X-ray Apparatus Automated C-arm Top Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray diagnostic apparatuses face challenges in aligning portable C-arms and tops efficiently, leading to manual and time-consuming positioning processes, especially when these components are not associated with each other.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a system that includes a position specifying circuitry and control circuitry to automatically align the C-arm and top gantries using GPS, ultrasonic systems, and camera imaging, allowing for precise positioning and angle control through wireless communication and coordinated movement control units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual positioning operation is used to move the C-arm and top, then the position can be adjusted, but a long time is taken and the process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning operations with an automated control system that uses sensors to detect the positions of the C-arm and top, processes this information through a control unit, and automatically generates positioning instructions. This substitution eliminates the need for time-consuming manual adjustment while maintaining precise positioning capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service positioning by automatically detecting the current positions of the C-arm and top using sensors, comparing them with target positions, and autonomously generating the necessary positioning instructions without requiring continuous manual intervention. The apparatus positions itself based on its own sensor feedback.
2Adaptability or versatility
If portable C-arm and top are used without association, then mobility is improved, but the auto-positioning function cannot be executed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an association mechanism as an intermediary between the portable C-arm and top. This association is established through position detection sensors that monitor both components and a control unit that processes their positional relationship. This intermediary enables the auto-positioning function to work with portable, unassociated components by creating a logical connection through information processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it detects positions using sensors, processes positional information, generates positioning instructions, and enables auto-positioning. This multi-functional approach allows the system to maintain portability while achieving automated positioning capabilities that would otherwise require fixed, associated components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the position of the C-arm and top are not associated, then portability and independence are maintained, but precise alignment with imaging position becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where position detection sensors continuously monitor the actual positions of the C-arm and top, feed this information to the control unit, which then compares it with target positions and generates corrective positioning instructions. This closed-loop feedback system ensures precise alignment even when the components are independent and portable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces mechanical association mechanisms with an information-based association system. Instead of physically linking the C-arm and top to maintain positional relationships, the patent uses sensors and control units to detect, process, and coordinate their positions independently, achieving precise alignment through information processing rather than mechanical connection.
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to one embodiment comprises an X-ray tube, an X-ray detector, a holding mechanism, position specifying circuitry and control circuitry. The X-ray detector detects the X-ray which has been generated by the X-ray tube and has passed through an object placed on a top of a bed movable in an examination room. The holding mechanism holds the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector, and movable in the examination room. The position specifying circuitry specifies a position of the holding mechanism in the examination room and a position of the bed in the examination room. The control circuitry controls the holding mechanism in order to change a position and angle of the holding mechanism based on the position of the holding mechanism and the position of the bed.