Aerostatic CT suspension
US6276145A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 27, 1999 |
| Grant date | Aug 21, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 27, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16C2316/10
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A CT scanner (10) for obtaining a medical diagnostic image of a subject includes a stationary gantry (12), and a rotating gantry (16) rotatably supported on the stationary gantry (12) for rotation about the subject. A fluid bearing (18) is interposed between the stationary and rotating gantries (12) and (16), respectively. The fluid bearing (18) provides a fluid barrier (110) which separates the rotating gantry (16) from the stationary gantry (12). In a preferred embodiment, the fluid bearing (18) provides for quieter CT scanner operation at high rotational speeds. Moreover, eliminating the physical contact between the gantries minimizes wear and optimizes longevity.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.