Compact Radiological Imaging Device with Automated Optical Centering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radiological imaging devices are bulky, difficult to transport, require slow and inaccurate manual aiming, are expensive, and necessitate multiple machines for different types of acquisitions, making them costly and complex to manufacture and use.
Innovation Solution
A compact radiological imaging device with a C-shaped or O-shaped gantry that includes a control unit for automatic operation, a pointing apparatus for precise centering, and a connector for additional sources, allowing for various types of acquisitions and easy movement, reducing complexity and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual aiming is used with a camera close to the source, then the device structure is simple, but the aiming is slow and inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical aiming with an automated optical system. A camera is positioned at a specific location to capture images of the patient, and a processing system automatically determines the centering position based on image analysis, eliminating the need for manual visual alignment while improving precision and speed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical copying by capturing an image of the patient with a camera and processing this optical copy to determine the centering position. This allows automated measurement without direct mechanical intervention, achieving both high precision and operational efficiency
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate machines are used for different types of radiological acquisitions, then each machine is specialized, but the overall system becomes expensive and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a single radiological imaging device that can perform multiple types of acquisitions (such as tomography and radiology) using the same basic structure and components. The device achieves versatility through software control and adjustable parameters rather than requiring separate specialized machines for each acquisition type
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple acquisition capabilities into one integrated device. By merging the functions of what would traditionally require separate machines into a single platform with unified control, the system reduces overall complexity while maintaining the ability to perform various radiological examinations
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional radiological imaging devices are used, then comprehensive imaging capabilities are achieved, but the devices are bulky and difficult to transport
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the radiological imaging system into separable components, including a movable gantry that can be positioned independently. This segmentation allows the imaging capabilities to be distributed across modular units that can be transported and assembled more easily than a single bulky integrated device
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
The device achieves rapid and precise centering, supports multiple acquisition types, and is more portable and cost-effective, with a simpler structure that is easier to manufacture and use, enhancing operational efficiency and accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
The gantry provides an X-ray source; a detector that receives x-rays after they have passed through the bed and the patient
Data Source
AI summary
A radiological imaging device comprises a source defining an acquisition axis, a detector, a power supply, a control unit to control at least the source and the detector, and a connector for an additional source to the power supply and the control u