Integrated Detector Support Sleeve for Hands-Free X-Ray Bagging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile x-ray devices face challenges in securely and ergonomically handling detectors of varying sizes, leading to potential damage, image quality issues, and operator injury due to unstable placement and entanglement of detectors and exposure switch cords during imaging procedures.
Innovation Solution
A detector support system for mobile x-ray devices featuring a sleeve with securing plates that securely engage the edge of detectors with or without a grid handle, allowing hands-free handling and protection, and a cord management system to prevent cord entanglement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If detectors are placed in a bin on the chassis, then detectors can be securely retained during movement, but detectors are not easily accessible and may interfere with device operation
Solution Approach 1:
The detector support system is segmented into multiple components: a bin for secure storage, a support structure with arms that can be positioned at different locations, and a detector cradle that can be moved between storage and operational positions. This segmentation allows detectors to be securely retained in the bin when not in use while enabling easy access and stable support when needed for imaging procedures
2Ease of operation
If detectors are placed on a surface for bagging, then the operator can handle the detector, but the detector may slide off and cause damage or injury
Solution Approach 1:
A detector cradle or support surface acts as an intermediary between the operator and the detector during bagging operations. The cradle provides a stable, controlled environment for placing detectors while they are being bagged, eliminating the need to balance detectors on unstable surfaces. The cradle can be integrated with the support structure, providing both stability and ease of operation during the bagging process
3Ease of operation
If the exposure switch cord is made long enough to allow operator movement, then operator mobility is improved, but the cord becomes entangled with detectors and equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The exposure switch cord management is extracted from the main chassis area and routed through dedicated pathways or channels on the support structure. This separation prevents the cord from becoming entangled with detectors and equipment while still allowing sufficient length for operator mobility. The cord can be routed through channels on the support arms or chassis, keeping it organized and away from potential entanglement zones
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile x-ray device includes a body including a number of wheels rotatably attached thereto and housing operative systems for the obtaining and processing of x-ray data to provide x-ray images, a moveable vertical column and horizontal arm operably connected to the body and including an x-ray emitter opposite the body, a detector configured to receive x-rays from the x-ray emitter and operably connected to the operative systems to transmit x-ray data from the detector to the operative systems, a drive handle disposed on the body, and a detector support having a sleeve defining an interior adapted to receive an edge of a detector therein, and a pair of securing plates extending outwardly from the sleeve and secured to the drive handle. The sleeve can securely engage opposed surfaces of the detector to allow the user/technician to readily position a protective bag around the exposed portion of the detector in a hands-free manner.