Collapsible Column Movement for Mobile X-Ray Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mobile radiography apparatus with fixed vertical columns obstruct visibility and mobility during transport, and existing collapsible column designs face challenges in adjusting boom height effectively, complicating the positioning of the x-ray source.
Innovation Solution
A mobile radiography apparatus with a sectioned vertical column and a counterbalance apparatus that includes an actuator and height sensing elements, allowing for adjustable boom height and improved visibility during transport, enabling easy movement and positioning of the x-ray source.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed vertical column is used to support the x-ray boom, then the structural stability is improved, but the visibility and mobility during transport are worsened due to obstruction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the vertical column collapsible rather than fixed. The column can be extended to a first height during imaging operations to provide structural stability, and collapsed to a second, lower height during transport to improve visibility and mobility. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to adapt its structural configuration based on operational requirements.
2Ease of operation
If the column height is made adjustable to improve visibility during transport, then the mobility is improved, but the complexity of adjusting boom height is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the column height adjustment function with the boom height adjustment function into a single integrated system. The counterbalance apparatus is configured to automatically coordinate column section extension/retraction with boom elevation/lowering, so that when the column height changes, the boom height is automatically adjusted to maintain proper imaging geometry. This eliminates the need for separate manual adjustments and reduces operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where height sensing elements monitor the position of column sections and boom, and this information is fed back to the control system. The controller uses this feedback to automatically adjust the counterbalance apparatus, ensuring coordinated movement of column and boom without requiring complex manual intervention from the operator.
3Ease of operation
If a collapsible column is used to improve visibility, then the visibility during transport is improved, but the effort required for height adjustment is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a counterbalance apparatus that uses counterweights to offset the weight of the boom and column sections. As column sections are extended or retracted, the counterbalance mechanism automatically provides compensating forces to maintain equilibrium, significantly reducing the effort required from the operator to adjust heights. The counterbalance system works in conjunction with the collapsible column to enable easy height adjustments while maintaining visibility improvements.
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
Enhances mobility and visibility during transport by allowing the x-ray boom to be adjusted over a wide range of heights, reducing the effort required for height adjustments and improving ergonomic operation.
Implementation Method 1
a counterbalance apparatus that includes an actuator and height sensing elements, allowing for adjustable boom height and improved visibility during transport
Implementation Method 2
reducing the effort required for height adjustments and improving ergonomic operation
Data Source
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AI summary
A mobile radiography apparatus has a portable transport frame and a sectioned vertical column mounted on the frame and defining a vertical axis and having a base section having a fixed vertical position relative to the vertical axis and at least one movable section that is translatable to a variable vertical position along the vertical axis. A counterbalance apparatus is coupled to the at least one movable section of the vertical column with an actuator that is energizable to translate the at least one movable section along the vertical axis. A boom apparatus supports an x- ray source and is coupled to the at least one movable section for vertical displacement of the boom apparatus to a height position. A height sensing element provides a signal that is indicative of the height position of the boom apparatus.