Low-Profile Specimen Positioning Stand for Clear Imaging Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional specimen positioning devices for imaging are bulky, limit viewing angles, and require external equipment for temperature and gas supply, which occlude the imaging path and restrict motion.
Innovation Solution
A low-profile apparatus with multiple degrees of freedom and integrated functionalities for specimen positioning, including heating, monitoring, and gas delivery, with a cable and hose management system that does not obstruct the imaging path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional stand is used to position the specimen, then the specimen can be positioned uniaxially on a flat surface, but the stand is bulky and occludes the imaging path of the imaging device
Solution Approach 1:
The stand is divided into multiple independent components: a base member, an upright member, and an adjustable arm with mounting structure. Each component can move independently, allowing the specimen to be positioned from multiple angles while keeping each individual component compact and low-profile.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning system transitions from uniaxial adjustment to multi-axial adjustment by adding rotational joints and adjustable arms. The specimen can now be positioned not only along the vertical axis but also rotated around multiple axes, enabling imaging from various angles without increasing the overall stand height.
2Reliability
If external equipment is used to supply gas and maintain body temperature, then the specimen conditions can be maintained, but these external devices occlude the imaging path and increase the overall profile of the stand
Solution Approach 1:
The gas delivery system and temperature control system are integrated into the stand structure itself. Gas delivery ports are built into the base member and upright member, and heating elements are incorporated within the stand components, eliminating the need for separate external equipment that would obstruct the imaging path.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand serves multiple functions simultaneously: it positions the specimen, delivers gas through integrated ports, maintains temperature via built-in heating elements, and supports the imaging device. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate devices needed and minimizes obstructions to the imaging path.
3Device complexity
If the stand provides limited range of motion, then the structure can be simplified, but this leads to poor quality images of the specimen
Solution Approach 1:
The stand incorporates multiple adjustable and rotatable components that allow dynamic repositioning of the specimen and imaging device. The adjustable arm can be positioned at various angles, and the mounting structure can be rotated around multiple axes, providing the flexibility needed for high-quality imaging from different perspectives while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides an apparatus, system, and method for positioning and retaining a specimen for imaging. The apparatus provides a low-profile stand that incorporates multiple functionalities without occluding the imaging path of an imaging device. The apparatus includes a stand having six degrees of freedom of movement in three-dimensional space. The apparatus includes a base member and an upright member extending from the base member. The apparatus includes an adjustable arm including a pivotable stand. The apparatus may include integrated circuitry for heating and sensors to detect various features of a specimen, including blood oxygen, heart rate, blood pressure, respiration rate, or combinations thereof. Additionally, the apparatus includes an integrated fluid delivery system for delivering a fluid to a specimen without occluding the imaging path of an imaging device or restricting movement of the stand.