Mobile X-Ray Apparatus Manual Positioning Brake System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile x-ray apparatuses require motorized mechanical assistance for easy positioning and movement, which is not feasible in all environments, particularly in intensive care units where manual operation is preferred to reduce patient risk.
Innovation Solution
A mobile x-ray apparatus with non-driven wheels and an associated brake system, allowing manual positioning and movement by disengaging the brake using an actuator on the x-ray tube head or support assembly, enabling easier adjustment and positioning without the need for motorized assistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If motorized mechanical assistance is used for wheel drive, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity and patient safety are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the motorized drive system from the mobile x-ray apparatus, extracting the complex mechanical assistance component while retaining manual wheel operation. This simplifies the overall device structure and eliminates the need for motors, gearboxes, and control systems while maintaining mobility through purely manual pushing and rolling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed to be self-propelled through manual effort, where the operator directly pushes or pulls the device to move it into position. The brake system automatically engages when the apparatus is stationary and disengages when pushed, requiring no additional control mechanisms beyond simple manual force application.
2Productivity
If motorized mechanical assistance is used for positioning, then positioning speed is improved, but patient safety and operational simplicity are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The motorized positioning system is completely removed from the apparatus. Instead, rapid positioning is achieved through manual pushing and rolling by the operator, eliminating mechanical complexity and potential failure points while maintaining the ability to quickly move the apparatus into position when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The brake system provides automatic positioning assistance by engaging when the apparatus is stationary and disengaging when pushed, allowing the operator to rapidly move the apparatus without additional control mechanisms. The manual operation provides direct tactile feedback and control, enabling precise positioning while maintaining patient safety.
3Measurement precision
If brake system is added to wheels, then positioning precision is improved, but ease of operation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The brake system is designed to automatically engage when the apparatus is stationary and disengage when pushed or pulled by the operator. This self-activating mechanism provides precise positioning control without requiring additional manual intervention, as the brake responds automatically to the operator's pushing or pulling actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The brake system transitions dynamically between engaged and disengaged states based on the motion state of the apparatus. When the apparatus is stationary, the brake is engaged to maintain precise positioning. When the operator pushes or pulls the apparatus, the brake automatically disengages to allow movement, providing adaptive control without additional complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile x-ray apparatus having wheels for manual transport and an x-ray tube support attached to a base. The apparatus may be rolled by pushing and/or pulling the base, the support, or the x-ray tube. A brake is associated with at least one of the wheels to prevent rolling the apparatus when manually positioning the x-ray tube. The brake may be engaged from an actuator on the tube head, on the support, or on the base.