Electronic Positioning Device for Image Intensifier Axes

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing guidance systems face challenges in accurately and precisely repositioning image-based guidance systems, such as fluoroscopes and C-ARM, due to limitations in adjustable axes and user control.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of electronic positioning devices coupled to guidance systems via booms and chassis, utilizing motors, gears, and rollers for controlled movement along orthogonal axes, with a controller and foot switch for intuitive operation, enabling micro and macro incremental positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual positioning methods are used for image intensifiers, then the system structure remains simple, but positioning precision and controllability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with an electronic control system that uses DC motors to drive the image intensifier along orthogonal axes. The electronic positioning device receives control signals and automatically adjusts the position, eliminating the need for manual operation while achieving precise positioning through electronic control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an electronic positioning device as an intermediary between the operator and the image intensifier. This intermediary component includes motor drivers, control circuits, and mechanical transmission elements (such as rollers and connecting rods) that translate electronic control signals into precise mechanical movements, thereby achieving accurate positioning without direct manual handling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If existing positioning systems are used, then basic movement is possible, but incremental and controlled movement capability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the positioning system into independent modular components that can move the image intensifier along separate orthogonal axes. Each axis has its own positioning mechanism with independent control, allowing for segmented and controlled adjustment. This modular approach enables incremental movement along each axis while maintaining overall system manageability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Manufacturing precision

If manual repositioning is performed, then the system remains simple, but repositioning accuracy and control deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms in the electronic positioning system that monitor the actual position of the image intensifier and compare it with the desired position. The control system uses this feedback information to make real-time adjustments, ensuring accurate repositioning. The feedback loop continues until the image intensifier reaches the target position with the required precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Enables precise and controlled movement of image intensifiers along multiple axes, improving user accuracy and convenience by allowing incremental positioning and varying movement rates, while ensuring system stability and sterility.

Implementation Method 1

motor-driven boom and chassis-based systems with adjustable connecting rods and rotatable components, enabling precise movement along orthogonal axes using DC motors

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

enabling precise movement along orthogonal axes using DC motors and polyurethane rollers

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS7690844B2Method and system for guidance system positioner
Publication Date: 2010.04.06
  • US7690844B2 patent drawing
  • US7690844B2 patent drawing
  • US7690844B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Apparatus and methods for incrementally positioning at least one adjustable axis of a guidance system where the guidance system may be an image based guidance system.