Mobile Fluoroscopic Imaging System Alignment Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile radiography/fluoroscopic imaging systems are cumbersome, expensive, and lack effective alignment and radiation control, leading to potential misalignment and unnecessary radiation exposure, especially in fragile or immobile subjects.
Innovation Solution
A mobile system with a portable radiation source and detector that can move independently in all degrees of freedom, equipped with alignment sensors and a computer that ensures precise alignment within predetermined tolerances, preventing radiation emission until proper alignment is achieved.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If mobile radiography systems use fixed mechanical C-Arm or permanent mounting, then alignment precision is improved, but device mobility and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic alignment correction by enabling the detector and radiation source to move independently in all degrees of freedom. Motion tracking devices continuously monitor positions and the system automatically adjusts for misalignment, transforming a static alignment problem into a dynamic correction system that maintains precision while enabling mobility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical alignment constraints (fixed C-Arm structures) with electronic and computational systems. Motion tracking devices, sensors, and computer-controlled adjustments substitute for rigid mechanical mounting, allowing the system to achieve and maintain alignment precision through software and electronics rather than mechanical rigidity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mobile systems allow independent movement of detector and radiation source, then adaptability is improved, but alignment precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous feedback loops where motion tracking devices monitor the positions of the detector and radiation source, sensors detect alignment status, and the computer system automatically adjusts positions to correct misalignment. This closed-loop feedback mechanism maintains alignment precision despite independent movement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary alignment corrections by continuously tracking motion and preemptively adjusting positions before significant misalignment occurs. The motion tracking and sensor systems monitor positions in real-time and trigger corrective movements to maintain alignment within tolerance limits.
3Ease of operation
If alignment tolerance is relaxed in mobile systems, then ease of operation is improved, but radiation safety deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service alignment through automatic correction systems. The motion tracking devices, sensors, and computer-controlled adjustments work autonomously to maintain proper alignment without requiring operator intervention or expertise, making the system easy to operate while ensuring alignment precision for radiation safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual alignment procedures with electronic and computational systems. Sensors and motion tracking devices automatically detect and correct alignment issues, substituting operator skill and manual adjustment with automated electronic control, thereby simplifying operation while maintaining safety standards.
4Manufacturing precision
If retakes are performed due to misalignment, then image quality is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary alignment corrections by continuously tracking motion and automatically adjusting positions before image acquisition. This preemptive alignment ensures proper positioning for the intended exposure, eliminating the need for retakes and associated time losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The continuous feedback from motion tracking devices and sensors ensures alignment is maintained throughout the procedure. The system detects and corrects any drift or misalignment in real-time, guaranteeing image quality without requiring corrective retakes.
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
Facilitates safe and accurate radiographic and fluoroscopic imaging by ensuring precise alignment and controlling radiation emission, reducing the need for retakes and minimizing patient exposure to unnecessary radiation.
Implementation Method 1
The surface of the detector converts the radiation to light photons, which are sensed.
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile fluoroscopic imaging system having a portable radiation source capable of emitting radiation in both single and, alternatively, pulse emissions and adapted to move in all degrees of freedom; a portable detector operable to detect radiation from the radiation source, wherein the detector is adapted to move independently of the radiation source in all degrees of freedom; the radiation source and detector each comprises an alignment sensor in communication with a computer; the computer is in communication with the radiation source and the detector; the position, distance and orientation of the radiation source and the detector are established by the computer; and the computer sends an activation signal to the radiation source to indicate when radiation may be emitted. Preferably, the radiation source is prevented from emission of radiation until the detector and the radiation source have achieved predetermined alignment conditions.