Rotating X-Ray Support Structure for Multi-Angle Lung Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray imaging devices struggle to accurately diagnose pneumonia caused by the novel coronavirus, particularly when ground glass shadows are present, as they are difficult to distinguish from other shadows and are often obscured by basal diseases, and require multiple angle observations that are not easily achieved with conventional setups.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray imaging device with a configurable support mechanism that allows the X-ray generation and detection units to rotate and move in an elliptical orbit, enabling imaging from multiple angles without a complex setup, using a combination of struts, coupling portions, and expansion/contraction mechanisms to maintain consistent distance and capture detailed images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional fixed-position X-ray imaging device is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot capture images from multiple angles which is necessary for accurate pneumonia diagnosis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a rotatable support portion that can change its angular position around the patient, allowing the X-ray generation and detection units to capture images from multiple angles. This dynamic positioning capability enables versatile imaging without requiring multiple separate devices, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The support portion serves multiple functions: it holds both the X-ray generation unit and detection unit, provides rotational movement for multi-angle imaging, and maintains proper positioning through the coupling portion. This multi-functional design achieves multi-angle imaging capability while avoiding the need for separate specialized devices for each function
2Measurement precision
If the X-ray generation and detection units are fixed in position, then the device configuration is simple, but it cannot differentiate ground glass shadows from other lung shadows which requires multi-angle observation
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable support portion enables the imaging system to dynamically adjust its viewing angle around the patient's chest. This dynamic multi-angle observation capability allows radiologists to differentiate ground glass shadows from other lung shadows by observing their appearance from different perspectives, thereby improving measurement precision without requiring an overly complex device configuration
3Adaptability or versatility
If the support portion rotates by at least 180 degrees, then comprehensive lung observation is achieved, but the coupling mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling portion is designed as a turnable coupling mechanism that enables the support portion to rotate by at least 180 degrees while maintaining proper alignment between the X-ray generation and detection units. This dynamic coupling mechanism achieves comprehensive lung observation coverage without requiring an excessively complex structure by utilizing rotational degrees of freedom
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 accurate diagnosis of pneumonia by capturing X-ray images from various angles, allowing for clear differentiation of ground glass shadows and other lung features, reducing the need for complex setups and enabling rapid, reliable image analysis.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray generation unit (17a) that generates an X-ray
Implementation Method 2
an X-ray detection unit (17b) that receives the X-ray
Data Source
AI summary
X-ray images from multiple angles are acquired with a simple configuration.An X-ray imaging device 1 includes an X-ray generation unit 17a, an X-ray detection unit 17b facing the X-ray generation unit with a space therebetween, a support portion 13 that supports the X-ray generation unit and the X-ray detection unit, a strut 10 that stands upright from a placement face and holds the support portion, and a coupling portion 14 that turnably couples the support portion to the strut. The support portion may be bent so that both ends face each other, the X-ray generation unit and the X-ray detection unit may be disposed at both ends, and the coupling portion may rotate about a direction along both ends.