C-Arm X-Ray Source Mounting in Hollow Frame
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile X-ray diagnostic units with C-arms face limitations in angular range of movement and positioning ability due to constrained design, which affects the ability to increase the opening width without compromising mechanical stability and weight.
Innovation Solution
A mobile X-ray diagnostic unit with a C-arm featuring a hollow frame and a generator vessel housing a compact X-ray source and high-voltage generator, where the generator vessel is mounted to the frame and filled with insulating oil for cooling, allowing for increased distance of the X-ray source from the center while maintaining mechanical stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the angular range for orbital motion is increased to 180°, then the positioning ability is improved, but the opening width between X-ray source and receiver is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent relocates the X-ray source and receiver from the traditional lateral positions to positions inside the C-arm structure, utilizing the internal volume of the C-arm. This dimensional reconfiguration allows the components to be positioned without extending the lateral opening width, thereby maintaining a large angular range of motion while preserving sufficient opening width for positioning.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the diameter of the C-arm is increased to increase the opening width, then the positioning ability is improved, but the weight increases and mechanical stability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places the X-ray source and receiver inside the C-arm structure, nesting these components within the existing C-arm framework. This nesting approach eliminates the need to increase C-arm diameter to accommodate the components, thereby maintaining a compact, lightweight design with good mechanical stability while still achieving the required opening width for positioning.
3Length of moving object
If the X-ray source and receiver are arranged inside the C-arm, then the opening width is maintained, but the space for cable accommodation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the C-arm structure into distinct functional zones: the internal volume accommodates the X-ray source and receiver, while dedicated cable channels or grooves are provided along the C-arm structure for cable routing. This segmentation allows both requirements to be satisfied simultaneously by allocating different spatial regions for different functions.
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 configuration enhances the positioning ability and angular range of movement of the X-ray diagnostic unit, allowing for larger opening widths without increasing weight or compromising mechanical stability, thus improving the unit's operational flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
Insulating oil may be added to the generator vessel to cool the high-voltage generator and/or the X-ray source
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of an X-ray source for a mobile X-ray diagnostic unit with a C-arm include a generator vessel that may be mounted to a hollow frame of the C-arm. The generator vessel may have a first subregion with a high-voltage generator and a second subregion with an X-ray source. In some embodiments, the first subregion, the second subregion, or both subregions may be at least partially inside a portion of the hollow frame of the C-arm. The generator vessel may be at least partially filled with insulating oil for cooling the high-voltage generator and/or the X-ray source.