Couch top pitch and roll motion by linear wedge kinematic and universal pivot

US8966686B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignees

• VARIAN MEDICAL SYSTEMS, INC. · US
• VARIAN MEDICAL SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL AG · CH

Inventors

• Robert T. Wiggers · Belmont, US
• Bernhard Pultar · Winterthur, CH
• Daniel Seiler · Schertz, US
• Pascal T. Hofer · Buchs, CH
• Reto W. Filiberti · Baar, CH
• Christof Frey · Salach, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 7, 2011
• Grant date: Mar 3, 2015
• Expiry date: Jan 26, 2033

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10T74/18072
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A couch top includes a top, a base, a universal joint coupling the top and the base, and actuators mounted on the base to pitch and roll the top. Feedback devices may be fitted on the rotating ends of the universal joint to provide feedback for a control loop. Each actuator has an actuated end that translates vertically to lift or lower the top. The vertical movement may be derived from a carriage riding in place on a translating inclined plane. When the actuated ends move in the same direction, they pitch the top. When the actuated ends move in the opposite directions, they roll the top. Feedback devices may be fitted on motors in the actuators to provide feedback for the control loop.