C-Arm Brake System for Vertical Positioning Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing C-arm X-ray devices lack a reliable and user-friendly mechanism to selectively lock and release the vertical movement, making it difficult for healthcare practitioners to maintain optimal positioning without frequent patient repositioning.
Innovation Solution
A brake system is integrated into the C-arm positioning device, comprising a counterbalance mechanism and a brake system that can be actuated to physically engage or disengage the linear bearing rail assembly, allowing for precise control over the vertical movement of the C-arm.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a brake system is added to lock the C-arm vertically, then positioning stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brake system is integrated with the existing linear bearing rail assembly and counterbalance mechanism. The brake assembly combines a brake shoe, brake arm, and actuator into a single unit that interfaces with the linear bearing rail, merging multiple functions (locking, supporting, actuating) into one consolidated component structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The linear bearing rail assembly serves multiple functions: it guides the vertical movement of the bearing block, supports the counterbalance mechanism, and provides the braking surface for the brake system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall device structure.
2Device complexity
If manual braking mechanism is used, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A spring-loaded solenoid actuator serves as an intermediary between the electrical control signal and the mechanical brake engagement. When energized, the solenoid overcomes the spring force to release the brake; when de-energized, the spring force engages the brake. This intermediary mechanism provides easy electrical control while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical brake structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual operation of engaging and disengaging the brake is replaced by an electrical solenoid actuator. Instead of requiring manual manipulation of mechanical linkages, the operator simply activates an electrical switch or button, which energizes the solenoid to release the brake or allows the spring to engage it, significantly improving ease of operation.
3Ease of operation
If brake system is integrated with counterbalance mechanism, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brake assembly is physically integrated with the counterbalance mechanism, sharing common structural elements and mounting points. The brake arm is mounted on the bearing rail assembly, and the actuator is positioned to work in conjunction with the counterbalance forces, merging multiple functions into a coordinated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The linear bearing rail assembly serves as a multi-functional component: it provides the guide rail for vertical movement, the mounting structure for the counterbalance mechanism, and the braking surface for the brake system. This universality allows the brake system to be integrated without requiring entirely separate structural elements.
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 brake system enables easy and convenient locking and releasing of the C-arm's vertical movement, reducing operator effort and improving positioning accuracy, thus enhancing the efficiency of X-ray imaging procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The counterbalance mechanism can be configured to apply a force to the bearing block to substantially counterbalance the weight of the components, such as the C-arm, that are suspended from the bearing block.
Implementation Method 2
the brake system can be actuated to physically engage the linear bearing rail assembly and, thereby, selectively lock the vertical movement of the linear bearing block and the C-arm
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for using a brake system to selectively lock and release the vertical motion of a C-arm X-ray device that is part of a sliding counterbalanced C-arm positioning device are described. In such systems and methods, the C-arm positioning device typically includes a C-arm X-ray device, a linear bearing rail assembly, a linear bearing block, a counterbalance mechanism, and brake system. Generally, the C-arm is connected to the linear bearing block, which is slidably coupled to the bearing rail assembly to allow the bearing block and C-arm to slide up and down on the rail assembly. The counterbalance mechanism applies a force to the bearing block to substantially counterbalance the weight of the components, such as the C-arm, that are suspended from the bearing block. The brake system can be actuated to engage the linear bearing rail assembly and lock the vertical movement of the linear bearing block. Other embodiments are described.