O-Arm Extremity Imaging Apparatus with Adjustable Positioning Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional medical x-ray imaging apparatuses are large, expensive, and not suited for emergency clinics or specific anatomy imaging, particularly for extremities, as they require general imaging setups and are not cost-effective for smaller volumes.
Innovation Solution
A compact, cost-effective cone-beam computed tomography apparatus with a ring-shaped O-arm and adjustable positioning support, allowing for motorized adjustments to facilitate imaging of extremities in both horizontal and standing positions, and an extended examination opening for larger anatomies like plastered legs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional computed tomography apparatuses are used for imaging, then imaging capability is achieved, but the apparatus becomes massive and extremely expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the conventional CT apparatus into functional segments: a compact O-arm structure for extremity imaging, separate from the full-body CT scanner. This allows the imaging capability to be maintained while reducing the overall apparatus size and cost for specific imaging applications like extremities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by designing a specialized O-arm apparatus tailored for extremity imaging rather than a general-purpose full-body CT scanner. The examination opening is specifically configured for limb imaging, with adjusted dimensions and positioning supports optimized for this local anatomical region.
2Reliability
If conventional computed tomography apparatuses are used, then imaging capability is achieved, but the cost becomes extremely high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential imaging function from the expensive full-body CT apparatus and concentrates it into a smaller, more affordable O-arm system. By removing unnecessary components for full-body imaging and retaining only the essential cone-beam CT functionality for extremities, the cost is significantly reduced while maintaining imaging capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a more economical design approach using a compact O-arm structure with adjustable positioning supports, replacing the expensive conventional CT scanner. This cost-effective solution is specifically designed for extremity imaging applications where full-body CT capability is not required.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional CT apparatuses are designed for general imaging, then versatility is achieved, but they are not suited for specific anatomy like extremities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by designing a specialized O-arm apparatus tailored for extremity imaging rather than a general-purpose full-body CT scanner. The examination opening is specifically configured for limb imaging, with adjusted dimensions and positioning supports optimized for this local anatomical region.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates dynamic positioning supports that can be adjusted within the examination opening to accommodate different extremity positions and sizes. The O-arm itself can be positioned and oriented flexibly to image various anatomical regions of the extremities, providing adaptability for specific imaging needs.
4Ease of operation
If a ring-shaped examination opening is used, then patient positioning is facilitated, but it cannot accommodate large or plastered legs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates dynamic positioning supports that can be adjusted within the examination opening to accommodate different extremity positions and sizes. The O-arm itself can be positioned and oriented flexibly to image various anatomical regions of the extremities, providing adaptability for specific imaging needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the symmetric ring-shaped examination opening by introducing asymmetric positioning supports that extend into the opening. These supports are positioned to accommodate large or plastered legs, creating an asymmetric configuration that provides additional space and support for larger anatomical structures while maintaining the overall ring-shaped design.
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
Enables efficient, cost-effective three-dimensional imaging of extremities with reduced apparatus size and cost, improving accessibility for emergency clinics by allowing flexible patient positioning and imaging capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a source of radiation which is used together with a film cassette
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a medical x-ray imaging apparatus which is specifically designed for enabling three-dimensional imaging of relatively small volumes from the area of extremities of a patient. The apparatus includes a support construction (1) supporting a substantially ring-shaped structure (2), an O-arm (2), which in turn supports imaging means (21, 22) and which O-arm (2) is arranged with an examination opening (4). The imaging means (21, 22) are arranged movable within the O-arm (2). A positioning support (8) is arranged in connection with said examination opening (4) whose location with respect to the O-arm (2) is arranged adjustable. Preferably the apparatus comprises a control system comprising a control function for moving the positioning support (8) in a first direction at a first speed within the area of the examination opening (4) and for simultaneously moving the O-arm (2) with respect to its support construction (1) substantially at said first speed in substantially opposite direction than said first direction.