Tiltable Couch Board Using Compact Linear-Drive Wedge Kinematics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional couch boards in medical imaging and radiation therapy require complex structures for tilting movements, which occupy additional space and alter the geometric properties of the patient couch, necessitating a more compact and less complex solution.
Innovation Solution
A tilt module for a patient couch comprising a first and second support unit connected via a joint, with a linear drive system allowing tilting along a circular path through adjustable length, utilizing wedge sliding kinematics and guide rails for efficient space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional tilt module with hexapod arrangement is used to enable tilting movement, then the rotational degree of freedom is achieved, but the device complexity and installation space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tilt module is divided into separate support units (first support unit and second support unit) that can be independently positioned and connected. This segmentation allows the complex tilting function to be achieved through simpler, modular components rather than a monolithic hexapod structure, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the rotational degree of freedom
Solution Approach 2:
The support units are designed to be nestable within each other when not in use, with the second support unit capable of being received within the first support unit. This nesting arrangement minimizes the installation space required on the patient couch while preserving the full tilting capability when deployed
2Adaptability or versatility
If a tilt module is added to provide tilting movement, then the rotational degree of freedom is achieved, but the geometric properties of the patient couch are altered
Solution Approach 1:
The tilt module employs dynamic linear drive systems that can adjust the distance between support units during operation, enabling tilting movement. When in the retracted or neutral position, the module maintains a compact form that preserves the original geometric properties of the patient couch, while dynamically adapting to provide tilting capability when required
3Ease of operation
If the linear drive system changes length to enable tilting, then the tilting movement is achieved, but the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical linkage systems with linear drive systems that directly control the distance between support units. This substitution simplifies the mechanism by using straightforward linear actuators rather than intricate mechanical linkages, making the tilting operation easier while reducing overall mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The linear drive systems change the physical parameter of distance between support units to achieve tilting movement. By controlling this single parameter (distance), the system achieves complex tilting behavior without requiring complex mechanisms, as the change in one parameter (linear distance) produces the desired rotational effect
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 solution provides a simpler and more compact mechanism for tilting movements, maintaining the geometric integrity of the patient couch while enabling efficient positioning for medical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
the linear drive system is configured in accordance with wedge sliding kinematics
Implementation Method 2
the linear drive system includes a rolling apparatus with at least one roller at a first end of the linear drive system
Data Source
AI summary
One or more example embodiments of the present invention relates to a tilt module for a patient couch, having a first support unit, a second support unit and a linear drive system, wherein one of the first support unit and the second support unit is configured to fix the tilt module to a stand of the patient couch or to receive a couch board, wherein the second support unit is connected via a joint to the first support unit at a tilt angle, wherein the linear drive system couples the first support unit and the second support unit such that the second support unit is tiltable relative to the first support unit along a circular-like travel path with simultaneous variation of the tilt angle due to a change in length of the linear drive system.