X-ray detector module pin-and-hole alignment mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray detector modules in CT apparatuses have low serviceability due to the need to remove a douser to replace modules, which complicates maintenance and assembly.
Innovation Solution
The X-ray detector design includes a supporter with flanges that attach to frames independently, allowing modules to be replaced without removing the douser, using a pin-and-hole mechanism to restrict movement and ensure accurate alignment, enabling easy attachment and removal from the side.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If each X-ray detector module is fixed to the frame by accessing from the side of the detection surface, then the module can be securely mounted and aligned, but the douser must be removed to replace modules which reduces serviceability
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the X-ray detector module into separable components: the detector module itself and the douser. The douser is detached from the module and integrated directly into the frame structure. This segmentation allows the detector module to be replaced independently without removing the douser, thereby improving serviceability while maintaining secure mounting through the pin-and-hole mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces pins and holes as intermediary elements between the frame and the detector module support structure. These pins insert into holes to restrict movement in specific directions, providing secure mounting and precise alignment without requiring access from the detection surface side or removal of the douser.
2Device complexity
If the douser is integrated with the detector module, then the structure is simplified, but the douser must be removed for module replacement which increases maintenance time
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the douser from the detector module, integrating it directly into the frame structure instead. This allows the detector module to be replaced independently without disturbing the douser, significantly reducing maintenance time while the overall structure remains relatively simple through this functional separation.
3Manufacturing precision
If the pin-and-hole mechanism is used to restrict supporter movement, then accurate alignment is ensured, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pins and holes serve as simple intermediary elements that provide precise alignment and movement restriction. The pins insert into corresponding holes to constrain the supporter's position, ensuring accurate alignment of detector modules without requiring complex fixing mechanisms. The simplicity of this mechanical constraint system keeps the overall device complexity low.
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray detector according to one embodiment includes X-ray detector modules, and a frame. Each X-ray detector module has a detection surface on which detection elements configured to detect X-rays are arrayed, and a supporter configured to support the detection elements. The frame fixes positions of the X-ray detector modules in such a manner that the detection surfaces of the X-ray detector modules are aligned along a first direction. The frame is provided with a pin protruding toward the supporter, at a position to which the supporter is fixed. The supporter is provided with a hole through which and into which the pin is inserted and fitted, at a position facing the frame. A movement of the supporter in the first direction is restricted by fitting the pin provided to the frame into the hole provided to the supporter, when the supporter is attached to the frame.