Foldable Arm X-ray Imaging Device with Joint-Mounted Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional mobile X-ray imaging devices face difficulties in operability due to the need for frequent movement between the X-ray tube and console, making it hard to check imaging conditions and manipulate the X-ray tube, especially when the tube is supported by a foldable arm that elevates the X-ray tube, obstructing visibility of the display screen.

Innovation Solution

An X-ray imaging device with a foldable arm unit and an integrated operating/display unit at the joint between arms, allowing for easy manipulation and display of imaging information at the point of operation, including a handle with switches for controlling the X-ray tube, enabling remote positioning and improved visibility of the display.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If the X-ray tube is supported by a foldable arm unit that extends the arm, then the X-ray tube can be positioned at a higher location for imaging, but the operator cannot easily check the display screen or manipulate the tube due to the elevated position

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvearm extension lengthVSAvoidoperator accessibility to controls and display
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The operating unit is integrated directly onto the arm unit structure, merging the control interface with the positioning mechanism. This allows the operator to access controls and display while standing near the arm base, eliminating the need to move between the console and the elevated X-ray tube position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The operating unit serves as an intermediary between the operator and the X-ray tube system. It provides a localized control interface with display capabilities that mediates the interaction between the operator and the elevated imaging components, enabling remote operation from a comfortable standing position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Stability of the object's composition

If the operating console is integrated into the main body of the device, then the device structure is compact and stable, but the operator must move back and forth between the console and the X-ray tube during operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice structural stabilityVSAvoidoperator movement time between console and tube
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is segmented into two functional parts: the main console integrated into the stable main body, and a portable operating unit attached to the arm unit. This segmentation allows the operator to perform positioning operations at the arm unit while maintaining stable device structure, eliminating the need to return to the main console for each operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If the X-ray tube is positioned forward relative to the main body for imaging, then the imaging geometry is optimized, but the forward view is obstructed while moving the device

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging geometry optimizationVSAvoidforward view obstruction during transport
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The arm unit is designed as a dynamic, foldable structure that can be reconfigured during transport. The arms can be folded back or positioned to clear the forward path, allowing the X-ray tube to maintain its forward positioning for imaging while eliminating view obstruction during device movement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS10456100B2X-ray imaging device
Publication Date: 2019.10.29 FUJIFILM CORP
  • US10456100B2 patent drawing
  • US10456100B2 patent drawing
  • US10456100B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is an X-ray imaging device having a foldable arm unit for supporting an X-ray tube, and an operating unit for operating the X-ray tube, on a joint of arms constituting the arm unit. The operating unit is, for instance, a display unit serving also as the operating unit (display unit with a touch panel), and it is detachable from the joint of the arms. As another operating unit, a handle for operating the arm unit is provided. The handle for operating the arm unit can be provided with an operating switch for operating the X-ray tube. With this configuration, the X-ray imaging device being superior in operability and easy in checking the displayed information can be provided, at any height the X-ray tube is positioned.