Adaptive Object Magnification Without Source-Detector Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging systems require manual repositioning of objects and movement of electromagnetic radiation sources and detectors, leading to inefficiencies and larger cabinet footprints, particularly in applications like tissue margin verification and defect detection in electrical devices.
Innovation Solution
A cabinet imaging system with a motion control mechanism that moves the object receiving surface along non-parallel and non-perpendicular axes relative to the electromagnetic radiation source and detector, allowing for automatic two and three-dimensional imaging without manual repositioning or movement of the radiation source and detector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual repositioning of objects and movement of electromagnetic radiation sources and detectors is used, then imaging can be obtained, but system complexity and cabinet footprint increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving the electromagnetic radiation source and detector to image objects at different positions, the patent inverts the approach by moving the object receiving surface (platform) to bring different objects into the imaging position. The source and detector remain fixed, while the platform carrying multiple objects moves along rails to position each object sequentially in the imaging chamber.
Solution Approach 2:
The object receiving surface serves multiple functions: it holds multiple objects simultaneously, positions them sequentially in the imaging chamber, and eliminates the need for manual repositioning. This multi-functional platform reduces system complexity by consolidating positioning operations into a single automated mechanism.
2Ease of operation
If manual repositioning of objects is used, then imaging can be obtained, but productivity decreases due to time-consuming operations
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple objects are pre-positioned on the object receiving surface before imaging begins. The platform then automatically moves through a sequence of positions, bringing each pre-positioned object into the imaging chamber in rapid succession. This eliminates time-consuming manual repositioning between images and enables continuous automated imaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated platform movement enables continuous imaging operations without interruption. As one object completes imaging, the platform automatically positions the next object, maintaining continuous productive action throughout the imaging sequence without manual intervention between steps.
3Adaptability or versatility
If electromagnetic radiation source and detector move within the housing, then imaging flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving the source and detector to achieve imaging flexibility, the patent inverts the approach by moving the object receiving surface to bring different objects into the fixed source-detector imaging path. This maintains imaging flexibility while eliminating the complexity of moving radiation components.
Solution Approach 2:
The motion control mechanism for the platform is extracted as a separate system from the electromagnetic radiation source and detector. This separation allows the source and detector to remain fixed and simple while the platform handling complexity is managed independently through automated rails and positioning mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient, high-quality two and three-dimensional imaging with reduced system complexity and size, facilitating faster surgical procedures and improved defect detection in electrical devices.
Implementation Method 1
a source of electromagnetic radiation (e.g., x-ray tube or the like) positioned relative to the housing and that is configured to emit a beam of electromagnetic radiation
Implementation Method 2
a motion control mechanism for moving the object receiving surface along a second axis relative to the source and the first axis, where the first and second axes are non-parallel and non-perpendicular
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3
AI summary
An imaging system that is configured to automatically obtain and provide two and three-dimensional digital images of various types of objects (e.g., tissue specimens, animals, electrical devices, etc.) for use in analysis thereof in a manner free of manual repositioning of the objects between images and free of movement of an electromagnetic radiation source and detector within or relative to a cabinet housing of the system.