BACKGROUND

[0001] Repeated exposure to high amounts of ionizing radiation may lead to health issues, such as erythema, hair loss, dermal atrophy, fibrosis, desquamation, dermal necrosis, cataracts, decrease in red blood cell production and infertility. For example, medical imaging that emits radiation (e.g., x-ray imaging) is needed to provide real-time and near real-time images during certain interventional procedures performed within a procedure room. Therefore, radiation exposure is a problem for many medical personnel, including physicians, radiologists, interventionists and staff, as well as for patients, located within the procedure room during repeated procedures involving the emission of radiation. For example, between 2012 and 2015, nine cases of left-sided brain/head-and-neck tumors in interventional cardiologists had been reported, according to a Cleveland Clinic report from 2015, entitled “Radiation a Danger to Patients and Physicians Alike” (https://consultqd.clevelandclinic.org/). Interventionalists may also receive increased doses of radiation to their hands during several procedures. Even low amounts of radiation exposure may damage the genetic material in reproductive cells and increase chromosomal abnormalities.

[0002] Long term presence of the medical personnel in procedure rooms using x-ray imaging systems, for example, may cause some health issues caused by ionizing radiation. The amount of the radiation dose emitted towards the medical personnel depends on C-arm orientation and location of the radiation source, patient size and position, and locations of medical personnel and patient relative to the C-arm/radiation source and the operating table. Protective shields and lead jackets may reduce the received doses of radiation, however they have limitations and drawbacks that contribute to the dissatisfaction of the medical personnel. Indeed, the limited size of the protective shields above the operating table and sometimes its improper position and orientation may increase the amount of the radiation received by the medical personnel. Also, manual repositioning of conventional protective shields is time consuming and distracting, and requires caution and attention with regard to constantly estimating the best position and orientation based on changing C-arm positions. In addition, protective lead jackets are cumbersome and heavy, and may cause musculoskeletal problems after long-term usage.

[0003] Protective shields may be provided in attempts to attenuate the radiation exposure. However, sometimes large amounts of radiation may still be received by the medical personnel due to factors such as inappropriate sizes, locations and/or orientations of the protective shields. Using more than one protective shield may increase protection, but it also contributes to room clutter and distraction.

[0004] Accordingly, there is a clinical need for reducing doses of radiation exposure to medical personnel by designing flexible radiation protection shields capable of changing size and orientation based on the number and location of medical professionals standing near the operating table and the angle of the C-arm.

SUMMARY

[0005] According to a representative embodiment, a radiation shield is provided for use with a medical imaging system. The radiation shield includes multiple interconnected sections formed of radiation shielding material, where at least one section of the multiple interconnected sections is configured to fold and unfold relative to another section of the multiple interconnected sections for changing a coverage area of the multiple interconnected sections, and where at least one section of the multiple interconnected sections includes multiple panels, where at least one panel of the multiple panels is configured to slide relative to another panel of the multiple panels for changing the coverage area of the multiple interconnected sections.

[0006] According to another representative embodiment, a radiation shield is provided for use with a medical imaging system that emits radiation. The radiation shield includes multiple interconnected sections formed of radiation shielding material; and a mount configured to moveably connect the multiple interconnected sections to a structure. The multiple interconnected sections include a primary section connected to the mount and at least one secondary section rotatably connected to the primary section to enable folding of the at least one secondary section relative to the primary section for changing a coverage area of the plurality of interconnected sections. One or more of the primary section and the at least one secondary section includes multiple panels, where one panel of the multiple panels is configured to slide relative to another panel of the multiple panels for changing the coverage area of the interconnected sections. At least one secondary section is further configured to slide relative to the primary section for changing the coverage area of the plurality of interconnected sections. [0007] According to another representative embodiment, a system is provided for use with a medical imaging system including a radiation source. The system includes a configurable radiation shield and a control unit, where the radiation shield includes multiple interconnected sections formed of radiation shielding material; a mount configured to moveably connect the multiple interconnected sections to a structure; and multiple motors. The control unit is connected to the multiple motors of the configurable radiation shield. The multiple interconnected sections include a primary section connected to the mount and at least one secondary section rotatably connected to the primary section. One or more of the primary section and the at least one secondary section includes multiple slidable panels. The control unit is configured to operate the multiple motors to rotate the at least one secondary section relative to the primary section for changing a coverage area of the multiple sections, and to move one panel of the multiple slidable panels relative to another panel of the multiple slidable panels of the one or more of the primary section and the at least one secondary section for changing the coverage area of the multiple interconnected sections.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The example embodiments are best understood from the following detailed description when read with the accompanying drawing figures. It is emphasized that the various features are not necessarily drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions may be arbitrarily increased or decreased for clarity of discussion. Wherever applicable and practical, like reference numerals refer to like elements.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a radiation shield system including a perspective view of a configurable radiation shield, according to a representative embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a simplified block diagram of the control unit for controlling configuration of the configurable radiation shield, according to a representative embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the radiation shield in a fully extended configuration, according to a representative embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the radiation shield in a fully unfolded, fully shortened configuration, according to a representative embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 3C is a perspective view of the radiation shield in a partially folded, fully shortened configuration, according to a representative embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 3D is a perspective view of the radiation shield in a partially folded, partially shortened configuration, according to a representative embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 3E is a perspective view of the radiation shield in a partially folded, partially and fully shortened configuration, according to a representative embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 3F is a perspective view of the radiation shield in a partially folded, partially and fully shortened configuration, according to a representative embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 3G is a perspective view of the radiation shield in a partially folded, partially and fully shortened configuration, according to a representative embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 3H is a perspective view of the radiation shield in a fully folded, partially shortened, rotated configuration, according to a representative embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the radiation shield in a fully folded, partially shortened, rotated configuration, according to a representative embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a connector movably connecting the first and second sections of the radiation shield for rotational movement, according to a representative embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a connector movably connecting the first and second sections of the radiation shield for translational movement, according to a representative embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of a spool in the connector operable to provide translational movement of the first and second sections of the radiation shield, according to a representative embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a connector movably connecting the upper and lower panels in the third section of the radiation shield for vertical movement, according to a representative embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a connector movably connecting the upper and lower panels in the first section of the radiation shield for vertical movement, according to a representative embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] In the following detailed description, for purposes of explanation and not limitation, representative embodiments disclosing specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of an embodiment according to the present teachings. Descriptions of known systems, devices, materials, methods of operation and methods of manufacture may be omitted so as to avoid obscuring the description of the representative embodiments. Nonetheless, systems, devices, materials and methods that are within the purview of one of ordinary skill in the art are within the scope of the present teachings and may be used in accordance with the representative embodiments. It is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for purposes of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting. The defined terms are in addition to the technical and scientific meanings of the defined terms as commonly understood and accepted in the technical field of the present teachings.

[0026] It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, third etc. may be used herein to describe various elements or components, these elements or components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element or component from another element or component. Thus, a first element or component discussed below could be termed a second element or component without departing from the teachings of the inventive concept.

[0027] The terminology used herein is for purposes of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting. As used in the specification and appended claims, the singular forms of terms “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include both singular and plural forms, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Additionally, the terms “comprises,” and/or “comprising,” and/or similar terms when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0028] Unless otherwise noted, when an element or component is said to be “connected to,” “coupled to,” or “adjacent 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.

[0029] In view of the foregoing, the present disclosure, through one or more of its various aspects, embodiments and/or specific features or sub-components, is thus intended to bring out one or more of the advantages as specifically noted below. For purposes of explanation and not limitation, example embodiments disclosing specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of an embodiment according to the present teachings. However, other embodiments consistent with the present disclosure that depart from specific details disclosed herein remain within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, descriptions of well-known apparatuses and methods may be omitted so as to not obscure the description of the example embodiments. Such methods and apparatuses are within the scope of the present disclosure. [0030] Generally, the various embodiments provide a configurable radiation shield that includes sections of interconnected transparent, radiation proof panels. The sections are able to fold relative to each other and the panels in each section are able to move or slide over each other, e.g., vertically and/or horizontally, to adjust a coverage area of the radiation field in horizontal and vertical directions. The adjusted coverage area provides a desired (complex) shape that maximizes protection of occupants of the procedure room from radiation created by the radiation source of the imaging device (e.g., x-ray). The panels may transition from a sliding mode to a folding mode using small mechanical locks and mode selectors, for example.

Additionally, the entire radiation shield may rotate and/or tilt on a shaft or mount attaching the radiation shield to a structure, such as the ceiling or a wall. The panels of the radiation shield can also be moved closer to or further from the ground. It is understood that the “configuration” of the radiation shield includes the shape, position and orientation of the radiation shield based on placement of the folding sections and the sliding panels relative to one another, as well as the rotating/tilting radiation shield relative to the structure.

[0031] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a radiation shield system including a perspective view of a configurable radiation shield, according to a representative embodiment. The radiation shield is placed within a procedure room that includes a radiation source, and is adjustable to accommodate changing variables within the procedure room to continue to maximize protection from emitted radiation during a procedure. As mentioned above, such variables include the size and shape of the procedure room, the location of the radiation source (e.g., x-ray imaging system), the location and orientation of the medial imaging system (e.g., C-arm orientation), the size and position of the patient, the number and locations of the medical personnel relative to the radiation source and/or the medical imaging system, for example. The radiation shield system is useful for any of various types of procedures, such as imaging procedures and any interventional endovascular and endobronchial procedures (e.g., heart catheterization and transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR)), for example.

[0032] Referring to FIG. 1, radiation shield system 100 includes radiation shield 105 and an optional positioning control system 160. The radiation shield 105 is placed within a procedure room for performing medical imaging and/or interventional procedures that require use of a medical imaging system (not shown) that emits ionizing radiation. In the depicted embodiment, the radiation shield 105 includes three interconnected sections, each of which includes a set of two vertically stacked panels (upper and lower), at least one of which is moveable relative to the other panel in a vertical direction (indicated by the y-axis). More particularly, first (center) section 110 includes upper panel 111 and lower panel 112, second (left) section 120 includes upper panel 121 and lower panel 122, and third (right) section 130 includes upper panel 131 and lower panel 132.

[0033] The first, second and third sections 110, 120 and 130 are formed of one or more radiation shielding material(s) in that each of the upper and lower panels 111, 112, 121, 122, 131 and 132 are formed of radiation shielding material(s), such as lead glass, for example. In an embodiment, the radiation shielding material is transparent so that placement of the radiation shield 105 for maximizing protection from radiation does not obstruct the visual line of sight of the medical personnel. Alternatively, the transparent radiation shielding material may include transparent polymeric sheets coated with radiation absorbing material. The transparent polymeric sheets allow flexibility of the final shape (e.g., concave or convex) of the panels. The radiation absorbing material may include lead or non-toxic alternatives to lead, such as tungsten, bismuth or barium sulfate, for example. The transparent polymeric sheets additionally may be coated with a thin film of self-cleaning, self-sterilizing, antimicrobial polymers to help keep the environment sterile and to avoid manual cleaning requirements that may damage the radiation absorbing layers. In alternative embodiments, one or more of the first, second and third sections 110, 120 and 130 may include only a single panel of radiation shielding material.

[0034] Each of the second and third sections 120 and 130 is configured to fold and unfold relative to the first section 110, for changing the width of the radiation shield 105 in a horizontal direction (indicated by the x-axis), making it narrower or wider. The folding and unfolding involves pivoting movements around the vertical axis (indicated by the y-axis). Examples of connections that enable the folding and unfolding movements of the second and third sections 120 and 130 are discussed below in reference to FIG. 4. Each of the second and third sections

120 and 130 may also be configured to move horizontally (translate) relative to the first section

110, for changing the width of the radiation shield 105 in the horizontal direction, making it narrower or wider. Examples of connections that enable the translation of the second and third sections 120 and 130 are discussed below in reference to FIGs. 5 A and 5B.

[0035] In the first section 110, the upper and lower panels 111 and 112 are configured to move (e.g., slide or roll) vertically relative to one another for changing the length of the coverage area of the radiation shield 105 in the vertical direction. Likewise, the upper and lower panels

121 and 122 in the second section 120 and the upper and lower panels 131 and 132 in the third section 130 are each configured to move relative to one another in the vertical direction. Examples of connections that enable the vertical movements of the panels are discussed below in reference to FIGs. 6 and 7. When the desired configuration of the radiation shield 105 is obtained, the first, second and third sections 110, 120 and 130 and/or the upper and lower panels

111, 112, 121, 122, 131 and 132 may be locked in place to maintain the overall shape of the radiation shield. For example, tension in cables used to adjust the upper and lower panels 111,

112, 121, 122, 131 and 132, discussed below, may hold them in place using stepper motors with sufficient holding torque. Alternatively, for example, an electric solenoid may be used in combination with mating holes to drive a pin in and out, to lock the upper and lower panels 111, 112, 121, 122, 131 and 132 in place. The solenoid pin may be used to lock movement in the vertical direction (indicated by the y-axis) as this will bear the weight of the panels. [0036] Notably, although the depicted number of sections of the radiation shield is three, and the depicted number of radiation resistant panels per section is two, it is understood that more or fewer sections and/or more or fewer panels per section may be incorporated without departing from the scope of the present teachings, depending on factors such as room size and layout, type of procedure for which the procedure room is designed, the number and locations of medical personnel expected in the procedure room during the procedure, for example.

[0037] The radiation shield 105 further includes a mount 140 configured to moveably connect the three interconnected sections to a structure 150, such as the ceiling (as shown in FIG. 1) and/or one or more walls of the procedure room. Alternatively, the structure 150 may be a free standing base to which the mount 140 is attached, where the free standing base itself may be repositioned around the procedure room using wheels or skids, for example. In the depicted embodiment, the mount 140 connects the first section 110, referred to as the primary panel, to the structure 150 from below. This leaves the second and third sections 120 and 130, referred to as the secondary sections, free to fold and unfold relative to the first section 110, as discussed above.

[0038] The mount 140 is attached to the first section 110 and/or the structure 150 in a manner that enables rotation of the first section 110 (and thus the second and third sections 120 and 130 connected to the first section 110) relative to the structure 150 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 first section 110 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 mount 140 may include any compatible mounting hardware that enables movement in one or more directions. For example, the mount 140 may include a gimbal fixedly attached to the structure 150 and rotationally attached to the first section 110. Alternatively, the mount 140 may include a gimbal fixedly attached to the first section 110 and rotationally attached to the structure 150. As another example, a mechanical or robotic arm may be mounted to the structure 150, and either end (structure 150 attachment point or shield mount 140 attachment point) may rotate via a motorized rotary stage. The mechanical or robotic arm may have the ability to hold a load in a variety of static positions. The various configurations allow the rotational movement in three dimensions, described above. [0039] In alternative embodiments, the mount 140 may connect either of the second or third sections 120 or 130 to the structure 150 without departing from the scope of the present teachings. Also, although FIG. 1 shows the mount 140 connecting to the first section 110 from above, it is understood that the mount 140 may connect from below in alternative configurations, without departing from the scope of the present teachings. For example, the structure 150 may be the floor, or a structure sitting on or attached to the floor, to which the mount 140 is fixedly or rotationally attached.

[0040] In the depicted embodiment, the positioning control system 160 provides electronic control of the configuration of the radiation shield 105, and includes a control unit 165 and a control interface (IF) 168. It is understood, however, that movement of the radiation shield 105 may be fully or partially manual using handles (not shown), for example, mounted on one or more of the first, second or third sections 110, 120 and 130, or through direct contact with the first, second or third sections 110, 120, and 130. When controlled electronically through the control unit 165, the configuration of the radiation shield 105 may be performed by sending signals to the motors controlling the first, second or third sections 110, 120, and 130 via the control IF 168. In this case, the sections and/or panels of the radiation shield 105 may be encoded such that the exact configuration of the radiation shield 105 is available to the control unit 165. The encoding provides position coordinates for the radiation shield 105, for example, using sensors and/or translating movement of control motors. Movement of the radiation shield 105 to adjust its configuration may therefore be controlled using buttons on a touch screen or other user interfaces of the control unit 165, such as user interface 230 in FIG. 2, discussed below. For example, user commands may be transferred to the control unit 165 through hand gestures or voice recognition protocols, and/or through wired or wireless remote control. The control signals from the control unit 165 to the control IF 168 may be provided through electrical wiring or using a wireless system, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, for example. Both manual and electronic control of the sections described above may also be applied to the upper and lower panels 111, 112, 121, 122, 131 and 132.

[0041] When the radiation shield 105 is encoded, the control unit 165 may be configured to visualize the configuration of the radiation shield on a display interface, such as display 250 in FIG. 2, using a three-dimensional model of the radiation shield 105. The visualization may include information about the shape, position and orientation of the radiation shield 105. If the control unit 165 has a communication channel with the medical imaging device, which may also be equipped with an encoded C-arm, the visualization may include the shape, position and orientation of the radiation shield 105 relative to the shape, position and orientation of the C-arm. If the procedure room is equipped with sensors configured to sense objects in the procedure room, such as medical personnel, medical equipment, and carts, the visualization may also include the shape, position and orientation of the objects. The sensors may include RGB cameras, RGB-D cameras, and depth cameras, for example. The visualization may additionally show mapping of scatter radiation using a known mathematical model of the x-ray radiation around the C-arm of the medical imaging device depending on various factors, such as the angle of the C-arm, the size and position of the patient, the size and layout of the procedure room, and the locations of the medical personnel. Users may use this visualization to adjust the shape, position and orientation of the radiation shield 105 in order to minimize radiation exposure. [0042] The control IF 168 represents the electrical and mechanical connections and devices used for configuring the sections and panels of the radiation shield 105. In various embodiments, the control IF 168 may include drive devices, including small motors, such as servo motors or stepper motors, and/or solenoids, configured to provide torque and rolling energy for folding and unfolding the second and third sections 120 and 130, and for vertically moving one or more of the upper and lower panels 111, 112, 121, 122, 131 and 132, respectively. The control IF 168 also includes corresponding control signals for operating the motors. For folding and unfolding operations, the mechanical connections and devices may include motors configured to rotate spools to adjust cables connected to the corners of the second and third sections 120 and 130, for example, as discussed below with reference to FIG. 4. For vertical movement of the panels, the mechanical connections and devices may include motors configured to rotate spools to adjust cables connected to the lower panels 111, 121 and 131 or the upper panels 112, 122 and 132 for sliding the connected panels relative to the other panels, for example, as discussed below with reference to FIGs. 6 and 7. For translational movement of the panels, the mechanical connections and devices may include motors connected to rotate spools to adjust cables at the first section 110 connected to the corners of the second and third sections 120 and 130 for translating the second and third sections relative to the first section 110, for example, as discussed below with reference to FIGs. 5A and 5B. It is understood that any compatible electrical and mechanical connections and devices able to configure the sections and panels of the radiation shield 105 may be incorporated, without departing from the scope of the present teachings.

[0043] The control unit 165 is configured to operate the motors of the control IF 168 to rotate the at least one of the second and third sections 120 and 130 relative to the first section 110 for folding and unfolding the second and third sections to change the width of the coverage area of the radiation shield 105. The control unit 165 is further configured to operate the motors to move one or more of the upper and lower panels 111, 112, 121, 122, 131 and 132 relative to one another to change the height of the coverage area of the radiation shield 105. The control unit 165 is further configured to operate the motors of the control IF 168 to translate at least one of the second and third sections 120 and 130 relative to the first section 110 to change the width of the coverage area of the radiation shield 105.

[0044] As mentioned above, each of these functions may be performed manually or electronically. For example, the positioning control system 160 may include a mechanism (e.g., a switch) that enables the user to change between manual control of the radiation shield 105 and electronic control of the radiation shield 105 by the control unit 165. The manual control enables the user to maneuver the first, second and third sections 120 and 130 and/or the upper and lower panels 111, 112, 121, 122, 131 and 132 manually. The electronic control enables the user to operate the control system 160, through the user interface, to manipulate the first, second and third sections 120 and 130 and/or the upper and lower panels 111, 112, 121, 122, 131 and 132 by operation of motors, solenoids, and/or other electronic control devices.

[0045] In an embodiment, the radiation shield system 100 may further include a collision prevention system. The collision prevention systems includes one or more cameras and/or one or more distance measurement sensors, such as optical, acoustic, capacitive, inductive and/or photoelectric sensors, for example, arranged in the procedure room and/or on the radiation shield, and configured to measure distances between the radiation shield 105 and the medical personal and patient and other equipment in the procedure room when the radiation shield 105 is being maneuvered. The measurement information may be provided to the control unit 165, which initiates an alarm whenever one of the measured distances becomes less than a predetermined safety threshold distance. The control unit 165 may also block further motion and/or configuration of the radiation shield 105 until the measured distance is again outside the predetermined safety threshold distance. This assures the safety of the medical personnel and the patient, as well as the security of the radiation shield 105 during operation.

[0046] In an embodiment, the configuration of the radiation shield 105 may be determined and set, e.g., by the user, to minimize exposure to radiation-sensitive medical personnel and/or patient anatomy. For instance, the configuration of the radiation shield 105 may be adjusted to maximize protection of a pregnant patient’s pelvic anatomy, or to minimize radiation dosage to medical personnel nearing annual legal radiation limits. For example, the user may use the visualization of the mapping of the scatter radiation using the mathematical model of the x-ray radiation around the C-arm of the medical imaging device, mentioned above, in the procedure room to shape, position, and orient the radiation shield 105, such that the updated scatter radiation mapping shows minimal radiation to the radiation- sensitive medical personnel and/or patient anatomy.

[0047] FIG. 2 is a simplified block diagram of the control unit for controlling configuration of the configurable radiation shield, according to a representative embodiment.

[0048] Referring to FIG. 2, control unit 165 includes processor 210, memory 220, user interface 230, hardware interface 240, and display 250. The processer 210 is representative of one or more processing devices, and is configured to execute software instructions to perform functions as described in the various embodiments herein. The processor 210 may be implemented by one or more servers, general purpose computers, central processing units, processors, microprocessors or microcontrollers, state machines, programmable logic devices, FPGAs, ASICs, or combinations thereof, using any combination of hardware, software, firmware, hard-wired logic circuits, or combinations thereof. As such, the term “processor” encompasses an electronic component able to execute a program or machine executable instructions, and may be interpreted to include more than one processor or processing core, as in a multi-core processor and/or parallel processors. The processor 210 may also incorporate a collection of processors within a single computer system or distributed among multiple computer systems, such as in a cloud-based or other multi-site application. Programs have software instructions performed by one or multiple processors that may be within the same computing device or which may be distributed across multiple computing devices. [0049] The processor 210 may include an Al engine or module, which may be implemented as software that provides artificial intelligence, such as NLP algorithms, and may apply machine learning, such as artificial neural network (ANN), convolutional neural network (CNN), or recurrent neural network (RNN) modeling, for example. The Al engine may reside in any of various components in addition to or other than the processor 210, such as the memory 220, an external server, and/or the cloud, for example. When the Al engine is implemented in a cloud, such as at a data center, for example, the Al engine may be connected to the processor 210 via the internet using one or more wired and/or wireless connection(s), e.g., via a network interface. [0050] The memory 220 may include a main memory and/or a static memory, where such memories may communicate with each other and the processor 210 via one or more buses. The memory 220 stores instructions used to implement some or all aspects of methods and processes described herein. The memory 220 may include software modules, for example, as shown in FIG. 2. The memory 220 may be implemented by any number, type and combination of random access memory (RAM) and read-only memory (ROM), for example, and may store various types of information, such as software algorithms, data based models including ANNs, CNNs, RNNs, and other neural network based models, and computer programs, all of which are executable by the processor 210. The various types of ROM and RAM may include any number, type and combination of computer readable storage media, such as a disk drive, flash memory, an electrically programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable and programmable read only memory (EEPROM), registers, a hard disk, a removable disk, tape, compact disk read only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disk (DVD), floppy disk, blu-ray disk, a universal serial bus (USB) drive, a solid state drive (SSD), or any other form of computer readable storage medium known in the art.

[0051] The memory 220 is a tangible storage medium for storing data and executable software instructions, and is non-transitory during the time software instructions are stored therein. As used herein, the term “non-transitory” is to be interpreted not as an eternal characteristic of a state, but as a characteristic of a state that will last for a period. The term “non- transitory” specifically disavows fleeting characteristics such as characteristics of a carrier wave or signal or other forms that exist only transitorily in any place at any time. A non-transitory storage medium is defined to be any medium that constitutes patentable subject matter under 35 U.S.C. §101 and excludes any medium that does not constitute patentable subject matter under 35 U.S.C. §101. The memory 220 may store software instructions and/or computer readable code that enable performance of various functions. The memory 220 may be secure and/or encrypted, or unsecure and/or unencrypted.

[0052] The user interface 230 provides information and data output by the processor 210 to the user and/or receives information and data input by the user. That is, the user interface 230 enables the user to enter data and to control or manipulate aspects of the processes described herein, and also enables the processor 210 to indicate the effects of the user’s control or manipulation. All or a portion of the user interface 230 may be implemented by the GUI 255, viewable on the display 250. The user interface 230 may include a mouse, a keyboard, a trackball, a joystick, a haptic device, a touchpad, a touchscreen, and/or voice or gesture recognition captured by a microphone or video camera, for example, or any other peripheral or control to permit user feedback from and interaction with the processor 210. The display 250 may be a monitor such as a computer monitor, a television, a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a flat panel display, a solid-state display, or a cathode ray tube (CRT) display, or an electronic whiteboard, for example.

[0053] The hardware interface 240 encompasses an interface which enables the processor 210 to interact with and/or control an external device and/or apparatus, including the motors and other devices of the control IF 165 to provide torque and rolling energy for folding and unfolding the second and third sections 120 and 130, and for vertically moving one or more of the upper and lower panels 111, 112, 121, 122, 131 and 132, respectively, of the radiation shield 105, discussed above. The hardware interface 240 may allow the processor 210, for example, to send control signals or instructions to the control IF 165. The hardware interface 240 may also enable the processor 210 to exchange data with an external computer system or controller. The hardware interface 240 may include, for example, a universal serial bus, IEEE 1394 port, parallel port, IEEE 1284 port, serial port, RS-232 port, IEEE-488 port, Bluetooth connection, Wireless local area network connection, TCP/IP connection, Ethernet connection, control voltage interface, analog interface, and digital interface.

[0054] FIGs. 3A to 31 are perspective views of the radiation shield in different illustrative configurations, respectively, according to representative embodiments. [0055] In FIG. 3A, the radiation shield 105 is shown in a fully extended configuration, providing the largest coverage area of radiation protection. In the example, the second and third sections 120 and 130 are completed unfolded relative to the first section 110, and all of the upper and lower panels 111, 112, 121, 122, 131 and 132 are fully extended in the vertical direction, so there is no overlap between adjacent panels.

[0056] In FIG. 3B, the radiation shield 105 is shown in in a fully unfolded, fully shortened configuration. In the example, the second and third sections 120 and 130 are completely unfolded relative to the first section 110, and each of the first, second and third sections 110, 120 and 130 have been partially shortened by the same amount. In this case, the lower panels 112, 122 and 132 have been moved (e.g., slid or rolled) vertically as far as they are able relative to the corresponding upper panels 111, 121 and 131, respectively. The overlapping areas of the respective lower and upper panels are shown by dark shading.

[0057] In FIG. 3C, the radiation shield 105 is also shown in a partially folded, fully shortened configuration. That is, the lower panels 112, 122 and 132 have been moved vertically the full distance that is possible relative to the corresponding upper panels 111, 121 and 131, respectively, as in FIG. 3B. However, the second section 120 of the radiation shield is folded inwardly toward the first section 110 by a desired angle, for example. In addition, the third section 130 is shown translated toward the first section 110, which likewise reduces the overall width of the radiation shield 105.

[0058] In FIG. 3D, the radiation shield 105 is shown in a partially folded, partially shortened configuration. That is, each of the second and third sections 120 and 130 is folded inwardly toward the first section 110 by a desired angle, for example, and lower panels 112, 122 and 132 have been moved vertically by the same partial distance relative to the corresponding upper panels 111, 121 and 131, respectively. Again, the overlapping areas of the respective lower and upper panels are shown by dark shading. However, since the lower panels have been moved only partially (i.e., less than the full distance), resulting in a full smaller overlap of the adjacent panels, the section of dark shading is less than that shown in FIGs. 3B and 3C showing fully shortened configurations.

[0059] In FIGs. 3E and 3F, the radiation shield 105 is shown in the same partially folded configuration as in FIG. 3D, but with one section having a fully shortened configuration. That is, in FIGs. 3E and 3F, each of the second and third sections 120 and 130 is folded inwardly toward the first section 110 by a desired angle, for example. In FIG. 3E, the lower panel 112 of the first section 110 has been moved vertically the full distance that is possible relative to the corresponding upper panel 111, while the lower panels 122 and 132 of the second and third sections 120 and 130 have been moved vertically by the same partial distance relative to the corresponding upper panels 121 and 131, respectively. Similarly, in FIG. 3F, the lower panel 122 of the second section 120 has been moved vertically the full distance that is possible relative to the corresponding upper panel 121, while the lower panels 112 and 132 of the first and third sections 110 and 130 have been moved vertically by the same partial distance relative to the corresponding upper panels 111 and 131, respectively. These illustrative configurations show the versatility in adjusting the first, second and third sections 110, 120 and 130 to different heights, which may accommodate the location of equipment, personnel and/or the patient in a fully shortened section, while still providing additional shielding in the other two partially shortened sections.

[0060] In FIG. 3G, the radiation shield 105 is shown in the same partially folded configuration as in FIG. 3D, but with two sections having a fully shortened configuration. That is, each of the second and third sections 120 and 130 is folded inwardly toward the first section 110 by a desired angle, for example. The upper panel 121 of the second section 120 has been moved vertically downward the full distance that is possible relative to the corresponding lower panel 121, while the lower panel 132 of the third section 130 has been moved vertically upward the full distance that is possible relative to the corresponding upper panel 131. The lower panel 112 of the first section 110 has been moved vertically by the partial distance relative to the corresponding upper panels 111.

[0061] In FIGs. 3H and 31, the radiation shield 105 is shown in fully folded, partially shortened, rotated configurations, where the radiation shield 105 is rotated around different axes, respectively. That is, in FIGs. 3H and 31, each of the second and third sections 120 and 130 is completely folded onto the first section 110, and the lower panels 112, 122 and 132 have been moved vertically by the same partial distance relative to the corresponding upper panels 111, 121 and 131, respectively. In FIG. 3H, the radiation shield 105 has been rotated (spun) around the y- axis by about 90 degrees, and in FIG. 31, the radiation shield 105 is rotated (tilted) around the z- axis by a desired angular amount, for example. These illustrative configurations show the versatility in rotating and pivoting the radiation shield 105 in various stages of folding and shortening the first, second and third sections 110, 120 and 130, which again may accommodate the locations of equipment, personnel and/or the patient relative to the x-ray imaging system. [0062] Notably, the configurations described above in reference to FIGs. 3A to 31 are merely illustrative and are intended to show the diversity of different configurations of the radiation shield 105. In is understood that the configurations of the radiation shield 105 are not limited to these examples, and may vary to provide unique benefits for any particular situation or to meet specific requirements of various implementations, as would be apparent to one skilled in the art. For example, the degrees of folding of one or both of the second and third sections 120 and 130 relative to the first section 110 may vary from zero to about 180 degrees. Likewise, the distance with which one or more of the lower panels 112, 122 and 132 are able to move upwardly relative to the upper panels 111, 121 and 131 respectively may vary from zero to almost 100 percent overlap. Likewise, the degrees of rotation about the y-axis at the mount 140 may vary from zero to +180 degrees, and the degrees of rotation about one or more of the x-axis and the z-axis at the mount 140 may vary from zero to about +110 degrees, for example.

[0063] FIGs. 4-8 are perspective views of connectors for moveably connecting sections and panels of the configurable radiation screen, according to representative embodiments. FIGs. 4- 10B provide examples of the various connectors, and are not limiting.

[0064] In particular, FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a connection system movably connecting the first and second sections of the radiation shield for rotational movement, according to a representative embodiment.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 4, illustrative connection system 400 includes slot and pin assembly 430 for attaching the first and second sections 110 and 120 for rotational (and translational) movement relative to one another. The connection system 400 further includes a screw actuator 410 positioned on the upper edge of the first section 110, and a protrusion 421 and rollers 425 and 426 positioned on the upper edge of the second section 120. The screw actuator 410 is operable to rotate a worm gear 415, which mechanically interacts with the protrusion 421 on the second section 420. In the depicted configuration, rotation of the worm gear 415 in a first direction causes corresponding rotation of the protrusion 421 around a pin 422, which results in the second section 120 unfolding away from the first section 110. Rotation of the worm gear 415 in an opposite second direction causes corresponding rotation of the protrusion 421 the pin 422, which results in the second section 120 folding toward the first section 110. The rollers 425 and 426 roll along the surface of the second section 120 during a translational movement of the second section 120 relative to the first section 110, discussed below, and impart a force on the second section 120 during the rotation around the pin 422. The screw actuator 410 includes a motor, for example, the operation (e.g., speed and direction of rotation) of which is controlled by electrical signals from the control unit 165. Although the screw actuator 410 may be operated hydraulically or pneumatically, for example, without departing from the scope of the present teachings.

[0066] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a connection system movably connecting the first and second sections of the radiation shield for translational movement, according to a representative embodiment. FIG. 5B is a perspective view of a spool in the connector operable to provide translational movement of the first and second sections of the radiation shield, according to a representative embodiment.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 5 A, illustrative connection system 500 includes a spool 515 and a motor 518 in a housing 510 connected to the upper edge of the first section 110. The connection system 500 further includes first and second corner connectors 521 and 522 on the left and right corners of the upper edge of the second section 120, and thin first and second steel cables 531 and 532 running between the first and second corner connectors 521 and 522 and the spool 515, respectively. The motor 518 is operable to rotate the spool 515 clockwise and counterclockwise, which in turn complementarily adjusts the lengths of the first and second steel cables in order to translationally move the second section 120 left and right via the first and second corner connectors 521 and 522. The rollers 425 and 426 roll along the surface of the second section 120 during the translational movement.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 5B, in the depicted example, clockwise rotation of the spool 515 shortens the first steel cable 531 and lengthens the second steel cable 532, pulling the second section 120 to the right via the first and second corner connectors 521 and 522.

Counterclockwise rotation of the spool 515 shortens the second steel cable 532 and lengthens the first steel cable 531, pulling the second section 120 to the left via the first and second corner connectors 521 and 522. The motor 518 may be controlled by electrical signals from the control unit 165, for example. However, in alternative configurations, the spool 515 may be operated hydraulically or pneumatically, for example, without departing from the scope of the present teachings.

[0069] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a connection system movably connecting the upper and lower panels of the third section of the radiation shield for vertical movement, according to a representative embodiment.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 6, illustrative connection system 600 includes a spool 615 and a dedicated motor 618 in the housing 510 connected to the upper edge of the first section 110. The connection system 600 further includes first and second corner connectors 621 and 622 on the left and right corners of the upper edge of the lower panel 132 of the third section 130, and thin first and second steel cables 631 and 632 running between the first and second corner connectors 621 and 622 and the spool 615, respectively. The first and second steel cables 631 and 632 are wound in the same direction around the spool 615. The first and second corner connectors 621 and 622 are respectively positioned within rails 641 and 642 attached at the left and right edges of the upper panel 131 of the third section 130. The rails 641 and 642 are configured to guide the vertical movement of the lower panel 132.

[0071] The motor 618 is operable to rotate the spool 615 clockwise and counterclockwise, which in turn adjusts the lengths of the first and second steel cables in the same direction in order to vertically move the lower panel 132 down and up relative to the upper panel 131 via the first and second corner connectors 621 and 622. That is, in the depicted example, clockwise rotation of the spool 615 lengthens the first and second steel cables 631 and 632, lowering the lower panel 132 (inside the first and second rails 641 and 642) relative to the upper panel 131 via the first and second corner connectors 621 and 622. Counterclockwise rotation of the spool 615 shortens the first and second steel cables 631 and 632, raising the lower panel 132 relative to the upper panel 131 via the first and second corner connectors 621 and 622. The motor 618 may be controlled by electrical signals from the control unit 165, for example. However, in alternative configurations, the spool 615 may be operated hydraulically or pneumatically, for example, without departing from the scope of the present teachings. Notably, a connection system movably connecting the upper and lower panels 121 and 122 of the second section 120 of the radiation shield 105 for vertical movement would be substantially the same as the connection system 600.

[0072] Similarly, FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a connection system movably connecting the upper and lower panels of the first section of the radiation shield for vertical movement, according to a representative embodiment.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 7, illustrative connection system 700 includes a spool 715 and a dedicated motor 718 in the housing 510 connected to the upper edge of the first section 110. The connection system 700 further includes first and second corner connectors 721 and 722 on the left and right corners of the upper edge of the lower panel 112 of the first section 110, and thin first and second steel cables 731 and 732 running between the first and second corner connectors 721 and 722 and the spool 715, respectively. The first and second steel cables 731 and 732 are wound in the same direction around the spool 715. The first and second corner connectors 721 and 722 are respectively positioned within rails 741 and 742 attached at the left and right edges of the upper panel 111 of the first section 110. The rails 741 and 742 are configured to guide the vertical movement of the lower panel 112.

[0074] The motor 718 is operable to rotate the spool 715 clockwise and counterclockwise, which in turn adjusts the lengths of the first and second steel cables 731 and 732 in the same direction in order to vertically move the lower panel 112 down and up relative to the upper panel 111 via the first and second corner connectors 721 and 722. That is, in the depicted example, clockwise rotation of the spool 715 lengthens the first and second steel cables 731 and 732, lowering the lower panel 131 (inside the first and second rails 741 and 742) relative to the upper panel 111 via the first and second corner connectors 721 and 722. Counterclockwise rotation of the spool 715 shortens the first and second steel cables 731 and 732, raising the lower panel 112 relative to the upper panel 111 via the first and second corner connectors 721 and 722. The motor 718 may be controlled by electrical signals from the control unit 165, for example. However, in alternative configurations, the spool 715 may be operated hydraulically or pneumatically, for example, without departing from the scope of the present teachings.

[0075] Although the present specification describes components and functions that may be implemented in particular embodiments with reference to particular standards and protocols, the disclosure is not limited to such standards and protocols. Such standards are periodically superseded by more efficient equivalents having essentially the same functions. Accordingly, replacement standards and protocols having the same or similar functions are considered equivalents thereof.

[0076] The illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of the various embodiments. The illustrations are not intended to serve as a complete description of all of the elements and features of the disclosure described herein. Many other embodiments may be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the disclosure. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived from the disclosure, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Additionally, the illustrations are merely representational and may not be drawn to scale. Certain proportions within the illustrations may be exaggerated, while other proportions may be minimized. Accordingly, the disclosure and the figures are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0077] One or more embodiments of the disclosure may be referred to herein, individually and/or collectively, by the term “invention” merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any particular invention or inventive concept. Moreover, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be appreciated that any subsequent arrangement designed to achieve the same or similar purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all subsequent adaptations or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the description.

[0078] The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b) and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together or described in a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter may be directed to less than all of the features of any of the disclosed embodiments. Thus, the following claims are incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as defining separately claimed subject matter.

[0079] The preceding description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the concepts described in the present disclosure. As such, the above disclosed subject matter is to be considered illustrative, and not restrictive, and the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications, enhancements, and other embodiments which fall within the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Thus, to the maximum extent allowed by law, the scope of the present disclosure is to be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the following claims and their equivalents, and shall not be restricted or limited by the foregoing detailed description.