Mammography Compression Bands for Asymmetrical Breast Support
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mammography systems require increased stress for both patients and operators to achieve central breast support, which can be uncomfortable and inefficient, and lack flexibility in compression methods.
Innovation Solution
A subject table with adjustable compression bands and sensor- monitored tensioning systems allows for asymmetrical compression and customizable support, using connecting bars to distribute force evenly and adapt to individual patient needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a compression plate is used to compress the breast, then the breast can be compressed onto the support surface, but increased stress is required for both patient and operator to achieve central support
Solution Approach 1:
The compression plate is divided into multiple compression bands that can be independently tensioned. Each band applies force locally to different regions of the breast, allowing distributed compression that reduces the stress required from the operator while maintaining effective compression on the patient.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression bands are made adjustable and flexible, allowing dynamic adaptation to different breast sizes, shapes, and positions. The tensioning arrangement enables each band to be independently adjusted to provide optimal compression force distribution, reducing the overall force required compared to a rigid compression plate.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a compression plate is used, then compression can be applied, but the system lacks flexibility in compression methods and requires mechanical pressing units
Solution Approach 1:
The compression bands are implemented as flexible elements that can conform to various breast shapes and positions. These thin, flexible bands replace rigid mechanical pressing units, providing adaptability through their ability to be tensioned and positioned differently while simplifying the overall mechanical structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The same compression band system can be used for different compression scenarios (symmetrical or asymmetrical, central or off-center positioning) without requiring different mechanical pressing units. The flexible bands serve multiple functions by adjusting tension and position, eliminating the need for specialized mechanical devices for each compression type.
3Manufacturing precision
If central support of the breast is achieved with a compression plate, then proper positioning is possible, but alignment adjustments are required and patient comfort is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Different compression bands can be independently tensioned to provide localized support and positioning forces. This allows precise positioning of the breast in different regions without requiring uniform force application, enabling accurate positioning with minimal alignment effort from the operator.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible compression bands can self-adjust to the breast's position and shape when tensioned, providing automatic alignment assistance. The bands conform to the breast contours and distribute force to achieve proper positioning without requiring precise manual alignment adjustments, reducing the effort needed for accurate positioning.
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 enhances patient comfort by enabling breast compression at any point on the table, allows for asymmetrical compression without modifying the unit, and eliminates the need for mechanical pressing units, providing a flexible and efficient compression mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a tensioning arrangement which tensions the compression band is arranged in the first and second fixing unit
Implementation Method 2
The compression of the breast can ensue with convex symmetry by means of connecting bars arranged at the subject table
Implementation Method 3
The adjustable tension force of the compression bands is monitored with sensor units
Data Source
AI summary
A compression unit of a mammography apparatus includes an arrangement to tension at least one compression band in a first fixing unit and second fixing unit arranged on both sides of a subject table.