Wireless Panoramic X-Ray Detector Array Retrofit
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Classic panorama X-ray devices require costly and extensive re-certification when converted to digital image acquisition, due to legal and safety requirements, and existing conversion kits are expensive and limited in compatibility with different devices.
Innovation Solution
A panorama recording device with a narrow detector array integrated into the cassette, allowing wireless signal transmission and position measurement, eliminating the need for galvanic coupling and enabling compatibility with standard cassette sizes, thus reducing conversion costs and simplifying the integration of digital image processing without full device re-certification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a CCD sensor is attached to the cassette with mechanical connections, then digital image acquisition is achieved, but device complexity and conversion costs increase due to extensive mechanical swivel joints and re-certification requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical signal transmission connections with wireless communication. The detector array in the cassette communicates with the control unit via wireless signals, eliminating the need for complex mechanical swivel joints and cable connections. This substitution dramatically simplifies the mechanical structure and reduces conversion costs while maintaining digital image acquisition capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the system into independent modular components: a detector array module that can be independently installed in the cassette, a wireless communication module, and a control unit. This segmentation allows the detector array to be manufactured and tested separately, then integrated into the cassette without requiring complex mechanical connections to the main device, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
2Ease of manufacture
If a CCD sensor is attached to the cassette, then digital image acquisition is achieved, but reliability decreases due to extensive re-certification and safety checks required by Medical Devices Act
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the detector array from the main X-ray device and places it independently within the cassette. This extracted detector array functions as a separate, self-contained module that can be manufactured and validated independently. The wireless communication further separates the signal transmission path from the mechanical structure, allowing the detector module to be certified as a standalone component rather than requiring re-certification of the entire X-ray device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a detector array is integrated into the cassette, then compatibility with standard cassettes is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase for narrow detector arrays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic positioning mechanisms that allow the detector array to be adjusted and aligned within the cassette after installation. The system can dynamically compensate for minor positioning variations through software-based calibration and real-time alignment adjustments, reducing the stringency of manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining compatibility with standard cassette dimensions.
4Device complexity
If wireless signal transmission is used, then device complexity is reduced, but use of energy increases due to battery or accumulator power supply
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic data transmission where the detector array transmits signal data to the control unit at optimized intervals rather than continuously. This periodic communication pattern significantly reduces the energy consumption of the wireless transmission system while maintaining real-time imaging functionality. The battery-powered cassette can operate for extended periods between charges due to this energy-efficient transmission strategy.
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 use of digital image processing in existing panorama X-ray devices with reduced conversion costs and complexity, allowing for efficient image assembly and reduced radiation doses, while maintaining compatibility with various devices and simplifying the conversion process.
Implementation Method 1
a detector array 36 with a plurality of detector rows 36', which have pixels 36'' arranged one behind the other according to the longitudinal extension of the recording slit
Implementation Method 2
The position of the panorama cassette in space (or in relation to the stationary object) is measured by a position transmitter (position detection means), and its output signal is also sent wirelessly to the evaluation unit
Implementation Method 3
The output signals of the detector rows are read out wirelessly (by radio or by means of infrared radiation) and transmitted to a processing unit
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
In order to set up digital image acquisition in typical panoramic X-ray machines (10), the invention proposes providing a row of detectors (36) in the cartridge unit (20) of said machines, said row of detectors being arranged or being able to be arranged behind the holding slot (32). The output signals from the row of detectors (36) and the output signals from a rotary position transmitter (38) are wirelessly transferred to an evaluation unit (50). Retrofitting the digital image acquisition thus does not require any intervention in safety-related parts of the panoramic X-ray machine.