X-Ray Tube Head Magnetic Brake for Quiet Rotation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile radiography systems face challenges in reducing mechanical noise during the rotation of x-ray tube heads, which can disrupt patient comfort and operator usability.
Innovation Solution
A mobile radiography system featuring a telescoping arm with a polymer magnetic brake assembly and electromagnetic coil assembly that allows quiet and smooth rotation of the x-ray tube head, utilizing neodymium magnets and Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) friction material to minimize noise and wear, and an electromagnetic coil to counteract the magnetic field for controlled rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional mechanical braking systems are used to rotate the x-ray tube head, then the rotation can be controlled, but mechanical impact noise is generated that disrupts patient comfort and operator usability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical braking systems with an electromagnetic braking system. The electromagnetic brake uses magnetic fields generated by electromagnetic coils to apply braking force to the rotor, eliminating mechanical contact and impact noise while maintaining precise rotation control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the control system and the rotor. Electromagnetic coils generate magnetic fields that interact with the rotor to produce braking force without direct mechanical contact, serving as a mediator that eliminates impact noise while maintaining control
2Object-affected harmful factors
If electromagnetic braking is implemented to eliminate mechanical noise, then noise is reduced, but the system complexity increases due to permanent magnets and electromagnetic coil assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the permanent magnet assembly and electromagnetic coil assembly into an integrated brake mechanism. The permanent magnets provide continuous magnetic field for braking force, while the electromagnetic coils provide controllable magnetic field modulation, merging two functions into a unified system that reduces overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic brake assembly serves multiple functions: it provides braking force through permanent magnets, enables controlled rotation through electromagnetic coils, and eliminates mechanical impact noise. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing system complexity
3Ease of operation
If brake pads press against the rotor to prevent rotation, then rotation is controlled, but friction and wear occur between the brake pad and rotor surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct mechanical friction-based braking with electromagnetic braking. The electromagnetic coils generate magnetic fields that interact with the rotor to produce braking force without physical contact between brake pads and rotor, eliminating friction and wear while maintaining rotation control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the braking mechanism and the rotor. This magnetic field mediation enables force transmission and rotation control without direct mechanical contact, thereby eliminating friction and wear between brake pad surfaces and rotor
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
The solution effectively reduces noise and improves the smoothness of the rotation process, enhancing the usability and comfort for both patients and medical technicians by providing a quiet and efficient operation of the x-ray tube head.
Implementation Method 1
A permanent magnet and an electromagnetic coil assembly allows an operator to easily and quietly control rotation of the tube head
Implementation Method 2
an electromagnetic coil is configured to counteract the permanent magnet when the electromagnetic coil is activated
Implementation Method 3
The mount includes a brake pad configured to press against the rotor using a permanent magnet
Implementation Method 4
an electromagnetic coil is configured to counteract the permanent magnet when the electromagnetic coil is activated
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile radiography system includes a wheeled transport frame and a vertical column mounted on the transport frame. A telescoping arm is attached to the vertical column and to an x-ray tube head. The telescoping arm allows an operator to rotate the tube head to a desired orientation and then to fix the tube head in the desired orientation without mechanical impact noise. A permanent magnet and an electromagnetic coil assembly allows an operator to easily and quietly control rotation of the tube head.