C-Arm X-Ray Generator Rotation for Faster Multi-Angle Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing C-arm X-ray machines require complex driving mechanisms and long shooting times for obtaining multiple projection images due to the fixed position of the X-ray generator, making precise control difficult and increasing the machine's footprint.

Innovation Solution

An X-ray imaging apparatus with a C-shaped arm that allows the X-ray generator to rotate and move separately from the detector via a guide rail and drive part, enabling independent movement and rotation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the entire C-shaped arm is rotated to obtain multiple projection images, then the imaging angle range is achieved, but the device complexity and driving mechanism complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging angle rangeVSAvoiddriving mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the rotation function into two independent parts: the C-shaped arm remains stationary while the X-ray generator rotates independently on its own axis. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex mechanisms to rotate the entire arm, achieving multiple projection angles through the generator's independent rotation capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If the entire C-shaped arm is rotated to obtain multiple projection images, then the imaging angle range is achieved, but the shooting time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging angle rangeVSAvoidshooting time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

By separating the rotation function from the C-shaped arm and assigning it to the X-ray generator alone, the system enables faster repositioning. The generator can rotate independently to different angles without moving the entire arm structure, significantly reducing the time required to acquire multiple projection images.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If the entire C-shaped arm is rotated to obtain multiple projection images, then the imaging angle range is achieved, but the control precision decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging angle rangeVSAvoidcontrol precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The independent rotation of the X-ray generator allows for precise angular control using dedicated drive mechanisms positioned at the generator level. This segmentation enables fine-adjustment capabilities and more accurate positioning compared to rotating the entire C-shaped arm, improving control precision for acquiring projection images at specific angles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Adaptability or versatility

If a complex driving mechanism is used to rotate the C-shaped arm, then the imaging angle range is achieved, but the load and footprint increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging angle rangeVSAvoidload and footprint
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the rotation function to the X-ray generator only, eliminating the need for heavy-duty drive mechanisms on the C-shaped arm. The generator's compact rotation system requires less mechanical infrastructure, reducing both the load on the arm structure and the overall footprint of the imaging system while maintaining the ability to achieve multiple projection angles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

This design reduces imaging time, facilitates precise control, simplifies the driving mechanism, and decreases the overall footprint of the apparatus.

Implementation Method 1

an X-ray generator (200) connected to the guide rail (400)... a drive part (700) configured to move the X-ray generator (200) along the guide rail (400)... the X-ray generator (200) may move along the guide rail (400) while maintaining an equal distance from a point of the X-ray detector (300)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical movement along a curved path:

Data Source

PatentUS20250268546A1X-ray imaging apparatus
Publication Date: 2025.08.28 RAYENCE
  • US20250268546A1 patent drawing
  • US20250268546A1 patent drawing
  • US20250268546A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to an X-ray imaging apparatus having an X-ray generator and an X-ray detector disposed at both ends of a C-shaped arm so as to take X-ray images of an object placed therebetween, the X-ray imaging apparatus comprising: the C-shaped arm; a guide rail connected to one end of the C-shaped arm; the X-ray generator connected to the guide rail; the X-ray detector disposed at the other end of the C-shaped arm and facing the X-ray generator; and a drive unit for moving the X-ray generator along the guide rail.