X-ray Filter Mechanism for Spectrum Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray imaging apparatuses face limitations in achieving fine spectrum adjustments over a wide range due to complex and costly mechanisms, such as the use of multiple cams and rotating discs, which result in high stress, large size, and increased complexity.
Innovation Solution
A filter system with two or three filter plates, supported by rails and driven by a single driving wheel with cams having groove curves, allows for precise adjustment of X-ray energy spectra by rotating the cams to move the filter plates into or out of the X-ray path, reducing the number of driving systems and simplifying the structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple filter plates are switched by a rotating disc to adjust energy spectrum, then the adjustment range is widened, but the device complexity and size increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The filter system is divided into multiple independent filter plates that can be selectively positioned. Each filter plate can be independently controlled by separate driving mechanisms, allowing the system to achieve multiple spectrum adjustments without requiring a single complex rotating disc structure. This segmentation enables modular assembly and simpler control.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter plates are designed to be dynamically positionable through controlled movement along guide rails. The system transitions from a static rotating disc configuration to a dynamic linear movement system where filter plates can be inserted and removed as needed, providing flexibility without increasing overall structural complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple cams are used to drive filter plates for fine spectrum adjustment, then the adjustment precision is improved, but the cam structure becomes complex and stressed
Solution Approach 1:
The driving mechanism is segmented into multiple independent cam units, each responsible for driving a specific filter plate. This segmentation allows each cam to have a simpler, more manageable structure compared to a single complex multi-functional cam. Each cam operates independently with its own groove curve, reducing the stress and complexity accumulation that would occur in a multi-cam system.
Solution Approach 2:
Link levers are introduced as intermediary components between the cams and the filter plates. The link levers with pins cooperate with the groove curves of the cams to translate rotational motion into precise linear movement of the filter plates. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the direct cam-to-filter-plate connection, reducing stress on the cams and allowing for more precise positioning.
3Adaptability or versatility
If more driving systems are used to drive multiple filter plates, then the spectrum adjustment capability is improved, but the cost and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The guide rail structure serves multiple functions: it guides the filter plates during insertion and removal, provides a mounting surface for the link levers, and enables synchronized movement of multiple filter plates. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate driving systems for each filter plate, as the guide rail infrastructure can accommodate multiple driven components.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple filter plates are merged into a single laminated structure that moves together as one unit. The link levers and guide rails are shared across multiple filter plates, consolidating what would otherwise require separate driving systems into a unified mechanism. This merging approach maintains the ability to adjust multiple spectrum components while reducing the overall number of driving systems needed.
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 solution enables fine spectrum adjustments over a wide range with a simple, cost-effective, and reliable mechanism, reducing the complexity and size of the system while improving the accuracy and reliability of filter plate positioning.
Implementation Method 1
two cams which are respectively provided with a groove curve on a surface thereof; and a driving wheel for driving the cams contacted with it
Implementation Method 2
each link lever being provided with a pin which is in cooperation with the groove curve of the corresponding cam so that the link lever proceeds with a reciprocating movement according to rotation of the corresponding cam
Implementation Method 3
at least two filter plates for adjusting X-ray energy spectrum
Implementation Method 4
The filter is provided with a collimator box attached to an X-ray tube. In order to obtain desired spectrum, the filter can be used by switching multiple filter plates
Data Source
AI summary
A filter includes a plurality of filter plates for adjusting X-ray energy spectrum, a plurality of rails for fixedly supporting the filter plates, a plurality of cams which are respectively provided with a groove curve on a surface thereof, a driving wheel for driving the cams, and a plurality of link levers, each link lever being connected to one of the filter plates at one end and being mounted to an axis at an opposite end such that the link lever is rotatable about the axis, and each link lever being provided with a pin which is in cooperation with the groove curve of the corresponding cam so that the link lever proceeds with a reciprocating movement according to rotation of the corresponding cam to move the filter connected to it into or out of the X-ray passing space. The plurality of cams are respectively located at different sides of the driving wheel to move the filter plates into the X-ray passing space from different directions.