Liddiard Wheel Drive for Mobile CT Scan Drift
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile CT imaging systems face challenges in maneuverability and accuracy due to the use of free-rolling casters for gross movement and centipede belt drives for fine movement, which can result in lateral drift and inaccuracies, especially on irregular floors, and may unintentionally engage with patient beds during full-body scans.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an omnidirectional powered drive unit, such as mecanum wheels or steerable motorized castors, which provide both gross and fine movement mechanisms, allowing for precise and stable scanning by eliminating lateral drift and accommodating floor irregularities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If free-rolling casters are used for gross movement, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to lateral drift
Solution Approach 1:
The movement system is divided into two independent segments: free-rolling casters for gross movement and powered wheels for fine movement. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its optimal function, with casters providing ease of maneuvering and powered wheels ensuring scanning precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different movement mechanisms based on operational requirements. The free-rolling casters enable easy repositioning of the entire system, while the powered wheels provide precise, controlled movement during scanning operations.
2Manufacturing precision
If centipede belt drives are used for fine movement, then manufacturing precision is improved, but reliability deteriorates on irregular floors
Solution Approach 1:
The centipede belt drive mechanism is replaced with powered wheels that have direct ground contact. This substitution eliminates the mechanical complexity of belt drives and centipede mechanisms, providing more reliable and stable movement on irregular hospital floors while maintaining precise positioning control.
3Ease of operation
If free-rolling casters are used, then ease of operation is improved, but object-affected harmful factors worsen due to unintended engagement with patient beds
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses powered wheels that provide controlled, predictable movement during scanning, eliminating the unintended lateral drift and engagement issues associated with free-rolling casters. The powered wheels maintain stable contact with the floor, preventing accidental contact with patient beds.
Data Source
AI summary
A new and improved anatomical imaging system which includes a new and improved movement system, wherein the movement system comprises an omnidirectional powered drive unit and wherein the movement system can substantially eliminate lateral walk (or drift) over the complete stroke of a scan, even when the floor includes substantial irregularities, whereby to improve the accuracy of the scan results and avoid unintentional engagement of the anatomical imaging system with the bed or gurney which is supporting the patient. The present invention also comprises the provision and use of Liddiard wheels.