TW201350164A - A mobile X-ray unit - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a mobile X-ray unit comprising a base (2), a mast (5) cooperating with the base and an articulated arm (4a), mechanically coupled to the mast and supporting an X-ray applicator (4) provided with an X-ray tube, the mast (5) being displaceable with respect the base (2) in an upward direction, the articulated arm (4a) comprising a ball joint (6b) at one end and a rotational joint (6a) at another end for adjusting a spatial position of the X-ray applicator (4) in use.

Description

Mobile X-ray unit

The invention relates to a mobile X-ray unit comprising: a base, a mast and a hinged displaceable arm mechanically coupled to the mast and supporting an X-ray device with an X-ray tube.

The invention further relates to a method of making a mobile X-ray unit.

The incidence of skin cancer has increased in the past 10 years in the 20th century, and professional medical personnel need to invest a lot of spirit in early diagnosis, logistics and providing appropriate treatment. However, it is gratifying that more than 1.3 million new skin cancers are diagnosed each year and increase at a rate of about 5% per year. Increasing exposure to the sun and reduction of the ozone layer without skin protection is the main reason - it is estimated that more than 1 billion euros will be spent each year on the medical costs of the disease. More than 80% of skin cancers occur in the head and neck areas, and 50% occur in patients over 60 years of age. Compared to current demographics, it is expected that by 2025 the elderly population will be twice as large as today.

Non proliferated cancer, which is essentially superficial lesions, can be treated in different ways. First, surgery can be considered. However, the disadvantage is that the waiting time is long and the postoperative treatment is complicated, and the risk of infection may be high after the postoperative trauma. Second, soft X-ray electron irradiation can be considered. This approach has the advantage of being non-invasive, with each treatment being as short as 2 or 3 minutes, and it is gratifying that the radiation therapy technique typically includes a certain number of treatments as a finishing treatment.

Therefore, the more the incidence of skin cancer and the increase in the proportion of the elderly population in the overall demographics, pose a substantial challenge to cancer treatment and treatment materials.

In recent years, it is generally recommended to use a portable X-ray unit, which can be used for medical purposes. Radiation Therapy Department of the hospital. An implementation of such a portable unit is described, for example, in Patent No. 5,425,069. This known unit includes a counterweight articulated X-ray tube support arm to allow for the positioning of the connected X-ray tube in space without the need to move the support carrier. The articulating arm arrangement is configured to slide along a mast that is secured to the support carrier. The conventional articulated X-ray tube arm includes a plurality of pivotal support attachments that allow the X-ray tube to move planarly approximately horizontally to the ground supporting the carrier.

A disadvantage of this conventional X-ray tube is that such a device is too large and can only support the direction of a limited X-ray tube in space, which is insufficient to properly align the X-ray beam with respect to the tumor of the patient's skin. quasi.

In view of the above, it is an object of the present invention to provide a substantially robust mobile X-ray unit with improved handling of an X-ray applicator.

In this regard, a mobile X-ray unit according to an embodiment of the invention includes a mast coupled to a base and an articulating arm mechanically coupled to the mast and supporting X-ray treatment with X-ray tube The mast is displaceable in a generally upright axial direction relative to the base, the articulating arm including a ball joint at one end and a swivel joint at the other end.

As used herein, "mobile" and "portable" are interchangeable and are equivalent to a device that can be easily moved or transported, for example, by a single individual or Transport device.

More preferably, the articulated arm provides a swivel joint and a ball joint at the end Or close to the end. Those skilled in the art can select the location of the contacts as needed during the manufacturing steps.

Preferably, the substantially upright axis extends in a generally vertical direction, generally upwardly, however, the words "upward" or "substantially perpendicular" are substantially perpendicular to (positive and negative) 20 degrees) In terms of the plane of a surface, the mobile X-ray unit is placed on this plane.

In addition, the movable X-ray device can be moved along the substantially upright axis; the X-ray device can be fixed at almost any position by the substantially freedom of the articulated arm. Preferably, the X-ray applicator is placed in a preferred alignment position, such as where there are more possibilities to use. However, rotating the articulating arm includes the two joints being substantially strong to support any angle of movement of the X-ray tube relative to the upright direction.

In the mobile X-ray device according to an embodiment of the invention, the hinge arm is fixed to the mast by a rotary joint and fixed to the X-ray device by a ball joint.

This setting has the advantage of improving the positioning stability and control ability of the X-ray treatment device.

Another advantage of the mobile X-ray unit according to the present invention is that the X-ray device can be stored in a small (non-protruding) storage device position, wherein the articulated arm is bent by the rotary joint to face the mast, and more details will be 1 and 1b are illustrated.

The friction of the appropriate ball joint can be optimally set for ease of handling and mechanical stability since the total weight is about 3-4 kilograms, and those skilled in the art can further apply this advantage. In a particular embodiment, the ball joint is when X-ray is mounted When the treatment is performed, a specific brake unit is provided to be fixed to the coupling position. This feature facilitates the use of an X-ray applicator greater than 45 degrees in the vertical direction. However, although the X-ray unit of the present invention allows for this positioning, it is preferred that the position of the X-ray applicator that is more than 45 degrees apart by the rotation of the articulated arm relative to the mast is not necessarily required because of the target area When level, the patient can be located below the X-ray unit.

To improve the handling of the X-ray device, the mast settings cooperate with the sliding carrier to be placed in an upward or/and downward direction.

It may be found that it is preferred to provide a sliding carrier to smoothly move the mast relative to the base of the X-ray unit. This sliding carrier setting reduces the mast speed when approaching extreme positions. For example, a rebound body such as a spring or a cushion is used to buffer the mast speed. This function is beneficial to avoid or reduce when the unintended mechanical shock wave causes the X-ray device and/or X-ray tube to be inaccurate. More preferably, the X-ray unit of the present invention further comprises a balance weight to the mast, which includes one or more time springs. This configuration finds that when the mast is moved to the uppermost position, it is beneficial to improve the mechanical stability of the X-ray unit. The time spring mechanism is not explained in detail here.

In a further embodiment of the X-ray unit of the present invention, the first and/or second connector has a corresponding sensor to detect if the joint position is in place.

It can be found that preferably the first and/or second joint has a sensor recording position. This setting is beneficial to repeated therapeutic uses when the patient requires multiple repetitive radiation treatments. To increase the efficiency of the X-ray installation, the recorded joint position can be used to replicate at least for coarse adjustment. Preferably, a fixed base can be used for this setting. Optionally, the base has a preset position for moving to a radio position Set.

An X-ray unit in accordance with the present invention can include a processor to control operation of the X-ray unit, including setting an X-ray tube, wherein the sensor is configured to communicate the detected position to the control processor. The processor is further disposed during processing to store the connector location to the patient file for use in the next session of therapy.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an X-ray applicator wherein the X-ray applicator is aligned in a predetermined axial direction in a vertical direction to balance the weight.

X-ray tubes can be found to be frequently used in vertical or small differences (less than 20 degrees). In addition, a balanced weight mechanism arrangement is preferably provided, including a two-piece articulated arm to impart no radial force to the mast. This setting preferably further improves the mechanical stability of the X-ray unit. In addition, the X-ray unit can be safely operated when the X-ray device is pulled out.

According to an X-ray unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, the X-ray treatment device is connected to a section of the hinged arm near the distal end portion, and the connection is found to be related to the internal connection of the X-ray treatment device and the articulated arm, and the X-ray treatment device can be improved. Angle manipulation. Preferably, the X-ray applicator includes a window for emitting an X-ray beam at a proximal portion thereof.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a method of manufacturing a mobile X-ray unit is provided. The mobile X-ray unit includes: a base, a mast coupled to the base, and a hinged displaceable arm mechanically coupled to the mast and Supporting an X-ray treatment device having an X-ray tube, comprising the steps of: disposably displacing the mast relative to the base in an upward direction; providing one end of the hinged arm having a ball joint and another One end a rotary joint; and coupling the X-ray device to the articulated arm.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a medical care unit can be provided, such as a bed, a chair, a trolley, a cart ( Cart), a galley or a treatment unit comprising three, four or more wheels, wherein at least some of the wheels are interconnected by a resilient frame to allow automatic adjustment of the wheel when in contact with a ground surface the height of.

For example, the above framework may include one or more sub-branch, operating together or alone. The one or more sub-brackets can have a weak region such that when moved to the ground, the sub-bracket can be deformed due to the weight of the mobile healthcare unit.

In more detail, the frame may include an elastic region adapted to be elastic and/or bendable under the weight of the mobile X-ray unit. In a particular mobile health care unit embodiment, the resilient frame can include one or more sub-brackets, one or each of which can be constructed from one or more segments and coupled to a spring.

It can be found that this elastic frame has special advantages when the mobile healthcare unit moves on uneven ground, or when the ground has bumps such as bumps.

There are many other applications which are desirable in that the mobile health care unit described above does not need to change its spatial orientation even when moving over an irregular surface. For example, laboratory trays, beds, especially neonatal beds, food supplies A food supply tray or the like is a position that is particularly required to remain substantially unchanged when moved.

More particularly, the mobile X-ray unit according to the invention described above has the advantage that when the base is provided with wheels, it is supported by an elastic frame. In one particular aspect of the application, the mobile X-ray device is a mobile clinic, that is, when the mobile X-ray device is provided with a vehicle and needs to be moved at different treatment locations. In the case of special circumstances, treatment is required, even in the open air. By providing a mobile X-ray unit with self-adaptation to the irregular surface, the adjustment of the X-ray device can be performed in much the same way as in a doctor's office. In addition, when parked, to ensure that the X-ray device can be positioned in a substantially identical orientation, the physician is required to go through a substantially identical positioning routine when positioning the X-ray device for treatment. Accordingly, human error can be avoided due to the three-dimensional processing of the more complex X-ray treatment device.

The above described objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the embodiments of the invention. range.

The details disclosed in the specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail in conjunction with the drawings.

Figure 1a is a schematic diagram showing a mobile X-ray unit in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Mobile X-ray unit 10 includes a base 2 comprising at least one power supply unit, a cooling system and a control unit for controlling the operation of an X-ray applicator 4, including an X-ray tube housing In an outer casing. The X-ray device 4 is electrically connected to the controller in the base by a flexible cable 3 and can be at least partially housed in a displaceable mast 5. The heat treatment device 4 is supported by an articulated displaceable arm 4a, which may include a rotatable joint 6a for connection to the mast 5. The articulating arm 4 can include a ball joint 6b for attachment to the tamper 4 to thereby change the angle of the X-ray applicator in space.

Since the articulated arm is also mechanically coupled to the mast 5, the vertical range position of the applicator 4 is achieved. Preferably, the mast 5 provides a handle (not shown) for easy handling. The mast 5 can be guided to move over a suitable rail using a sliding carriage 18 so as to be substantially smooth and shock-free when displaced.

More preferably, the cradle 2 provides additional functionality, such as a display (not shown) for feeding-backing appropriate user messages. The display can be configured with a touch-sensitive screen to input appropriate data to the system. For example, the sliding carrier can be used to reduce the speed of the mast 5 as it reaches the extreme positions. For example, elastomers such as springs or cushions provide a moderate speed of the mast. This feature facilitates avoiding unintended mechanical vibrations causing the x-ray applicator and/or X-ray tube to deviate. More preferably, the X-ray unit of the present invention further comprises a balance weight (not shown) to the mast 5, Includes one or more clock springs. Such a configuration is found to be advantageous for improving the mechanical stability of the X-ray unit when the mast 5 is moved to form the upper end position. The time spring is a known mechanism and is not explained in detail in this article.

The base 2 can provide three to more wheels to move the X-ray unit to different positions. The wheels are fixed with appropriate bearings to allow the X-ray unit to be set up in a single unit. Preferably, the wheels are interconnected by a deformable frame to ensure that all of the wheels are in contact with the underlying surface, such as the floor or floor, even when the surface is not very flat.

Fig. 1b is a schematic view showing a displaceable function medical device of an X-ray unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the mechanism of the mobile X-ray unit is developed and constructed to support the X-ray applicator 4 to have a greater range of movement and rotational displacement.

The reference to the symbol 11 indicates a schematic embodiment in which the X-ray device is in a parked position, in which the flexible cable 3 in Figure 1 is not shown. In this position, it can be adapted to rotate the articulated arm relative to the mast 5, which can be found to facilitate providing the mast 5 with a curved body that is curved towards the X-ray mount mounting position 5a and has sufficient curvature. The length supports the X-ray treatment device in the parked position. Preferably, the parking position is that the X-ray applicator does not protrude laterally above the body of the mast 5.

This parking position is adapted to convey the mobile X-ray unit towards a room and/or to be mobile near the patient. In order to retract the X-ray applicator as close as possible to the base 2, the hinged displaceable arm 4a is bendable under the outer portion 5a of the mast 5 by means of the swivel joint 6a, wherein the ball joint 6b can also be used For further positioning. However, the mast 5 can be designed The curvature is such that the dwelling of the X-ray applicator 4 requires only a single sweeping movement. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the geometry of the mast 5 is related to the absolute dimensions of the X-ray applicator 4 and the length of the hinged displaceable arm 4a. In order to ensure the stability of the mobile X-ray unit during its maneuvering, a load block 2a close to the floor is provided on the substrate 2 to lower the absolute position of the gravity point of the overall structure.

Reference numeral 12 denotes a schematic embodiment in which the X-ray application 4 is located in one of the working positions, having an x-ray exit surface 8 of the X-ray device 4 facing the patient ( Patient)P. In accordance with the present invention, the X-ray applicator 4 is controlled in a simple and reliable manner, with a ball joint 6b being used to maintain the X-ray applicator 4 to the desired position.

To properly position the X-ray applicator 4 relative to the patient P, the mast 5 can be moved to a particular stop position between a predetermined low point and a predetermined high point. The articulated arm 4a can be positioned with a suitably rotating X-ray applicator. Preferably, the rotary joint 6a is first used to coarsely position the articulated arm 4a, and then the joint 6b is used to rotate the shaft to place the X-ray applicator. The rotation axis R is preferably selected to coincide with the X-ray exit direction from the exit surface 8 to the vertical X-ray applicator 4. Since the X-ray applicator is preferably fixed to the segment 4d of the distal portion 4', rotation according to the rotation axis R can be simplified. An angle α between the axis of rotation R and the axis of the X-ray tube can be automatically recorded. For this purpose, the connectors 6a, 6b can be provided with appropriate sensors to automatically detect the joint position.

The symbol 13 indicates that the X-ray device 4 is at the lowest position. Illustrating an embodiment, for this purpose, the displaceable mast 5 can be at its lowest position and the articulated displaceable arm 4a can face the X-ray applicator in a desired manner. To avoid mechanical shock when positioning the mast 5 in the lowest position, the displacement of the sliding carrier guide mast 5 provides an elastic means for cushioning purposes. It is also possible to automatically drive the displacement of the mast 5 by means of a drive motor. The processor of the X-ray unit can be set to automatically reduce the speed of movement when its path of movement is close to the end position.

Preferably, in a particular embodiment, the hinged arm 4a comprises a single section, and the hinged arm 4a may have two or more sections connected to the corresponding pivot point.

The base 2 of the mobile X-ray unit can be supported by a frame by a suitable wheel. Preferably, the wheels are connected to each other by a deformable frame to contact the ground, such as the floor can simultaneously contact the same plane, even if the surface is not completely flat. .

For example, the frame includes one or more sub-brackets that cooperate or independently operate to support the wheels of the substrate, and the sub-brackets are deformable to enable the weight of the mobile X-ray unit to be applied to the bracket to enable all of the wheels to contact the floor.

In a particular embodiment, the frame can include an elastic region adapted to be resilient and/or bendable under the weight of the mobile X-ray unit. Springs or other resilient elements such as rubber can be applied to achieve the elastic regions of the frame. The medical unit with the elastic frame will be described later with reference to Figures 5-7.

2 is a block diagram showing the structure of a mobile X-ray unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. The mobile X-ray unit according to the present invention comprises a high voltage supply, and more preferably, is adapted to generate 50-75 KV X-rays in a suitable X-ray tube, a cooling system Used to cool the X-ray tube, and a control system to control the electronic and electrical parameters of the sub-unit of the X-ray unit during use. The component symbol 20 refers to the main unit of the control system 21 and the X-ray applicator 22.

The control unit 21 preferably includes a hard wired user interface 21a for switching the opening and closing of the high voltage supply 21b. More preferably, the high voltage supply 21b includes a high voltage generator 21c having improved ramp-up and ramp-down characteristics. More preferably, the ramp-up time is approximately 100 ms. The hardwired user interface 21a can be configured to automatically activate a cooling system 21d when the high voltage generator is turned on. Additionally, control system 21 can include a primary controller 21e configured to control dose delivery when the X-ray device is in use. The primary controller 21e can provide a primary counter to delete the logged-in data after the X-ray illumination is initialized. This master calculator automatically shuts down the high pressure supply to the X-ray tube after reaching the established dose. More preferably, the established dose is at least dependent on the energy and dose rate at which X-rays are produced. Wherein, the above situation can be calibrated in advance, and corresponding calibration data is provided as much as possible, so that the main dose distribution control of the main controller can be achieved. More preferably, the secondary controller 21f provides an independent loop for initiating dose dispensing control, and the secondary controller 21f can be coupled to a dose meter for accommodation in the X-ray device. In the collimator (collimator) before the X-ray range. Accordingly, the dose meter can be assigned to the actual dose, providing immediate data in view of changes in the dose during ramp up and ramp down of the high pressure source. Also preferably, the control system may further include a safety controller 21g adapted to read data from the primary controller 21e, and the secondary controller 21f to close the high voltage generator after the desired dose is dispensed. (high voltage generator) 21c. In addition, or in addition, the safety controller 21g can be connected to an emergency stop, a door interlock, and a generator interlock.

The X-ray applicator 22 preferably includes the following features: an X-ray tube 22a pre-packaged in an outer housing 22k. In accordance with the present invention, the X-ray tube is provided with a distance of about 4 to 10 cm, more preferably about 5 to 6 cm, between the target-collimator. The X-ray treatment device may further include a beam hardening filter 22b selected to intercept low-energy radiation and a beam flattening filter 22c to intercept portions The X-ray radiation is used to produce a substantially flat beam profile near the exit surface of the X-ray applicator. Still further, the X-ray applicator 22 can include one or more collimator configurations to define the processing beam geometry. More preferably, a set of collimators can be used, for example, having diameters of 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5 cm. More preferably, although a circular collimator is considered here, any form of collimator such as square, elliptic or custom (custom Made) The collimator can be used. It can be found that the X-ray treatment device 22 provided with the automatic collimator detection mean 22f has the advantage that it is suitable for automatically signaling the collimator in use. More preferably, resistance sensing is used wherein each collimator is provided with at least one pair of projections for bridging the resistive path provided in the collimator receptacle. The resistance generated by this chamber constitutes the signal representative of the collimator in use. The X-ray applicator 22 preferably includes a built-in temperature sensor adapted to emit temperature signals from the X-ray tube and/or its housing. The signal from the temperature sensor is received by the control system and loaded with an analysis system. Once the measured temperature rises beyond the allowable range, an alarm signal is generated, optionally, a high voltage is also provided. The shutdown signal of the generator. The X-ray device 22 further includes a radiation sensor 22h disposed inside the outer casing 22k for detecting the actual X-ray radiation emitted by the X-ray tube. More preferably, based on safety factors, the X-ray charge device 22 can further include a non-volatile data storage 22i for recording at least the operational parameters of the X-ray tube. Further, in order to enhance the safety of the radiation, the X-ray treatment device 22 can provide a radiation indicator 22j to provide a visual and/or an audio output for the user and/or patient to know X. The on/off state of the light pipe. More preferably, the radiation indicator 22j may comprise a plurality of distributed signaling means. More preferably, at least one of the signal means, for example, a light emitting diode (LED) is electrically connected to the X Light therapy device 22. More preferably, the signal device is provided on the X-ray device 22.

A processor 21e can be used to automatically store the data values of the connector sensors for later use. Further, when the position of the mast 5 is automatically performed, the processor 21e automatically controls the drive motor to avoid mechanical shock when the mast 5 reaches the end position along the positional movement path.

3 is a schematic view showing an X-ray device of a mobile X-ray unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3E-E is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing an X-ray device of an embodiment, 3F- Figure F shows an embodiment as shown in Figure 3E-E which shows a cathode. The X-ray tube 100 has a body 102 with a closed end at one end and an end window 104 at the other end through which the X-ray can be passed through. The end window is made of thin sheet of Beryllium. An applicator cap 106 is provided to cover the end window 104 to protect the window portion from damage and to protect against metal toxic effects, and the applicator cover 106 is preferably made of a plastic material. .

In the tube body 102, a strike target 108 is located about 4 to 10 cm from the collimator 130, and more preferably about 4 to 6 cm from the collimator 130 (see 3F). -F map), this distance is calculated from the intermediate plane of the surface of the impact target 108 that is not in contact with the anode assembly 110 to the collimator 130. The impact target 108 is fabricated from Tungsten metal to provide the desired X-ray spectrum. The tungsten tip of the impact target 108 is mounted on a large anode assembly 110, which is also provided as a function in the impact target 108 to conduct heat generated by the generation of X-rays. Most anode assemblies are made of copper. The cathode 112 is located slightly off the axis In the end window, the electrons ejected from the cathode are accelerated across the difference in potential difference between the cathode and the anode, in this case set to about 70 KV, as in the prior art, reaching the impact target 108 where it strikes and causes X-rays to be generated. The X-rays emitted from the impact target 108 pass through a beam hardening filter 122 before passing through the collimator 130 and past the exit surface 124 on the medicated cap 106. The collimator 130 can be mounted on a suitable collimator receptacle 128

The anode assembly 110 is mounted in the body 102 and is electrically insulated. Several known techniques and conventional materials can be used to provide the desired degree of insulation between the anode and the body 102.

As is known in the art, the generation of X-rays generates a large amount of waste heat, and therefore, it is necessary to maintain the tube cooling below a safe temperature. A variety of cooling mechanisms are known and can be used. In the present embodiment, the X-ray tube is cooled by means of forced cooling around the anode region with cooling water, the cooling water entering the back of the tube by conduit 116, and by a second conduit 118 And leave. The water cooling circuit is a closed loop circuit with a remote cooler (not shown) before the water leaves the tube to be cooled and before the return tube. Alternatively, oil or other fluids may be used as a cooling medium. In some applications, compressed gas can also be used as an effective coolant.

As in the prior art, X-rays are generated and emitted in all directions, except for the shelter of the tube body 102 and other internal component shields, thereby minimizing the amount of radiation from the tube body and making more radiation. Shoot from the end window. The thickness of the shield provided by the tube is designed to provide at least a user The minimum level of shading required for safe use.

A high voltage cable assembly 120 is coupled to the anode assembly 110. The high voltage line assembly is connected to a flexible cable means (not shown) which is in turn connected to the high voltage power supply.

A radiation detector 114 is disposed outside the path of the X-ray beam exiting the impact target 108 to the end window 104. The detector can be any known radiation detector. In this embodiment, it is connected to an amplifier using a conventional radiation hardened semi-conductor. When the X-ray tube 102 is operating and emits X-ray energy, the radiation detector 114 begins to detect. The output of the detector is coupled to a control unit whereby the output signal can be used to provide an optical indication to the user to confirm that the X-ray tube is in operation. The device can provide an X-ray detector for detecting whether the X-ray tube is activated or deactivated.

The radiation detector 114 is further calibrated to control the determination of the arrival of the patient and calculate the X-ray dose during the course of treatment. This device can have an instant dose control system whereby the precise dose of radiation can be determined. Once the dose rate can be determined, the treatment schedule can be adjusted. This has the advantage of achieving an accurate and precise X-ray dose control that is to be controlled.

In order for the tube 102 to be properly placed on a tumor, a tumor illumination device is used. The tumor illumination device can include a plurality of light sources 126 placed at the periphery of the tube near the end window. When used, light The source of light is on the patient's skin. Since the light source 126 is located around the circumference of the tube body 102, a small distance from the end of the tube, a circle of light is created, the interior of which is empty. In this way, the position of the light creates a shadow at the tube body 102. This shaded circle is used to indicate the area where the target is radiated when the X-ray tube is activated. The inside of the circle will not be completely black, as ambient light will enter this shaded area.

More preferably, the light source 126 is a white LED that is bright enough to clearly illuminate the target area without excessive heat generation and a long lifetime. It is important to have no heat generated because the source is very close to the patient's skin and, as importantly, the risk of skin burns or other damage can be minimized. Light-emitting diodes of other colors can of course also be used. Alternatively, other sources of light may be used, such as a conventional filament lamp, or even a remote light connected to a ring by a fibre optic cable.

Figure 4 is a schematic view showing an articulated arm 4a according to an aspect of the present invention, which includes a swivel joint 6a and a ball joint 6b. In this particular example, the end portions 4a', 4a" of the hinged arm 4a are thicker portions, wherein the intermediate portion 4"" is provided with a diameter to facilitate gripping by the user's hand. Preferably, the intermediate portion 4"' of the hinged arm 4a has a diameter of about 4 to 7 cm.

In this particular example, the ball joint 6b is provided at the end of the articulated arm. However, the ball joint 6b and/or the rotating joint 6a (as shown) provide access to the articulated arm 4a.

The X-ray applicator 4 has an exit window 8 for the X-ray beam generated by the X-ray tube to pass through, and includes an additional rotatable sleeve 9 for allowing the hinged arm 4a to be finely adjusted. The light pipe is down. Preferably, the rotary sleeve 9 is adapted to adjust the axial movement of the X-ray applicator 4, such as a screw mechanism. However, any mechanism suitable for axial translation of the X-ray device 4 can include, without limitation, the scope of the present disclosure.

Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing a medical care unit, such as a mobile X-ray unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The mobile X-ray unit can be constructed on a rolling chassis 200. The chassis may have a H-segment shape from a plan view. More preferably, the legs of the H-section are splayed and slightly outward, thereby increasing stability. The chassis can have four wheels 204, which can be individual castables and can be used to manually move the mobile X-ray unit to a desired position.

The chassis can be provided with a braking mechanism that can be operated by a pedal. Twin pedals 220 may be provided, one on each side of the chassis. The pedals are preferably connected by a shaft to ensure that only one pedal is operated to stop the chassis brake. The brake mechanism can be configured to grip the two opposing wheels. Other brake mechanisms can also be used.

In the present embodiment, the chassis legs 201, 202 are formed as strong structural members, such as a fabricated metal channel or beam. The two feet 201, 202 are made up of a cross-member 210 is connected, the cross member 210 may have a C-shaped cross section, and the two legs 201, 202 are connected at their ends or near the end, and can be bolted or welded as in the prior art. .

In this embodiment, the foot and cross member can be made of a pressed metal component, but other suitable shapes or materials are also possible. It is foreseen that the rolling part of the chassis can likewise be made of a molded plastic material, or in another case a cast metal structure of a material having higher strength, load bearing properties or rigidity. production.

A first vertical chassis member 206 can be securely coupled to the first leg 201 and extends upward therefrom. Connected to the second leg 202 is a second vertical chassis member 208. The vertical chassis members 206, 208 are securely coupled together by known means, not shown here. Some of the operating devices forming the mobile X-ray unit, such as a high voltage power supply, a cooling system for the X-ray tube, and a control system, can be mounted on the vertical chassis members 206, 208, also mounted on the vertical chassis members. There is also a movable arm (not shown). An advantage of this embodiment is that the vertical chassis member may not need to be vertical, but needs to be erectable at any angle, which may be advantageous and suitable for mounting any ancillary fitting or equipment.

The first chassis foot 201 is securely coupled to the vertical chassis member 206 by means of a bolt, which facilitates assembly of the chassis. However, other devices that can be used to ensure the fixation between the two components, such as welding, etc. Still available. The second vertical chassis member 208 is coupled to the second chassis foot 202 by a device such as a bearing. The second vertical chassis member 208 is securely coupled to a mounting bracket 214 by means of a bolt, welding or other conventional locking means. The mounting bracket is provided with a bearing support means that cooperates with the bearing means of the second chassis foot 202. This bearing can be in the form of a shaft or pin 212. The shaft 212 extends from the mounting bracket 214 through the bearing support means into one of the co-operating support means of the foot 202. The shaft and mating bearing bores allow the second vertical chassis member 208 to rotate relative to an axis defined as extending along a longitudinal axis along the length of the shaft 212. The bearing support means can be made of any material known to form a bearing, such as a relatively soft metal such as brass, or more preferably a nylon or polyethylene plastic.

The vertical chassis members 206, 208 are securely coupled together in a manner that is not shown to provide a chassis that is strongly rigidly upwardly extended so that any desired components can be mounted thereon, while the chassis The rolling section provides flexibility to match the uneven or uneven surface.

Fig. 6 is a schematic view showing another embodiment of the manner in which the elastic frame is connected between different members. The detailed structure of the vertical chassis member 206 is similar to that described above. Wherein the bearing includes a shaft 212 defining a axis of rotation through the center of the shaft 212, the foot 202 being rotatable therewith, thereby providing a means for deforming the rolling portion of the chassis and for an uneven floor or path Up and at the same time maintaining a relatively upwardly extending chassis portion. Axis 212 Extending through one of the bearing brackets 214 into the mating support in the foot 202 (see Figure 5). This configuration allows the feet 201, 202 (see Figure 5) to be rotated relative to each other when moving (or parked) on an uneven surface, thereby reducing the risk of instability of the overall device.

7 is a schematic view showing another embodiment of the structure of FIG. 6, the foot portion 202 being mechanically coupled to the chassis member 208 by the mounting device 212 via the mounting bracket 214. As described above, the cross member 210 is connected to the legs 201, 202 at its ends or near its ends, and when the unit is secured, it effectively provides means for maintaining the foot in its desired relative position. However, this refers to the situation where the chassis moves to uneven ground and is subject to rotational torque and torque. The structural strength of the spanning members will produce a force sufficient to resist the relative torque of the feet relative to each other, and also provide a damping that limits and reduces the relative movement of the feet. More suitably, the rotational stiffness of the spanning member can be selected to provide a desired damping effect that takes into account the weight of the mobile unit and the unevenness of the floor.

Although the present invention has been disclosed above in terms of preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. For example, the X-ray device of the present invention is used in an X-ray applicator having an X-ray tube having a side X-ray exit window. However, any person skilled in the art will be able to make some modifications and refinements without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and the scope of the invention is defined by the scope of the appended claims.

2‧‧‧Base

2a‧‧‧Load block

3‧‧‧flexible cable

4‧‧‧X-ray applicator

4'‧‧‧distal portion

4a‧‧‧ articulated arm (articulated displaceable arm)

4a’, 4a” ‧ ‧ end

4a'''‧‧‧intermediate portion

4d‧‧‧segment

5‧‧‧Displaceable mast

5a‧‧‧outer portion

6a‧‧‧rotating joint

6b‧‧‧ball joint

8‧‧‧X-ray exit surface/exit window

9‧‧‧Rotating sleeve

10‧‧‧mobile X-ray unit

18‧‧‧Slidable carriage

21‧‧‧control unit

21a‧‧‧user interface

21b‧‧‧high voltage supply

21c‧‧‧high voltage generator

21d‧‧‧Cooling system

21e‧‧‧primary controller/processor

21f‧‧‧secondary controller

21g‧‧‧safety controller

22‧‧‧X-ray applicator

22a‧‧‧X-ray tube

22b‧‧·beam hardening filter

22c‧‧·beam flattening filter

22d‧‧‧collimator

22e‧‧‧applicator cap

22f‧‧‧Automatic collimator detection mean

22g‧‧‧ housing temperature sensor

22h‧‧‧radiation sensor

22i‧‧‧non-volatile data storage

22j‧‧‧radiation indicator

22k‧‧‧outer housing

100‧‧‧X-ray tube

102‧‧‧ body

104‧‧‧End window

106‧‧‧Applicator cap

108‧‧‧ impact target (target)

110‧‧‧Anode assembly

112‧‧‧cathode

114‧‧‧radiation detector

116‧‧‧catheter (conduit)

118‧‧‧second conduit

120‧‧‧High voltage cable assembly

122‧‧‧beam hardening filter

124‧‧‧Exit surface

126‧‧‧Light source

128‧‧‧collimator receptacle

130‧‧‧collimator

200‧‧‧Rolling chassis

201, 202‧‧‧ chassis legs (chassis leg)

204‧‧‧ Wheels

206‧‧‧First vertical chassis member

208‧‧‧second vertical chassis member

210‧‧‧cross-member

212‧‧‧pin(shaft)\shaft

214‧‧‧mounting bracket

220‧‧‧double pedal (twin pedal)

P‧‧‧patient

R‧‧‧Rotation axis

‧‧‧‧° angle

Figure 1a shows a mobile X-ray unit in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention 1b is a schematic diagram showing a displaceable function of an X-ray unit according to an embodiment of the present invention; and FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a mobile X-ray unit according to an embodiment of the present invention; 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an X-ray medical device of a mobile X-ray unit according to an embodiment of the present invention; and FIG. 3E-E is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing an X-ray device of an embodiment.

The 3F-F diagram shows an embodiment as shown in the 3E-E diagram showing a cathode.

4 is a schematic view showing an articulated arm 4a according to an aspect of the present invention; and FIG. 5 is a schematic view showing a medical care unit such as a mobile X-ray unit according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 6 is a schematic view showing another embodiment of the manner in which the elastic frame is connected between different members; Fig. 7 is a view showing another embodiment of the structure of Fig. 6.

4‧‧‧X-ray applicator

4a‧‧‧ articulated arm (articulated displaceable arm)

4a’, 4a” ‧ ‧ end

4a'''‧‧‧intermediate portion

6a‧‧‧rotating joint

6b‧‧‧ball joint

8‧‧‧X-ray exit surface

9‧‧‧Rotating sleeve

Claims (12)

A mobile X-ray unit includes a base, a mast coupled to the base, and an articulated arm mechanically coupled to the mast and supporting an X-ray device having an X-ray tube, The mast is displaced relative to the base along a generally upright axis having a ball joint at one end and a swivel joint at the other end. The mobile X-ray unit of claim 1, wherein the hinged arm is fixed to the mast by a rotary joint. The mobile X-ray unit of claim 1, wherein the hinged arm is fixed to the X-ray device by a ball joint. The mobile X-ray unit of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the ball joint has a braking mechanism. The mobile X-ray unit of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the mast is disposed to cooperate with a sliding carrier for displacement in the axial direction. The mobile X-ray unit of claim 5, wherein the sliding carrier is provided with a resilient means for reducing the speed of the mast when approaching the end of the stroke. The mobile X-ray unit of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the rotary joint and/or the ball joint has a sensor to detect the position of the joint in space. The mobile X-ray unit of claim 7, further comprising a processor that transmits the detected location to the processor. The mobile X-ray unit of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the X-ray device is counterbalanced to a specific axis in an upward direction. The mobile X-ray unit of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the X-ray device is attached to the hinged arm at a distal end of the X-ray device. The mobile X-ray unit of any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a counterbalance for one of the masts, the balance weight having a clock spring . A method of manufacturing a mobile X-ray unit, a mobile X-ray unit comprising a base, a mast coupled to the base, and an articulating arm mechanically coupled to the mast and supporting an X-ray having an X-ray tube a treatment device, the method comprising the steps of: disposably disposing the mast in an upwardly facing direction relative to the base; providing one end of the hinged arm with a ball joint and having a rotation at the other end a connector; and coupling the X-ray device to the articulated arm.