Radially Movable Detector Arm for SPECT Imaging Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional SPECT imaging systems lack flexibility and customization, being limited by fixed configurations and materials, which restrict their ability to adapt to specific patient needs and operational changes, hindering efficient imaging operations.
Innovation Solution
A medical imaging system with a gantry and multiple detector arm assemblies, where detector heads are radially movable and configurable, allowing for adjustable positioning and collimation, enabling customizable imaging based on patient needs and operator constraints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional SPECT imaging systems use fixed gamma camera configurations, then system stability is maintained, but adaptability to different imaging requirements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is divided into modular detector heads that can be independently selected and positioned. Each detector head is a separate unit with specific collimation characteristics, allowing the system to be reconfigured by changing individual detector heads rather than the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static fixed configurations to dynamic reconfigurable arrangements. Detector heads can be moved to different positions and orientations on the gantry, and the system can adapt its configuration based on the specific imaging task, patient size, and diagnostic requirements.
2Measurement precision
If specific collimation is provided for particular scan types, then imaging precision for that specific application is improved, but versatility for other scan types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a universal gantry structure that can accommodate multiple types of detector heads with different collimation characteristics. A single system can perform whole body bone exams, cardiac exams, and other scan types by simply changing the detector head configuration, eliminating the need for separate dedicated systems for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
Different detector heads with specific collimation characteristics are provided for different regional imaging needs. Each detector head is optimized for particular scan types (e.g., cardiac, bone, thyroid), allowing the system to provide high precision for each specific application when the appropriate detector head is used.
3Ease of operation
If detector heads are fixed in position, then device simplicity is maintained, but ease of operation for different imaging scenarios deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system includes pre-configured detector head positions and orientations that are optimized for common imaging scenarios. The detector heads can be pre-positioned on the gantry at standard locations, and the system can automatically or semi-automatically adjust positions based on the selected imaging protocol, reducing the operational burden on the user.
Data Source
AI summary
A detector arm assembly is provided that includes a stator, a detector head, a radial motion motor, and a detector head belt. The stator is configured to be fixedly coupled to a gantry having a bore. The detector head includes a carrier section that is slidably coupled to the stator and configured to be movable in a radial direction in the bore relative to the stator. The radial motion motor is operably coupled to at least one of the detector head or the stator. The detector head belt is operably coupled to the radial motion motor and the carrier section. Rotation of the radial motion motor causes movement of the detector head in the radial direction.