X-ray Fluoroscopic Imaging C-Arm Memory Switch Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional X-ray fluoroscopic imaging apparatuses face challenges with a large number of memory switches required for storing multiple rotation positions, leading to operational difficulties due to limited space on the operation board and the need for smaller, yet operable, memory switches.

Innovation Solution

The apparatus incorporates a support mechanism with orthogonal rotation axes, a rotation position detection element, and a memory system where each memory switch stores multiple rotation positions, allowing for intuitive display and selection of rotation positions, reducing the number of physical switches and enhancing auto-positioning efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If the number of memory switches is increased to store more rotation positions, then the storage capacity is improved, but the operation board space is exceeded and operability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of rotation positions storedVSAvoidoperability of memory switches
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Each memory switch is designed to store multiple rotation positions (first through fourth positions) simultaneously, making the memory switch multi-functional. This allows a limited number of physical switches to handle a large number of rotation positions, resolving the contradiction between storage capacity and operability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a temporal dimension to memory switch operation by enabling sequential selection of multiple rotation positions stored in each switch. This transforms the spatial limitation (number of physical switches) into a time-based solution where multiple positions are accessed sequentially from each switch, effectively increasing storage capacity without adding physical switches

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Area of stationary object

If the size of memory switches is reduced to fit more on the operation board, then the space utilization is improved, but the operability of switches deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation board spaceVSAvoidoperability of memory switches
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Each memory switch handles multiple rotation positions (up to four positions), reducing the total number of switches needed. This allows sufficient spacing between fewer, larger switches on the operation board, maintaining both space efficiency and operability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent adds a sequential selection mechanism that allows operators to access multiple rotation positions from each switch over time. This temporal dimension reduces the need for numerous small switches, allowing larger, more operable switches to be used while still providing comprehensive rotation position control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Quantity of substance

If the number of memory switches is increased to store rotation positions for multiple subjects, then the storage capacity is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of rotation positions storedVSAvoidcomplexity of memory switch system
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each memory switch is designed to store and manage multiple rotation positions (first through fourth positions) universally, regardless of which subject is being examined. This universal design reduces the total number of switches needed across multiple subjects, decreasing device complexity while maintaining high storage capacity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The sequential selection mechanism allows the same set of memory switches to serve multiple subjects by accessing different stored positions at different times. This temporal reuse of switches eliminates the need for separate switch sets for each subject, significantly reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to store positions for many subjects

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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

This configuration enables efficient storage and display of multiple rotation positions with fewer memory switches, reducing the time needed for auto-positioning and minimizing errors, while allowing for easy reproduction of X-ray imaging conditions and automatic erasure of stored information after each examination.

Implementation Method 1

a rotation position detection element that detects information related to a rotation direction and a rotation angle around the respective axes of said support mechanism as a rotation position information

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRotation detection:

Implementation Method 2

a rotation position memory storage element that stores said rotation position information in correspondence with any of said memory switches

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDigital memory storage:

Implementation Method 3

an X-ray tube that irradiates an X-ray to a subject; an X-ray detector that is in place to face the X-ray tube and detects the X-ray transmitting the subject

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray generation: X-Ray

Data Source

PatentUS11944478B2X-ray fluoroscopic imaging apparatus
Publication Date: 2024.04.02 SHIMADZU CORP
  • US11944478B2 patent drawing
  • US11944478B2 patent drawing
  • US11944478B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An X-ray fluoroscopic imaging apparatus reduces the number of memory switches and performs an auto-positioning for a larger number of rotation positions. The apparatus includes a C-arm 9 supporting the X-ray tube 5 and the X-ray detector 7 face to be rotatable around two axes orthogonal to each other. A rotation position memory storage element 61 stores the rotation position information of the C-arm 9 in correspondence with any of memory switches 55; and a touch panel 43 displays the rotation position information stored in correspondence with selected memory switches 55. The rotation position memory storage element 61 stores a plurality of rotation position information corresponding to the respective memory switches 55, and the touch panel 43 displays any of the plurality of rotation position information stored in correspondence with the memory switches 55 in a predetermined display manner.