Patent ID: 7490982
Filing Date: 2009-02-17
Classification: A61B,A61N

Abstract:
1. An imaging apparatus, comprising: a gantry having a radiation source and a detector operable to obtain images of an object positioned inside the gantry; a support structure; a gantry positioning apparatus that secures the gantry to the support structure in a cantilevered manner; and a processor which receives imaging data from the detector obtained at multiple gantry positions, and combines the data to extend the field of view of the imaging system; wherein the gantry positioning apparatus comprises: a first linear positioner for translating the gantry in a first direction relative to the support structure; a second linear positioner for translating the gantry in a second direction relative to the support structure, the second direction being orthogonal to the first direction; a third linear positioner for translating the gantry in a third direction relative to the support structure, the third direction being orthogonal to the first and second directions; a first rotary positioner for rotating the gantry about a first axis relative to the support structure; and a second rotary positioner for rotating the gantry about a second axis relative to the support structure.