Medical image diagnostic system including main rail system and fixation rail system

Abstract

To provide a medical image diagnostic system having a computer tomography gantry, a carriage, a main rail system, and a fixation rail system.SOLUTION: A computer tomography gantry is attached so as to be movable by a carriage and a main rail system. The computer tomography gantry can execute translation movement along the main rail system. The carriage and the main rail system are adjusted to transmit a drive force of the translation movement of the computer tomography gantry from the carriage to the main rail system. A fixation rail system includes a fixation rail and a connection element. The fixation rail is arranged in a floor portion and is directed in the same direction as the main rail system. The connection element is arranged in the carriage or the computer tomography gantry. The connection element is connected to the fixation rail by a rear part grip and / or shape connection in order to fix the computer tomography gantry.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a medical imaging system having a main rail system and a fixed rail system. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for moving and / or fixing a computed tomography gantry.

[0002] In the context of computed tomography (CT), the longitudinal position of the gantry is changed during the scan of the examination object. This is based on a continuous translational movement that is continuously detected by the imaging diagnostic system. The accuracy of this movement and position detection is crucial for image quality, and often requires submillimeter accuracy.

[0003] Conventional form-fitting drives, such as rack-and-pinion drives or belt drives, are often used and require structured engagement areas that are difficult to clean, create fault points and are mechanically sensitive.

[0004] A computed tomography system (CT system) may be used in two adjacent treatment rooms. Firstly, this is for cost reasons, as it avoids the need to install a CT system in each of the rooms. Secondly, a CT system that is mobile and can be moved between different rooms also offers advantages in terms of space requirements.

[0005] When two opposing treatment rooms are used, the patient couches may be positioned, for example, head-to-head. The CT system can then move between both patient couches, so that the computed tomography gantry is positioned with one side facing the patient couch in one treatment room and the other side facing the patient couch in the opposite treatment room. These different positions of the computed tomography gantry relative to each patient couch should be taken into account when processing the imaging data.

[0006] In some CT systems, the scan plane is substantially centered or centrally located within the housing of the computed tomography gantry. However, in some CT systems, the scan plane is not centered within the housing of the computed tomography gantry. Thus, there is a front side of the computed tomography gantry and a back side of the computed tomography gantry. To utilize two opposing treatment rooms, it would be advantageous to orient the computed tomography gantry so that its front always faces each patient couch. Therefore, in a dual-room solution with two patient couches positioned head-to-head, the computed tomography gantry must be rotatable 180° so that its front face can be oriented toward each patient couch.

[0007] Mobile CT systems, especially rail-guided and / or rotatable CT systems, can easily tip over, especially during earthquakes and / or translational start-up problems. Additionally, the high center of gravity of CT systems contributes to their susceptibility to tipping.

[0008] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention aims to provide a medical imaging diagnostic system that is earthquake-resistant and / or tip-proof, having a movable computed tomography gantry.

[0009] The subject matter of the independent claims solves this problem. The dependent claims consider further advantageous aspects of the invention. Regardless of the grammatical gender of a particular term, masculine, feminine or other gender identities are included.

[0010] The present invention provides a medical imaging diagnostic system having a computed tomography gantry, a carriage, a main rail system, and a fixed rail system, comprising: - a computed tomography gantry is movably mounted by a carriage and a main rail system, such that translational movement of the computed tomography gantry can be performed along the main rail system; - the carriage and the main rail system are adapted to transmit the driving force for the translational movement of the computed tomography gantry from the carriage to the main rail system by means of a force joint; - the fixed rail system comprises at least one fixed rail and at least one coupling element, the at least one fixed rail being arranged on the floor section and oriented in the same direction as the main rail system, and the coupling element being arranged on the carriage or the computed tomography gantry, the coupling element being connected to the fixed rail by a rear grip and / or by a form coupling in order to secure the computed tomography gantry against tipping over, This relates to medical image diagnostic systems.

[0011] In particular, it may be envisaged that the main rail system and / or the fixed rail system are stationary and / or rigidly fastened to the base area. In particular, it may be envisaged that the inspection object is stationary relative to the main rail system and / or the fixed rail system and / or relative to the base area. The main rail system may in particular form a linear guide for the carriage.

[0012] For example, the medical imaging diagnostic system may have an examination table for mounting an examination object. The examination table may be, in particular, stationary relative to the main rail system and / or the fixed rail system and / or relative to the base region and / or may be firmly fastened to the main rail system and / or the fixed rail system and / or relative to the base region. The examination object may, for example, be an examinee, in particular a patient, and / or may be mounted on the examination table, in particular stationary relative to the examination table.

[0013] The translational movement may be performed, in particular, relative to the main rail system and / or the fixed rail system, relative to the base area, relative to the examination table, and / or relative to the examination object. The translational movement may be, in particular, substantially horizontal. The base area may be, in particular, substantially horizontal. The base area may be, in particular, the floor of the examination room.

[0014] The computed tomography gantry may, for example, have a support frame and a rotor rotatably mounted relative to the support frame, with the radiation source and the radiation detector being arranged on the rotor. Optionally, the computed tomography gantry may have a tilt frame tiltably mounted relative to the support frame, with the rotor being arranged on the tilt frame. The radiation source and the radiation detector can interact to record a projection data set of the examination object. The computed tomography gantry may, for example, have an opening. In particular, the rail system, the examination table, and the opening may be arranged relative to one another such that a translational movement of the computed tomography gantry allows the examination table, in particular the examination object mounted on the examination table, to be introduced into the opening.

[0015] In one embodiment, it is assumed that a set of wheel-rail rolling contacts is embodied between the carriage and the main rail system, and that the carriage and the main rail system are adjusted by the set of wheel-rail rolling contacts to transmit the driving force for the translational movement of the computed tomography gantry from the carriage to the rail system by force coupling.

[0016] In one embodiment, it is envisaged that a set of wheel-rail rolling contacts supports the full weight force of the carriage and the computed tomography gantry, and that each wheel-rail rolling contact included in the set of wheel-rail rolling contacts and supporting at least a portion of the full weight force of the carriage and the computed tomography gantry transmits at least a portion of the driving force for the translational movement of the computed tomography gantry by force coupling, in particular by friction.

[0017] In particular, it may be assumed that at least a portion of the total weight force of the carriage and the computed tomography gantry is not insignificant, for example, greater than one tenth of the total weight force of the carriage and the computed tomography gantry.In particular, it may be assumed that at least a portion of the driving force for the translational movement of the computed tomography gantry is not insignificant, for example, greater than one tenth of the driving force for the translational movement of the computed tomography gantry.

[0018] In particular, in the case of a medical imaging diagnostic system, it may be excluded that there is a wheel-rail rolling contact that supports part of the total weight force of the carriage and the computed tomography gantry but does not transmit any driving force for the translational movement of the computed tomography gantry.

[0019] Compared to friction wheel drives, the solution according to the invention essentially allows for the transmission of a larger driving force. The friction force available for driving depends on the friction value and the normal force to which the friction wheels are subjected. In particular, when the wheels are directly driven and the friction of the wheel-rail rolling contact is utilized, the entire weight force of the carriage and the CT gantry can be used as the normal force. In the case of friction wheels, only a portion of the weight force is available as the normal force, since the weight force distribution between the rail wheels and the friction wheels is taken into account.

[0020] In one embodiment, it is envisioned that the main rail system has a set of main rails and the carriage has a set of wheels, the set of wheels being arranged to roll on the set of main rails.

[0021] In particular, it may be envisaged that a set of main rails and a set of wheels form a set of wheel-rail rolling contacts. In particular, it may be envisaged that each main rail of the set of main rails is a round rail and / or that each wheel of the set of wheels is a concave roller and / or is embodied to roll on a round rail. The main rails and / or the wheels may be made of steel, for example. In particular, the fixed rail system comprises at least one fixed rail. The fixed rail may be embodied as a round rail and / or made of steel, for example.

[0022] The round rails can be integrated into the floor, in particular without a cover and without drive elements, allowing a patient bed and an instrument table to travel above. The drive force for the translational movement of the computed tomography gantry can be transmitted from the carriage to the main rail system, for example, based on a force coupling, in particular a friction coupling, between the wheels of the wheel set and the main rails of the main rail set.

[0023] In one embodiment, it is envisaged that for each wheel of the set of wheels, the carriage has a wheel direct drive that interacts with this wheel and contributes proportionally to the driving force for the translational movement of the computed tomography gantry.

[0024] In particular, it is conceivable that for each wheel of the wheel set, a direct wheel drive interacting with this wheel directly drives this wheel and thereby contributes proportionally to the drive force for the translational movement of the computed tomography gantry. In particular, it is conceivable that the drive force for the translational movement of the computed tomography gantry is generated by a direct wheel drive of a wheel of the wheel set. The direct wheel drive may, for example, have an electric motor, in particular an electric wheel hub motor.

[0025] The fixed rail system comprises at least one fixed rail, which may be embodied as a round rail, a flat guide rail, and / or a pure profile guide rail. The fixed rail is preferably made of a metal, such as steel or aluminum. Alternatively, the fixed rail may be made of a composite material or alloy.

[0026] At least one, preferably all, of the fixed rails are oriented in the same direction, in particular parallel to the main rail system and / or the main rail of the main rail system. The main rails, for example, extend in the longitudinal direction, which is oriented in the same direction as the translational movement. The fixed rails, for example, extend in the longitudinal direction. In particular, the fixed rails are arranged in the same horizontal plane as the main rails. At least one fixed rail is arranged on the floor section. Preferably, at least one fixed rail is fastened to and / or mechanically connected to the floor section, in particular to the lower base.

[0027] The fixed rail system comprises at least one coupling element, which is preferably arranged on the carriage and / or the CT gantry and, in particular, is mechanically connected and / or fastened thereto. The coupling element preferably has a vertical extension. At one vertical end, the coupling element is connected, for example, to the carriage and / or the CT gantry and / or at the other vertical end, is oriented toward the fixed rail. The coupling element is preferably embodied rigidly and / or is based on a metallic material.

[0028] The coupling element is connected to at least one fixed rail by a locking and / or positive-locking mechanism, in particular by a rear grip. For example, the coupling element is connected to the fixed rail by an end oriented toward the fixed rail. The locking, positive-locking, and / or positive-locking connection between the coupling element and the fixed rail can be moved, in particular longitudinally and / or by performing a translational movement, and / or can be moved along the fixed rail. In particular, the positive-locking, locking, and / or negative-locking connection and / or the position of this connection are subject to translational movement. The locking, positive-locking, and / or negative-locking connection secures the computed tomography gantry against tipping. If the computed tomography gantry attempts to tip over, for example if the connection to the main rail is released, the computed tomography gantry is held by the positive-locking and / or positive-locking connection between the coupling element and the fixed rail.

[0029] In one configuration of the present invention, the fixed rail system includes one fixed rail and the main rail system includes multiple main rails. Preferably, the main rail system includes an even number of main rails, in particular two or four main rails. The main rails are oriented in the same direction transversely perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the main rails and / or arranged parallel to each other. The main rails of the main rail system are arranged mirror-symmetrically with respect to a mirror-symmetry axis oriented in the longitudinal direction. In this configuration, it is assumed that one fixed rail forms the mirror-symmetry axis. This configuration is based on the consideration that it allows for a 180-degree rotatable computed tomography gantry and / or a 180-degree rotatable carriage without the need to modify the main rail and / or the fixed rail.

[0030] In a further configuration of the present invention, it is envisioned that the fixed rail system comprises a plurality of fixed rails, in particular an integer number of fixed rails. The fixed rails are oriented in the same direction and / or arranged parallel to a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the main rails. The main rail system comprises a plurality of main rails. Preferably, the main rail system comprises an even number of main rails, in particular two or four main rails. The main rails are oriented in the same direction and / or arranged parallel to a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the main rails. The fixed rails and main rails are mirror-symmetrical with respect to a common mirror axis, which is oriented in the same direction as the fixed rails and main rails. This configuration is based on the consideration that it allows for a 180-degree rotatable computed tomography gantry and / or a 180-degree rotatable carriage without the need to modify the main rails and / or the fixed rails.

[0031] Particularly preferably, the fixing rail comprises a slot, which is embodied and / or arranged to receive the coupling element by form-fitting and / or by means of a rear grip. The slot can, for example, form a guide for the coupling element. The slot can, for example, form an elongated recess and / or depression for receiving the coupling element, in particular for receiving the coupling element by locking. The coupling element can be embodied as a tongue and / or a protrusion for the slot.

[0032] Optionally, the medical imaging diagnostic system comprises a rotation bearing and an elevating device; - in a translational movement state of the medical imaging diagnostic system, a carriage is movably mounted along the main rail system, such that a first translational movement of the carriage is executable along the main rail system, and the computed tomography gantry, the rotation bearing, and the lifting device are each received within the carriage such that they follow the first translational movement of the carriage; - in a transitional operating state of the medical imaging diagnostic system, a carriage is movably mounted by a lifting device along a vertical rotation axis relative to the main rail system, so that a lifting and lowering movement of the carriage relative to the main rail system along the vertical rotation axis is possible, and a computed tomography gantry is received in the carriage such that it follows the lifting and lowering movement of the carriage relative to the main rail system; - in a rotational operating state of the medical imaging diagnostic system, the carriage is lifted by the lifting device along a vertical rotation axis relative to the main rail system, so that the carriage is removed from the main rail system, and the carriage is rotatably mounted by a rotation bearing about the vertical rotation axis relative to the main rail system, so that a rotational movement of the carriage about the vertical rotation axis relative to the main rail system is possible, and the computed tomography gantry is received in the carriage so that it follows the rotational movement of the carriage about the vertical rotation axis relative to the main rail system. It is assumed that:

[0033] In particular, in the transitional operating state of the system, it can be envisaged that the carriage is movably mounted by a lifting device along a vertical axis of rotation relative to the main rail system, so that downward movement of the carriage relative to the rail system along the vertical axis of rotation is possible, and that the computed tomography gantry is received within the carriage so that it follows the downward movement of the carriage relative to the main rail system.

[0034] In particular, it may be envisaged that the system has a travelling drive and / or a rotational drive. The travelling drive may in particular be adapted to drive a first translational movement of the carriage and / or to drive a second translational movement of the carriage. The rotational drive may in particular be adapted to drive a rotational movement of the carriage relative to the main rail system about a vertical axis of rotation. The rotational bearing may, for example, be a rolling bearing, in particular an axial rolling bearing. Instead of providing a rotational drive, the main rail system may also be adapted to manually drive the rotational movement of the carriage relative to the main rail system about the vertical axis of rotation, for example by physical force of an operator.

[0035] The lifting device may have, for example, a set of lifting cylinders and / or a lifting drive. In particular, it may be provided that a rotary bearing is arranged between two lifting cylinders of the set of lifting cylinders relative to the horizontal direction and / or that the lifting cylinders of the set of lifting cylinders are synchronized with one another, for example by a shaft. The horizontal direction may in particular be substantially perpendicular to the first translational movement.

[0036] Thus, for example, the computed tomography gantry may be arranged rotatably, in particular rotatably by 180°, so that two patient couches arranged head-to-head in two opposing treatment rooms can each approach the front side of the computed tomography gantry, and both treatment rooms will then be equivalent in terms of the generation of diagnostic imaging data as far as the orientation of the computed tomography gantry relative to each patient couch is concerned.

[0037] The first translational movement may be, in particular, horizontal and / or parallel to the base region. The second translational movement may be, in particular, horizontal and / or parallel to the base region. The first translational movement may occur, for example, on a linear first path and / or a curved first path. The second translational movement may occur, for example, on a linear second path and / or a curved second path. The rail system may be, in particular, adjusted for translation of the carriage between two treatment rooms.

[0038] The system may include a cable guide adapted to connect the CT gantry and / or carriage to an energy transmission facility stationary relative to the base region and / or a data transmission facility stationary relative to the base region, particularly during the carriage's first horizontal translational movement and / or its rotational movement relative to the rail system. The cable guide may be, for example, ceiling-based and / or floor-based. The cable guide may include, for example, a cable column rigidly connected to the carriage and / or CT gantry and flexibly connected to the energy transmission facility stationary relative to the base region and / or the data transmission facility stationary relative to the base region. The system may include, for example, a transmission interface for energy and / or data transmission, particularly bidirectional transmission, between the carriage and the CT gantry. The transmission interface may be, for example, contact-based and / or non-contact.

[0039] In particular, the positive-locking connection and / or the connection by the rear grip between the coupling element and the fixed rail is present by the rear grip and / or by positive locking in the translational movement state, the transitional movement state and the rotational movement state. In other words, the coupling element is permanently and / or removably connected to the fixed rail. This configuration is based on the consideration that a fixed connection with the fixed rail is provided even during rotation, lifting or ascending / descending and / or translational movement, so that the system is always secured against tipping.

[0040] In particular, the coupling element is arranged at the center of rotation of the CT gantry and / or at the rotation point of the rotation bearing. In particular, the coupling element is arranged so that it remains stationary when the gantry rotates. Furthermore, it can be assumed that the coupling element is arranged at least partially along the rotation axis. For example, the coupling element has an intermediate portion that is arranged between the fixed rail and the carriage or the CT gantry. Preferably, the coupling element at the intermediate portion is coincident with and / or parallel to the rotation axis.

[0041] Preferably, the coupling element includes a connecting portion and a form-locking portion. The form-locking portion has a vertically extending lower end, and the form-locking portion is held and / or connected to the fixed rail by a form-locking and / or rear grip. The connecting portion is arranged on the carriage and / or the computed tomography gantry, and the connecting portion has a vertical extension that separates the form-locking portion from the carriage and / or the computed tomography gantry. Preferably, the intermediate portion forms the vertical extension of the connecting portion.

[0042] In one embodiment of the invention, the coupling element comprises an element rotation bearing, which is embodied to allow rotation between the form-fitting part and the carriage and / or between the form-fitting part and the computed tomography gantry, in particular to guide and / or support the rotation. The element rotation bearing is preferably embodied as a ball bearing or roller bearing. Alternatively, the element rotation bearing can be embodied as a plain bearing, an axial bearing, or a swivel bearing.

[0043] In a further configuration, it is envisaged that the form-locking portion is shaped and / or embodied such that the form-locking portion connected and / or held by the form-locking and / or rear grip can rotate about a vertical axis. In particular, the form-locking portion is shaped and / or formed such that the form-locking portion can rotate within a slot in the fixed rail. For example, the form-locking portion is embodied in a round and / or circular shape in plan view, and the diameter of the round and / or circular form-locking portion is smaller than the diameter or width of the slot in the fixed rail.

[0044] In particular, it is envisaged that the form-locking portion is positioned in a slot of the fixed rail by form-locking, locking and / or rear gripping, and that the form-locking portion is formed and / or embodied in such a way that the form-locking portion is rotatable in the slot around a vertical axis.

[0045] Optionally, a cover device is provided, which is embodied to cover the fixed rail in front of and / or behind the coupling element. In particular, the cover device is embodied to cover a slot in the fixed rail. In particular, the cover device has a cover strip for covering the fixed rail. The cover strip can be embodied, for example, as a metal strip or a plastic strip. In particular, the cover strip can be based on a composite material. The cover strip is arranged in particular along the fixed rail and / or in the longitudinal direction. The cover strip is preferably guided through the coupling element, in particular by a lock. The coupling element is embodied in particular to lift the cover strip and / or to expose a guide rail or slot for the form-fitting part.

[0046] 1. A method for moving a computed tomography gantry, the computed tomography gantry being movably mounted by a carriage and a main rail system, so that a translational movement of the computed tomography gantry can be performed along the main rail system, the computed tomography gantry being connected to fixed rails by coupling elements, at least one fixed rail being arranged on a floor section and oriented in the same direction as the main rail system, the method comprising: - performing a translational movement of the computed tomography gantry along the main rail system (L), by transmitting a drive force for the translational movement of the computed tomography gantry from the carriage to the main rail system (L) by means of a force coupling; - fixing the computed tomography gantry against tipping, in which the coupling elements are connected to the fixing rails by means of a rear grip and / or a form coupling; A further subject of the present invention is a method comprising:

[0047] Within the scope of the present invention, features described with respect to different embodiments of the invention and / or different claim categories (e.g., method, use, device, system, arrangement) can be combined to form further embodiments of the invention. For example, a claim relating to a system can be further developed with features described or claimed in connection with a method, and vice versa. Here, functional features of a method can be performed by correspondingly embodied concrete components. The use of the indefinite article "ein" or "eine" does not exclude the possibility of a plurality of related features. In the context of the present application, the phrase "based on" can be understood in particular in the sense of the phrase "using." In particular, the phrase "computed (alternatively: determined, generated, etc.)" based on a second feature does not exclude that the first feature can be further computed (alternatively: determined, generated, etc.) based on a third feature.

[0048] In the following, the invention will be explained on the basis of an example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the representations are schematic, highly simplified and not necessarily to scale. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0049] [Figure 1] 1 shows a medical imaging system having a computed tomography gantry, a carriage, and a main and fixed rail system in a translational state of the system. [Figure 2] 1 shows a medical imaging system having a computed tomography gantry, a carriage, and a main and fixed rail system in a rotational operating state of the system. [Figure 3] 1 shows a medical imaging diagnostic system without a lift-rotate module. [Figure 4] 1 shows a side view of a medical imaging system. [Figure 5] 1 shows a flowchart of a method for moving a computed tomography gantry. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0050] 1 shows a medical imaging diagnostic system 1 having a computed tomography gantry 20, a carriage F, a main rail system L, a fixed rail system S, a rotation bearing D, and a lifting device H in a translational movement state of the medical imaging diagnostic system 1, in which the carriage F is movably mounted along the main rail system L so that a first translational movement of the carriage F can be performed along the main rail system L, and the computed tomography gantry 20, the rotation bearing D, and the lifting device H are each received within the carriage F so as to follow the first translational movement of the carriage F. The computed tomography gantry 20 has an opening 9.

[0051] In the transitional operating state of the medical imaging diagnostic system 1, the carriage F is movably mounted by the lifting device H along the vertical rotation axis DA relative to the main rail system L, so that the carriage F can be moved up and down relative to the main rail system L along the vertical rotation axis DA, and the computed tomography gantry 20 is received in the carriage F so that it follows the lifting and lowering movement of the carriage F relative to the main rail system L. The medical imaging diagnostic system 1 has a traveling drive FN and a rotation drive DN. The traveling drive FN is adapted to drive a first translational movement of the carriage F and / or to drive a second translational movement of the carriage F. The rotation drive DN is adapted to drive a rotational movement of the carriage F relative to the main rail system L about the vertical rotation axis DA.

[0052] The fixed rail system S comprises a fixed rail SL and at least one coupling element KO. The fixed rail is arranged centrally between both rails of the main rail system L and extends longitudinally parallel to the rails of the main rail system L. The rail may in particular be embodied as a rail SL recessed into the floor, for example as a slot-like recess between both rails L, which recess extends in the longitudinal direction. In particular, the fixed rail SL is surrounded by a support structure DU, which is intended in particular for use in a lifting device.

[0053] The coupling element KO is firmly or irreversibly connected to and / or arranged on the carriage F, the gantry 20 or the lifting device H. In particular, the coupling element KO is arranged on the lifting-rotating module M, on the rotation bearing D or on the base structure DU. The coupling element KO is arranged centrally between both wheels FL and / or rails L of the main rail system L. In particular, the coupling element is arranged with a vertical extension equal to the rotation axis DA and / or the coupling element KO is arranged below the rotation bearing D in a plan view from above. With the rotation of the computed tomography gantry 10 and the associated switching of the wheels FL, the coupling element remains substantially stationary and / or the coupling element remains connected to the fixed rail SL.

[0054] The coupling element KO is connected to the fixed rail SL by a rear grip and / or a form-fitting lock to secure the CT gantry 20 against tipping. For example, the fixed rail has a slot, and the coupling element is positioned in the slot by a lock and / or a rear grip. For example, the rail SL and / or the slot have a collar that partially closes the slot and holds the portion of the coupling element KO positioned therein. Despite the connection to the fixed rail by the lock and / or rear grip, the coupling element KO can move in the longitudinal direction and / or along the longitudinal extension of the fixed rail SL. In particular, coupling elements connected by a rear grip and / or a lock are subject to translational movement. It is particularly envisioned that the coupling element KO remains connected to the fixed rail SL even during vertical and / or rotational movement of the CT gantry 20. For example, the lower end of the coupling element KO, which is positioned in the slot, can be rotatable about a vertical axis, and in particular can be rotatable as a whole. Alternatively and / or additionally, the coupling element KO may be provided with an element rotation bearing DE, so that the two parts of the coupling element are rotatable relative to one another, thereby enabling the coupling element KO to remain connected to the fixed rail when the computed tomography gantry 20 rotates.

[0055] 2 shows a medical imaging diagnostic system 1 in a rotational operating state of the medical imaging diagnostic system 1, the medical imaging diagnostic system 1 having a computed tomography gantry 20, a carriage F, a main rail system L, a fixed rail system S, a rotation bearing D, and a lifting device H, wherein in the rotational operating state of the medical imaging diagnostic system 1, the carriage F is lifted by the lifting device H along a vertical rotation axis DA relative to the rail system L, so that the carriage F is removed from the main rail system L, and the carriage F is rotatably mounted by the rotation bearing D around the vertical rotation axis DA relative to the main rail system L, so that a rotational movement of the carriage F relative to the main rail system L around the vertical rotation axis DA is possible, and the computed tomography gantry 20 is received in the carriage F so that it follows the rotational movement of the carriage F around the vertical rotation axis DA relative to the main rail system L.

[0056] The main rail system L has a set of rails, the carriage F has a set of wheels FL, the rotational movement of the carriage F relative to the main rail system L about a vertical rotation axis DA occurs from a first angle about the vertical rotation axis DA to a second angle about the vertical rotation axis DA, and the set of wheels FL is positioned relative to the vertical rotation axis DA such that the set of wheels FL can roll on the set of rails when the carriage F is positioned at the first angle about the vertical rotation axis DA relative to the main rail system L, and such that the set of wheels FL can roll on the set of rails when the carriage F is positioned at the second angle about the vertical rotation axis DA relative to the main rail system L.

[0057] Optionally, the medical imaging diagnostic system 1 further has a support structure UD, wherein the main rail system L is stationary relative to the support structure UD, and in the translational movement state of the medical imaging diagnostic system 1, the carriage F is movably mounted relative to the support structure UD along the main rail system L, so that a first translational movement of the carriage F relative to the support structure UD along the main rail system L is possible, and in the transitional operation state of the system 1 and the rotational operation state of the medical imaging diagnostic system 1, the carriage F is supported on the support structure UD by a lifting device H and a rotational bearing D.

[0058] The medical imaging diagnostic system 1 has a base structure DU, which is mounted so as to be movable relative to the carriage F along a vertical rotation axis DA by a lifting device H, and the base structure DU is rotatably mounted relative to the carriage F by a rotary bearing D around the vertical rotation axis DA, and the lifting device H is adjusted, starting from a translational movement state of the medical imaging diagnostic system 1, to increase the gap between the base structure DU and the carriage F along the vertical rotation axis DA, and is also adjusted to lift the carriage F along the vertical rotation axis DA relative to the main rail system L by pressing the base structure DU against the support structure UD, so that the carriage F is removed from the main rail system L, and by pressing the base structure DU against the support structure UD, the base structure DU is fixed against angular change around the vertical rotation axis DA relative to the support structure UD, so that the carriage F is rotatably mounted by the rotary bearing D around the vertical rotation axis DA relative to the support structure UD, so that the medical imaging diagnostic system 1 transitions to a rotational operation state of the medical imaging diagnostic system 1.

[0059] By pressing the base structure DU against the support structure UD, the base structure DU is fixed by frictional fastening against angular changes around the vertical rotation axis DA relative to the support structure UD, and therefore the carriage F is rotatably mounted by the rotary bearing D around the vertical rotation axis DA relative to the support structure UD.

[0060] The upper side of the support structure UD is substantially planar. The lower side of the base structure DU is substantially planar. By pressing the base structure DU against the support structure UD, a frictional fastening is generated between the upper side of the support structure UD and the lower side of the base structure DU, which fixes the base structure DU against angular changes around a vertical rotation axis DA relative to the support structure UD by the frictional fastening, so that the carriage F is rotatably mounted by the rotation bearing D around the vertical rotation axis DA relative to the support structure UD.

[0061] The lifting device H is adjusted to reduce the distance between the base structure DU and the carriage F along the vertical rotation axis DA, starting from a rotational movement state of the medical imaging diagnostic system 1, thereby lowering the carriage F along the vertical rotation axis DA relative to the main rail system L until the carriage F is placed on the main rail system L, and thus the medical imaging diagnostic system 1 moves into a translational movement state of the medical imaging diagnostic system 1.

[0062] The lifting device H and the rotation bearing D are directly connected to each other so that they form a lifting-rotating module M, and the carriage F has a recess FM for receiving the lifting-rotating module M, which is arranged in the recess so that the lifting device H can protrude from the recess FM downwardly along the vertical rotation axis DA and lift the carriage F along the vertical rotation axis DA relative to the rail system L.

[0063] The lift-rotate module M is detachably connected to the carriage F via a mechanical interface C and an electrical interface B, whereby this lift-rotate module M can be separated from the carriage F or attached thereto with little effort. The lift-rotate module M can in particular be embodied in the form of a piston (Stempels).

[0064] FIG. 3 shows a medical imaging diagnostic system without the lift-rotate module M. Instead of the lift-rotate module M, only the structural element M1 is installed inside. Instead of the structural element M1, this part of the carriage F can also be embodied as a continuous part. The coupling element KO is arranged on the carriage F or on the structural element M1. The coupling element KO is embodied as a T-shape at its lower end, or in other words, has a horizontal and a vertical part therein, the horizontal part being arranged in a slot of the fixed rail SL and being embodied, for example, as a circle. The slot of the fixed rail has a collar that slightly narrows and / or partially closes the opening of the fixed rail SL toward the top, so that only the vertical part of the coupling element passes through it, while the horizontal part remains in the fixed rail by a locking mechanism. An optional element rotation bearing DE can be arranged, for example, on the vertical part.

[0065] To illustrate the optional cover device AV, FIG. 4 shows the medical imaging diagnostic system 1 in a side view. A fixing rail SL, which is sunk into the floor, is covered in the longitudinal direction with a cover strip AB. The cover strip is preferably a metal strip. The connecting element KO preferably has a lead-through guide for the cover strip AB at the top, for example in the form of a recess. The cover strip is locally raised by the lead-through guide arranged above the fixing rail SL, thus exposing the fixing rail SL and / or its slot for the lower end of the connecting element KO. In the longitudinal direction before and after the connecting element KO and / or lead-through guide, the cover strip drops back down to floor level.

[0066] FIG. 5 shows a flow chart of a method for moving a computed tomography gantry 20, the method comprising: a step S1 of performing a first translational movement of the carriage F along the rail system L while the system 1, which comprises a computed tomography gantry 20, a carriage F, a rail system L, a rotational bearing D and a lifting device H, is in a translational movement state of the system 1, the carriage F being mounted so as to be movable along the rail system L in the translational movement state of the system 1, and the computed tomography gantry 20, the rotational bearing D and the lifting device H being each received in the carriage F so as to follow the first translational movement of the carriage F; - a step S2 of performing an elevational movement of the carriage F along a vertical axis of rotation DA relative to the rail system L while the system 1 is in a transitional operating state of the system 1, in which the carriage F is mounted by a lifting device H so as to be movable along the vertical axis of rotation DA relative to the rail system L, so that the computed tomography gantry 20 is received in the carriage F so that it follows the elevational movement of the carriage F relative to the rail system L; - step S3 of performing a rotational movement of the carriage F about a vertical rotation axis DA relative to the rail system L while the system 1 is in a rotational operating state of the system 1, wherein in the rotational operating state of the system 1, the carriage F has been lifted by the lifting device H along the vertical rotation axis DA relative to the rail system L, so that the carriage F has been removed from the rail system L, and the carriage F is rotatably mounted by a rotation bearing D about the vertical rotation axis DA relative to the rail system L, and the computed tomography gantry 20 is received in the carriage F so that it follows the rotational movement of the carriage F about the vertical rotation axis DA relative to the rail system L.

[0067] The method comprises a step S4 of fixing the computed tomography gantry 20 against tipping, in which case the coupling element KO is held and / or received by the locking and / or rear grip by the fixing rail SL. The fixing step S4 is always and / or simultaneously performed with the method steps comprising the step S1 of performing a first translational movement, the step S2 of performing a lifting movement and the step S3 of performing a rotational movement. [Explanation of symbols]

[0068] 1 Medical imaging diagnostic system 9 Openings 20 Computed Tomography Gantry AB cover strip AV Cover Device B Electrical Interface C Mechanical Interface D Rotary bearing H lifting device Front carriage L Main Rail System, Rail System M Lift-Rotate Module M1 structural element S Fixed Rail System DA Vertical rotation axis DE element slewing bearing DN Rotary Drive Unit DU base structure FL wheels FM recess FN travel drive unit KO binding element SL Fixed Rail UD support structure S1: performing a first translational movement of the carriage F along the rail system L S2: performing a lifting and lowering movement of the carriage F along the vertical axis of rotation DA relative to the rail system L; S3. Executing a rotational movement of the carriage F about the vertical axis of rotation DA relative to the rail system L S4. Securing the computed tomography gantry 20 against tipping

Claims

1. A medical imaging diagnostic system (1) having a computed tomography gantry (20), a carriage (F), a main rail system (L), and a fixed rail system (S), the computed tomography gantry (20) is movably mounted by the carriage (F) and the main rail system (L), along which translational movement of the computed tomography gantry (20) is possible; the carriage (F) and the main rail system (L) are adjusted to transmit a driving force for translational movement of the computed tomography gantry (20) from the carriage (F) to the main rail system (L) by force coupling; said fixed rail system (S) comprising at least one fixed rail (SL) and at least one coupling element (KO), said at least one fixed rail (SL) is arranged on a floor portion and is oriented in the same direction as said main rail system (L); the coupling element (KO) is arranged on the carriage (F) or on the computed tomography gantry (20), the coupling element (KO) is connected to the fixed rail (SL) by a rear grip and / or by a positive lock in order to secure the computed tomography gantry (20) against tipping, Medical imaging diagnostic system (1).

2. the fixed rail system (S) comprises one fixed rail (SL), The main rail system (L) comprises a plurality of main rails, The fixed rail (SL) forms a mirror symmetry axis of the plurality of main rails, The mirror symmetry axis is oriented in the same direction as the fixed rail (SL). A medical imaging diagnostic system (1) according to claim 1.

3. The fixed rail system (S) comprises a plurality of fixed rails (SL), The main rail system (L) comprises a plurality of main rails, The plurality of fixed rails (SL) and the plurality of main rails are mirror symmetrical with respect to a common mirror axis; The mirror axis is directed in the same direction as the plurality of fixed rails (SL) and the plurality of main rails. A medical imaging diagnostic system (1) according to claim 1.

4. said plurality of fixing rails (SL) having slots for receiving said coupling elements (KO) by form-fitting and / or rear grip; The coupling element (KO) is translatable; A medical imaging diagnostic system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. A medical imaging diagnostic system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising a rotary bearing (D) and an elevating device (H), In a translational movement state of the medical imaging diagnostic system (1), the carriage (F) is mounted movably along the main rail system (L), so that a first translational movement of the carriage (F) can be performed along the main rail system (L); the computed tomography gantry (20), the rotary bearing (D), and the lifting device (H) are each received in the carriage (F) so as to follow the first translational movement of the carriage (F); In a transitional operating state of the medical imaging diagnostic system (1), the carriage (F) is movably attached by the lifting device (H) along a vertical rotation axis (DA) relative to the main rail system (L), and the carriage (F) can be moved up and down relative to the main rail system (L) along the vertical rotation axis (DA); the computed tomography gantry (20) is received in the carriage (F) so as to follow the lifting and lowering movement of the carriage (F) relative to the main rail system (L); In a rotational operating state of the medical imaging diagnostic system (1), the carriage (F) is lifted by the lifting device (H) along the vertical rotation axis (DA) relative to the main rail system (L), the carriage (F) is removed from the main rail system (L), and the carriage (F) is rotatably attached to the main rail system (L) by the rotation bearing (D) around the vertical rotation axis (DA), and rotational movement of the carriage (F) relative to the main rail system (L) around the vertical rotation axis (DA) is possible; the computed tomography gantry (20) is received in the carriage (F) so that it follows the rotational movement of the carriage (F) about the vertical axis of rotation (DA) relative to the main rail system (L); Medical imaging diagnostic system (1).

6. a positively-locking connection and / or a connection by the rear grip between the coupling element (KO) and the fixed rail (SL) exists in the translational movement state, the transitional movement state and the rotational movement state by the rear grip and / or by the positively-locking connection, A medical imaging diagnostic system (1) according to claim 5.

7. the coupling element (KO) is arranged at the center of rotation of the computed tomography gantry (20), at the point of rotation of the rotation bearing (D) and / or at least partially along the rotation axis (DA), A medical imaging diagnostic system (1) according to claim 5 or 6.

8. the coupling element (KO) has a connection part and a form-coupling part, the form-fitting portion includes a vertically lower end; the form-locking part is held and / or connected by form-locking and / or rear grips at the fixed rail (SL), the connecting portion is arranged on the carriage (F) and / or the computed tomography gantry (20), the connecting portion has a vertical extension, vertically spacing the form-fitting portion from the carriage (F) and / or the computed tomography gantry (20), A medical imaging diagnostic system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. said coupling element (KO) comprises an element rolling bearing (DE), the element rotation bearing (DE) is embodied to allow rotation between the form-coupled part and the carriage (F) and / or the computed tomography gantry (20), A medical imaging system (1) according to claim 8.

10. the form-locking part is formed and / or embodied in such a way that the form-locking part connected and / or held by the form-locking and / or rear grip can rotate about a vertical axis, A medical imaging diagnostic system (1) according to claim 8 or 9.

11. the form-locking part is positioned in the slot of the fixed rail by form-locking, locking and / or rear gripping, the form-fitting portion is formed and / or embodied to be rotatable within the slot about a vertical axis; A medical imaging diagnostic system (1) according to any one of claims 8 to 10.

12. A cover device (AV) is provided, The cover device (AV) is embodied to cover the fixed rail (SL) in front and / or behind the coupling element (KO), A medical imaging diagnostic system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The cover device (AV) comprises a cover strip (AB) for covering the fixed rail (SL), The cover strip (AB) is guided via the coupling element (KO), A medical imaging system (1) according to claim 12.

14. A method for moving a computed tomography gantry (20), comprising: A method, wherein the computed tomography gantry (20) is movably mounted by a carriage (F) and a main rail system (L) along which translational movement of the computed tomography gantry (20) can be performed, the computed tomography gantry (20) is connected to fixed rails (SL) by coupling elements (KO), and the at least one fixed rail (SL) is arranged on a floor portion and is oriented in the same direction as the main rail system (L), a step (S1) of carrying out the translational movement of the CT gantry (20) along the main rail system (L), in which a driving force for the translational movement of the CT gantry (20) is transmitted from the carriage (F) to the main rail system (L) by a force coupling; - fixing the computed tomography gantry (20) against tipping, the coupling element (KO) being connected to the fixed rail (SL) by a rear grip and / or a positive coupling; A method comprising:

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