Automated X-ray Apparatus Positioning via Patient Data

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Solution Overview

Problem

Manual adjustments of x-ray apparatus elements, such as table height and radiation source position, are time-consuming and stressful for patients due to the need for manual intervention by assistants or physicians, hindering efficient adaptation to varying patient sizes.

Innovation Solution

An electrically adjustable medical x-ray apparatus with a controller that processes patient data to automatically set the position of adjustable elements, such as a height-adjustable table and radiation source, using a computer interface and calculator unit to determine the optimal position based on patient parameters.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If manual adjustment of x-ray apparatus elements is used, then the apparatus can be adjusted to different patient sizes, but the adjustment process is time-consuming and requires assistant or physician intervention

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptation to patient sizeVSAvoidadjustment time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The controller receives patient data in advance (from electronic patient files or other input devices) and calculates the desired position of adjustable elements before the examination begins. This preliminary calculation allows the apparatus to be pre-configured for the specific patient, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual adjustments during the examination process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The x-ray apparatus automatically adjusts its own elements based on patient parameters without requiring external manual intervention. The controller autonomously calculates optimal positions and actuates the adjustable elements, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for assistant or physician involvement in the adjustment process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual adjustment of x-ray apparatus elements is used, then the apparatus can be adapted to patient size, but the assistant or physician is occupied with adjustment and cannot perform other tasks

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptation to patient sizeVSAvoidoverall examination efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The x-ray apparatus performs self-adjustment through automated control, freeing the assistant or physician to perform other examination tasks or prepare for the next patient. The controller autonomously processes patient parameters and adjusts elements without human intervention, thereby maintaining adaptability while improving overall workflow efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

By calculating and setting element positions in advance based on patient data, the system prepares the apparatus for examination before the patient arrives or while other preparations are being made. This eliminates idle time and allows parallel processing of multiple tasks, thereby increasing productivity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If manual adjustment is performed while the patient is present, then the apparatus can be adapted to the patient, but the patient becomes excited and the adjustment is hindered

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptation to patient sizeVSAvoidadjustment ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The controller receives patient parameters and calculates optimal element positions before the patient is positioned on the examination table. By completing the adjustment process in advance, the system eliminates the need to perform adjustments while the patient is present and potentially restless, thereby facilitating easier and more accurate positioning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The automated adjustment system operates independently of patient movement or cooperation. The controller autonomously positions elements based on pre-input patient data, removing the complexity and difficulty associated with manual adjustment during patient presence.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

4Extent of automation

If electrically adjustable elements are used with automatic control, then manual intervention is reduced, but the system requires integration with computer systems for patient data processing

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomatic adjustmentVSAvoidsystem integration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller is designed to interface with standard electronic patient files and data input devices, making the system compatible with existing hospital information systems. By using universal data exchange protocols and interfaces, the system achieves high automation without requiring proprietary or overly complex integration architectures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8496380B2Medical radiological device and radiological system

Publication Date: 2013.07.30 SIEMENS HEALTHINEERS AG

AI summary

A medical radiological system has a radiological device with at least one element that can be electrically adjusted in order to allow an adaptation of the radiological device to body dimensions of a patient to be examined. The radiological device has a controller with an interface that receives a patient parameter set from a computer, with which patient data are processed and stored. The controller calculates a desired position of the element from the received patient data set, and automatically controls positioning of the element by electrically adjusting the element to the desired position.