Medical X-ray Imaging Apparatus with Movable Detector

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Solution Overview

Problem

Combining panoramic and CT X-ray imaging apparatuses is challenging due to the suboptimal ratio of enlargement caused by the standard distance of the radiation receiving means from the X-ray source, which is a compromise between the different distances required for each imaging method.

Innovation Solution

The apparatus incorporates a movable camera system that allows for adjustable positioning of the detector, enabling optimal distance settings for both panoramic and CT imaging by using a combination of fixed and movable cameras to adjust the SID/SOD ratio dynamically.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the radiation receiving means is positioned at a standard distance from the X-ray source (compromise distance), then both panoramic and CT imaging can be performed with the same apparatus, but the ratio of enlargement is not optimal for either imaging method

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedual-purpose imaging capabilityVSAvoidenlargement ratio optimization
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The radiation receiving means is made movable along the support means between two distinct positions: a first position for panoramic imaging and a second position for CT imaging. This dynamic positioning allows the system to optimize the SID/SOD ratio for each specific imaging modality, resolving the contradiction between versatility and optimization by adapting the geometry dynamically rather than using a fixed compromise position

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the geometric parameters (SID and SOD) by repositioning the radiation receiving means to different locations on the support means. For panoramic imaging, one specific SID/SOD ratio is achieved, while for CT imaging, a different ratio is achieved. This parameter adjustment resolves the contradiction by allowing optimal enlargement ratios for each imaging type while maintaining dual-purpose capability through the same apparatus

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If the radiation receiving means is positioned for optimal panoramic imaging, then panoramic image quality is improved, but the enlargement ratio becomes suboptimal for CT imaging

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepanoramic image qualityVSAvoidCT imaging capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The radiation receiving means is configured to move between a first position optimized for panoramic imaging and a second position optimized for CT imaging. This dynamic repositioning resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to achieve optimal panoramic image quality when needed while maintaining the capability to perform CT imaging with appropriate geometric settings, thus preserving versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Manufacturing precision

If the radiation receiving means is positioned for optimal CT imaging, then CT image quality is improved, but the enlargement ratio becomes suboptimal for panoramic imaging

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveCT image qualityVSAvoidpanoramic imaging capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The radiation receiving means is configured to move between a second position optimized for CT imaging and a first position optimized for panoramic imaging. This dynamic repositioning resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to achieve optimal CT image quality when needed while maintaining the capability to perform panoramic imaging with appropriate geometric settings, thus preserving versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

This solution allows for improved image quality by optimizing the enlargement ratio for each imaging modality, enhancing the capability of the dual-purpose X-ray imaging apparatus to perform both panoramic and CT imaging effectively.

Implementation Method 1

an X-ray source for producing X-rays, radiation receiving means for detecting radiation transmitted through an object

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray transmission and detection: X-Ray

Data Source

PatentUS7783002B2Medical x-ray imaging apparatus
Publication Date: 2010.08.24 PALODEX GROUP
  • US7783002B2 patent drawing
  • US7783002B2 patent drawing
  • US7783002B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a medical X-ray imaging apparatus having a frame part, an X-ray source for producing X-rays, a radiation receiver for detecting radiation transmitted through an object, and a support for supporting the X-ray source and the receiver in positions on opposite sides of the object. The support is connected to the frame part so as to rotate around the axis of rotation provided with actuator means for rotating the support around the said axis of rotation. The apparatus makes possible both panoramic imaging and CT imaging, as selected by the operator. The X-ray apparatus is configured to adjust the ratio of enlargement so as to be optimal for each method of imaging used respectively.