Radiation shield assembly for medical imaging system

Abstract

A radiation shield assembly (304) for a medical imaging system is disclosed. The radiation shield assembly comprises a radiation shield (101) having a support structure (107) (e.g. a boom for coupling the radiation shield to a ceiling), and a mount (201) rotatably coupled to the support structure (107), and a connector assembly (103) for attaching a user interface (102) to the mount 201, wherein the connector assembly is configured to enable a user to move the user interface relative to the radiation shield (101).

Description

[0001] 2024PF00472

[0002] 03.11.2025

[0003] RADIATION SHIELD ASSEMBLY FOR MEDICAL IMAGING SYSTEM

[0004] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The invention relates to a radiation shield assembly for a medical imaging system, the radiation shield assembly comprising a radiation shield and a connector assembly for attaching a user interface to the radiation shield. The invention further relates to a medical imaging system comprising a user interface and the radiation shield assembly.

[0006] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0007] An interventional procedure needs the minimum dose needed to complete the procedure successfully. The focus in a cardiac catheter laboratory (or cathlab) is to balance between image quality and radiation dose. The aim is to perform a diagnostic and treatment procedure successfully whilst minimizing the dose to the patient and the physician. Radiation exposure is a significant risk for physicians, and therefore radiation management is of key importance. To mitigate this risk, radiation shields are commonly used in medical X-ray systems. These shields are designed to protect physicians during an intervention from harmful ionizing radiation.

[0008] US 10945687B2 discloses a transparent radiation shield, attachable to a patient support platform, and movable to shield a physician from imaging radiation, includes a transparent computer display that is controllable to provide a data overlay on the shield pertaining to patient data and / or x-ray images. US10945687B2 does not disclose a radiation shield assembly comprising a connector assembly and therefore provides limited flexibility for the physician in positioning and adjusting the user interface.

[0009] US20170265824A1 discloses a radiopaque shield affixed to a medical device hangar to reduce radiation exposure to circulating medical staff during fluoroscopy procedures and reduce equipment clutter and cost. US20170265824A1 does not disclose a radiation shield assembly for a medical imaging system that offers increased flexibility and ergonomic positioning of both the radiation shield and user interface.

[0010] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] It is an object of the invention to provide an improved radiation shield assembly for a medical imaging system. Embodiments allow for increased flexibility and ergonomic positioning of both the radiation shield and an attached user interface, thereby improving operator workflow and optimizing the operating space in cathlabs during an intervention. Embodiments may further improve the radiation protection while allowing physicians to perform their duties during an intervention. 2024PF00472

[0012] 2 03.11.2025

[0013] The object of the invention is achieved with radiation shield assembly of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

[0014] An aspect of the invention discloses a radiation shield assembly for a medical imaging system. The radiation shield assembly comprises a radiation shield comprising a support structure (e.g. a boom for coupling the radiation shield to a ceiling), and a mount rotatably coupled to the support structure and a connector assembly configured to attach a user interface to the mount. The connector assembly is configured to enable a user (e.g. a physician) to move the user interface relative to the radiation shield. The radiation shield assembly provides the advantage of enabling the radiation shield and the attached user interface to be flexibly positioned and easily moved within the clinical environment. The support structure (e.g. boom) and rotatable mount allow the entire assembly to be positioned and oriented as needed, while the connector assembly enables precise, multi-axis adjustment of the user interface relative to the shield. This dual flexibility enables the physician to position the user interface for optimal access and visibility, without compromising radiation protection.

[0015] In an embodiment, the radiation shield assembly includes a support structure in the form of boom for coupling the radiation shield to a ceiling. This configuration provides the advantage of allowing the radiation shield to be securely suspended from above, thereby maximizing available floor space in the clinical environment and enabling flexible positioning of the shield and user interface without obstructing movement around the patient or equipment.

[0016] In an embodiment, the connector assembly is configured to enable vertical movement of the user interface relative to the radiation shield. This allows users to conveniently adjust the height of the user interface, enhancing accessibility and ergonomic comfort during clinical procedures.

[0017] In an embodiment, the connector assembly is configured to enable rotational movement of the user interface about a horizontal axis relative to the radiation shield. This feature allows the user interface to be tilted or angled as needed, providing greater flexibility for optimal viewing and interaction during medical procedures.

[0018] In an embodiment, the connector assembly comprises a first part, a second part, and a third part. A first end of the first part being hingedly connected to a first end of the second part, a second end of the first part being arranged for coupling to the mount. A first end of the third part being slidably coupled with a second end of the second part, the second end of the third part being arranged to be coupled to the user interface. An advantage of the connector assembly is that with the first, second and third part, the angle and distance of the user interface towards the physician can be adjusted to enhance ergonomic positioning for the physician during an intervention procedure and with the second end of the first part of the connector assembly being arranged to coupled to the mount, the operating space in cathlabs is not occupied by the addition of another shielding equipment. Yet another advantage is that the added cost for benefitting from the radiation shielding is low.

[0019] In an embodiment, the hinged connection between the first end of the first part and the first end of the second part is configured to enable angular adjustment of the user interface relative to the 2024PF00472

[0020] 3 03.11.2025 radiation shield. This allows the user interface to be positioned at various angles, improving visibility and ease of use for the operator during medical procedures.

[0021] In an embodiment, the second end of the first part is configured to enable rotation of the connector assembly about the mount. This configuration allows for additional adjustability of the user interface position, enhancing flexibility and ease of use within the clinical environment while still protecting the user from radiation exposure. Furthermore, the rotatable coupling between the connector assembly and the mount enables the entire radiation shield assembly to be repositioned with minimal effort, allowing for rapid adaptation to different procedural requirements and maximizing available workspace around the patient.

[0022] In an embodiment, the second part of the connector assembly has a main axis and a hollow portion extending along the main axis and the third part is arranged to slide in the hollow portion, The second part further comprises a locking mechanism configured to lock in position the third part. This configuration provides the advantage of allowing precise and secure positioning of the user interface relative to the radiation shield. The sliding mechanism allows for precise adjustments of the user interface relative to the radiation shield. The locking feature ensures that once the desired position is achieved, the user interface remains stable and secure. The ability to easily adjust and lock the user interface enhances usability during medical imaging procedures. It ensures that the user interface is positioned optimally for the user, improving ergonomics, and protecting the user from radiation exposure.

[0023] In an embodiment, the mount has a cross section, and the second end of the first part has a hole matching the cross section to attach the connector assembly to the mount. This configuration provides the advantage of ensuring a secure and stable attachment of the connector assembly to the mount.

[0024] In an embodiment, the second end of the first part is coupled to the mount via a gripping mechanism. This configuration provides the advantage of ensuring a secure and stable attachment of the connector assembly to the radiation shield.

[0025] In an embodiment, the connector assembly comprises a socket for providing an electrical coupling to the user interface. This provides the advantage of improved reliability as the battery of the user interface may be exhausted, especially when a series of medical procedures is planned during a day.

[0026] In an embodiment, the radiation shield comprises a bracket and the bracket is coupled to the mount. This configuration provides the advantage of enhancing the stability and support of the radiation shield to the mount, ensuring that it remains securely attached and properly positioned during use of medical procedures.

[0027] The present invention also provides a medical imaging system comprising an imaging assembly and the radiation shield assembly. This arrangement provides the advantage of integrating the radiation shield assembly with the imaging assembly, ensuring that the radiation shield is always positioned correctly relative to the imaging assembly. This integration enhances the overall safety and 2024PF00472

[0028] 4 03.11.2025 efficiency of the medical imaging system, as it ensures that the radiation shield is always in place to protect the operator from ionizing radiation during imaging procedures.

[0029] In an embodiment, a medical imaging system comprises a user interface attached to the radiation shield assembly, wherein the user interface is configured for controlling the medical imaging system. This arrangement allows operators to conveniently manage imaging functions directly from the user interface, streamlining workflow and improving efficiency during medical procedures.

[0030] In an embodiment, the user interface comprises a touch screen module providing virtual buttons for controlling the medical imaging system. This configuration provides the advantage of enhancing control and usability by allowing operators to easily access and adjust imaging settings through an intuitive and user-friendly touch screen interface during medical procedures.

[0031] These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter.

[0032] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] Fig. 1 illustrates a connector assembly for attaching a user interface to a radiation shield in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0034] Fig. 2 illustrates a side view of the connector assembly mentioned in Fig. 1.

[0035] Fig. 3 illustrates an example of a medical imaging system comprising an imaging assembly and the radiation shield assembly.

[0036] DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0037] Certain embodiments are described in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, similar drawing reference numerals are used for similar elements, even in different drawings. The details provided in the description, such as construction and elements, are intended to assist in a comprehensive understanding of the exemplary embodiments. Well-known functions or constructions are not described in detail to avoid obscuring the embodiments with unnecessary information.

[0038] Unless otherwise noted, when an element or component is said to be “connected to,” “coupled to,” another element or component, it will be understood that the element or component can be directly connected or coupled to the other element or component, or intervening elements or components may be present. That is, these and similar terms encompass cases where one or more intermediate elements or components may be employed to connect two elements or components. However, when an element or component is said to be “directly connected” to another element or component, this encompasses only cases where the two elements or components are connected to each other without any intermediate or intervening elements or components.

[0039] Fig. 1 illustrates a radiation shield assembly 304 for a medical imaging system, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The radiation shield assembly comprises a radiation 2024PF00472

[0040] 5 03.11.2025 shield 101 and a connector assembly 103 for attaching a user interface 102 to the radiation shield 101. The radiation shield 101 comprises a mount 201, and the connector assembly 103 is attached to the mount 201. The radiation shield 101 further comprises a support structure (e.g. a boom 107 for coupling the radiation shield to a ceiling), and the mount 201 is rotatably coupled to the boom 107.

[0041] The connector assembly comprises a first part 104, a second part 105 and a third part 106. A first end of the first part 104 being hingedly connected to a first end of the second part 105, a second end of the first part 104 being arranged for coupling to the mount 201 of the radiation shield 101. A first end of the third part 106 being slidably coupled with a second end of the second part, the second end of the third part being arranged to be coupled to the user interface 102.

[0042] The first end of the first part is hingedly connected to the first end of the second part. The hinged connection can be achieved through various means, including mechanical hinges (pin hinges, continuous hinges), flexible hinges (elastomeric hinges), bolted joints and ball-and-socket joints. These configurations allow for various movements, such as rotation, flexing, and tilting, providing flexibility in positioning the user interface relative to radiation shield. The second end of the first part is arranged for coupling to the radiation shield, which can be achieved through bolting mechanisms, clamps, magnetic connectors, and snap-fit connectors.

[0043] The connector assembly also comprises a third part, with the first end of the third part being slidably coupled with the second end of the second part. The sliding connection can be achieved through sliding rails and grooved tracks. The second end of the third part is arranged to be coupled to the user interface, which can be achieved through VESA mount standards, bolting mechanisms, clamps, and magnetic connectors.

[0044] The materials used for the connector assembly can include metals (aluminum, steel, titanium), plastics (polycarbonate, ABS), and composites (carbon fiber, fiberglass).

[0045] The user interface can be adjusted vertically, allowing it to move up or down relative to the radiation shield. Further, the user interface can also be tilted at various angles, providing flexibility in positioning and improving ergonomics during medical imaging procedures. When the desired configuration of the user interface 102 is obtained, the user interface may be locked in place to have a stable connection. An example of a user interface is the Philips Azurion ™ touch screen module, see for example Philips Touch screen module pro j Image-guided therapy systems.

[0046] Fig. 2 illustrates a side view of the connector assembly 103 as part of the radiation shield assembly 304. In an embodiment, the second part 105 of the connector assembly has a main axis 205 and a hollow portion 206 extending along the main axis. The third part 106 is arranged to slide in the hollow portion. The sliding connection can be achieved through various means, including telescoping mechanisms, sliding rails, and grooved tracks. The second part 105 further comprises a locking mechanism 203 configured to lock the third part 106 in position. The locking mechanism can include mechanical locks, friction locks, or magnetic locks. This configuration provides the advantage of allowing precise and secure positioning of the user interface relative to the radiation shield. The sliding 2024PF00472

[0047] 6 03.11.2025 mechanism allows for precise adjustments of the user interface relative to the radiation shield. The locking feature ensures that once the desired position is achieved, the user interface remains stable and secure. The ability to easily adjust and lock the user interface enhances usability during medical imaging procedures. It ensures that the user interface is positioned optimally for the user, improving ergonomics and protecting the user from radiation exposure.

[0048] In an embodiment, the connector assembly further comprises a socket 207 for providing an electrical coupling to the user interface. The socket 207 can be configured to provide power, data transfer, or both. The electrical coupling can be achieved through various means, including wired connections (e.g., USB, HDMI, power cables) and wireless connections (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi). For wireless connections, a battery (not shown) can also be an option. The materials used for the socket can include metals (e.g., copper, aluminum) for conductive parts and plastics (e.g., polycarbonate, ABS) for insulating parts. The electrical coupling also allows for data transfer between the user interface and other components of the medical imaging system, enhancing the overall functionality and usability of the system.

[0049] The materials used for the radiation shield can include lead acrylic glass, metal, or transparent polymeric sheets coated with radiation-absorbing material, such as lead or non-toxic alternatives like tungsten or barium sulfate. This ensures that the radiation shield provides effective protection while maintaining visibility for the user. In an embodiment, the radiation shielding material(s) is transparent so that placement of the radiation shield for maximizing protection from radiation does not obstruct the visual line of sight of the user. Alternatively, the transparent radiation shielding material may include transparent polymeric sheets coated with radiation absorbing material. The mount 201 is configured to attach the connector assembly to the radiation shield 101 in a manner that enables movement of the first part 104 relative to the mount 201 around at least one of the y-axis or the x-axis, indicated in Fig. 1, where the y-axis is the vertical axis and the x- axis is the horizontal axis. The attachment can be achieved through various means, including bolting mechanisms, clamps, magnetic connectors, and snap-fit connectors. The boom 107 is provided for coupling the radiation shield 101 to a ceiling and / or one or more walls of the procedure room (not shown). The mount 201 is rotatably coupled to the boom. The mount 201 is coupled to the second end of the first part (104) and / or the boom 107 in a manner that enables rotation of the first part 104 relative to the boom 107 around at least one of the y- axis, the x-axis or the z-axis, indicated in Fig. 1. The first part 104 can spin around the y-axis, tilt left and right around the z-axis, and tilt front and back around the x- axis in any combination of movements. The mount 201 may include any compatible mounting hardware that enables movement in one or more directions. For example, the mount 201 may include a gimbal fixedly attached to the boom 107 and rotationally attached to the first part 104. Alternatively, the mount 201 may include a gimbal fixedly attached to the first part 104 and rotationally attached to the boom 107. The boom 107 can be made from materials such as aluminum, steel, or other suitable metals, ensuring durability and strength. The rotatable 2024PF00472

[0050] 7 03.11.2025 coupling can be achieved through various means, including mechanical hinges, ball bearings, or swivel joints, allowing for controlled rotation of the radiation shield.

[0051] Alternatively an attractive arrangement may be that the support structure 107 is a freestanding base, such as a trolley or mobile cart (see for example Mobile X-Ray Protection Screen for UMAX X-Ray Image-Guided Surgical Table [ STERIS). In another alternative embodiment, the support structure 107 may be as shown in Fig. 3. The mount 201 may be rotatably coupled to the support structure 107 by means of a hinge, gimbal, ball joint, or other suitable rotational mechanism, allowing the radiation shield 101 to be oriented as needed for optimal protection and usability.

[0052] In an embodiment, the mount 201 has a cross section, and the second end of the first part 104 has a hole matching the cross section to attach the connector assembly to the mount. The attachment can be achieved through various means, including bolting mechanisms, clamps, magnetic connectors, and snap-fit connectors.

[0053] In an embodiment, the second end of the first part 104 is coupled to the mount 201 via a gripping mechanism. The gripping mechanism can include mechanical grippers, magnetic grippers, snap- fit connectors, or clamp connectors.

[0054] In an embodiment, the radiation shield assembly further comprises a bracket 204. The bracket is coupled to the mount 201. The bracket may be connected via a thin rod that passes through the mount in order to attach the radiation shield to the mount.

[0055] In an embodiment, the user interface comprises a touch screen module (not shown) providing virtual buttons for controlling the medical imaging system. For example, in a radiology room, a user can use a touch screen to control the X-ray machine. The virtual buttons on the touch screen allow the technician to adjust parameters such as the intensity of the X-rays, the position of the patient, and other settings necessary to obtain high-quality images. This setup enhances usability and efficiency, as it allows the technician to make quick and precise adjustments without the need for physical controls. User interface may be a keyboard, joystick, track ball, stylus, mouse, or any other suitable input device for controlling the medical imaging system 300.

[0056] The user interface 102 is operatively coupled to the connector assembly 103. The user interface 102 is coupled to the second end of the third part 106 of the connector assembly 103 in a manner that enables rotation of the user interface relative to the radiation shield 101 around at least one of the y- axis, the x-axis or the z-axis, indicated in Fig. 1, where the y-axis is the vertical axis and the x- axis and the z-axis are horizontal axes perpendicular to one another. The user interface 102 can spin around the y- axis, tilt left and right around the z-axis, and tilt front and back around the x- axis in any combinations of movements. The connector assembly may include any compatible mounting hardware that enables movement in one or more directions.

[0057] The user interface can be adjusted vertically, allowing it to move up or down relative to the radiation shield. Further, the user interface can also be tilted at various angles, providing flexibility in positioning and improving ergonomics during medical imaging procedures. 2024PF00472

[0058] 8 03.11.2025

[0059] Fig. 3 illustrates an example of a medical imaging system 300. The system comprises an imaging assembly 303 and the radiation shield assembly 304. The imaging assembly 303 is configured to acquire an image (e.g. X-ray, CT) of a patient (not shown) lying on a table 306. The radiation shield assembly 304 comprises the radiation shield 101, the user interface 102 and the connector assembly 103 (shown in Fig. 1). The radiation shield is placed to protect users from ionizing radiation during medical imaging procedures. The user interface 102 allows user 305 to interact with the medical imaging system. The connector assembly (shown in Fig. 2) attaches the user interface to the radiation shield and enables the user 305 to move the user interface relative to the radiation shield. The user 305 may be surgeon, clinician or medical professional. It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the invention, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The word "comprising" does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those listed in a claim. The word "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. In the device claim enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware. Measures recited in mutually different dependent claims may advantageously be used in combination.

Claims

2024PF0047203.11.2025CLAIMS:Claim 1. A radiation shield assembly (304) for a medical imaging system (300), the radiation shield assembly comprising: a radiation shield (101) comprising a support structure (107), and a mount (201) rotatably coupled to the support structure (107); and a connector assembly (103) configured to attach a user interface (102) to the mount (201), the connector assembly being configured to enable a user to move the user interface relative to the radiation shield (101).Claim 2. The radiation shield assembly according to claim 1, wherein the support structure is a boom (107) for coupling the radiation shield to a ceiling.Claim 3. The radiation shield assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connector assembly (103) is configured to enable vertical movement of the user interface (102) relative to the radiation shield (101).Claim 4. The radiation shield assembly according to claims 1 to 3, wherein the connector assembly (103) is configured to enable rotational movement of the user interface (102) about a horizontal axis relative to the radiation shield (101).Claim 5. The radiation shield assembly according to claims 1 to 4, wherein the connector assembly comprises:-a first part (104) and a second part (105), a first end of the first part being hingedly connected to a first end of the second part (105), a second end of the first part being arranged for coupling to the mount (201);-a third part (106), a first end of the third part being slidably coupled with a second end of the second part, the second end of the third part being arranged to be coupled to the user interface (102).Claim 6. The radiation shield assembly of claim 5, wherein the hinged connection between the first end of the first part (104) and the first end of the second part (105) is configured to enable angular adjustment of the user interface (102) relative to the radiation shield (101).2024PF0047210 03.11.2025Claim 7. The radiation shield assembly of claims 5 or 6. wherein the second end of the first part(104) is configured to enable rotation of the connector assembly (103) about the mount (201).Claim 8. The radiation shield assembly according to any of claims 5 to 7, wherein the second part(105) has a main axis 205 and a hollow portion 206 extending along the main axis, wherein the third part(106) is arranged to slide in the hollow portion, and wherein the second part further comprises a locking mechanism (203) configured to lock in position the third part.Claim 9. The radiation shield assembly according to claims 5 to 8, wherein the mount (201) has a cross-section, and the second end of the first part (104) has a hole matching the cross-section to attach the connector assembly to the mount (201).Claim 10. The radiation shield assembly according to claims 5 to 9, wherein the second end of the first part (104) is coupled to the mount (201) via a gripping mechanism.Claim 11. The radiation shield assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the connector assembly (103) further comprises a socket (207) for providing an electrical coupling to the user interface (102).Claim 12. The radiation shield assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the radiation shield (101) comprises a bracket (204), the bracket being coupled to the mount (201).Claim 13. A medical imaging system (300) comprising an imaging assembly (303); and the radiation shield assembly (304) as claimed in any of the preceding claims.Claim 14. The medical imaging system according to claim 13, further comprising a user interface (102) attached to the radiation shield assembly, wherein the user interface is configured for controlling the medical imaging system.Claim 15. The medical imaging system according to claim 14, wherein the user interface comprises a touch screen module providing virtual buttons for controlling the medical imaging system.

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