Frustoconical Cam Coupling for Repeatable Specimen Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for positioning specimens in imaging machines, such as X-ray, CAT, MRI, and PET machines, are time-consuming and labor-intensive, requiring complex setup procedures for accurate and repeatable placement across multiple machines.
Innovation Solution
A modular coupling system with male and female frustoconical plug and socket members, utilizing a rotatable cam ring and ball bearings for axial and radial alignment, allowing for quick and accurate connection and disconnection of specimen holders to positioning receivers, enabling repeatable and precise specimen placement across different imaging machines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional positioning methods are used for specimens in imaging machines, then accurate positioning can be achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system is divided into modular components: a positioning receiver assembly that remains on the imaging machine and a specimen holder assembly that can be quickly attached and detached. This segmentation allows the complex positioning function to be separated into manageable parts that can be independently optimized and quickly reconfigured.
Solution Approach 2:
A coupling assembly with frustoconical plug and socket members acts as an intermediary between the positioning receiver and specimen holder. This intermediate coupling mechanism provides precise alignment and secure connection without requiring complex adjustment procedures, thereby maintaining positioning accuracy while reducing setup time.
2Measurement precision
If complex setup procedures are used to ensure repeatable specimen placement, then positioning accuracy is maintained, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning receiver assembly is pre-configured with alignment features and the specimen holder assembly is pre-equipped with corresponding coupling mechanisms. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the components are connected, precise alignment is automatically achieved without requiring complex adjustment procedures during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling assembly with its frustoconical geometry and cam-actuated locking mechanism serves as an intermediary that automatically establishes precise geometric relationships between components. This intermediate mechanism translates simple connection actions into accurate, repeatable positioning without requiring operator skill or complex procedures.
3Stability of the object's composition
If secure connection is achieved through rigid coupling, then positioning stability is improved, but the adaptability to different imaging machines deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning receiver assembly is designed with universal coupling features that can interface with multiple types of imaging machines. The frustoconical plug and socket design provides a standardized interface that maintains stable, secure connections while being adaptable to different machine platforms and configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism incorporates dynamic elements including cam-actuated balls that can be easily engaged and disengaged. This dynamic design allows the connection to be firmly secured when needed while enabling quick release and reconfiguration for different machines or specimens, balancing stability with adaptability.
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
Facilitates efficient, accurate, and repeatable positioning of specimens within the field of view of imaging machines, reducing setup time and complexity by providing a secure, modular, and easily interchangeable coupling system.
Implementation Method 1
The frustoconical interconnection, coupling and resulting alignment provide both radial centering and positioning as well as axial registration and positioning along precision machined frustoconical surfaces
Implementation Method 2
The male and female members or portions are axially and radially cammed into position by a rotatable cam ring acting on a circumferentially-spaced series of balls, such as ball bearings
Data Source
AI summary
A releasable coupling includes a male coupling portion having a frustoconical male plug portion, and a female coupling portion having a frustoconical female socket portion. The male and female coupling portions are locked together and unlocked by a bidirectional rotatable cam ring which drives one or more balls between the male and female coupling portions.