Bed-Integrated X-Ray Detector Positioning for Contact-Free Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in medical imaging is the placement and removal of an x-ray detector behind a patient for imaging, particularly in intensive care units, where infection control is critical, and existing systems require direct patient contact.
Innovation Solution
A wireless digital detector is embedded in a patient bed with a frame assembly that moves in x-y directions, using encoders and a video camera for precise positioning, and a graphic cursor overlay on a display to indicate the detector's location, allowing remote operation and staff isolation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a mobile x-ray unit is transported and positioned for imaging, then imaging capability is provided, but staff must directly contact the patient which increases infection risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a bed-integrated detector as an intermediary device that enables remote imaging. The detector is built into the patient bed, allowing the imaging system to capture images without staff needing to physically position a mobile x-ray unit near or touch the patient, thus reducing infection risk while maintaining imaging capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of manually positioning mobile x-ray equipment with an automated, bed-integrated detection system. The detector is mechanically integrated into the bed structure and can be positioned automatically, eliminating the need for staff to manually handle and position imaging equipment near infectious patients
2Measurement precision
If the detector is placed behind the patient for imaging, then accurate imaging is achieved, but it becomes difficult to properly position and remove the detector
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the detector with the patient bed structure, creating an integrated system where the detector becomes a permanent part of the bed. This integration eliminates the need to manually position and remove a separate detector, while the detector remains correctly positioned behind the patient for accurate imaging through the mattress and patient body
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a motorized positioning system that allows the detector to dynamically adjust its position within the bed structure. This enables the detector to move to optimal imaging positions as needed while maintaining secure integration with the bed, combining the benefits of fixed integration with the flexibility of adjustable positioning
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the detector remains inside the patient bed, then staff isolation is improved, but visual confirmation of detector position relative to patient becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a visual feedback system using a video camera and display screen that shows the detector's position relative to the patient in real-time. This feedback mechanism allows operators to confirm proper detector positioning and patient alignment without needing to physically see or touch the detector, maintaining staff isolation while providing complete visual information
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy or representation of the physical detector position through video imaging and graphical overlays. Instead of directly observing the detector behind the patient, operators see a replicated visual representation on a display screen that accurately reflects the detector's location and orientation relative to the patient anatomy
Data Source
AI summary
A radiographic imaging system provides a digital x-ray detector embedded in a patient bed. A patient lying normally on the bed either flat or at an angle, is positioned above the digital detector. A frame assembly is attached to the bed under the patient and movably secures the digital detector. The frame assembly includes motorized control configured to move the digital detector in the x-y plane of the detector according to commands transmitted by system operators or by automatic system instruction.