Laser Alignment Structure for Medical Imaging Table Gantry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser alignment procedures for medical imaging systems, such as CT systems, are time-consuming and prone to operator error, leading to misalignment of the table relative to the scan plane, which affects image quality and introduces artifacts.
Innovation Solution
A laser alignment structure with at least two alignment apertures and an adjustable laser position mechanism that aligns the laser beam with the apertures, ensuring precise alignment of the table with the gantry scan plane, utilizing an adjustment device for accurate positioning in multiple degrees of freedom.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional stationary laser alignment procedures are used, then the alignment process is simple in structure, but the alignment precision deteriorates due to operator error and target inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary alignment structure with alignment apertures and alignment marks that mediates between the laser and the table. This intermediary structure provides reference points (apertures and marks) that enable precise alignment without requiring operator judgment, thereby improving measurement precision while adding controlled complexity to the alignment system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical alignment procedure (operator centering laser using target) with an optical alignment system using laser beam passing through alignment apertures and onto alignment marks. This substitution eliminates operator error and improves alignment precision, though it introduces a more complex optical alignment structure
2Productivity
If traditional alignment procedures are used, then the alignment process is quick to set up, but the alignment time increases due to corrections needed for misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-positioning alignment apertures in the laser alignment structure and alignment marks on the table before the alignment process begins. This pre-arranged reference system allows for direct alignment without iterative corrections, improving alignment efficiency and reducing total alignment time despite the initial setup complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback by using the alignment marks as visual indicators that provide immediate feedback on laser beam alignment status. The operator can see whether the laser beam is correctly aligned by observing its position relative to the alignment marks, enabling quick verification and minimal corrections, thus improving productivity while reducing time loss
3Reliability
If operator-dependent alignment procedures are used, then the equipment is simple to operate, but the reliability of alignment deteriorates due to operator error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by designing an alignment system where the alignment apertures and alignment marks automatically provide alignment references without requiring operator skill or judgment. The system serves itself by providing built-in reference points that guide the alignment process, improving reliability while maintaining ease of operation through intuitive visual feedback
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the alignment system into distinct components: the laser alignment structure with alignment apertures, the table with alignment marks, and the laser beam as the connecting element. This segmentation creates modular reference points that improve alignment reliability through precise, discrete alignment targets while keeping the operation simple through clear visual indicators
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
This solution enables highly accurate initial table positioning, reducing the need for post-alignment corrections and minimizing installation time, thereby improving image quality and streamlining the alignment process.
Implementation Method 1
a laser provided in a laser housing and arranged on the laser alignment structure... emits a laser beam
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus are provided for aligning a cradle supported by a table in an imaging system with a gantry scan plane in a bore of the gantry. More particularly, various embodiments provide a laser alignment structure having at least two alignment apertures arranged along an axis of the bore, and an adjustment device configured to adjust a position of the laser so that the laser beam is aligned with the alignment apertures. Highly accurate alignment of the cradle to the gantry scan plane is achieved by utilizing this apparatus in tandem with an imaging-based alignment analysis method.