Movable medical image photographing apparatus

Abstract

A movable medical image photographing apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment comprises: a photographing unit which is loaded on a movable means and operated, and comprises an intake portion; a cabin which accommodates the photographing unit and provides a working space so that medical images can be captured therein; an air conditioning unit for air-conditioning the working space; and a connecting element which is provided in the cabin and transfers cold air supplied from the air conditioning unit, to the photographing unit, wherein the connecting element has a first end portion connected to at least part of the air conditioning unit and a second end portion disposed while facing the intake portion, and is configured to concentrate the flow of cold air onto the intake portion.

Description

Mobile medical imaging device

[0001] An exemplary embodiment is for a portable medical imaging device.

[0002] A medical imaging device is equipment capable of capturing medical images of a patient's body information.

[0003] A mobile medical imaging device is a medical imaging device configured to be mounted on and operated by a mobile vehicle.

[0004] Mobile medical imaging devices can be used without being fixed in a specific location and can be moved to various regions to capture medical images according to patients' medical imaging needs.

[0005] When operating a mobile medical imaging device, an air conditioning system capable of cooling the imaging unit may be provided, and if the air conditioning system fails to properly cool the imaging unit due to constraints on external environmental conditions, the operation of the imaging unit may not be smooth.

[0006] A mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment may be configured to be mounted on a mobile means and operated.

[0007] A mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment may include an imaging unit including an intake portion.

[0008] A mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment may include a cabin that accommodates an imaging unit and provides a workspace to capture medical images inside.

[0009] A mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment may include an air-conditioning unit for air-conditioning a workspace.

[0010] A mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment may include a connecting element that is positioned inside a cabin and transmits cold air supplied by an air conditioning unit to the imaging unit.

[0011] A mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment may include a connecting element configured to concentrate the flow of cold air to the intake portion, wherein the first end is connected to at least a part of the air conditioning unit and the second end is positioned opposite the intake portion.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a mobile medical imaging device mounted on a mobile means according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 2a is a perspective view of a portable medical imaging device according to a comparative example.

[0014] FIG. 2b is a perspective view of a portable medical imaging device according to a comparative example.

[0015] FIG. 3a is a perspective view of a portable medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 3b is a perspective view of a portable medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 4 is a side view of a portable medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 5 is a side view of a portable medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0019] Figure 6a is the result of a thermal flow simulation of a mobile medical imaging device according to a comparative example.

[0020] Figure 6b is the result of a thermal flow simulation of a mobile medical imaging device according to a comparative example.

[0021] FIG. 6c is the result of a thermal flow simulation of a mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 6d is the result of a thermal flow simulation of a mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0022] Figure 7 is a simulation result predicting the internal temperature of each component in a mobile medical imaging device according to a comparative example and an exemplary embodiment.

[0023] Figure 8 is a simulation result of predicting the internal temperature by specifying the performance conditions of the air conditioning unit in a mobile medical imaging device according to a comparative example and an exemplary embodiment.

[0024] Figure 9 is a simulation result of predicting the internal temperature by specifying the performance conditions of the air conditioning unit in a mobile medical imaging device according to a comparative example and an exemplary embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 10a is a front view of a portable medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 10b is a front view of a portable medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a portable medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 12 is a conceptual drawing illustrating the control elements of a mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 13 is a conceptual drawing illustrating a first control element of a mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 14 is a conceptual drawing illustrating a second control element of a mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0031] The various embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said embodiments.

[0032] In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0033] The singular form of the noun corresponding to the item may include one or multiple items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0034] In this document, each of the phrases such as "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B or C", "at least one of A, B and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0035] The term "and / or" includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0036] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish a component from another component and do not limit the components in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

[0037] Where any (e.g., 1st) component is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., 2nd) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicationly," it means that said any component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0038] Terms such as "include" or "have" are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this document, and do not preclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0039] When it is said that a component is "connected," "combined," "supported," or "in contact" with another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, combined, supported, or in contact, but also cases where they are indirectly connected, combined, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0040] When it is said that a component is located "on" another component, this includes not only cases where one component is in contact with the other, but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

[0041] Hereinafter, a mobile medical imaging device (1) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the contents described in the attached drawings. Identical reference numbers or symbols in each drawing indicate parts or components that perform substantially the same function.

[0042] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a mobile medical imaging device mounted on a mobile means according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0043] Referring to FIG. 1, a mobile medical imaging device (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may be configured to be mounted on a mobile means (10) and operated. The operation of the mobile medical imaging device (1) may mean capturing medical images. Here, medical images may refer to tangible and / or intangible information provided to determine the physical condition of a patient. Additionally, capturing medical images may mean storing electromagnetic signals transmitted from the physical condition of a patient on a recording medium. For example, medical images may include computed tomography (CT) images, but are not limited thereto, and may include X-ray images or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images.

[0044] A mobile medical imaging device (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may be configured to move to a specific region in response to the demand for medical imaging occurring in any region. A means of transport (10) may transport the mobile medical imaging device (1). Here, the means of transport (10) may include commercial vehicles such as trucks and ambulances, but is not limited thereto; for example, various means of transport (10) capable of transporting the mobile imaging device, such as an emergency helicopter, may be used. Since the mobile medical imaging device (1) is transported by the means of transport (10), it may not be fixed in a specific region and may be able to take medical images in various regions. Furthermore, the mobile medical imaging device (1) is not merely transported by the means of transport (10) but may also take medical images while mounted on the means of transport (10). In other words, a separate process of installing the mobile medical imaging device (1) in a specific region to take medical images after the mobile medical imaging device (1) has been transported by the means of transport (10) may not be required. The mobile medical imaging device (1) is capable of movement and operation while mounted on a means of transport (10), and can immediately respond to the demand for medical imaging occurring in any region. However, the above description is merely illustrative and is not limited thereto.

[0045] FIG. 2a is a perspective view of a portable medical imaging device according to a comparative example.

[0046] Referring to FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 2a, a portable medical imaging device (1a) may include an imaging unit (2). The imaging unit (2) may be provided to capture medical images. The imaging unit (2) may include a computed tomography (CT) device, but is not limited thereto. For example, the imaging unit (2) may include an X-ray device or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device.

[0047] A mobile medical imaging device (1a) may include a cabin (3) that accommodates an imaging unit (2). The cabin (3) may be configured to accommodate the imaging unit (2). The cabin (3) may provide a workspace (30) to enable medical imaging to be captured inside. The workspace (30) provided by the cabin (3) may be a space in which the imaging unit (2) is accommodated. The workspace (30) provided by the cabin (3) may be a space for operating the imaging unit (2). The workspace (30) may be a space provided to determine the physical condition of the patient. The cabin (3) may be configured separately from the means of transport (10) and may be configured to be coupled (or mounted) to the means of transport (10), but is not limited thereto; for example, the cabin (3) may be configured as an integral part with the means of transport (10).

[0048] Meanwhile, the imaging unit (2) may be configured to operate within a predetermined temperature range. More specifically, the imaging unit (2) needs to be controlled to operate within a predetermined temperature range to prevent malfunction. Malfunctions of the imaging unit (2) may include, but are not limited to, the cessation of operation of the equipment, and may include various malfunction situations such as inaccurate medical imaging results. Furthermore, the operation of the imaging unit (2) within a predetermined temperature range may be, but is not limited to, operation in a state where the temperature of the imaging unit (2) does not exceed a certain temperature, and may include operation in a state where the temperature of the imaging unit (2) does not drop below a certain temperature. Additionally, the temperature of the imaging unit (2) may refer to the temperature of a specific component placed inside the imaging unit (2). For example, the imaging unit (2) may include a constant temperature component placed inside, and the temperature of the constant temperature component may need to be maintained within a predetermined temperature range to prevent malfunction of the imaging unit (2). The temperature of the constant temperature member may rise as the imaging unit (2) operates, and the constant temperature member may need to be cooled to maintain a predetermined temperature range to prevent malfunction of the imaging unit (2). The constant temperature member may include, for example, a heat exchanger (HX). The constant temperature member may include, for example, a high-voltage generator (HVG). The constant temperature member may include, for example, a PC for image processing. However, the above description is merely an exemplary description and is not limited thereto.

[0049] The mobile medical imaging device (1a) may include an air conditioning unit (4). The air conditioning unit (4) may be configured to air-condition the workspace (30). The air conditioning unit (4) may supply cold air to the workspace (30). The air conditioning unit (4) may cool the imaging unit (2) by supplying cold air to the workspace (30). Cooling the imaging unit (2) by the air conditioning unit (4) may prevent malfunction of the imaging unit (2) by cooling the constant temperature component included in the imaging unit (2). However, the function of the air conditioning unit (4) is not limited to the above description, and the air conditioning unit (4) may also perform the function of air-conditioning the workspace (30) so that the environment for capturing medical images can be comfortable. The air conditioning unit (4) may be placed inside the workspace (30), but is not limited thereto. For example, the wall of the cabin (3) can define the workspace (30) by separating the interior and exterior environments of the cabin (3), and the air conditioning unit (4) can be positioned to penetrate the wall of the cabin (3). In other words, the air conditioning unit (4) is positioned to penetrate the wall of the cabin (3), so that at least one part is exposed to the workspace (30) and at least another part is exposed to the exterior environment. More specifically, the air conditioning unit (4) can release thermal energy to the exterior environment to cool the workspace (30). In this case, if the temperature of the exterior environment is high, the air conditioning unit (4) may not be able to smoothly release thermal energy to the exterior environment. If the temperature of the exterior environment is high, the performance of the air conditioning unit (4) in cooling the workspace (30) may be reduced. However, the above description regarding the method of cooling the workspace (30) by the air conditioning unit (4) is merely an exemplary description and is not limited thereto. Additionally, the air conditioning unit (4) may be provided as a separate configuration from the means of transport (10), but is not limited thereto, and the air conditioning unit (4) may be configured as an integral part with the means of transport (10).

[0050] A mobile medical imaging device (1a) can be mounted on a mobile means (10) and moved to an area with harsh external environmental conditions. The external environmental conditions of the area where the mobile medical imaging device (1a) operates may include, for example, conditions where the temperature and / or humidity are excessively high. When the mobile medical imaging device (1a) operates under external environmental conditions where the temperature and / or humidity are excessively high, the cooling performance of the air conditioning unit (4) may be reduced. When the cooling performance of the air conditioning unit (4) is reduced, a malfunction of the imaging unit (2) may occur.

[0051] FIG. 2b is a perspective view of a portable medical imaging device according to a comparative example.

[0052] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 2b, the cabin (3) of the mobile medical imaging device (1a) may include an entrance (300). The entrance (300) may be opened and closed when a user (e.g., a patient taking medical images) enters or exits. As the entrance (300) is opened and closed when a user enters or exits, the workspace (30) may be connected to the outside or blocked from the outside. The entrance (300) may be opened when a user enters or exits and closed when a user does not enter or exit.

[0053] Meanwhile, if the temperature and / or humidity of the external environment are high, the temperature of the workspace (30) may rise when the entrance (300) of the cabin (3) is opened. For example, as the temperature of the workspace (30) rises when the entrance (300) is opened while a user is entering or exiting, the temperature of the shooting unit (2) may rise. The cold air supplied to the workspace (30) by the air conditioning unit (4) may leak out into the external environment when the entrance (300) is opened. When the entrance (300) is opened, the cold air supplied to the workspace (30) by the air conditioning unit (4) may not be able to efficiently cool the shooting unit (2).

[0054] Below, we will describe in more detail the connecting element (5) of the mobile medical imaging device (1) configured to concentrate the flow of cold air supplied by the air conditioning unit (4) to the imaging unit (2).

[0055] FIG. 3a is a perspective view of a mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 3b is a perspective view of a mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 3b may show the mobile medical imaging device (1) depicted in FIG. 3a in a state where the entrance / exit (300) is open. FIG. 4 is a side view of a mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0056] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 4, the imaging unit (2) of a mobile medical imaging device (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may include a temperature-controlled member disposed inside. The temperature-controlled member may be defined as a member disposed inside the imaging unit (2) that maintains a predetermined temperature range to prevent malfunction of the imaging unit (2), but is not limited thereto. Here, the predetermined temperature range may generally mean an upper limit of temperature, but is not limited thereto. More specifically, the predetermined temperature range may include a lower limit of temperature to prevent condensation that may occur in the temperature-controlled member. However, this is merely an exemplary description and is not limited thereto.

[0057] A temperature-controlled member of a shooting unit (2) according to an exemplary embodiment may include a first temperature-controlled member (201), a second temperature-controlled member (202), and a third temperature-controlled member (203). The first temperature-controlled member (201) may include, for example, a heat exchanger (HX), but is not limited thereto. The second temperature-controlled member (202) may include, for example, a high-voltage generator (HVG), but is not limited thereto. The third temperature-controlled member (203) may include, for example, a PC for image processing, but is not limited thereto.

[0058] A shooting unit (2) of a mobile medical imaging device (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may include an intake section (20). The intake section (20) may provide an air passage through which air can be introduced into the interior of the shooting unit (2). The intake section (20) may draw in cold air to cool the shooting unit (2). The intake section (20) may be an opening that penetrates the interior and exterior of the shooting unit (2), but is not limited thereto. The intake section (20) may be a plurality of, but is not limited thereto.

[0059] According to an exemplary embodiment, the intake section (20) of the imaging unit (2) may be positioned adjacent to a constant temperature member. When the intake section (20) is positioned adjacent to a constant temperature member, cold air flowing into the interior of the imaging unit (2) can efficiently cool the constant temperature member. For example, the intake section (20) may be positioned adjacent to a first constant temperature member (201). For example, the intake section (20) may be positioned adjacent to a second constant temperature member (202). For example, the intake section (20) may be positioned adjacent to a third constant temperature member (203). However, the above description is merely an exemplary description and is not limited thereto.

[0060] The imaging unit (2) of the mobile medical imaging device (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may include an exhaust section (21). The exhaust section (21) may provide an air passage through which air can be discharged to the outside of the imaging unit (2). The exhaust section (21) may be an opening penetrating the inside and outside of the imaging unit (2), but is not limited thereto. Air introduced into the interior of the imaging unit (2) through the intake section (20) may be discharged to the outside of the imaging unit (2) through the exhaust section (21).

[0061] According to an exemplary embodiment, the imaging unit (2) can cool a constant temperature member by introducing cold air through the intake section (20). After cooling the constant temperature member, the cold air can be discharged to the outside of the imaging unit (2) through the exhaust section (21). The imaging unit (2) can control the flow of cold air so that the cold air introduced through the intake section (20) can efficiently cool the constant temperature member before being discharged through the exhaust section (21). For example, the imaging unit (2) may include a fan (not shown) placed inside, but is not limited thereto.

[0062] A mobile medical imaging device (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may include a connecting element (5). The connecting element (5) may transmit cold air supplied by an air conditioning unit (4) to an imaging unit (2). More specifically, the connecting element (5) may guide the flow of cold air supplied by the air conditioning unit (4) toward the air conditioning unit (4). The connecting element (5) may be placed inside a cabin (3). However, the connecting element (5) may not transmit all of the cold air supplied by the air conditioning unit (4) to the air conditioning unit (4). The connecting element (5) may transmit at least a portion of the cold air supplied by the air conditioning unit (4) to the air conditioning unit (4). For example, a portion of the cold air supplied by the air conditioning unit (4) may be provided to a workspace (30) to provide a comfortable working environment for a user taking medical images. However, the above description is merely an exemplary description and is not limited thereto.

[0063] A connecting element (5) according to an exemplary embodiment may be placed inside a cabin (3). The connecting element (5) may include a first end (51). The first end (51) may be connected to at least a part of an air conditioning unit (4). The connecting unit, in which the first end (51) is connected to at least a part of the air conditioning unit (4), may receive at least a part of the cold air supplied by the air conditioning unit (4). The connecting element (5) may include a second end (52). In the connecting element (5), the second end (52) may be placed in a direction opposite to the first end (51). The second end (52) may be an area where the cold air received by the first end (51) from the air conditioning unit (4) is discharged.

[0064] According to an exemplary embodiment, the connecting element (5) may include a transfer section (50). The transfer section (50) may connect a first end (51) and a second end (52). The transfer section (50) may connect the first end (51) and the second end (52) and provide a flow path through which cold air can flow. More specifically, the transfer section (50) may provide a flow path through which cold air can flow so that cold air supplied from the air conditioning unit (4) through the first end (51) can move toward the second end (52). At least a portion of the cold air discharged from the air conditioning unit (4) may be introduced into the interior of the connecting element (5) through the first end (51) of the connecting element (5), flow through the transfer section (50), and be discharged to the second end (52). The connecting part connects the first end (51) and the second end (52), so that at least a portion of the cold air supplied by the air conditioning unit (4) can be discharged through the second end (52). The transfer part (50) may include an insulating material to prevent cold loss of the cold air. In other words, the cold air introduced through the first end (51) can flow in an insulated state from the outside of the connecting element (5) (e.g., the workspace (30)) by the transfer part (50) and be discharged through the second end (52). The second end (52) may be placed on the air conditioning unit (4). By placing the second end (52) on the air conditioning unit (4), the cold air received by the first end (51) from the air conditioning unit (4) can be delivered to the air conditioning unit (4). However, the above description is merely illustrative and is not limited thereto.

[0065] A connecting element (5) according to an exemplary embodiment may be configured to concentrate the flow of cold air to the shooting unit (2). Here, concentrating the flow of cold air to the shooting unit (2) may be to induce the flow of cold air so that the cold air discharged by the air conditioning unit (4) is discharged opposite to the shooting unit (2).

[0066] According to an exemplary embodiment, the second end (52) of the connecting element (5) may be positioned opposite the intake section (20) of the shooting unit (2). The second end (52) being positioned opposite the intake section (20) may be positioned so that the second end (52) faces the intake section (20), but is not limited thereto. The second end (52) of the connecting element (5) may be configured to concentrate the flow of cold air into the intake section (20). By positioning the second end (52) of the connecting element (5) opposite the intake section (20), the connecting element (5) can concentrate the flow of cold air into the intake section (20).

[0067] A connecting element (5) of a mobile medical imaging device (1) according to an exemplary embodiment can concentrate the flow of cold air into an intake section (20). By concentrating the flow of cold air into the intake section (20), the connecting element (5) can induce cold air to flow into the interior of the imaging element. By concentrating the flow of cold air into the intake section (20), the connecting element (5) can efficiently cool a constant temperature member inside the imaging element. However, the above description is merely an exemplary description and is not limited thereto.

[0068] According to an exemplary embodiment, the mobile medical imaging device (1) can efficiently cool the constant temperature member inside the imaging element by concentrating the flow of cold air into the intake section (20) even when the cooling performance of the air conditioning unit (4) is degraded under harsh external environmental conditions (e.g., an external environment with excessively high temperature and / or humidity). The mobile medical imaging device (1) can efficiently cool the constant temperature member inside the imaging element by concentrating the flow of cold air into the intake section (20) even when the entrance / exit section (300) of the cabin (3) is open.

[0069] FIG. 5 is a side view of a portable medical imaging device (1) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 3a through 5, the second end (52) of the connecting element (5) according to an exemplary embodiment may be connected to the intake section (20). The connection of the second end (52) to the intake section (20) may allow cold air discharged through the second end (52) to be directly delivered to the intake section (20). When the second end (52) is connected to the intake section (20), the flow of cold air introduced into the interior of the connecting element (5) through the first end (51) can be efficiently concentrated in the intake section (20).

[0071] In the following, the results of thermal flow simulations performed on the mobile medical imaging device (1) according to the comparative example and the exemplary embodiment are compared to verify the cooling effect provided by the mobile medical imaging device (1) according to the exemplary embodiment to the imaging unit (2).

[0072] FIG. 6a is the result of a thermal flow simulation of a mobile medical imaging device according to a comparative example. FIG. 6b is the result of a thermal flow simulation of a mobile medical imaging device according to a comparative example. FIG. 6c is the result of a thermal flow simulation of a mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 6d is the result of a thermal flow simulation of a mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment. In each of FIG. 6a to FIG. 6d, a thermal flow simulation was performed on the mobile medical imaging device (1a, 1) illustrated in FIG. 2a to FIG. 3b. At this time, the external temperature condition was set to 40 degrees Celsius, the temperature condition of the cold air discharged by the air conditioning unit (4) was set to 25 degrees Celsius, and the flow of cold air was displayed in a color corresponding to the temperature while operating the mobile medical imaging device (1a, 1). The simulation for the mobile medical imaging device (1a) according to the comparative example shown in FIG. 2a is labeled as (a) Reference, and the simulation for the mobile medical imaging device (1a) according to the comparative example shown in FIG. 2b is labeled as (c) Open. The simulation for the mobile medical imaging device (1) according to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 3a is labeled as (b) Duct, and the simulation for the mobile medical imaging device (1) according to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 3b is labeled as (d) Duct & Open. FIG. 7 is a simulation result predicting the internal temperature of each component in the mobile medical imaging device according to the comparative example and the exemplary embodiment. FIG. 7 illustrates the internal temperature of the workspace (30) and the imaging unit (2) in FIG. 6a and FIG. 6b, respectively. The temperature of the workspace (30) is labeled as OutAir, and the internal temperature of the imaging unit (2) is labeled as InAir. Among the constant temperature components placed inside the shooting unit (2), the PC for image processing is indicated as PC, and the heat exchanger is indicated as HX.

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 2a through 7, it can be seen that the temperature of the mobile medical imaging device (1) according to the exemplary embodiment is lower than the temperature of the mobile medical imaging device (1a) according to the comparative example. More specifically, regarding the workspace (30), the PC for image processing, the interior of the imaging unit (2), and the heat exchanger, (a) Ref. and (b) Duct are compared, and (c) Open and (d) Duct & Open are compared, and it can be seen that the mobile medical imaging device (1) according to the exemplary embodiment has a lower temperature than the mobile medical imaging device (1a) according to the comparative example. This difference can be understood as being due to the fact that the connecting element (5) of the mobile medical imaging device (1) according to the exemplary embodiment concentrates the flow of cold air to the intake part (20) of the imaging unit (2), thereby efficiently cooling the imaging unit (2), and prevents cold air from leaking out through the entrance / exit part (300) of the cabin (3).

[0074] In the following, the results of thermal flow simulations performed with different performance of the air conditioning unit (4) for the mobile medical imaging device (1a, 1) according to the comparative example and the exemplary embodiment are compared to verify the cooling effect provided by the mobile medical imaging device (1) according to the exemplary embodiment to the imaging unit (2). At this time, explanations that overlap with the above content will be omitted, and the focus will be on the differences.

[0075] FIG. 8 is a simulation result in which the internal temperature is predicted by specifying the performance conditions of the air conditioning unit in a mobile medical imaging device according to a comparative example and an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 9 is a simulation result in which the internal temperature is predicted by specifying the performance conditions of the air conditioning unit in a mobile medical imaging device according to a comparative example and an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 8 summarizes the simulation results for an air conditioning unit (4) with high air conditioning performance (discharging cold air at a speed of 2 m / s), and FIG. 9 summarizes the simulation results for an air conditioning unit (4) with low air conditioning performance (discharging cold air at a speed of 0.2 m / s).

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 2a through 9, it can be seen that the temperature of the mobile medical imaging device (1) according to the exemplary embodiment is lower than the temperature of the mobile medical imaging device (1a) according to the comparative example. More specifically, it can be seen that the mobile medical imaging device (1) according to the exemplary embodiment has a lower temperature than the temperature of the medical imaging device regardless of the air conditioning performance of the air conditioning unit (4). Through this, it can be seen that the mobile medical imaging device (1) according to the exemplary embodiment can efficiently cool the constant temperature member inside the imaging element by concentrating the flow of cold air to the intake part (20), even if the cooling performance of the air conditioning unit (4) deteriorates under harsh external environmental conditions (e.g., an external environment with excessively high temperature and / or humidity).

[0077] FIG. 10a is a front view of a mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 10b is a front view of a mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 3a through 5 and FIGS. 10a through 11, the imaging unit (2) of a mobile medical imaging device (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may be configured to move within a workspace (30). The imaging unit (2) may be configured to move back and forth in the forward direction (FW) and the rear direction (BW) within the workspace (30). At this time, the forward direction (FW) and the rear direction (BW) may be defined based on the means of movement (10). More specifically, the means of movement (10) may move in the forward direction (FW) or the rear direction (BW) while carrying the mobile medical imaging device (1), and the imaging unit (2) may move back and forth in the forward direction (FW) and the rear direction (BW) defined by the means of movement (10). The imaging unit (2) may move back and forth in the forward direction (FW) and the rear direction (BW) and capture medical images of the patient's physical condition. However, it should not be understood that the imaging unit (2) moves only when the means of transport (10) moves in the forward direction (FW) or the rear direction (BW), and the imaging unit (2) may move independently of the movement performed by the means of transport (10). Furthermore, the above description is based on the premise that the means of transport (10) carrying the mobile medical imaging device (1) typically includes commercial vehicles such as trucks and ambulances, and that the wheelbase of a typical commercial vehicle is provided to be longer than the width of the vehicle. Therefore, if sufficient workspace (30) is provided within the means of transport (10) (more specifically, within the cabin (3) coupled to the means of transport (10)) to allow the imaging unit (2) to move back and forth independently of the direction in which the means of transport (10) moves, the direction in which the imaging unit (2) moves back and forth may be defined differently from the above description.

[0079] According to an exemplary embodiment, the imaging unit (2) can move back and forth in the forward direction (FW) and the rear direction (BW) to capture medical images of the patient's body. For example, if the imaging unit (2) is a computed tomography (CT) device, the imaging unit (2) can move back and forth in the forward direction (FW) and the rear direction (BW) to capture medical images of each cross-section of the body. However, the above description is merely illustrative and is not limited thereto.

[0080] According to an exemplary embodiment, the second end (52) of the connecting element (5) may move back and forth in the forward direction (FW) and the rear direction (BW) in response to the movement of the imaging unit (2). Here, the movement of the imaging unit (2) may mean moving back and forth in the forward direction (FW) and the rear direction (BW) as the imaging unit (2) captures a medical image, but is not limited thereto. The second end (52) may be positioned to face the intake section (20) while moving back and forth in the forward direction (FW) and the rear direction (BW) in response to the movement of the imaging unit (2). The second end (52) moves back and forth in the forward direction (FW) and the rear direction (BW) in response to the movement of the imaging unit (2), thereby allowing the flow of cold air to be concentrated on the intake section (20) of the imaging unit (2) despite the movement of the imaging unit (2).

[0081] The transfer portion (50) of the connecting element (5) according to an exemplary embodiment may include a flexible material. The transfer portion (50) may be configured to extend and retract in response to the movement of the imaging unit (2). More specifically, the transfer portion (50) may be configured to extend and retract in response to the movement of the second end portion (52). In other words, the second end portion (52) may be positioned to face the intake portion (20) of the imaging unit (2) so that the transfer portion (50) extends and retracts in response to the movement of the imaging unit (2). The transfer portion (50) may include, for example, a bellows shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0082] FIG. 12 is a conceptual drawing illustrating the control elements of a mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 12, a mobile medical imaging device (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may include a control element (6). The control element (6) may be configured to control the flow of cold air by detecting a change in the state inside the workspace (30) in real time. Here, the state inside the workspace (30) may include the operating state of the imaging unit (2). More specifically, the control element (6) may detect the operating state of the imaging unit (2) and increase the flow rate of cold air concentrated in the intake section (20) when the imaging unit (2) is operating. Additionally, the state inside the workspace (30) may include the open / closed state of the entrance / exit section (300). More specifically, the control element (6) may increase the flow rate of cold air concentrated in the intake section (20) when the opening of the entrance / exit section (300) is detected. Additionally, the state inside the workspace (30) may include the internal temperature of the imaging unit (2). More specifically, the control element (6) can detect the internal temperature of the shooting unit (2) and control the flow of cold air so that the internal temperature does not deviate from a predetermined range while the shooting unit (2) is operating. Here, the predetermined temperature range may be, for example, 35 degrees Celsius or lower. The predetermined temperature range may be, for example, 15 degrees Celsius or higher. The predetermined temperature range may be, for example, 15 degrees Celsius or higher and 35 degrees Celsius or lower. However, the above description is merely an exemplary description and is not limited thereto.

[0084] FIG. 13 is a conceptual drawing illustrating a first control element of a mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0085] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 13, a control element (6) of a medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment may include a first control element (61). The first control element (61) controls the flow rate of cold air concentrated in the intake section (20) of the imaging unit (2) by controlling the connecting element (5). The first control element (61) may be configured to control the delivery section (50) of the connecting element (5). The first control element (61) can control the flow rate of cold air concentrated in the intake section (20) by adjusting the cross-sectional area of ​​the delivery section (50). More specifically, the first control element (61) can concentrate cold air in the intake section (20) by widening the cross-sectional area of ​​the delivery section (50). The first control element (61) can narrow the cross-sectional area of ​​the delivery section (50) when cold air is excessively concentrated in the intake section (20). The first control element (61) can control the flow of cold air so that the internal temperature of the shooting unit (2) does not deviate from a predetermined range. The first control element (61) may include, for example, an electronic valve, but is not limited thereto.

[0086] FIG. 14 is a conceptual drawing illustrating a second control element of a mobile medical imaging device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0087] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 14, a control element (6) of a mobile medical imaging device (1) according to an exemplary embodiment may include a second control element (62). The second control element (62) controls the intake section (20) of the imaging unit (2) to control the flow rate of cold air flowing into the interior of the imaging unit (2). The second control element (62) controls the flow rate of cold air flowing into the interior of the imaging unit (2) by adjusting the cross-sectional area of ​​the intake section (20). More specifically, the second control element (62) can increase the flow rate of cold air flowing into the interior of the imaging unit (2) by widening the cross-sectional area of ​​the intake section (20). The second control element (62) can narrow the cross-sectional area of ​​the intake section (20) when the internal temperature of the imaging unit (2) becomes excessively low. The second control element (62) can control the flow of cold air so that the internal temperature of the shooting unit (2) does not deviate from a predetermined range. The second control element (62) may include, for example, an electronic opening and closing device, but is not limited thereto.

[0088] A mobile medical imaging device (1) according to an exemplary embodiment is configured to be mounted on a mobile means (10) and operated, and comprises: an imaging unit (2) including an intake unit (20); a cabin (3) that accommodates the imaging unit (2) and provides a workspace (30) to take medical images inside; an air-conditioning unit (4) that air-conditions the workspace (30); and a connecting element (5) disposed inside the cabin (3) and delivering cold air supplied by the air-conditioning unit (4) to the imaging unit (2); wherein the connecting element (5) may be configured such that a first end (51) is connected to at least a part of the air-conditioning unit (4) and a second end (52) is disposed opposite the intake unit (20) to concentrate the flow of cold air to the intake unit (20).

[0089] The mobile medical imaging device (1) can efficiently cool the imaging unit (2) by concentrating the flow of cold air into the intake section (20).

[0090] The above connecting element (5) may include a transmission part (50) that connects the first end (51) and the second end (52) and provides a flow path through which cold air can flow.

[0091] A forward direction (FW) and a rear direction (BW) are defined based on the above-mentioned moving means (10), and the above-mentioned shooting unit (2) may be configured to move back and forth in the forward direction (FW) and the rear direction (BW) within the above-mentioned workspace (30).

[0092] The above imaging unit (2) may include a computed tomography (CT) device.

[0093] The second end (52) of the above connecting element (5) may be configured to face the intake part (20) by moving back and forth in the forward direction (FW) and the rear direction (BW) in response to the movement of the above shooting unit (2).

[0094] The second end (52) moves back and forth in the forward direction (FW) and the rear direction (BW) in response to the movement of the shooting unit (2), and can induce a flow of cold air into the interior of the shooting unit (2) through the intake part (20) despite the movement of the shooting unit (2).

[0095] The second end (52) of the above connecting element (5) can be connected to the intake part (20).

[0096] The transmission part (50) of the above-mentioned connecting element (5) includes a flexible material and can be configured to extend and retract in response to the movement of the above-mentioned shooting unit (2).

[0097] The transmission part (50) of the above-mentioned connecting element (5) may include an insulating material to prevent cold air loss.

[0098] The above-described mobile medical imaging device (1) may further include a control element (6) configured to detect changes in the state inside the workspace (30) in real time and control the flow of cold air.

[0099] The above control element (6) can detect the operating state of the above shooting unit (2) and control the flow of cold air.

[0100] The above control element (6) can control the flow of cold air so that the internal temperature does not deviate from a predetermined range while the shooting unit (2) is operating.

[0101] The cabin (3) includes an entrance / exit section (300) that connects the workspace (30) to the outside or blocks it from the outside as it is opened or closed when a user enters or exits, and the control element (6) can increase the flow rate of cold air concentrated in the intake section (20) when it detects the opening of the entrance / exit section (300).

[0102] The above control element (6) includes a first control element (61), and the first control element (61) can control the flow rate of cold air concentrated in the intake section (20) by adjusting the cross-sectional area of ​​the transmission section (50).

[0103] The first control element (61) above may include an electronic valve.

[0104] The above control element (6) includes a second control element (62), and the second control element (62) can control the flow rate of cold air flowing into the interior of the shooting unit (2) by adjusting the cross-sectional area of ​​the intake part (20).

[0105] The above-described embodiments are merely exemplary, and various modifications and equivalent alternative embodiments are possible therefrom for those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the true scope of technical protection according to the exemplary embodiments must be determined by the technical concept of the invention as described in the following claims.

Claims

1. A mobile medical imaging device (1) configured to be mounted on and operated by a means of transport (10), A shooting unit (2) including an intake part (20); A cabin (3) that accommodates the above-mentioned shooting unit (2) and provides a workspace (30) to capture medical images inside; An air conditioning unit (4) for air-conditioning the above workspace (30); and A connecting element (5) disposed inside the cabin (3) and transmitting cold air supplied by the air conditioning unit (4) to the shooting unit (2); comprising, The above connecting element (5) is, A mobile medical imaging device (1) configured such that the first end (51) is connected to at least a part of the air conditioning unit (4) and the second end (52) is positioned opposite the intake unit (20) to concentrate the flow of cold air to the intake unit (20).

2. In Paragraph 1, A mobile medical imaging device (1), wherein the above connecting element (5) includes a transmission part (50) that connects the first end (51) and the second end (52) and provides a channel through which cold air can flow.

3. In either Paragraph 1 or Paragraph 2, The forward direction (FW) and the rear direction (BW) are defined based on the above-mentioned means of transport (10), and The above shooting unit (2) is, A mobile medical imaging device (1) configured to move back and forth in the forward direction (FW) and the rear direction (BW) within the above workspace (30).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 3, The above-mentioned imaging unit (2) is a mobile medical imaging device (1) that includes a computed tomography (CT) device.

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 4, The second end (52) of the above connecting element (5) is, In response to the movement of the above-mentioned shooting unit (2), A mobile medical imaging device (1) configured to move back and forth in the forward direction (FW) and the rear direction (BW) and to face the intake part (20).

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 5, The second end (52) of the above connecting element (5) is, A mobile medical imaging device (1) connected to the above intake unit (20).

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 6, The transmission part (50) of the above-mentioned connecting element (5) includes a flexible material, and A mobile medical imaging device (1) configured to extend and retract in response to the movement of the above-mentioned imaging unit (2).

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 7, The transmission part (50) of the above-mentioned connecting element (5) is, A portable medical imaging device (1) that includes an insulating material to prevent cold air loss.

9. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned mobile medical imaging device (1) is, A mobile medical imaging device (1) further comprising: a control element (6) configured to detect a change in state inside the above workspace (30) in real time and control the flow of cold air.

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 9, The above control element (6) detects the operating state of the above shooting unit (2) and controls the flow of cold air, a mobile medical imaging device (1).

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 10, The above control element (6) controls the flow of cold air so that the internal temperature does not deviate from a predetermined range while the above shooting unit (2) is operating, in a mobile medical imaging device (1).

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 9, The above cabin (3) includes an entrance (300) that connects the workspace (30) to the outside or blocks it from the outside as it is opened or closed when a user enters or exits, and The above control element (6) increases the flow rate of cold air concentrated in the intake section (20) when the opening of the above entry / exit section (300) is detected, in a mobile medical imaging device (1).

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 9, The above control element (6) includes a first control element (61), and The above first control element (61) controls the flow rate of cold air concentrated in the intake section (20) by adjusting the cross-sectional area of ​​the transmission section (50), in a mobile medical imaging device (1).

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 13, The above first control element (61) is a mobile medical imaging device (1) including an electronic valve.

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 9, The above control element (6) includes a second control element (62), and The above second control element (62) controls the flow rate of cold air entering the interior of the shooting unit (2) by adjusting the cross-sectional area of ​​the intake part (20), in a mobile medical imaging device (1).

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