Ultrasonic Apparatus Connection Unit for Load Distribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional ultrasonic diagnostic apparatuses require numerous elements to achieve vertical and rotational movement of the control panel and display unit, leading to complexity in production and potential load distribution issues.

Innovation Solution

A connection unit with a triangular or quadrangular pyramid shape, utilizing ball joints or universal joints, allows for simultaneous vertical, horizontal, and rotational movement of the input/output unit, enabling efficient load distribution and simplified coupling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate mechanisms are used for vertical movement and rotation of the control panel and display unit, then each movement function can be achieved, but a great number of elements are necessary causing production complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemovement functionVSAvoidnumber of elements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple separate mechanisms for vertical movement and rotation into a single integrated connection unit. This connection unit simultaneously provides both vertical adjustment and rotational movement capabilities through a unified structure, reducing the total number of elements required while maintaining full adaptability for positioning the control panel and display unit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connection unit is designed as a multi-functional component that performs multiple functions: it supports vertical movement, enables rotation, and provides structural coupling between the main body and input/output units. This universal design allows a single element to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If separate mechanisms are used for vertical movement and rotation, then movement functions are achieved, but production becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment capabilityVSAvoidproduction complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By merging the vertical adjustment mechanism and rotation mechanism into one integrated connection unit, the patent simplifies the manufacturing process. Instead of producing and assembling multiple separate mechanisms, manufacturers can produce a single multi-functional connection unit, reducing production complexity while maintaining full adjustment capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Device complexity

If conventional connection structures are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but load distribution becomes problematic

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural simplicityVSAvoidload distribution
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connection unit extends into three-dimensional space with components arranged in different planes and orientations. This spatial arrangement allows the structure to distribute loads more effectively across multiple directions and attachment points, improving reliability while maintaining reasonable structural simplicity through a unified design approach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 enables effective support and adjustment of the input/output unit, reducing production complexity and enhancing load handling capabilities while allowing for precise positioning based on user and environmental needs.

Implementation Method 1

The first main body coupling part, the first input/output unit coupling part, the second main body coupling part, and the second input/output coupling part may be at least one of ball joints and universal joints.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBall joint: Ball

Implementation Method 2

The first main body coupling part, the first input/output unit coupling part, the second main body coupling part, and the second input/output coupling part may be at least one of ball joints and universal joints.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectUniversal joint: Gimbal

Data Source

PatentEP2845542B1Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus
Publication Date: 2020.04.29 SAMSUNG MEDISON CO LTD
  • EP2845542B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2845542B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2845542B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Disclosed is an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus including a main body (30), at least one input/output unit (70) coupled to one side of the main body to input data to the main body or to output data transmitted from the main body, and a connection unit (70) to connect the input/output unit and the main body to each other. The connection unit includes plural first connection members (65), each of which is connected at one end thereof to the main body and at the other end thereof to at least a portion of the input/output unit and has a variable length to move the input/output unit relative to the main body, and at least one second connection member (61, 62) coupled to the first connection members and at least one of the main body or the input/output unit so as to come into contact with the same at a point to support load of the input/output unit.