Compact Scissor Extender for C-Arm Detector Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing C-arm x-ray systems face challenges in adjusting detector position relative to the x-ray source, particularly when using different detector sizes, leading to issues with collimator compatibility and difficulty in positioning the detector in confined spaces.
Innovation Solution
A scissor extender assembly is used to retract and extend the detector, comprising pivoting arms attached to the C-arm, allowing for precise movement of the detector closer to or further from the x-ray source, facilitated by motor-driven mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a telescopic assembly is used to support and enable movement of the detector towards the x-ray source, then the detector can be extended closer to the source, but the assembly prevents the detector from moving as close to the C-arm as desired due to the length required for the telescopic assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic scissor mechanism that can transition between extended and retracted configurations. The scissor arms are designed to pivot and fold, allowing the detector to dynamically change its position relative to the C-arm. This dynamic structure enables the detector to be extended close to the x-ray source when needed while being retractable to minimize the distance from the C-arm in confined spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The scissor mechanism utilizes a nested structure where the scissor arms fold into each other during retraction. The arms are arranged in a nested configuration that allows them to compact when folded, significantly reducing the overall length of the extension assembly when not in use. This nesting principle enables the detector to be positioned close to the C-arm when retracted, solving the space constraint problem.
2Area of moving object
If a larger detector is installed, then more of the object can be captured in the radiographic image, but the aperture of the collimator might not be capable of expanding enough to cover the larger size detector
Solution Approach 1:
The collimator is designed with dynamic adjustment capability, allowing its aperture size to be varied. The collimator blades can be moved to expand or reduce the aperture opening, enabling it to adapt to different detector sizes. This dynamic adjustment ensures that the collimator can cover both smaller and larger detector imaging areas, maintaining versatility across different detector configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The collimator assembly is designed to serve multiple functions and be compatible with various detector sizes. By incorporating an adjustable aperture mechanism, the collimator becomes a universal component that can adapt to different detector configurations, whether smaller or larger detectors are installed on the C-arm system.
3Ease of operation
If a smaller detector is installed, then the detector can be positioned in more confined spaces, but the previously used x-ray beam might overshoot the outside edges of the smaller detector
Solution Approach 1:
The collimator incorporates dynamic blade adjustment mechanisms that allow precise control of the aperture size and shape. When a smaller detector is installed, the collimator blades can be adjusted to reduce the aperture opening and reshape it to match the smaller detector dimensions. This dynamic adjustment ensures that the x-ray beam is precisely aligned with the smaller detector, preventing the beam from overshooting the detector edges while maintaining the ability to position the detector in confined spaces.
Data Source
AI summary
A radiographic C-arm system uses a scissor extender assembly to retract and extend a detector in relation to an x-ray source of the C-arm system. The scissor extender assembly is attached to the C-arm near one end of the C-arm. The assembly comprises pivoting arms for extending and retracting the detector away from and toward the x-ray source.