Radiolucent Bending Apparatus for Micro-CT Bone Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current three-point bending apparatuses are not compatible with micro-CT imaging, as they obstruct X-rays, preventing simultaneous measurement of structural and material properties during bone fracture testing.
Innovation Solution
A three-point bending apparatus with radiolucent materials, such as PEEK, and a translation mechanism that converts vertical displacement and force into horizontal displacement and force, allowing for bone bending without obstructing X-rays, integrated with a micro-CT scanner for imaging and force measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional three-point bending apparatus is used, then bone bending measurement is achieved, but X-ray obstruction occurs preventing micro-CT imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter of the bending apparatus from traditional radiopaque materials (metal, plastic) to radiolucent materials that allow X-ray transmission. This enables simultaneous bone bending measurement and micro-CT imaging without X-ray obstruction, resolving the technical contradiction between measurement capability and imaging compatibility.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If radiolucent materials are used for bending apparatus, then X-ray transmission is enabled, but structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite material design for the bending apparatus, combining radiolucent materials with sufficient mechanical strength. The apparatus includes a frame, bending mechanism, and imaging system integrated with materials that provide both X-ray transparency and the necessary structural integrity to apply controlled bending forces to bone samples during micro-CT scanning.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If translation mechanism is added to convert vertical to horizontal displacement, then imaging compatibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a translation mechanism as an intermediary component that converts vertical platen displacement into horizontal loading pin movement. This mediator enables the bending apparatus to work within the constraints of micro-CT imaging geometry, where horizontal loading is required but vertical actuation is more practical, thus improving imaging compatibility while managing device complexity.
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
Enables the measurement of bone fracture properties like stress, strain, and fracture toughness while imaging, providing three-dimensional images of fracture propagation without deforming or breaking under applied forces.
Implementation Method 1
a translation mechanism that converts vertical displacement and force into horizontal displacement and force
Implementation Method 2
The material used for the two bending pins, the loading pin, and the force-translation mechanism is structurally stronger than the bone and lucent in X-ray images
Data Source
AI summary
A bending apparatus for a sample is disclosed. The bending apparatus includes a translation mechanism that translates a vertical displacement/force into a horizontal displacement/force for bending. Components of the bending apparatus are fabricated from a strong, radiolucent material. In these ways, the bending apparatus is compatible with micro-CT imaging, and as such, may be used to bend a sample during imaging. In a particular application, the bending apparatus may be used to measure biomechanical properties of a bone, such as bone strength, bone material properties, fracture toughness, and fracture propagation.