Dynamic Radiological Imaging Device With Counteracting Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for dynamic CT scanning of lower limbs in weight-bearing conditions fail to keep the body part of interest within the imaging modality's field of view during movement, and are not compatible with magnetic resonance imaging due to ferromagnetic materials.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a base structure with a platform and a counteracting structure that applies opposing loads to maintain the body part of interest within the imaging field, using radiolucent and non-ferromagnetic materials, allowing real-time dynamic imaging with CT, MRI, and other modalities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a loading device is used to provide weight-bearing conditions during CT scanning, then the patient can be imaged in a weight-bearing position, but the device contains ferromagnetic materials which prevent its use in MRI and other magnetic imaging techniques
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameters of the loading device by using non-ferromagnetic materials (such as aluminum, titanium, or plastic) instead of ferromagnetic materials. This parameter change enables the device to be compatible with MRI and other magnetic imaging techniques while maintaining its weight-bearing function, thus resolving the contradiction between providing weight-bearing conditions and ensuring compatibility with multiple imaging modalities.
2Productivity
If the patient's legs are allowed to move during dynamic CT scanning, then real-time dynamic CT data can be acquired, but the body part of interest moves out of the imaging field of view
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a counterweight system that applies opposing forces to balance the movement of the patient's legs during dynamic scanning. The counterweight mechanism compensates for the displacement of the body part of interest, keeping it within the imaging field of view while allowing natural leg movement to occur. This resolves the contradiction between enabling real-time dynamic imaging and maintaining the body part within the stationary imaging field.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed loading device is used to provide weight-bearing conditions, then the patient can be imaged in a weight-bearing position, but the device does not allow movement of the legs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the fixed loading device into a dynamic system that can accommodate leg movements. The device incorporates movable components and adjustment mechanisms that allow the patient's legs to move naturally while maintaining weight-bearing conditions. This dynamic design enables both stable weight-bearing imaging and natural leg movement, resolving the contradiction between stability and ease of operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device (1) for use with a weight-bearing radiological imaging modality scanner. The device comprises: - a base structure (11) slidably mounted with respect to a table (10), said base structure being at one end provided with a platform (12) making an angle relative to the table, and - a counteracting structure (20) arranged to apply to the table a first load exerting force in a direction towards the one end provided with the platform from the opposite end of the base structure and to apply to the base structure a second load exerting force in a direction from the one end provided with the platform to the opposite end of the base structure.