Jammable X-ray Boom Segments for Confined Space Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile x-ray apparatuses face challenges in positioning the x-ray head due to weight and complexity, requiring complex counterbalance mechanisms and additional tools for positioning, which increases cost and operational complexity, especially in confined spaces.
Innovation Solution
An x-ray head support boom composed of modular tube segments made from flexible materials that transition between fluidic and rigid states using a jammable medium, actuated by cables and motors to adjust rigidity and shape, allowing flexible positioning without the need for additional tools or personnel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex cantilevered boom designs with fixed or collapsible columns are used, then the x-ray head can be supported and positioned, but the weight and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The boom segments transition from rigid to flexible states dynamically. When rigid, they provide stable support for the x-ray head; when flexible, they enable easy repositioning and maneuvering. This dynamic state change eliminates the need for complex fixed or collapsible column mechanisms while maintaining both stability and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The physical state parameter of the boom segments is changed from permanently rigid to variable (rigid/flexible). By controlling the rigidity parameter of each segment independently, the system achieves stable support when needed and easy repositioning when needed, without requiring complex mechanical structures.
2Stability of the object's composition
If substantial counterweights and numerous supporting actuators are added, then the boom can maintain stability, but the overall weight increases requiring more complex automated drive and steering mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using substantial counterweights to achieve stability, the invention uses dynamically controllable rigid segments that provide stability only when and where needed. The flexible segments allow easy repositioning without requiring heavy actuators and counterbalance mechanisms, thereby reducing overall weight while maintaining operational stability.
3Device complexity
If fixed movement paths between spatial locations are constrained by mechanical design, then the boom structure is simplified, but the ability to flexibly position the head is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible segments enable the boom to adapt to various positions and configurations without being constrained by fixed mechanical paths. Each segment can independently transition between rigid and flexible states, allowing the boom to navigate complex spatial arrangements while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
By dividing the boom into multiple independently controllable segments, the system achieves flexible positioning capability without requiring a complex monolithic structure. Each segment can be controlled independently to achieve the desired configuration, providing adaptability while keeping individual component complexity low.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the x-ray source is extended outward from the vertical axis, then the imaging coverage is improved, but the weight and complexity of positioning mechanisms increase
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible segments enable the extended x-ray source to be easily repositioned and oriented without requiring complex positioning mechanisms. The segments can be dynamically adjusted to accommodate the extended configuration while maintaining maneuverability, thereby achieving improved imaging coverage without proportionally increasing mechanism complexity.
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
The solution reduces the weight and parts count of the boom, enabling easier and more precise positioning of the x-ray head in confined spaces, improving operational efficiency and reducing the risk of unintended motion, while maintaining stability during imaging procedures.
Implementation Method 1
each segment formed from a flexible membrane and enclosing a jammable medium that transitions between a fluidic state and a rigid state in response to an applied force
Data Source
AI summary
An x-ray head support boom has a number of tube segments coupled together in series. Each segment may be formed from a flexible membrane and encloses a jammable medium that transitions between a fluidic state and a rigid state in response to an applied force. Each segment is coupled to an actuator for application of the force. At least one cable is coupled to one or more tube segments to apply a tensile force to bend the series of tube segments.