CT Gantry Laser Mount for Precise X-Ray Beam Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser alignment systems in medical imaging, such as CT systems, face challenges in precisely positioning the patient relative to the imaging plane, as they rely on visible light beams that may not accurately indicate the x-ray beam's intersection point, potentially leading to misalignment during imaging procedures.
Innovation Solution
A laser mount system with a sliding and rotatable mechanism, integrated into the gantry of the CT system, allows for precise adjustment of laser diodes with four degrees of freedom, enabling accurate alignment of the patient with the x-ray beam by reducing clearances between components and utilizing additive manufacturing for enhanced precision and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional laser alignment systems are used, then the system structure is simple, but the alignment precision between laser beam and x-ray beam is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The laser mount is designed with multiple degrees of freedom including rotation about the laser axis and translation perpendicular to the laser axis, allowing dynamic adjustment of the laser beam position and direction to achieve precise alignment with the x-ray beam
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical alignment methods with a combination of rotational and translational adjustments of the laser mount, enabling more precise control of the laser beam position relative to the x-ray beam without complex mechanical linkages
2Manufacturing precision
If the laser mount allows multiple adjustments, then the alignment accuracy improves, but the adjustment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The laser mount adjustment mechanism is segmented into independent rotational and translational adjustment components, each responsible for specific degrees of freedom, allowing operators to adjust one parameter at a time while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The mount provides dynamic adjustment capabilities through controlled rotation and translation movements, enabling precise positioning of the laser beam while maintaining operational simplicity through defined movement axes
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
The system ensures precise alignment of the patient with the x-ray beam, improving imaging accuracy and reducing the complexity of adjusting the laser position, thereby enhancing the overall imaging process.
Implementation Method 1
a laser alignment system including a plurality of laser mounts coupled to the gantry with each laser mount moveable relative to the gantry with four degrees of freedom... a plurality of laser radiation sources... for each laser mount of the plurality of laser mounts, the laser mount is coupled to a corresponding laser radiation source
Data Source
AI summary
Various methods and systems are provided for laser alignment systems, particularly laser alignment systems of medical imaging systems. In one example, a medical imaging system comprises: a gantry; and a laser mount including: a first section fixedly coupled to the gantry; a second section seated within the first section and slideable within the first section; and a third section seated within the second section and rotatable within the second section, the third section adapted to house a laser radiation source.