Magnetic Latching Mechanism for X-ray C-arm Adjustment Axis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mechanical adjustment systems in medical X-ray C-arm systems suffer from mechanical wear, requiring frequent readjustment or replacement of mechanical catches for precise fixation, leading to increased maintenance and operational challenges.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a latching function using at least two magnetic bodies and components of the adjustment axis, which are movable relative to each other, providing a wear-free and reliable fixation mechanism that can be operated manually or by motor, with optional acoustic feedback upon latching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical catch (e.g., spring-prestressed ball) is used to hold the adjustment axis, then the latching function is achieved, but mechanical wear occurs leading to reduced reliability and increased maintenance needs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical catch system (spring-prestressed ball pressed into catch plate) with a magnetic field-based latching system. Magnetic bodies are integrated into the adjustment axis components, creating magnetic attraction forces that hold the axis in position without mechanical contact, thereby eliminating mechanical wear while maintaining reliable latching functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between adjustment axis components. Instead of direct mechanical contact between the ball and catch plate, magnetic bodies mediate the latching force through magnetic attraction, allowing the components to remain separated while still achieving secure positioning
2Ease of operation
If mechanical catches are used for fixation, then the adjustment axis can be held in position, but frequent readjustment or replacement is needed due to wear
Solution Approach 1:
By substituting mechanical contacts with magnetic fields, the system eliminates the wear that necessitates maintenance. The magnetic bodies continuously provide latching force without degradation, allowing the adjustment axis to remain securely fixed without periodic intervention for readjustment or replacement
3Reliability
If mechanical contact is used for latching, then fixation is achieved, but mechanical wear and potential slip occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates mechanical contact between latching components by using magnetic bodies that exert attraction forces across a small gap. This substitution removes the sources of mechanical wear and slip, providing consistent and reliable positionally accurate fixation without the harmful effects of mechanical degradation
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 eliminates mechanical wear, enhances operational reliability, and reduces maintenance needs by providing a secure, noise-free, and haptically improved adjustment mechanism suitable for both mobile and fixed X-ray C-arm systems.
Implementation Method 1
The device for implementing a latching function comprises at least two magnetic bodies and at least two components of an adjustment axis, which are movable relative to one another
Data Source
AI summary
A device for implementing a latching function of an adjustment axis of an X-ray C-arm comprises at least two magnetic bodies and two components of the adjustment axis that are movable relative to one another. A first component of the two relatively movable components of the adjustment axis is operatively connected to a magnetic body of the at least two magnetic bodies. A second component of the components of the adjustment axis movable relative to one another is a component of the X-ray C-arm system and the second magnetic of the at least two magnetic bodies is operatively connected to this component.