Integrated Weight Sensing in Medical Imaging Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Medical imaging systems face errors in configuring radiation settings due to manual entry of patient weight, leading to suboptimal image quality and increased radiation exposure, as well as inefficiencies and additional costs from incorrect weight measurements.
Innovation Solution
An integrated weight sensing system that includes a load cell and processor within the medical imaging system, automatically measuring patient weight and adjusting imaging parameters, using a table assembly with a lifting mechanism and strain gages in a Wheatstone bridge configuration to accurately communicate weight data to the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual weight entry is used by medical technicians, then the system can be operated with simple equipment, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the weight sensing function with the existing imaging system by integrating a load cell into the table assembly structure. The load cell is mechanically coupled to the table base or lifting mechanism, merging the weighing function with the patient support structure rather than adding a completely separate measurement device. This integration achieves automatic accurate weight measurement while minimizing additional system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service weight measurement where the load cell automatically detects and digitally communicates the patient's weight to the imaging system without requiring manual intervention. The processor automatically receives the weight signal from the load cell and configures imaging parameters accordingly, eliminating the need for technician input and reducing human error while maintaining operational simplicity.
2Productivity
If manual weight entry is used, then device complexity remains low, but productivity deteriorates due to additional scans and reconfigurations
Solution Approach 1:
The load cell measures the patient's weight before the imaging procedure begins, and the processor uses this information to pre-configure the appropriate imaging parameters and radiation dose settings. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for subsequent scans due to incorrect settings, improving scanning efficiency by preventing errors rather than correcting them afterward.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements automatic feedback where the load cell continuously monitors weight and the processor automatically adjusts imaging parameters based on the measured weight. This closed-loop feedback system ensures optimal imaging settings are applied without requiring technician intervention or manual reconfiguration, thereby improving productivity while the automated nature keeps complexity manageable.
3Reliability
If manual weight entry is used, then ease of operation is maintained, but reliability deteriorates due to improper system configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The load cell and processor combination enables the system to automatically perform the weight measurement and configuration task that would otherwise require technician input. The system serves itself by automatically detecting weight, processing the data, and configuring imaging parameters without human intervention, thereby improving reliability while maintaining ease of operation through automated simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of weight entry with an automated electronic sensing system. The load cell uses strain gages in a Wheatstone bridge configuration to electronically detect weight, and the processor digitally communicates this information to configure the imaging system. This substitution of mechanical manual entry with electronic automation improves configuration reliability while keeping the system easy to operate through automatic functionality.
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
This solution ensures accurate configuration of imaging systems, improves image quality, reduces additional scans, and minimizes patient exposure to radiation, while enhancing operational efficiency and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
The load cell may include strain gages with the gages electrically coupled in a Wheatstone bridge configuration
Implementation Method 2
The load cell may include strain gages with the gages electrically coupled in a Wheatstone bridge configuration
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated weight sensing system and method is disclosed for a medical imaging system. In one embodiment, the integrated weight sensing system may include a table assembly, a load cell, and a processor that are implemented in a medical imaging system. The table assembly includes a lifting mechanism used to position a patient within the medical imaging system. The load cell is mechanically coupled to the table assembly and in communication with the processor. The load cell is configured to measure and indicate the weight of the patient and the processor may be configured to adjust imaging parameters based on the weight of the patient. The table assembly may include a device in communication with the load cell and/or processor to display the weight of the patient. Additionally, the table assembly and/or the processor may include an interface for zeroing or recalibrating the load cell.