Radiography System Force Sensor Drive Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional radiography systems require significant manual force and torque to move the x-ray tube, leading to user fatigue due to the weight of the tube and friction resistance, especially in manual movement modes.

Innovation Solution

A radiography system equipped with force and torque sensors to measure external forces and torques applied to the radiographic device, coupled with a drive device that moves the device based on the measured values, allowing for automated or power-assisted movement in various directions, reducing the physical effort required from the user.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual movement mode is used to move the x-ray tube, then the user has direct control over positioning, but the user must apply great force and torque leading to physical fatigue

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanual controlVSAvoidforce and torque required
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the purely manual mechanical movement system with an automated drive system that uses a motor to move the x-ray tube. The drive device receives movement commands and automatically positions the x-ray tube, eliminating the need for the user to manually overcome friction and weight, thus resolving the contradiction between manual control and excessive force requirement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a drive device as an intermediary between the user's movement command and the x-ray tube. This drive device acts as a mediator that translates small user inputs (via operating switches) into the actual movement force needed to overcome friction and position the heavy x-ray tube, resolving the force requirement issue while maintaining operational control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If automated movement mode is used with actuator, then movement is easier, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic movementVSAvoidsystem structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the drive device to perform multiple functions: it can move the x-ray tube automatically based on programmed commands, respond to manual operating switches for semi-automatic positioning, and potentially integrate with the existing guide rail system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate systems and minimizes overall complexity while providing automated movement capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Stability of the object's composition

If the x-ray tube is made heavier to improve structural stability, then positioning accuracy may improve, but the force required to move it increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning stabilityVSAvoidforce to move
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical pushing/pulling system with an automated motor-driven system. This allows the x-ray tube to maintain its weight for stability while the motor provides the necessary force to move it, eliminating the direct relationship between tube weight and user effort. The drive device independently handles the force requirement regardless of the tube's mass.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS10206641B2Radiography system and moving method thereof
Publication Date: 2019.02.19 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US10206641B2 patent drawing
  • US10206641B2 patent drawing
  • US10206641B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A radiography system is provided. The radiography system includes a radiographic device arranged in a movable manner, a measuring device to measure at least one of external force and torque applied to the radiographic device, and a drive device to move the radiographic device based on a direction and magnitude of the at least one of the force and torque measured by the measuring device.