Imaging System Component Servicing via Movable Platform Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Servicing components within medical imaging systems, such as x-ray CT systems, is challenging due to their weight and the obstructions caused by the gantry, making it difficult to lift or remove them for maintenance or replacement.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a component bracket that attaches to the imaging system component within the gantry and a platform bracket that attaches to a movable imaging platform, coupled together using a winch, allowing for the movement and removal of components by utilizing the platform's mobility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If components are removed from the gantry for servicing, then maintenance and replacement can be performed, but the weight of the components and obstruction by the gantry make removal challenging
Solution Approach 1:
A service platform is introduced as an intermediary device that can be coupled to both the imaging component and the movable imaging platform. This mediator enables the transfer and movement of heavy components without requiring direct manual handling, thereby reducing the operational difficulty of removing and servicing components despite their significant weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes the movable imaging platform's dynamic capability to transport components. By coupling the service platform to the movable platform, the system transforms the static heavy component into a movable assembly that can be dynamically repositioned and removed from the gantry, converting the weight problem into a manageable transport problem through controlled movement.
2Ease of repair
If components are removed from the gantry for servicing, then maintenance can be performed, but the gantry structure creates obstruction and difficulty in component removal
Solution Approach 1:
The service platform acts as a mediator that interfaces with both the imaging component and the movable imaging platform. This intermediary device simplifies the complex task of component removal by providing a standardized coupling mechanism that bridges the component and the movable platform, reducing the operational complexity despite the gantry's structural obstructions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention segments the component removal process into distinct stages: coupling the service platform to the imaging component, coupling the service platform to the movable platform, and then transporting the component. This segmentation breaks down the complex removal task into manageable steps, making the overall process more controllable and less complex despite the gantry's structural constraints.
3Weight of moving object
If cranes are used to assist in removing components, then weight issues are addressed, but servicing components remains difficult due to gantry obstruction
Solution Approach 1:
The service platform serves as a versatile intermediary that can be coupled to imaging components of various weights and configurations. This mediator provides a standardized interface that works with different component types, making component servicing more accessible and less difficult despite the presence of gantry obstructions and varying component weights.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable imaging platform is designed with universal coupling capabilities that allow it to accommodate various imaging components through the service platform. This multi-functionality enables the same platform to service different components without requiring component-specific handling procedures, thereby improving ease of servicing while addressing weight considerations through the platform's load-bearing capacity.
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 easier and safer servicing of gantry components by leveraging the movability of the imaging platform, overcoming weight and obstruction challenges, and facilitating regular maintenance and replacement.
Implementation Method 1
a winch to couple the component bracket to the platform bracket
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for moving a component of an imaging system are described herein. The techniques may include an apparatus having a component bracket to attach to an imaging system component disposed within a gantry of the imaging system. The apparatus may include a platform bracket to attach to a movable platform of the imaging system, wherein the component bracket and the platform bracket are to be coupled to each other.