Handheld X-ray Interface with Tracking Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
X-ray technicians face difficulties in interacting with X-ray systems from a distance, leading to potential unnecessary patient exposures due to challenges in positioning and aligning the X-ray source with the detector, especially when the technician is not physically close to the system.
Innovation Solution
A handheld X-ray interface device that communicates wirelessly with the X-ray system, allowing for tracking of its location and movement, which is used as input to control the system's functions, enabling the technician to prepare for and initiate exposures, adjust settings, and monitor operational status from a safe distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the technician uses a corded handswitch to control the X-ray system from a distance, then the technician can avoid radiation exposure, but the technician cannot easily interact with the system to adjust positioning and alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into a remote handheld interface device and the main imaging system. The handheld device contains a tracking mechanism that independently determines position and orientation, separating the control function from the imaging function and enabling remote operation without cord constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The handheld interface device acts as an intermediary between the technician and the imaging system. It captures the technician's intended direction through tracking and translates it into control signals for the imaging system, enabling indirect control from a safe distance.
2Measurement precision
If the technician returns to the console between every exposure to analyze imaging data, then the technician can review image quality, but the technician loses time and may need to return multiple times requiring additional patient exposures
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system performs preliminary processing and analysis of imaging data immediately after each exposure. Key information such as image quality metrics and positioning accuracy are pre-prepared and made available on the handheld device before the technician needs to review them, eliminating the need to return to the console.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements real-time feedback by transmitting imaging data and analysis results from the imaging system to the handheld interface device. The technician receives immediate feedback on image quality and positioning, enabling on-the-spot decisions about whether additional exposures are needed.
3Ease of operation
If the technician positions the X-ray system while close to the patient, then the technician can easily adjust positioning, but the technician increases radiation exposure risk
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical tracking system in the handheld device replaces the need for the technician to be physically present near the imaging system for positioning adjustments. The tracking mechanism electronically determines position and orientation, substituting physical proximity with electronic sensing and communication.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, an X-ray system includes a handheld X-ray interface device. The handheld X-ray interface device includes a wireless interface for communicating with an imaging system and a tracking device configured to provide a location and/or to track movement of the handheld X-ray interface device relative to the imaging system, wherein the location or tracked movement of the handheld X-ray interface device is communicated to the imaging system as an input for at least one control function of the imaging system.