Automated Filter Changing Assembly for CT Radiation Beam Shaping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional CT systems require manual and time-consuming processes to change filters, which are inconvenient and uncomfortable for patients, and prone to errors due to the need for operators to enter the treatment room and handle filters manually.
Innovation Solution
A filter changing assembly with a control system that automatically selects and moves shape and beam hardening filters between storage and filtering positions, allowing remote operation and precise alignment, reducing the need for manual intervention and minimizing errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual filter changing is used, then operators can directly replace filters, but the process is time-consuming and requires operators to enter the treatment room
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic filter selection and positioning through a control system that autonomously manages filter changes without requiring operator intervention in the treatment room. The control system receives identification information, selects appropriate filters, and positions them automatically, making the system self-sufficient in performing the filter changing task.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical filter handling with an automated control system that uses electronic identification (RFID tags, barcodes) and automated positioning mechanisms. This substitution eliminates the need for operators to physically enter the treatment room and manually handle filters, reducing both time loss and operational complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual filter replacement is performed, then filters can be changed, but alignment and calibration take relatively long time
Solution Approach 1:
The control system pre-identifies and pre-positions the required filter based on identification information received before the filtering operation. By determining the correct filter in advance and having it ready in the correct position before the beam is activated, the system eliminates time-consuming alignment and calibration steps that would otherwise be performed manually after filter installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses identification information (such as RFID tags or barcodes on filters) to automatically identify the filter type and match it with the required filtering parameters. This feedback mechanism ensures the correct filter is selected and positioned, eliminating manual alignment and calibration time while maintaining adaptability to different filtering requirements.
3Ease of operation
If operators manually handle filters, then filter changes can be made, but errors in filter selection and placement occur
Solution Approach 1:
The control system autonomously performs filter identification, selection, and positioning based on received identification information. This self-service capability eliminates human error in filter selection and placement, ensuring that the correct filter is always positioned accurately without relying on operator skill or attention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automated identification mechanisms (RFID tags, barcodes) that provide feedback about the filter type and required positioning parameters. This feedback loop ensures accurate filter selection and placement by automatically matching the identified filter with the correct positioning data, eliminating errors associated with manual handling.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple filters are available for different procedures, then filtering flexibility is improved, but filter management becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The control system serves multiple functions: it identifies filters through various methods (RFID, barcodes), selects appropriate filters based on procedure requirements, positions them accurately, and manages their storage and retrieval. This universal control system handles all aspects of filter management for different procedures through a single integrated platform, reducing overall system complexity despite the variety of filters available.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex manual filter management with an automated control system that uses electronic identification and data processing. Instead of operators needing to remember and manually select from multiple filter types, the system electronically identifies and manages filters based on procedure requirements, simplifying the management complexity while maintaining full adaptability to different procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A filter changing assembly that can be used in, for example, a radiology system includes shape filters that can used to shape a radiation beam and that can be moved back-and-forth, for example. The filter changing assembly also includes beam hardening filters that can be used to change the energy spectrum of the radiation beam, and that also can be moved back-and-forth, for example. The filter changing assembly includes a control system that can be used to select at least one of the filters and automatically move the selected filter from one position to another position.