Wireless Foot Switch State Transition for X-Ray Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

Wireless foot switches for X-ray diagnosis systems have limited operating time due to the use of built-in batteries, which increases weight and reduces portability when larger batteries are used to extend operation time.

Innovation Solution

A wireless foot switch that transitions between resting and operational states based on external signals, such as the closure of an examination room door or operation of the X-ray diagnosis apparatus, using a receiver to convert radio signals into power and reduce power consumption, allowing automatic activation without user intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Duration of action of moving object

If a larger built-in battery is used to extend operating time, then the operating time is improved, but the weight increases and portability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperating timeVSAvoidweight
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The wireless foot switch alternates between operational state and resting state, with the controller shutting down non-essential functions during the resting state. This periodic activation based on external signals reduces average power consumption, allowing extended operating time without increasing battery size or weight.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes its power consumption parameters dynamically by transitioning between different operational states. When an external signal is detected, the controller activates the radio communication and switch unit; otherwise, it enters a low-power mode, effectively adjusting energy usage to match actual operational needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Speed

If the wireless foot switch remains in operational state continuously, then the responsiveness is improved, but the power consumption increases and operating time decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveresponsivenessVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The controller activates the operational state in advance when an external signal is detected, such as the closure of the examination room door or operation of the X-ray diagnosis apparatus. This ensures the foot switch is ready for immediate use while avoiding continuous operation, thus balancing responsiveness with power conservation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Use of energy by moving object

If the foot switch requires manual activation, then the power consumption is reduced, but the user lag and stress increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoiduser lag
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The foot switch automatically detects when it needs to be activated by monitoring external signals from the X-ray diagnosis apparatus or environmental sensors. The controller autonomously transitions between operational and resting states without requiring user intervention, eliminating activation lag while maintaining power efficiency through intelligent state management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Extends the operating time of the wireless foot switch without increasing battery size, maintaining portability and improving operability by automatically transitioning to the operational state when needed, thus reducing user lag and stress during medical procedures.

Implementation Method 1

using a receiver to convert radio signals into power

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic energy conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS9750476B2Wireless foot switch and X-ray diagnosis system
Publication Date: 2017.09.05 TOSHIBA MEDICAL SYST CORP
  • US9750476B2 patent drawing
  • US9750476B2 patent drawing
  • US9750476B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A wireless foot switch according to one embodiment includes a battery unit, a switch unit, a controller, and a state switcher. The battery unit supplies power. The switch unit provides input to an X-ray diagnosis apparatus. The controller transmits by radio, to X-ray diagnosis apparatus, information input by the switch unit. Based on an external signal from the outside of the X-ray diagnosis apparatus, the state switcher causes the controller to transition from a resting state to an operational state.