Radioscopic Apparatus Detector Retraction Control

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional radioscopic apparatuses require manual intervention to retract the second detector, which can be time-consuming and may result in the detector blocking radiation from the first radiation source, increasing the user's workload and reducing efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A radioscopic apparatus with a controller that automatically retracts the second detector to a position based on stored imaging information, ensuring it does not block the first radiation source, and allows the second detector to follow the second radiation source's movement, reducing user intervention and improving workflow.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the second detector is manually retracted when the first radiation source is used, then the radiation path is cleared, but it increases the user's workload and takes time

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuser workloadVSAvoidtime to retract detector

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary action by automatically retracting the second detector before the first imaging operation begins. The controller monitors the operational state of both imagers and proactively moves the second detector to a retracted position when detecting that the first imager will be used, thereby clearing the radiation path in advance and eliminating the need for manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements self-service by enabling the second detector to automatically detect and respond to the operational state of the first radiation source. Through sensors and control logic, the second detector monitors the system state and autonomously retracts when needed, freeing the user from manual operation and reducing workload.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Extent of automation

If the second detector is automatically retracted in a predetermined direction, then the retraction is automated, but the detector may still block radiation from the first radiation source

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomatic retractionVSAvoidradiation path clearance

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs feedback mechanisms where sensors continuously monitor the positional relationship between the second detector and the first radiation source. The control unit receives this feedback information and dynamically adjusts the retraction position and timing of the second detector based on the actual operational state, ensuring reliable radiation path clearance while maintaining automation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system applies dynamics by making the second detector's retraction position and timing adaptable rather than fixed. The detector's movement is dynamically adjusted based on real-time detection of the first radiation source's operational state and position, allowing the system to reliably clear the radiation path while maintaining automated operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple imagers are disposed to face each other across the table, then versatile imaging is enabled, but the second detector may block radiation from the first radiation source

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimaging capabilityVSAvoidradiation blocking

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary action by automatically retracting the second detector before the first imaging operation begins. The controller monitors the operational state of both imagers and proactively moves the second detector to a retracted position when detecting that the first imager will be used, thereby clearing the radiation path in advance and eliminating the need for manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs feedback mechanisms where sensors continuously monitor the positional relationship between the second detector and the first radiation source. The control unit receives this feedback information and dynamically adjusts the retraction position and timing of the second detector based on the actual operational state, ensuring reliable radiation path clearance while maintaining automation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

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

Automated retraction and movement of the second detector reduce user workload, enhance imaging efficiency, and minimize exposure to unnecessary radiation, allowing for quicker switching between imaging modes and improved image acquisition.

Implementation Method 1

a first radiation source disposed on a side of the table opposite to the placement surface, and a first detector disposed at a position that faces the first radiation source with the table interposed therebetween

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectX-ray generation: X-Ray

Data Source

PatentUS20200379129A1Radioscopic apparatus

Publication Date: 2020.12.03 SHIMADZU CORP

AI summary

A radioscopic apparatus includes a controller configured or programmed to, when imaging information using the first radiation source is selected, perform control of retracting a second detector to a position in one of longitudinal ends of a table, at which the second detector does not block radiation emitted from a first radiation source, according to information about a region to be imaged of a subject included in the selected imaging information.