Dual-Actuator Radiopaque Shutter for X-Ray Beam Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shutter mechanisms in X-ray radiography systems lack efficient control over X-ray beam exposure, leading to potential harm from excessive radiation and complexity in design.
Innovation Solution
A shutter device comprising a radiopaque shuttle member with two actuators positioned on opposite sides, allowing for rapid and precise movement between open and closed positions to control X-ray beam transmission, utilizing various actuator types such as pneumatic, magnetic, or electromechanical actuators to minimize radiation exposure and simplify the mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single actuator is used to control the shutter, then the device complexity is reduced, but the speed and precision of shutter operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter control system is segmented into two independent actuators (first actuator and second actuator) that operate on opposite sides of the shuttle member. Each actuator independently controls one direction of movement, allowing simultaneous operation that dramatically increases shutter speed while maintaining relatively simple individual actuator designs
Solution Approach 2:
The two actuators are positioned on opposite sides of the shuttle member, creating a balanced configuration where the forces applied by each actuator counterbalance each other during operation. This reduces the overall force required from each actuator and minimizes mechanical stress on the system
2Reliability
If traditional shutter mechanisms are used, then the design is well-established, but the control precision over X-ray beam exposure deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter mechanism uses a movable shuttle member that can dynamically transition between open and closed positions with precise control. The two-actuator system enables independent control of each direction, allowing for precise positioning and rapid response to control X-ray beam exposure with high accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates control circuits that receive signals and selectively activate the first or second actuator based on desired shutter position. This feedback-controlled operation ensures precise control over X-ray beam exposure timing and duration, improving measurement precision while maintaining reliable operation
3Measurement precision
If more actuators are added to improve control, then the X-ray beam exposure control improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using one complex multi-directional actuator, the system segments the control function into two simple actuators, each responsible for one direction of movement. This segmentation maintains control precision while keeping each actuator simple and the overall system manageable
Solution Approach 2:
Each actuator is designed to perform a universal function of moving the shuttle member along the same axis, just in opposite directions. This multi-functionality approach allows the system to achieve precise bidirectional control using identical or similar actuator designs, reducing complexity
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 enables rapid and precise control of X-ray beam exposure, reducing patient harm and simplifying the shutter mechanism, while minimizing the amount of electromagnetic radiation transmitted, thus improving safety and reducing costs by using fewer parts.
Implementation Method 1
the shuttle member includes a radiopaque portion
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments of a device comprise a shuttle member, wherein the shuttle member includes a body, wherein the body includes an opening that extends through the body, and wherein at least part of the shuttle is radiopaque; a first actuator; and a second actuator, wherein the first actuator and the second actuator are positioned on opposite sides of the shuttle member, wherein the first actuator is configured to move the shuttle member in a first direction, and wherein the second actuator is configured to move the shuttle member in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction.