U-Arm X-Ray Imaging Device for Isocentric Fluoroscopy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current X-ray imaging devices rely on complex and heavy mechanical geometries, making them expensive and limiting clinical flexibility without compromising image quality.
Innovation Solution
A device with a U-arm geometry that allows for rotational and translational movements of the X-ray source and detector, enabling imaging in any plane with a simpler and lighter design, facilitating isocentric imaging and reducing the need for multiple devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex mechanical geometries are used to achieve multi-planar imaging capability, then imaging versatility is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the imaging system into separate functional modules: a C-arm assembly for positioning, a patient table for support, and an imaging system for data acquisition. Each module can be independently controlled and optimized, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining multi-planar imaging capability through coordinated operation of these segmented components
Solution Approach 2:
The patient table is designed with multi-functionality to serve multiple purposes: it supports the patient in various positions, provides rotational movement for different imaging planes, and integrates with the C-arm assembly. This universal design eliminates the need for separate specialized devices for each imaging modality, reducing device complexity while maintaining versatility
2Reliability
If heavy mechanical geometries are used to ensure structural stability, then imaging stability is improved, but device weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device replaces heavy mechanical stabilization structures with computer-controlled positioning systems. The C-arm assembly and patient table are equipped with motors and control systems that precisely position and stabilize the imaging components through electronic control rather than relying solely on heavy mechanical structures, reducing device weight while maintaining imaging stability
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic positioning and stabilization through computer-controlled movement of the C-arm and patient table. Rather than using static heavy structures, the device uses active control systems that dynamically adjust and maintain optimal positioning and stability during imaging procedures, achieving reliability without excessive weight
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple independent devices are used to cover all imaging modalities, then imaging flexibility is improved, but device quantity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges multiple imaging modalities (remote fluoroscopy, nearby fluoroscopy, and radiology) into a single integrated system. The C-arm assembly can be positioned and oriented to perform all three imaging types, and the patient table provides coordinated positioning for each modality. This consolidation eliminates the need for multiple separate devices, maintaining imaging flexibility while reducing the number of devices and space requirements
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 cost-effective, less complex mechanical geometry that enhances clinical workflow, improves access to patients, and supports bi-directional use, while maintaining high image quality and flexibility in X-ray imaging modalities.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray source for emitting an X-ray beam
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention concerns a device (102) for X-ray imaging, comprising a device mount (104) and an arm (106) movably connected to said device mount for rotation, relative to said device mount, around a device axis of rotation (108). The device (102) furthermore comprises an X-ray source (110) for emitting an X-ray beam (111) and an X-ray detector (112). In addition the system (102) comprises a carrier (114) having a U-arm geometry, wherein said U-arm geometry is provided with mutually facing portions (116, 118) and an intermediate portion (120) connecting said mutually facing portions (116, 118); wherein said mutually facing portions (116, 118) are configured for carrying said X-ray source (110) and said X-ray detector (112), respectively; and wherein said intermediate portion is movably connected to the arm (106) for rotation, relative to said arm (106), around a carrier axis of rotation (122) substantially perpendicular to the device axis of rotation (108).