Mobile Imaging Drive System with Integrated Gantry Translation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional medical imaging devices are immobile and difficult to make mobile due to their size, weight, and complexity, which hinders their mobility within a hospital environment without compromising image quality.
Innovation Solution
A mobile imaging system with a compact drive mechanism that includes a drive wheel and a translation mechanism, allowing the gantry and imaging components to be supported and moved relative to a base, enabling the system to be transported while maintaining image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the imaging device is made mobile with additional drive components, then mobility is improved, but the size and weight of the device increase
Solution Approach 1:
The drive mechanism is merged with the existing imaging system structure. The main drive is integrated into the base, and the translation mechanism is combined with the gantry support structure, eliminating the need for separate mobile platforms and reducing overall system weight while maintaining mobility
Solution Approach 2:
The base structure serves multiple functions: it supports the imaging components, provides the drive mechanism for mobility, and houses the translation mechanism. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional dedicated mobile components, reducing weight while improving mobility
2Volume of moving object
If the drive mechanism is made compact to reduce size, then mobility is improved, but the complexity of the mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The translation mechanism is nested within the base structure, with the main drive positioned to engage the drive wheel. The gantry and drive wheel are positioned to translate relative to the base during scanning. This nesting arrangement compactly integrates multiple functions into a confined space without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions between static and dynamic configurations. During transport, the drive wheel rotates to move the entire system. During imaging, the drive wheel remains stationary while the translation mechanism moves the gantry relative to the base. This dynamic operation allows a compact design to perform multiple functions without requiring overly complex mechanisms
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
The system enhances mobility and usability by allowing the imaging device to be easily transported and positioned without increasing size or weight, minimizing interference with operators and patients, and reducing the risk of injury during transport.
Implementation Method 1
a main drive geared into the drive wheel for transporting the base and gantry
Implementation Method 2
a translation mechanism that translates the gantry and drive wheel relative to the base during an imaging scan
Data Source
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AI summary
A mobile imaging system is described. The system comprises a base; a gantry having one or more imaging components; a drive wheel that supports the gantry; and a drive mechanism that includes a main drive coupled to the drive wheel for transporting the base and gantry and a translation mechanism that translates the gantry and drive wheel relative to the base during an imaging scan.