indicated by arrow 208) of about 580 mm. The distances noted in FIG. 21 may vary based on the size of the patient table and the size of the CT scanner in the scan room.

[0049] The patient table 46 of FIG. 3 can be utilized to further reduce the size of the scan room if it is positioned adjacent to the scan room door. FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram of a CT scanner (e.g., gantry 12) and patient table 46 of FIG. 3 in a scan room 210 (e.g., during normal operation and during servicing). As depicted in FIG. 22, the patient table is positioned within the scan room 210 to allow the floating cradle 50 to move bidirectionally (as indicated by arrow 62) so that the floating cradle 50 can move into the gantry 12 or through the door opening 212. The upper part of FIG. 22 depicts a portion of the floating cradle 50 positioned within the opening 48 of the gantry 12 during normal operation. The lower part of FIG. 22 depicts a portion of the floating cradle 50 moved through the door opening 212 during servicing to form a gap 214 between the patient table 46 and the gantry 12 to provide accessibility. By moving the floating cradle 50 through the door opening 212, the length 216 of the scan room 210 can be further shortened (eg, to 3870 mm).

[0050] FIG. 23 is a side view of the patient table 46 of FIG. 2. The patient table 46 is as described in FIG. 2. Arrows 218 and 220 indicate bidirectional movement of the floating cradle 50 relative to the fixed structure 78 along the x-direction. Because long metal beam structures (e.g., extruded beams) are eliminated, both sides of the patient table 46 can be x-ray scanned using the floating cradle 50. FIGS. 24 and 25 are schematic diagrams of a CT scanner (e.g., gantry 12) with the patient table 46 of FIG. 2 and a scan room 222 having a mobile C-arm imaging system 224. As depicted in FIG. 24, the patient table 46 is utilized during a CT scan procedure with a portion of the floating cradle 50 positioned within the opening 48 of the gantry 12. As depicted in FIG. 25, the patient table 46 is utilized during a stationary radiography scan procedure with the mobile C-arm imaging system 224. As depicted in FIG 25, the floating cradle 50 is moved out of the opening 48 of the gantry 12 and moved back from the fixed structure 78 and base 52. The C-arm 226 of the C-arm imaging system 224 is disposed about the floating cradle 50. In certain embodiments, a ceiling-suspended C-arm imaging system may be utilized with the patient table 46 as well. Because x-ray scan ranges are available on both sides of the patient table 46 as shown in FIG 23, a single patient table 46 may be used for multiple (e.g., separate and distinct) imaging devices in a common scan room 222 as depicted in FIG 24 and FIG 25.

[0051] FIG. 26 is a schematic diagram of a CT scanner (e.g., gantry 12) with the patient table 46 of FIG. 2 and a scan room 228 with a ceiling-fixed C-arm imaging system 230. The patient table 46 is configured to be bidirectionally movable along the X direction (as indicated by arrow 62). The ceiling-fixed C-arm imaging system 230 is configured to be bidirectionally moved along the z direction (as indicated by arrow 232) via a pair of linear motion guide rails 234. The base 52 of the patient table 46 is configured to be bidirectionally moved in the y direction (as indicated by arrow 236). The patient table 46 is configured to be bidirectionally moved in the x direction (as indicated by arrow 238) by a pair of linear motion guide rails 240. The patient table 46 may be utilized during a CT scan procedure with the floating cradle 50 positioned within the opening 48 of the gantry 12. The patient table 46 may also be utilized during a stationary radiography scan procedure with the ceiling-fixed C-arm imaging system 230 as depicted in FIG. 26. As depicted, the C-arm 242 of the ceiling-mounted C-arm imaging system 230 is positioned about a portion of the floating cradle 50 (e.g., positioned between the gantry 12 and the fixed structure 78). As mentioned above, the availability of X-ray scanning ranges on both sides of the patient table 46 allows a single patient table 46 to be used for multiple (e.g., separate and distinct) imaging devices in a common scan room 228, as depicted in FIG.

[0052] The technical effects of the disclosed embodiments include providing a patient table with a floating cradle that reduces the amount of room required for the CT scanner. The technical effects of the disclosed embodiments also include easier transportation, handling, and installation. The technical effects of the disclosed embodiments further include easier serviceability due to ease of maneuvering of the gantry cover resulting in less downtime of the CT imaging system. The technical effects of the disclosed embodiments further include providing an enhanced platform for a patient table utilized with multiple imaging modalities. The technical effects of the disclosed embodiments further include reduced costs due to not using long beam structures. The technical effects of the disclosed embodiments further include providing a low-cost solution for a multi-modality interventional / imaging environment in a common scanning room. The technical effects of the disclosed embodiments further include providing a faster scan flow in this multi-modality interventional / imaging environment.

[0053] The technology presented and claimed herein refers to and applies to material objects and specific examples of a practical nature that demonstrably improve upon the state of the art, and as such is not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Moreover, when a claim at the end of this specification includes one or more elements designated as "means for [performing] [a function]" or "steps for [performing] [a function]," such elements are intended to be construed under 35 U.S.C. 112(f). However, for claims including elements designated in any other manner, such elements are not intended to be construed under 35 U.S.C. 112(f).

[0054] This specification uses examples to disclose the subject matter, including the best mode, and to enable those skilled in the art to practice the subject matter, including making and using any devices or systems, and performing the incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the subject matter is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that do not differ substantially from the literal language of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0055] 10: CT imaging system 12: Gantry 13: Pre-patient collimator assembly 14: X-ray source 15: Detector assembly 16: X-ray beam 18: Collimator assembly 20: Detector module 22: Object 25: Center of rotation 26: Control system 28: X-ray controller 29: Collimator controller 30: Gantry motor controller 32: DAS 34: Image reconstructor 36: Computer 38: Storage 40: Console 42: Display 44: Table motor controller 46: Table 48: Gantry opening / bore 49: Longitudinal axis 50: Floating cradle 52: Base 54, 62, 128, 130, 134, 138, 140, 144, 200, 208, 218, 220, 232, 236, 238: Arrows 56: Part 58: Top 60: bar 64: first side 66: second side 68: first end 70: second end 72: length in x-direction 74: width in z-direction 76: step 78: fixed structure 80: beam / beam structure 82: length 84: rollers 86: first set 88: second set 89: top 90, 146, 148, 156: friction drive rollers 91: bottom 92, 150, 152, 158: drive motor 94, 96: rollers 98: front 100: back 102: end 104: third set 106, 108, 110: axis of rotation 112: tapered end 114: top 116: bottom 118: concave surface 120: patient 122: centre of gravity 124, 142: Front roller 126: Middle roller 132, 136: Rear roller 154: Roller 160, 162, 164, 166, 168: Friction drive roller / wheel 170: Cable retractor 172: First end structure 174: Second end structure 176: Cord 178: Fixed / set distance 180: Sensor 182, 184, 186, 188: Image 190, 192, 210, 222, 228: Scan room 194, 216: Room length 196: First distance 198: Gap 202: Second distance 204: Wall 212: Door opening 224: Mobile C-arm imaging system 226, 242: C-arm 230: Ceiling-mounted C-arm imaging system 234, 240: Linear motion guide rail

Claims

1. 1. A patient table (46) for a computed tomography (CT) imaging system (10), comprising: A base (52); a floating cradle (50) configured to support an object to be imaged (22) and move bidirectionally relative to the base; a stationary structure (78) coupled to the base (52); a plurality of rollers (84) attached to said stationary structure (78); Including, the plurality of rollers (84) are configured to guide and simultaneously support the floating cradle (50), the floating cradle (50) being configured to guide itself as it extends beyond the fixed structure (78); A patient table (46).

2. The patient table of claim 1 , wherein the fixed structure includes a pair of beams that sandwich a portion of the floating cradle, the pair of beams extending in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the floating cradle.

3. 3. A patient table as claimed in claim 2, wherein a length of said floating cradle along said longitudinal axis is greater than a length of each of said pair of beams in each direction.

4. The patient table of claim 1 , wherein the base is configured for bidirectional vertical movement.

5. The patient table of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of rollers includes a first set of rollers positioned above the floating cradle and a second set of rollers positioned below the floating cradle.

6. The patient table of claim 5 , wherein the first set of rollers are configured to retain the floating cradle on the fixed structure.

7. 6. The patient table of claim 5, wherein at least one roller of the second set of rollers is configured to support the floating cradle and at least one roller of the second set of rollers is configured to drive bidirectional movement of the floating cradle relative to the base.

8. 8. The patient table of claim 7, wherein the second set of rollers includes a friction drive roller configured to bidirectionally drive movement of the floating cradle relative to the base, and a pair of rollers configured to sandwich the friction drive roller and support the floating cradle.

9. 8. The patient table of claim 7, wherein the second set of rollers includes a roller configured to support the floating cradle and a pair of friction drive rollers configured to sandwich the roller and drive movement of the floating cradle relative to the base in both directions.

10. 6. The patient table of claim 5, wherein the plurality of rollers includes a third set of rollers disposed on a first side and a second side of the floating cradle, both the first side and the second side extending between a top surface and a bottom surface of the floating cradle.

11. The patient table of claim 10 , wherein at least one roller of the third set of rollers is configured to guide bidirectional movement of the floating cradle relative to the base.

12. The patient table of claim 10 , wherein at least one roller of the third set of rollers is configured to retain the floating cradle on the fixed structure.

13. The patient table of claim 10 , wherein at least one roller of the third set of rollers is configured to drive bidirectional movement of the floating cradle relative to the base.

14. 14. The patient table of claim 13, wherein the third set of rollers includes a first roller disposed on the first side of the floating cradle and a second roller disposed on the second side of the floating cradle, both the first roller and the second roller configured to bidirectionally drive movement of the floating cradle relative to the base.

15. 2. The patient table of claim 1, further comprising a cable retractor, the cable retractor including a first end structure coupled to the fixed structure, a second end structure coupled to a longitudinal end of the floating cradle, and a cord extending between the first end structure and the second end structure, the cable retractor configured to prevent the longitudinal end of the floating cradle from extending more than a fixed distance from the fixed structure, the cable retractor configured to be adjusted to change or set the fixed distance.

16. 10. The patient table of claim 1, further comprising a sensor coupled to a longitudinal end of the floating cradle, the sensor configured to sense an object and send a signal to stop movement of the floating cradle to avoid a collision with the object.

17. 2. The patient table of claim 1, wherein the fixed structure includes a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the first side configured to face a gantry of a CT imaging system, and the floating cradle configured to enable scanning of the object on the floating cradle on at least one of the first side and the second side using an imaging system that is separate and different from the CT imaging system.

18. 1. A computed tomography (CT) imaging system, comprising: a gantry coupled to an imaging component configured to acquire imaging data of the object; A patient table; With the base, a floating cradle configured to support an object to be imaged and move bidirectionally relative to the base; a stationary structure coupled to the base; A plurality of rollers attached to the stationary structure; Including, The plurality of rollers are configured to guide and simultaneously support the floating cradle, the floating cradle being configured to guide itself when extended beyond the fixed structure.

19. 20. The CT imaging system of claim 18, wherein the fixed structure includes a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the first side configured to face the gantry of the CT imaging system, and the floating cradle configured to enable scanning of the object on the floating cradle on at least one of the first side and the second side using an imaging system separate and different from the CT imaging system.

20. 1. A patient table for an imaging system, comprising: With the base, a floating cradle configured to support an object to be imaged and move bidirectionally relative to the base; a stationary structure coupled to the base; The fixed structure includes a pair of beams that sandwich a portion of the floating cradle, The pair of beams extend in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the floating cradle; a patient table, wherein a first length of the floating cradle along the longitudinal axis is greater than a respective length of each beam of the pair of beams in the direction.

Images