C-arm X-ray Generator Rotation for Compact Tomosynthesis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional C-arm X-ray machines with large and complex driving mechanisms face challenges in obtaining tomographic images efficiently due to long imaging times, difficulty in precise control, and limited mobility within narrow spaces like operating rooms.
Innovation Solution
The proposed C-arm X-ray imaging apparatus features a movable X-ray generator that can move separately along an arch-shaped guide rail, maintaining an equal distance from the X-ray detector, and a compact design with a footprint of less than 1 m2, allowing for stable tomosynthesis imaging in narrow spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the entire C-shaped arm is rotated to obtain multiple projection images for tomosynthesis, then tomographic images can be acquired, but the imaging time increases and precise control becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the rotation function into two independent parts: the C-shaped arm remains stationary while only the X-ray generator rotates on its own axis. This segmentation allows the generator to capture multiple projection images without moving the entire C-arm structure, significantly reducing imaging time while maintaining tomographic image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The X-ray generator is designed with dynamic rotation capability on its own mounting axis, allowing it to independently change orientation while the C-shaped arm stays fixed. This dynamic adjustment enables rapid acquisition of multiple projection angles without the time-consuming movement of the entire arm assembly.
2Measurement precision
If a large and complex driving mechanism is used to rotate the C-shaped arm, then multiple projection images can be obtained, but the device complexity increases and mobility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the rotation function from the C-shaped arm structure and assigns it to the X-ray generator alone. This eliminates the need for complex driving mechanisms to rotate the entire arm, reducing device complexity while maintaining the capability to acquire multiple projection images for tomosynthesis.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotation function is extracted from the C-shaped arm and transferred to the X-ray generator. This extraction removes the burden of complex driving mechanisms from the arm structure, simplifying the overall system while preserving tomographic imaging capability.
3Measurement precision
If the entire C-shaped arm is rotated for tomosynthesis, then multiple projection images can be captured, but the load and volume increase making it difficult to move into operating rooms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the rotation function so that only the lightweight X-ray generator rotates instead of the heavy C-shaped arm. This segmentation dramatically reduces the weight and volume of moving components, making the apparatus mobile enough to be easily transported into operating rooms while still enabling tomographic imaging.
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 solution enables the capture of high-quality tomographic images without exposing the movement of the drive system, while also allowing the apparatus to be easily operated and moved within narrow spaces, such as operating rooms.
Implementation Method 1
An X-ray generator and an X-ray detector are respectively disposed at opposite ends of a C-shaped arm
Implementation Method 2
obtains an X-ray image from the X-rays that travel through the subject
Data Source
AI summary
Proposed is a C-arm X-ray imaging apparatus that has a limited footprint to be able to operate and be moved in a narrow space such as an operating room and a treatment/procedure room. The X-ray imaging apparatus includes a C-arm part including a C-shaped arm, and an X-ray generator and an X-ray detector disposed oppositely at both ends of the C-shaped arm, a main body part including a movable mobile base, and an arm part configured to connect the main body part and the C-arm part, wherein the X-ray generator is separately movable with respect to an end of the C-shaped arm, and a footprint of the mobile base is less than 1 m2.