Proximity Signal Filtering for C-Arm Collision Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current anti-collision systems in medical imaging equipment, such as C-arm X-ray imagers, often produce unsatisfactory results with high rates of 'false positive' and 'false negative' collisions due to inadequate detection of object proximity, leading to inefficient use and potential harm.
Innovation Solution
An object approach detection apparatus that filters proximity sensor signals to distinguish valid proximity events from low-frequency variations caused by relative motion, allowing for differentiation between non-contact proximity and physical touch, and dynamically adjusts base values to improve detection accuracy and reduce false alarms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If proximity sensors are used to detect object proximity in anti-collision systems, then collision avoidance capability is improved, but false positive and false negative detection rates increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the base value dynamic rather than fixed. The base value is continuously updated based on recent sensor readings, allowing the system to adapt to changing environmental conditions and reduce false detections. This dynamic adjustment enables the system to distinguish between actual proximity events and spurious signals caused by motion or environmental variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of base value from a static predetermined value to a dynamically updated value derived from sensor data. By modifying how the reference level is determined (using moving averages or other statistical methods on recent readings), the system improves its ability to accurately detect true proximity events while filtering out false positives and negatives.
2Productivity
If the C-arm rotates quickly to acquire images from multiple viewing directions, then productivity is improved, but collision risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by detecting object proximity events before actual collision occurs. The system continuously monitors for changes in the base value that indicate approaching objects, allowing the C-arm control system to take preventive action (slow down or stop rotation) before a collision happens, thus enabling faster overall operation while maintaining safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback by continuously monitoring proximity sensor readings and using this information to control C-arm motion. The system feeds back proximity detection results to the motion control system, creating a closed-loop safety mechanism that allows rapid rotation when safe and prevents collision when objects are detected, thereby maintaining both productivity and safety.
3Reliability
If proximity sensors continuously monitor the environment for safety, then collision prevention is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the proximity detection system to serve multiple functions: detecting objects for collision avoidance, determining base values for sensor calibration, and providing feedback for motion control. This multi-functional approach allows a single sensor system to achieve comprehensive safety monitoring without requiring separate specialized systems for each function, thereby reducing overall complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An object approach detection apparatus (ACU) and related method. The apparatus (ACU) comprises an input interface (IN) for receiving a response signal from a proximity sensor (PSj) measured relative to a first base-value of said at least one sensor. A filter module (FM) is configured to filter said response signal to produce a filtered response signal. A proximity event declarator (PED) is configured to declare a proximity event has occurred if the filtered response signal fulfils a first condition, in particular crosses a first threshold. A base value adaptor (BVA) configured to choose a new base value in response of the declaring that the proximity event has occurred.