Segmented Compression Plate for Tomosynthesis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wide compression plates used in tomosynthesis examinations restrict access and positioning of the breast, leading to difficulties in placing and adjusting the breast during imaging due to limited space.
Innovation Solution
A compression plate designed with two sections: a wider upper area for x-ray penetration and a narrower lower area for breast compression, allowing easier access and positioning by reducing lateral width, with the option of a tapered or chamfered edge to prevent tissue damage from sharp edges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a wide compression plate is used for tomosynthesis to cover the entire irradiation field, then x-ray penetration is ensured, but access and positioning of the breast is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The compression plate is divided into two distinct sections: a wide upper area for x-ray penetration and a narrow lower area for breast compression. This segmentation allows each section to fulfill its specific function optimally - the upper area ensures complete coverage of the irradiation field while the narrow lower area provides sufficient lateral access for breast positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the compression plate have different widths tailored to their specific functions. The upper area maintains a wide width for reliable x-ray penetration across all imaging positions, while the lower area is narrowed to facilitate breast access and positioning. This local differentiation of geometric properties resolves the contradiction between coverage and accessibility.
2Ease of operation
If the compression plate width is reduced to improve access, then positioning space increases, but x-ray penetration coverage may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The plate is segmented into functional zones where the upper area maintains full width for x-ray coverage while the lower area is narrowed for access. This ensures that reducing width in one region does not compromise coverage in another region.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution addresses the width limitation by utilizing the vertical dimension - the narrow lower area transitions to a wide upper area, creating a stepped or tapered profile. This dimensional transition allows the plate to provide both access (at the bottom) and coverage (at the top) without compromising either function.
3Ease of manufacture
If sharp edges are present on the compression plate for structural integrity, then manufacturing is simplified, but tissue damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The edges of the compression plate, particularly at the transition between upper and lower areas, are rounded or chamfered instead of being sharp. This curvature modification eliminates the risk of tissue damage from sharp edges while maintaining structural integrity and is compatible with standard manufacturing processes.
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 two-section compression plate facilitates improved workflow and easier breast positioning by providing more space laterally, enhancing the operational efficiency during tomosynthesis examinations while maintaining effective x-ray penetration and tissue protection.
Implementation Method 1
x-rays are emitted by an x-ray source, penetrate the compressed breast and are subsequently detected by a detector
Data Source
AI summary
A compression plate for tomosynthesis images using an X-ray apparatus designed to take the tomosynthesis images is provided. The compression plate includes an upper area. The width of the upper area is dimensioned such that, for all X-ray images taken during tomosynthesis of a female breast compressed by the compression plate, X-rays substantially penetrate the compression plate. The compression plate also includes a lower area. An average width of the lower area is smaller than an average width of the upper area. The lower area includes a surface of smaller width than the width of the upper area for the compression of the female breast.