Modular X-Ray Detector Adapters for OEM Compatibility

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing x-ray detectors require redesigning to accommodate different OEM systems, leading to compatibility issues, increased wear and tear, and high costs due to the need for replacing other system components.

Innovation Solution

An adapter system integrating an x-ray detector with a modular design, featuring multiple connector interfaces and control logic to facilitate compatibility with various OEM systems, enabling hot swapping and improved ingress protection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If x-ray detectors are redesigned to accommodate different OEM systems, then compatibility with various systems is improved, but manufacturing costs and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovecompatibilityVSAvoidredesign complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system is divided into a permanent x-ray detector component and a removable adapter component. The adapter is segmented to include specific connector interfaces that match different OEM systems, while the detector itself remains unchanged. This segmentation allows the adapter to be customized for different systems without modifying the detector.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

An adapter serves as an intermediary component between the x-ray detector and different OEM systems. The adapter includes connector interfaces that mate with both the detector and the various OEM system connectors, enabling compatibility without requiring redesign of the detector for each system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If x-ray detectors are redesigned for different systems, then system compatibility is improved, but the lifespan of the detector is reduced due to increased wear and tear

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem compatibilityVSAvoiddetector lifespan

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The wear-prone connector interfaces are segregated into the removable adapter component, while the detector maintains a simple, permanent connector. This segmentation protects the detector from wear and tear associated with frequent connection and disconnection operations, extending its lifespan.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter is designed as a consumable component that can be replaced when worn, while the expensive detector is preserved. The adapter absorbs the wear and tear from repeated connections, and when it becomes worn, it is discarded and replaced rather than the detector being modified or replaced.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #34Discarding and recovering

3Adaptability or versatility

If connector interfaces are made custom for each OEM system, then system compatibility is improved, but the cost of replacing components increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveOEM system compatibilityVSAvoidcomponent replacement cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter is designed as a universal component that can be used with a single detector type across multiple OEM systems. Different adapters with different connector interfaces can be used with the same detector, allowing the detector to work universally with various systems without requiring custom detectors for each OEM.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter is designed as a lower-cost, replaceable component compared to the detector. When an adapter becomes worn or incompatible, it can be replaced with a new adapter rather than replacing the entire detector assembly, reducing overall system costs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

4Ease of operation

If frequent connection and disconnection operations are performed, then system flexibility is improved, but wear and tear on connectors increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehot swapping capabilityVSAvoidconnector reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter is designed as a sacrificial component that absorbs wear from frequent hot-swapping operations. The removable nature of the adapter allows it to be replaced when wear compromises reliability, while the detector's connector remains protected and maintains high reliability over the long term.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #34Discarding and recovering

Data Source

PatentEP4119058B1X-ray systems including an adapter

Publication Date: 2025.09.03 VAREX IMAGING CORP

Figure 1~2B
Figure 2C~2E
Figure 3A~3B

AI summary

Some embodiments include an x-ray system 100a, comprising: an x-ray detector 102' comprising: a housing 110; a sensor array 112 configured to generate an image in response to incident x-ray radiation and disposed in the housing; a control circuit 114 coupled to the sensor array, configured to control the sensor array, and disposed in the housing; and a first connector interface 108-1 disposed on an exterior of the housing and electrically connected to the control circuit; an adapter 104 comprising: a second connector interface 108-2 configured to physically and electrically mate with the first connector interface; a third connector interface 108-3 having at least one of a physical configuration and an electrical configuration different from the first connector interface; and a plurality of electrical connections 118 between the second connector interface and the third connector interface.