Modular X-Ray Source Module for Portable 3D Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current x-ray imaging systems, including those for 3D imaging like tomosynthesis and computed tomography, are limited by their large size, weight, and high cost due to their fully integrated components, making them non-portable and expensive.
Innovation Solution
A modular x-ray imaging system comprising an application-specific module, a base unit, and a mechanical support, which allows for modular components such as x-ray sources, detectors, and power supplies to be separated, enabling portable and cost-effective operation with interchangeable batteries and flexible imaging configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If x-ray imaging systems use fully integrated components, then system reliability and performance are maintained, but system size and weight increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The x-ray imaging system is divided into separate modular components: a base unit containing the high-voltage power supply and control electronics, and a handheld imaging probe containing the x-ray tube and detector. This segmentation allows the heavy power supply to be separated from the imaging probe, significantly reducing the weight of the moving imaging components while maintaining system reliability through modular connections.
2Reliability
If x-ray imaging systems are fully integrated, then system performance is optimized, but portability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into a stationary base unit and a portable handheld probe. The base unit remains in a fixed location providing power and control, while the handheld probe can be easily moved and repositioned for different imaging locations and patient positions, significantly improving portability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
A wireless communication link serves as an intermediary between the base unit and the handheld probe, transmitting imaging data and control signals without physical cables. This eliminates the constraint of cable length and movement restrictions, enabling true portability while maintaining optimized system performance through reliable data transmission.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional integrated x-ray systems are used, then imaging capability is comprehensive, but cost per system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handheld imaging probe is designed as a universal module that can be used with different base units for various imaging applications including radiography, fluoroscopy, and tomosynthesis. The probe contains reconfigurable x-ray sources and detectors that can be programmed for different imaging modes, providing comprehensive imaging capability across multiple applications while reducing overall system cost through component sharing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses software-configurable parameters to change imaging characteristics without hardware modifications. The x-ray tube voltage, current, and pulse duration can be adjusted through software control from the base unit, allowing the same physical hardware to adapt to different imaging requirements and patient types, reducing the need for multiple specialized systems.
4Reliability
If fixed infrastructure is provided for x-ray systems, then system stability is ensured, but flexibility and adaptability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a fixed, static configuration to a dynamic, reconfigurable architecture. The handheld probe can be dynamically positioned and repositioned by the operator, and the imaging parameters can be dynamically adjusted through software control. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different clinical scenarios and patient needs while the base unit provides stable power and control.
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 modular design reduces system size, weight, and cost, enhancing portability and flexibility, allowing for vertical or horizontal CT operation and reducing infrastructure needs, while improving imaging efficiency and reducing personnel and maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
a first power supply having an output voltage greater than 10 kV; a plurality of x-ray sources configured to generate and emit a beam including an x-ray spectrum
Implementation Method 2
a second power supply having an output voltage less than 10 kV configured to turn on and off each individual x-ray source of the plurality of x-ray sources
Implementation Method 3
one or more collimators configured to restrict the span of an x-ray beam
Implementation Method 4
one or more filters configured to selectively attenuate and/or block low-energy rays during x-ray imaging
Implementation Method 5
one or more x-ray detectors configured to detect x-rays generated by the plurality of x-ray sources
Data Source
AI summary
A modular x-ray imaging system includes an application specific module, a base unit in communication with the application specific module, and a mechanical support configured to support the x-ray application specific module. The base unit and application specific module are configured to communicate by wired and/or wireless communication.