US20070252068A1

US20070252068A1 - Mounting structure

Info

Publication number: US20070252068A1
Application number: US11/411,613
Authority: US
Inventors: Gary Secora
Original assignee: General Electric Co
Current assignee: General Electric Co
Priority date: 2006-04-26
Filing date: 2006-04-26
Publication date: 2007-11-01

Abstract

A mounting structure for an imaging device includes foot pads and is used on a subject of interest supported on a platform. The mounting structure includes a clamp configured to couple to the platform, a horizontal member coupled to the clamp, a vertical member coupled to the horizontal member, and a plate member coupled to the vertical member. The plate member defines orifices configured to receive the foot pads of the imaging device to constrain the imaging device from moving on the plate member in an X- and Y-direction.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of mounting structures and specifically to an imaging device mounting structure capable of coupling to a platform.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A catheter is often used inside of a patient's body with imaging signals displayed on an imaging device. Due to the length of many catheter connection cables, the imaging device needs to be in close proximity to the catheter. Further, the imaging device may not be in a fixed position in relation to the patient and potential injuries to the patient may occur. For example, if the imaging device was on a rolling cart and the cart was moved during a procedure, the movement of the connected catheter could cause injury to the patient. Also, on an imaging device with a limited display size, a clinician may not be able to clearly view the display at a great distance. Further still, in an emergency situation, an imaging device may need to be removed from the area quickly. Clinicians may need to clear away any equipment, cabling, etc. to gain better access to the patient.
Thus there is a need for an imaging device mounting structure that allows for the imaging device to be in close proximity to an imaging sensor array. There is also a need for an imaging device mounting structure that remains in a relatively fixed position during use. There is also a need for an imaging device mounting structure that may be positioned in close proximity to a clinician using the device. There is also a need for an imaging device mounting structure that may be quickly cleared away from the area of a patient.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One embodiment of the invention relates to a medical imaging system. A medical imaging device is configured to obtain internal medical images of a patient located on a patient bed. A mounting structure is configured to mount the medical imaging device to the patient bed.
One embodiment of the invention relates to a mounting structure for an imaging device. The imaging device includes foot pads and is used on a subject of interest supported on a platform. The mounting structure includes a clamp configured to couple to the platform, a horizontal member coupled to the clamp, a vertical member coupled to the horizontal member, and a plate member coupled to the vertical member. The plate member defines orifices configured to receive the foot pads of the imaging device to constrain the imaging device from moving on the plate member in an X- and Y-direction.
Another embodiment of the invention relates to an imaging system for use on a subject of interest supported on a platform. The imaging system includes an imaging sensor array, an imaging processor coupled to the sensor array, with the processor including a plurality of foot pads, and a mounting structure. The mounting structure includes a clamp configured to couple to the platform, a horizontal member coupled to the clamp, a vertical member coupled to the horizontal member, and a plate member coupled to the vertical member. The plate member defines orifices configured to receive the foot pads of the processor to constrain the processor from moving on the plate member in an X- and Y-direction.
Another embodiment of the invention relates to a method of facilitating the use of an imaging device on a subject of interest supported by a platform. The method includes the step of clamping a mounting structure to the platform, with the mounting structure including a clamp, a horizontal member, a vertical member and a plate member. The method also includes the step of coupling the imaging device to the mounting structure, wherein the imaging device is constrained on the plate member from moving in a X and a Y-direction. The method also includes the step of rotating the mounting structure to place the imaging device in operative proximity to the subject of interest. The method also includes the step of using the imaging device on the subject of interest.
Another embodiment of the invention relates to a system including a patient bed configured to support a patient in a patient care facility. A medical imaging device is configured to obtain internal medical images of the patient. A catheter is coupled to the medical imaging device and configured to be inserted into the patient to cooperate with the medical imaging device to obtain the medical images. A mounting structure is configured to mount the medical imaging device to the patient bed, such that the medical imaging device and the catheter remain stationary relative to the patient during movement of the patient bed in the patient care facility.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an imaging system for use on a subject of interest according to one exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 2 is an elevation view of a mounting structure and imaging device used in the imaging system of FIG. 1 according to one exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing how the imaging device couples to the mounting structure in the imaging system of FIG. 1 according to one exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Referring to FIG. 1, an imaging system 10 for use by a clinician on a subject of interest 12 and supported on a platform 14 is shown. While the illustrated exemplary embodiment shows subject of interest 12 to be a human being, in other exemplary embodiments subject of interest 12 may be another living organism; such as a dog, cat, or horse; or a non-anatomical structure that one wishes to retrieve images from. In other exemplary embodiments, platform 14 may be any platform capable of supporting subject 12, for example an operating table, examination table, other type of table, or a bed.
System 10 generally includes an imaging device 16 and a mounting structure 18. Imaging device 16 is coupled to mounting structure 18. In various exemplary embodiments imaging device 16 may be any imaging device of past, present, or future design such as an ultrasound device, x-ray device, or thermal imaging device. Imaging device is configured to retrieve imaging data from subject of interest via an imaging sensor array and to process the data retrieved using an imaging processor. In one exemplary embodiment, imaging device 16 may retrieve imaging data from subject 12 from a coupled catheter. In another exemplary embodiment, imaging device 16 may retrieve imaging data from subject 12 from a coupled sensor that takes readings externally of subject 12. In various exemplary embodiments, the processor may be of any suitable architecture and instruction set that is able to process and output image data.
Mounting structure 18 is configured to support imaging device 16 and is coupled to platform 14 via a rail 20 in an area external to a sterile field 22 encompassing platform 14. In another exemplary embodiment, mounting structure 18 may be coupled to platform 14 via means other than a rail. Mounting structure 18 is capable of positioning imaging device 16 in a variety of locations as desired by a clinician for various reasons such as for best viewing or so as to not be obstructing any procedure performed on subject 12.
Referring to FIG. 2, imaging device 16 and mounting structure 18 are shown in greater detail. Imaging device 16 may be of a laptop-style configuration with a flip-up screen 24 that displays imaging data or options and a horizontal work area 26 that is coupled to mounting structure 18. Imaging device is powered by power adapter 28, which may be coupled to plate member 30. The imaging device may also be powered by a self-contained battery. In various exemplary embodiments, power adapter 28 may be of any suitable configuration or design that is able to power imaging device 16 and may be coupled to plate member 30 via any suitable fastener such as adhesive, tape, hook and loop fasteners, bracket, or a strap. In another exemplary embodiment, imaging device 16 may be of any other configuration or shape that facilitates processing and displaying imaging data.
Mounting structure generally includes clamp 32, horizontal member 34, vertical member 36, and plate member 30. Clamp 32 is configured to couple mounting structure 18 to platform 14 via rail 20. In another exemplary embodiment where mounting structure 18 is coupled to platform by means other than rail 20, clamp 32 may be of any other configuration that allows for convenient coupling and decoupling to platform 14.
Horizontal member 34 couples clamp 32 and vertical member 36 and is configured to rotate vertical member 36 and plate member 30 on X and Y axes around a swivel 38. In one exemplary embodiment, horizontal member may allow for 360 degrees of rotation, while in other embodiments horizontal member may allow for less than 360 degrees of rotation. Horizontal member 34 may be of a telescoping configuration allowing for plate member 30 and vertical member 36 to be extended or retracted with respect to the relatively fixed position of clamp 32 and swivel 38. In another exemplary embodiment, horizontal member 34 may not be of a telescoping configuration and may not be retractable or extendable except through rotation.
Vertical member 36 couples horizontal member 34 to plate member 30 and is configured to rotate plate member 30 on X and Y axes around a swivel 40. In one exemplary embodiment, horizontal member may allow for 360 degrees of rotation, while in other embodiments horizontal member may allow for less than 360 degrees of rotation. Horizontal member 34 may be of a telescoping configuration allowing for plate member 30 to be extended or retracted on a Z axis with respect to the relatively vertically fixed position of swivel 40. In another exemplary embodiment, horizontal member 34 may not be of a telescoping configuration but may extend or retract on a Z axis by sliding through horizontal member 34. In still another exemplary embodiment, horizontal member 34 may not extend or retract on a Z axis at all.
Plate member 30 is generally configured to support and constrain imaging device 16 from moving in an X, Y, or Z direction or axis independent of plate member 30. In one exemplary embodiment plate member is of a similar size to imaging device, while in other exemplary embodiments plate member 30 may be of a larger or smaller size than imaging device 16 so long as imaging device 16 is supported. In various exemplary embodiments, each of the parts of mounting structure may be composed of any suitable material rigid enough to support imaging device 16 such as aluminum, steel, plastic, fiberglass, or any combination thereof.
Referring to FIG. 3, imaging device 16 is removed from mounting structure 18 in order to illustrate how plate member 30 retains imaging device 16. Imaging device 16 includes a foot pad 42 and defines a hole 44 while plate member 30 defines an orifice 46 and includes a hook 48. Each orifice 46 is configured to receive a foot pad 42 and each hole 44 is configured to receive a hook 48 in order to retain imaging device 16 on plate member 30. It is noted that while two different size foot pads 42 and orifices 46 are illustrated, in other exemplary embodiments, each foot pad may be of the same shape or size or of different shapes and sizes so long as each orifice 46 is capable of receiving each foot pad 42. Likewise, in other exemplary embodiments, hooks 48 and holes 44 may be of any suitable shape or size so long as they serve to retain imaging device 16 on plate member 30. In various exemplary embodiments, more or fewer than the illustrated number of foot pads 42, orifices 46, hooks 48, and holes 44 may be used as long as imaging device is retained on plate member 30. In another exemplary embodiment, orifices 46 and hooks 48 may be omitted with imaging device 16 resting on plate member 30. In still another exemplary embodiment each foot pad 42 may be made of a material with a high coefficient of friction, for example rubber, so that imaging device 16 is substantially prevented from sliding when removed from mounting structure 18 and placed on another surface. In other exemplary embodiments, each foot pad 42 may be composed of any other suitable material that protrudes from imaging device 16 and is received by orifices 46.
Although specific shapes of each element have been set forth in the drawings, each element may be of any other shape that facilitates the function to be performed by that element. For example, plate member 30 is shown to have a rectangular shape, however, in other embodiments plate member 30 may be of a square shape, or an oval, or may include several separate members.
Although imaging system 10 is illustrated as including multiple features utilized in conjunction with one another, imaging system 10 may alternatively utilize less than all of the noted mechanisms or features. For example, in other exemplary embodiments, power adapter 28 may be omitted with power supplied from an internal power source such as a battery.
For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally defined as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components or the two components and any additional member being attached to one another. Such joining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may be removable or releasable in nature
The present disclosure has been described with reference to example embodiments, however workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, although different example embodiments may have been described as including one or more features providing one or more benefits, it is contemplated that the described features may be interchanged with one another or alternatively be combined with one another in the described example embodiments or in other alternative embodiments. Because the technology of the present disclosure is relatively complex, not all changes in the technology are foreseeable. The present disclosure described with reference to the example is manifestly intended to be as broad as possible. For example, unless specifically otherwise noted a single particular element may also encompass a plurality of such particular elements.
It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the system as shown in the preferred and other exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a certain number of embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the assemblies may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connectors or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment or attachment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present subject matter.

Claims

1. A medical imaging system comprising:

a medical imaging device configured to obtain internal medical images of a patient located on a patient bed; and

a mounting structure configured to mount the medical imaging device to the patient bed.

2. The medical imaging system of claim 1, wherein the mounting structure comprises:

a clamp configured to couple to the patient bed;

a horizontal member coupled to the clamp;

a vertical member coupled to the horizontal member; and

a plate member coupled to the vertical member, the plate member defining orifices configured to receive the foot pads of the medical imaging device, wherein the medical imaging device is constrained from moving on the plate member in an X- and Y-direction.

3. The medical imaging system of claim 2, wherein one of the horizontal member and vertical member includes a telescopic section.

4. The medical imaging system of claim 2, including a hook coupled to the plate member and configured to couple to the medical imaging device, wherein the medical imaging device is constrained from moving on the plate member in a Z-direction.

5. The medical imaging system of claim 2, including a swivel at one end of the vertical member configured to allow 360° rotation of the vertical member.

6. The medical imaging system of claim 2, including a swivel at one end of the horizontal member configured to allow 360° rotation of the horizontal member.

7. A mounting structure for an imaging device, with the imaging device including foot pads and used on a subject of interest supported on a platform, the mounting structure comprising:

a clamp configured to couple to the platform;

a horizontal member coupled to the clamp;

a vertical member coupled to the horizontal member; and

a plate member coupled to the vertical member, the plate member defining orifices configured to receive the foot pads of the imaging device, wherein the imaging device is constrained from moving on the plate member in an X- and Y-direction.

8. The mounting structure of claim 7, wherein one of the horizontal member and vertical member includes a telescopic section.

9. The mounting structure of claim 7, including a hook coupled to the plate member and configured to couple to the imaging device, wherein the imaging device is constrained from moving on the plate member in a Z-direction.

10. The mounting structure of claim 7, including a swivel at one end of the vertical member configured to allow 360° rotation of the vertical member.

11. The mounting structure of claim 7, including a swivel at one end of the horizontal member configured to allow 360° rotation of the horizontal member.

12. The mounting structure of claim 7, including a power adapter coupled to the plate member and configured to supply electrical power to the imaging device.

13. The mounting structure of claim 12, wherein the imaging device is an ultrasound imaging device.

14. An imaging system for use on a subject of interest supported on a platform, comprising:

an imaging sensor array;

an imaging processor coupled to the sensor array, with the processor including a plurality of foot pads; and

a mounting structure comprising:

a clamp configured to couple to the platform;

a horizontal member coupled to the clamp;

a vertical member coupled to the horizontal member; and

a plate member coupled to the vertical member, the plate member defining orifices configured to receive the foot pads of the processor, wherein the processor is constrained from moving on the plate member in an X- and Y-direction.

15. The imaging system of claim 14, wherein one of the horizontal member and vertical member includes a telescopic section.

16. The imaging system of claim 14, including a hook coupled to the plate member and configured to couple to the processor, wherein the processor is constrained from moving on the plate member in a Z-direction.

17. The imaging system of claim 14, including a swivel at one end of the vertical member configured to allow 360° rotation of the vertical member.

18. The imaging system of claim 14, including a swivel at one end of the horizontal member configured to allow 360° rotation of the horizontal member.

19. The imaging system of claim 14, including a power adapter coupled to the plate member and configured to supply electrical power to one of the processor and imaging sensor array.

20. The imaging system of claim 14, wherein the imaging sensor array is an ultrasound imaging sensor array.

21. A method of facilitating the use of an ultrasound device on a subject of interest supported by a platform, the method comprising the steps of:

clamping a mounting structure to the platform, with the mounting structure including a clamp, a horizontal member, a vertical member and a plate member;

coupling the ultrasound device to the mounting structure, wherein the ultrasound device is constrained on the plate member from moving in a X and a Y-direction;

rotating the mounting structure to place the ultrasound device in operative proximity to the subject of interest; and

using the ultrasound device on the subject of interest.

22. The method of claim 21, including the step of constraining the ultrasound device from moving in a Z-direction on the mounting structure.

23. The method of claim 21, wherein the vertical member includes a telescopic section and adjusting the height of the vertical member with the telescopic section.

24. The method of claim 21, wherein the horizontal member includes a telescopic section and adjusting the length of the horizontal member with the telescopic section.

25. The method of claim 21, wherein the vertical member includes a swivel at one end and rotating the vertical member a selected number of degrees.

26. The method of claim 21, wherein the horizontal member includes a swivel at one end and rotating the horizontal member a selected number of degrees.

27. The method of claim 21, including the steps of coupling a power adapter to the plate member and coupling the ultrasound device to the power adapter.

28. The method of claim 21, wherein the step of rotating includes maintaining the mounting structure outside of a sterile field defined about the subject of interest.

29. A system comprising:

a patient bed configured to support a patient in a patient care facility;

a medical imaging device configured to obtain internal medical images of the patient;

a catheter coupled to the medical imaging device and configured to be inserted into the patient to cooperate with the medical imaging device to obtain the medical images; and

a mounting structure configured to mount the medical imaging device to the patient bed, such that the medical imaging device and the catheter remain stationary relative to the patient during movement of the patient bed in the patient care facility.

30. The system of claim 29, wherein the mounting structure comprises:

a clamp configured to couple to the patient bed;

a horizontal member coupled to the clamp;

a vertical member coupled to the horizontal member; and

31. The medical imaging system of claim 30, wherein one of the horizontal member and vertical member includes a telescopic section.

32. The medical imaging system of claim 30, including a hook coupled to the plate member and configured to couple to the medical imaging device, wherein the medical imaging device is constrained from moving on the plate member in a Z-direction.

33. The medical imaging system of claim 30, including a swivel at one end of the vertical member configured to allow 360° rotation of the vertical member.

34. The medical imaging system of claim 30, including a swivel at one end of the horizontal member configured to allow 360° rotation of the horizontal member.