X-Ray Console Authority Switching by Operator Posture Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The cumbersome operation of switching operating authority between the operation panel and the external operation unit in X-ray imaging apparatuses is a challenge, as described in Patent Literature 1, which necessitates a solution to simplify this process.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray imaging apparatus with an X-ray imaging unit, first and second consoles, operator detection units, and a control unit that switches operating authority based on the posture and gaze information of operators detected by optical cameras, allowing seamless operation without manual button switching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If operating authority is switched by button operation between operation panel and external operation unit, then operating authority can be switched between consoles, but operator's operation becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines which console should have operating authority by detecting operator presence and console usage status, eliminating the need for manual button operations. The authority switching is performed automatically based on detected conditions, making the system self-regulating without requiring operator intervention for authority transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical button operation for authority switching is replaced by an automatic detection system using sensors and control logic. The system detects operator presence and console status electronically and automatically transfers authority based on predetermined conditions, substituting the mechanical interaction with an automated electronic control system.
2Ease of operation
If operating authority is automatically switched based on operator detection, then operation convenience is improved, but unnecessary switching may occur when operator crosses in front of console
Solution Approach 1:
The system requires the operator to be detected in front of the console for a predetermined time period before transferring operating authority. This preliminary detection period ensures that the operator genuinely intends to use the console rather than merely passing by, thereby preventing erroneous authority switching while maintaining automatic operation convenience.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple operators can operate X-ray imaging unit simultaneously, then operational flexibility is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The operating authority is dynamically assigned based on real-time detection of operator presence and console status. The system automatically determines which operator should have authority at any given moment based on current conditions, allowing flexible multi-operator usage without requiring complex manual authority management protocols.
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray imaging apparatus 100 comprises an X-ray imaging unit 10 provided in an X-ray imaging room 92, a first console 20 for the X-ray imaging unit 10 provided in the X-ray imaging room 92, a second console 30 for the X-ray imaging unit 10 provided outside the X-ray imaging room 92, an analysis unit 40 that performs an analysis process on each of first detection information acquired by a first operator detection unit that detects a first operator 90a and second detection information acquired by a second operator detection unit that detects a second operator 90b to acquire first posture information 73 of the first operator 90a and second posture information 76 of the second operator 90b, and a control unit 50 that, based on the first posture information 73 and the second posture information 76, performs control to switch an operating authority 75 for enabling operation of the X-ray imaging unit 10 between the first console 20 and the second console 30.