Column Height Sensing in Extra-oral Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extra-oral dental imaging systems lack an efficient method for accurately measuring and adjusting the column height, which is crucial for accommodating patients of varying heights and ensuring consistent imaging parameters.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a linear potentiometer device that provides a signal indicative of the height position, allowing for precise measurement and adjustment of the column height, which can be integrated into various imaging system designs, including those with multiple columns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual height adjustment is used, then the system can accommodate patients of various heights, but the adjustment process is time-consuming and lacks precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated motorized column height adjustment system. The motorized actuator receives control signals from the control circuit to automatically adjust the column height based on patient requirements, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual operation while maintaining adaptability to various patient heights.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism using a height sensor that continuously monitors the column height position and sends signals to the control circuit. The control circuit compares the actual height with the target height and automatically adjusts the column position accordingly, enabling precise and rapid height adjustment without manual intervention.
2Extent of automation
If no height measurement system is implemented, then the system structure remains simple, but automated height adjustment and data recording cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a height sensor as an intermediary component that bridges the physical column height and the electronic control system. The sensor converts mechanical position into electrical signals that the control circuit can process, enabling automated adjustment without requiring complex direct mechanical-electronic integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The height sensor serves multiple functions: it provides feedback for automated height adjustment, records height data for patient档案管理, and enables repeatable positioning for subsequent imaging sessions. This multi-functionality justifies the added component while maximizing its utility across different operational requirements.
3Measurement precision
If limit switches are used for height detection, then basic height information can be obtained, but only range information is provided rather than precise height measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces crude mechanical limit switches with a more sophisticated height sensor that provides continuous analog or digital height measurements. This substitution enables precise measurement of the column height position while maintaining relatively simple system architecture through the use of standard sensor components.
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 accurate and automated column height adjustment, improving the adaptability and repeatability of imaging sessions, and reducing the need for manual adjustments while providing data for future imaging sessions.
Implementation Method 1
A height sensing apparatus is provided that uses a linear potentiometer device to provide a signal that is indicative of a height position.
Data Source
AI summary
An extra-oral imaging system having a mount supported on a column that is adjustable in height, wherein the mount supports an x-ray source and at least one imaging sensor that are adjustable in height. A column base section remains stationary during height adjustment. A height sensing apparatus has a contact member that contacts a sensor element to provide a signal that is indicative of the height adjustment.