Transportable CT Scanner With Onboard Power for Remote Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
The transportation of CT scanners is challenging due to their complex power requirements, which are difficult to meet in remote areas, limiting access to CT scanning services for underserved regions.
Innovation Solution
A transportable CT scanning system with an onboard power supply system, including an uninterruptable power supply (UPS) connected to rechargeable batteries and generators, allowing the system to operate independently of mains power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If CT scanners are installed in remote and regional areas, then access to CT scanning services is improved, but the complex power requirements and need for shielding and cooling make the setup incredibly difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple essential components (CT scanner, power supply system with generators and batteries, cooling system, and shielding) into a single integrated mobile platform. This merging allows the entire complex setup to be transported as one unit to remote locations, resolving the contradiction by making the complex system itself mobile rather than fixed.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile platform is designed with multi-functional capabilities, including integrated power generation through multiple generators, onboard battery storage, and adaptable power distribution systems that can operate in various locations without requiring external infrastructure. This universality allows the system to function independently in remote areas.
2Power
If CT scanners require large quantities of electrical power in short bursts, then the scanner can operate effectively, but it is difficult to source sufficient power in remote and regional areas
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates multiple generators and large battery banks that are pre-charged and prepared before operation. The generators can be started in advance to charge batteries, ensuring sufficient power is available when the CT scanner needs to operate in short bursts, without requiring external power infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply system dynamically adjusts its parameters by switching between different power sources (generators and batteries) based on the immediate power requirements. The system can deliver high power bursts from batteries when needed, then switch to generators for recharging, adapting its power delivery characteristics to match the CT scanner's intermittent high-power demands.
3Ease of operation
If CT scanners are made transportable, then mobility and access to regional populations is improved, but the complex power requirements must be met while mobile
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile CT scanner is equipped with self-sufficient power generation capabilities through onboard generators and battery systems. The system can generate and store its own power without requiring external electrical infrastructure, allowing it to move freely to different locations while maintaining full operational capability. The cooling and shielding systems are also integrated into the mobile platform, making the entire system self-contained.
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 CT scanner to operate in remote areas without reliable access to electrical power, providing greater mobility and access to CT scanning services for regional populations.
Implementation Method 1
one or more batteries connected to the UPS
Implementation Method 2
the power supply system further comprises a solar power system connected to the one or more batteries
Data Source
AI summary
A transportable computed tomography (CT) scanning system including a transportable structure, a computed tomography (CT) scanner located on the transportable structure, and an onboard power supply system connected to the CT scanner and located on the transportable structure.