X-ray Collimator with Visible Light Projection for Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
X-ray collimators lack the ability to visibly indicate the shape of the irradiation region and the center of the radiation, making it difficult for users to accurately position objects during radiography without invasive procedures.
Innovation Solution
A collimator system incorporating irises to adjust the radiation path, a light source to emit visible light, a reflective mirror to redirect the light, and an image output unit to display the shape of the target object or a mark indicating the radiation center, allowing for visible confirmation of the irradiation region.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a collimator uses only X-ray blocking structures (irises) to define the irradiation region, then the radiation shape can be adjusted, but the user cannot visually confirm the irradiation region and its center
Solution Approach 1:
A reflective mirror is introduced as an intermediary component to redirect visible light from a light source onto the irradiation region. This allows the invisible X-ray irradiation area to be made visible through reflected light without interfering with the X-ray path, resolving the contradiction between visibility and structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visible light copy or representation of the irradiation region by projecting light patterns that correspond to the X-ray irradiation area. This visual copy allows users to see the irradiation region and its center without adding complex direct visualization components to the X-ray path.
2Ease of operation
If a light source and reflective mirror are added to make the irradiation region visible, then visual confirmation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The collimator structure is designed to serve multiple functions: it blocks X-rays to define the irradiation region, reflects visible light to make the region visible, and provides a visual reference for positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and minimizes overall device complexity while improving ease of operation.
3Loss of information
If the image output unit is placed in the X-ray irradiation path, then direct visual feedback is achieved, but it may interfere with the radiation path
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the visible light path from the X-ray path by using different spatial dimensions or angles. The light source and reflective mirror are positioned such that visible light is projected onto the irradiation region from an angle that does not block the X-ray path, allowing visual feedback without radiation interference.
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
Enables precise and easy alignment of objects within the radiation region, facilitating more accurate and efficient radiography by providing a visible representation of the irradiation area and its center, thus improving the positioning of patients during X-ray imaging.
Implementation Method 1
a reflective mirror to adjust a path of light radiated from the light source
Implementation Method 2
a light source outputting light to display the irradiation region
Data Source
AI summary
A collimator for adjusting the shape of a region irradiated by radiation and a control method thereof. The collimator includes a plurality of irises to adjust the shape of the irradiation region, a light source outputting light to display the irradiation region, a reflective mirror to adjust a path of light radiated from the light source toward the irradiation region, and an image output unit outputting to the irradiation region a visible image representing the shape of a target object for radiography or a mark indicating the center of the radiation region.