Mobile X-ray Drive System with Rotatable Column
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile x-ray systems are challenging to position accurately and efficiently due to their heavy and non-manageable nature, especially in small patient rooms with limited space, requiring cumbersome adjustments from the rear drive handle.
Innovation Solution
A motorized drive assembly with rotatable wheels and a pivotable column, controlled by a system that calculates and applies different velocities to the drive wheels based on the angle of rotation of the column and collimator, allowing precise positioning of the x-ray source from a user-friendly interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operator uses the rear drive handle to position the mobile imaging system, then the system can be moved to the patient location, but the system is heavy and not easily maneuverable within small distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical pushing with an automated motorized drive system. The motorized drive assembly includes motors coupled to the drive wheels that automatically position the mobile imaging system based on column rotation angle, eliminating the need for the operator to physically push the heavy system.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile imaging system positions itself automatically through the motorized drive assembly. The system uses sensors to detect column rotation angle and automatically calculates and executes the positioning maneuver, making the system self-positioning rather than requiring external manual operation.
2Measurement precision
If the operator returns to the back side of the cart to adjust the position, then the x-ray source can be realigned, but the adjustment process is very time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual adjustment operations with automated motorized positioning. The motorized drive assembly receives input about the desired column rotation angle and automatically maneuvers the system into the correct position, eliminating the time-consuming back-and-forth manual adjustment process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary positioning actions automatically. The motorized drive assembly pre-calculates the required maneuver based on the desired column angle and executes the positioning before the imaging procedure begins, preventing the need for subsequent time-consuming adjustments.
3Measurement precision
If the mobile unit is not in the correct position initially, then the operator must return to reposition it, but repositioning is challenging due to the heavy weight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual repositioning operations with automated motorized control. The motorized drive assembly can easily adjust the system position by any required angle based on column rotation input, making repositioning as easy as initial positioning and eliminating the difficulty caused by the system's weight.
4Measurement precision
If the operator positions the x-ray tube from the tube-side, then alignment can be achieved, but the operator must be on the other side of the patient's bed from the movable unit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual positioning operations with automated motorized control that responds to column rotation angle input. This allows the operator to position the system accurately from any location, including the tube-side, without needing to physically access the rear drive handle, improving operator accessibility while maintaining alignment precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile imaging system comprises a motorized drive assembly having first and second drive wheels that are coupled to the motorized drive assembly. A column is coupled to and extends upwardly from the motorized drive assembly and is rotatable around a pivot point. An arm is coupled to the column and includes a radiation source mounted on an outer end thereof. A longitudinal axis extends parallel to the length of the mobile imaging system and is centered between the first and second drive wheels. A controller is configured to determine first and second velocities to drive the first and second drive wheels based on an angle of rotation of the column with respect to the longitudinal axis.