Radiology Workstation Manipulator for Automated Detector Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radiography systems lack the ability to automatically position and prepare non-motorized components such as detectors, grids, and filters, requiring manual intervention and increasing the risk of errors and costs.
Innovation Solution
A manipulator device with a sensor unit and automatic manipulator unit that can locate and position non-motorized components using machine learning algorithms, such as artificial neural networks, to automate the setup of a radiology workstation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual positioning of non-motorized components is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases and reliability worsens due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses sensor units to automatically detect and locate non-motorized components, and the manipulator unit autonomously positions them without human intervention. The control unit coordinates the entire process based on sensor data, enabling the system to serve itself in the positioning task.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical positioning by operators is replaced with an automated manipulator unit controlled by sensor feedback. The sensor unit detects component locations and the manipulator unit mechanically positions components based on this data, substituting human-operated mechanical systems with sensor-controlled automation.
2Reliability
If multiple detectors are purchased to cover all positions, then reliability is improved, but loss of substance increases due to higher costs
Solution Approach 1:
A single detector is designed to perform multiple functions by being manually or automatically positioned at different locations (tabletop, wall-mounted, freely positionable). The detector serves universal purposes across multiple examination configurations, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated detectors for each position.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static, fixed-position detectors to a dynamic setup where a single detector can be moved and repositioned as needed. The manipulator unit enables dynamic repositioning of the detector to different locations based on examination requirements, making the system adaptable rather than fixed.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual component handling is used, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision worsens due to positioning errors
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor unit continuously monitors and detects the positions of non-motorized components, providing feedback data to the control unit. This feedback enables the manipulator unit to adjust its positioning actions to achieve accurate placement, with the sensor verifying the final position for precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor unit acts as an intermediary between the manipulator unit and the non-motorized components. It detects component locations and communicates this information to the control unit, which then guides the manipulator unit's positioning actions, ensuring accurate placement without direct human intervention.
4Productivity
If automated manipulator unit is added, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated system is divided into distinct functional modules: sensor units for detection, manipulator units for physical positioning, and control units for coordination. This segmentation allows each component to be independently optimized and maintained, managing overall system complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor unit, manipulator unit, and control unit are merged into an integrated automated positioning system that works together as a coordinated whole. The control unit combines data from sensor units and directs manipulator units, creating a unified automated workflow for room preparation.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a manipulator device (2) for automatically setting up a radiology workstation of an imaging system (1) comprising - a sensor unit (5) for locating at least one movable component (18) of the radiology workstation, and - an automatic manipulator unit (3) for mechanically receiving the component and positioning the component at a position provided for the examination.