Digital Display Attached to Medical Imaging Bore Surface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Longer bore lengths in medical imaging systems, such as PET/CT and MRI, can be intimidating and claustrophobic for patients, limiting interaction between the patient and technician.
Innovation Solution
A digital display is attached to the inner bore surface of the medical imaging system, allowing patients to view visual content along the longitudinal axis of the system, thereby reducing anxiety and enhancing the patient experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the bore length is increased to achieve a larger axial field of view, then the imaging capability is improved, but the patient experience deteriorates due to increased claustrophobia and intimidation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies digital displays with various colors and visual content to the bore surface to create a less intimidating environment. The displays can show calming colors, nature scenes, or interactive content that distracts patients from the confined space, directly addressing the claustrophobia issue while maintaining the long bore structure needed for large axial field of view.
2Area of stationary object
If the bore length is increased to achieve a larger axial field of view, then the imaging capability is improved, but the interaction between patient and technician deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The digital displays serve as an intermediary communication channel between the technician and patient. The technician can control the displays to show instructions, reassure the patient, or provide real-time feedback during scanning, maintaining interaction despite the physical separation caused by the long bore structure.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If digital displays are added to the bore surface, then the patient experience is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The digital displays are integrated into the existing bore structure and can serve multiple functions: reducing patient anxiety through calming visuals, providing instructional information, enabling communication between technician and patient, and potentially displaying real-time imaging feedback. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering multiple benefits from a single integration.
Data Source
AI summary
A medical imaging system that includes a gantry having an inner bore surface that defines a bore for receiving a patient, wherein a digital display is attached to the inner bore surface of the bore. The system also includes a patient bed for moving the patient into the bore. Further, visual content is displayed on the display that has a calming effect on the patient.