X-ray Imaging Arm Weight Balancing Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray imaging apparatuses face challenges in adjusting the source image distance (SID) without causing tilt or rotation of the arm, leading to discontinuity or artifacts in X-ray images due to changes in the center of gravity of the arm or its ends.
Innovation Solution
The X-ray imaging apparatus incorporates a weight balancing mechanism with a driving structure that maintains the center of gravity unchanged during adjustments, allowing for SID changes without arm tilt or rotation by moving the X-ray components and corresponding weights in opposite directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the SID is adjusted by moving the X-ray tube or detector, then the source image distance changes, but the arm tilts or rotates due to center of gravity changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies counterweight mechanisms at both ends of the C-shaped arm. When the X-ray tube or detector moves to adjust SID, the counterweights move in the opposite direction to compensate for the change in center of gravity, thereby maintaining arm stability and preventing tilt or rotation during distance adjustment.
2Length of moving object
If the arm is tilted or rotated during SID adjustment, then the SID changes, but discontinuity or artifacts appear in X-ray images
Solution Approach 1:
By using counterweight mechanisms to compensate for center of gravity changes during SID adjustment, the arm remains stable and does not tilt or rotate. This ensures continuous scanning coverage and prevents artifacts in the X-ray images, maintaining image quality and reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a complex mechanical and electrical structure is used to adjust SID, then the SID can be changed, but the structure becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses counterweight mechanisms that leverage the existing arm structure and gravity, avoiding the need for complex active control systems. The counterweights passively compensate for center of gravity changes, providing SID adjustability with relatively simple mechanical structures.
Data Source
AI summary
A source image distance (SID) adjustable X-ray imaging apparatus is provided. The X-ray imaging apparatus may include an arm including a first end and a second end, a first X-ray component arranged at the first end of the arm, and a second X-ray component arranged at the second end of the arm. The first X-ray component and the second X-ray component may be opposite to each other. The first X-ray component may be configured to generate X-rays or receive X-rays. The first end may include a first weight balancing mechanism. When the first X-ray component moves with respect to the first weight balancing mechanism, the SID of the X-ray imaging apparatus may change but the first weight balancing mechanism may maintain a center of gravity of the first end unchanged.