CT Gantry Linear Motion Layout for Better Patient Access
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current CT systems face challenges with limited mobility, complex and expensive gantry movements, and restricted patient accessibility, making it difficult to perform examinations efficiently and effectively, especially in different environments.
Innovation Solution
A gantry apparatus with a movable system that allows lateral movement and multiple radiation sources and detectors, enabling image capture from various angles without full rotation, and featuring a slim design for improved patient accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional rotating gantry with single radiation source and detector is used, then the system structure is simpler, but mobility is limited and patient accessibility is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The gantry is divided into multiple independent radiation sources and detectors arranged around the patient, allowing individual components to be positioned independently. This segmentation enables the system to achieve mobility and flexibility without requiring a complete gantry rotation mechanism, thus reducing overall structural complexity while improving adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a movable gantry design that can be dynamically repositioned laterally and axially using a trolley system with guide elements. This dynamic positioning capability allows the gantry to adapt to different patient positions and examination requirements without requiring complex mechanical structures, as the movement is enabled through straightforward linear guides rather than full rotational mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If a mobile gantry with lateral movement capability is implemented, then patient accessibility is improved, but the system becomes more complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical rotation mechanisms with a simpler linear movement system based on guide elements and a trolley. Instead of requiring the gantry to rotate and reposition itself, the system uses straightforward linear guidance to enable lateral and axial movement, significantly simplifying the mechanical structure while maintaining ease of operation and patient accessibility.
3Measurement precision
If precise adjustment of mobile gantry position is implemented, then recording accuracy is improved, but the adjustment process becomes more complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The gantry system incorporates self-aligning features through the guide element design that automatically positions the radiation sources and detectors at the correct recording positions. The linear guide elements provide inherent positioning accuracy without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms, as the system self-corrects and maintains precise alignment during movement, thereby achieving high recording accuracy without increasing operational complexity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a gantry with opening for lateral approach is designed, then patient accessibility is improved, but the gantry structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The gantry structure is segmented into modular components that can be independently positioned and adjusted. This segmentation allows for the incorporation of lateral openings without compromising the overall structural integrity, as each segment can be independently managed. The modular design enables the gantry to provide lateral access while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure compared to traditional fully-rotating designs.
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 solution provides high-quality imaging with flexible positioning, allowing for efficient image capture from multiple angles and improved patient accessibility, suitable for interventions and surgeries.
Implementation Method 1
the gantry (2) comprises a plurality of radiation sources (5) and radiation detectors (4)
Data Source
AI summary
A gantry apparatus for a CT system comprises a gantry and a movement system. The gantry includes a plurality of radiation sources and radiation detectors which are each arranged on a plane around a main axis. The gantry is mounted to move laterally via the movement system. The movement system has guide elements and is configured such that the gantry is movable in a straight line parallel to the main axis via the guide elements.