Adjustable Breast Stabilization Units for Motion-Reduced CBBCT Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current cone beam breast computed tomography (CBBCT) systems face challenges in stabilizing the breast during imaging, leading to reduced image clarity due to breast motion and discomfort from compressive fixation, which affects the accuracy and patient experience.

Innovation Solution

A breast support apparatus with a stabilizer unit and adjustable positioning system is developed to maintain the breast in a stable position relative to the imaging axis, using materials transparent to x-ray energy and adjustable to fit various breast sizes and shapes, ensuring minimal motion during imaging.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If compressive fixation is used to stabilize the breast during imaging, then breast stability is improved, but patient comfort deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebreast stabilityVSAvoidpatient comfort

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary support structure (breast support device with foam insert and positioning mechanisms) that mediates between the imaging system requirements for stability and patient comfort requirements. This intermediary device provides mechanical support and positioning without requiring compressive fixation, thereby resolving the contradiction between stability and comfort.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the traditional compressive mechanical fixation system with an alternative mechanical support system using foam inserts and positioning mechanisms. This substitution eliminates the harmful compressive force while maintaining the necessary breast stability for imaging, thus resolving the technical contradiction.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Stability of the object's composition

If compressive fixation is used to stabilize the breast during imaging, then breast stability is improved, but image clarity deteriorates due to motion artifacts

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebreast stabilityVSAvoidimage clarity

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The breast support device acts as an intermediary that provides stable breast positioning without compression, eliminating motion artifacts that degrade image clarity. The foam insert and positioning mechanisms ensure the breast remains stationary during imaging while maintaining comfort.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies beforehand cushioning by using foam inserts and support structures positioned before imaging to prevent breast motion. This prior cushioning and support eliminate motion artifacts during the imaging process, ensuring clear images without requiring compressive fixation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Manufacturing precision

If fixed positioning is used to stabilize the breast, then image clarity is improved, but adaptability to various breast sizes and shapes deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimage clarityVSAvoidadaptability to breast sizes and shapes

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamics by making the breast support device adjustable and adaptable to different breast sizes and shapes. The positioning mechanisms and foam inserts can be configured dynamically to match various anatomical variations, ensuring clear images while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies parameter changes by allowing adjustment of the support device parameters (positioning coordinates, foam density, insert dimensions) to accommodate different breast sizes and shapes. This enables the system to maintain optimal image clarity across diverse anatomical variations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

The solution enhances image clarity and patient comfort by stabilizing the breast, reducing motion artifacts and improving diagnostic accuracy in CBBCT imaging without the need for compressive fixation.

Implementation Method 1

A breast support apparatus with a stabilizer unit and adjustable positioning system is developed to maintain the breast in a stable position relative to the imaging axis

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhysical support and stabilization:

Implementation Method 2

cone beam breast computed tomography (CBBCT) systems

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectX-ray transmission and detection: X-Ray

Implementation Method 3

cone beam breast computed tomography (CBBCT) systems face challenges in stabilizing the breast during imaging

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTomographic imaging: Tomography

Data Source

PatentUS12426844B2Fixturing and support for medical imaging

Publication Date: 2025.09.30 COGNIS CORP

AI summary

A cone beam breast computed tomography system includes a breast stabilization unit with an internal surface region including a breast contact portion, where the breast contact portion serves to support a patient breast and maintain the position and stability of the breast during tomographic imaging. Certain removable breast stabilization units are received within a receiver of a patient interface panel of the cone beam breast computed tomography system, allowing selection and application of a breast stabilization unit compatible with the characteristics of a particular patient.