X-ray tube crane guide with color-coded directional indicators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of x-ray systems face challenges in easily and accurately controlling the movement of the x-ray source in multiple dimensions due to confusion in identifying directional controls, particularly when changing perspectives around the system.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of visually distinguishable markings and color-coding on the control panel and remote controller to match the movement directions, with distinct colors and end-point indicators on the rails and column, allowing operators to intuitively control the x-ray source's movement along the x, y, and z axes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If visual indicators and color-coding are added to control panel and rails, then operator usability and directional accuracy are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color-coding to visual indicators on the control panel and corresponding markings on the rails. Each direction of movement is assigned a specific color that matches between the control interface and the physical rail system, enabling operators to quickly and accurately identify movement directions without confusion, thus improving ease of operation while adding minimal complexity through simple visual markings.
2Reliability
If matching visual indicators are placed on both control panel and rails, then directional confusion is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements matching visual indicators with consistent color-coding across control panel buttons and rail markings. This reliability enhancement through standardized visual correspondence helps operators accurately identify movement directions, while the manufacturing complexity is managed by using simple, standardized visual elements that can be easily applied during system installation.
3Measurement precision
If end-point indicators are added to rails, then operator awareness of movement limits is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds visual indicators at the end-points of rails that match the color-coding scheme used for directional indicators. These end-point markers provide operators with clear visual feedback about movement limits and terminal positions, enhancing position awareness accuracy. The implementation uses simple visual markings rather than complex mechanical or electronic systems, thereby minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An x-ray system mounted on a surface includes a movable x-ray source and a mechanism for moving the x-ray source in at least two transverse directions. The two transverse directions are marked by visually distinguishable indicators. A control panel controls movement of the x-ray source along the transverse directions and includes corresponding markings on control buttons matching the visually distinguishable indicators.