X-ray Imaging Unit with Pivoting Joint for Weight Balance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Panoramic/Cephalometric/Computed Tomography (CT) combination units are costly and bulky, leading to image quality issues due to wobbling during imaging caused by uneven weight distribution and requiring complex movements for different imaging modes.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray imaging unit with a rotating part supported by an upper shelf attached to a column with a pivoting joint, allowing linear and pivot movements to synchronize the rotation axis with the center of gravity, reducing torque and enabling efficient positioning for Panoramic, CT, and Cephalometric imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed joint is used to attach the upper shelf to the column, then the structure is simple, but the unit cannot adapt to different patient heights and imaging modes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by replacing the fixed joint with a pivoting joint that enables dynamic adjustment of the upper shelf angle. This allows the rotation axis to be repositioned vertically to match different patient heights and imaging requirements, transforming a static structure into an adaptable one without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The pivoting joint provides multi-functionality by enabling the same mechanical structure to serve multiple imaging modes (Panoramic, Cephalometric, CBCT) and accommodate various patient heights through angle adjustment, eliminating the need for separate fixed configurations for each mode
2Adaptability or versatility
If the rotation axis is fixed, then the structure is stable, but the unit cannot perform offset scanning and symmetrical scanning in CBCT imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation axis positioning mechanism employs dynamic adjustment capabilities, allowing the rotation axis to be moved horizontally along the upper shelf. This enables switching between offset scanning and symmetrical scanning modes in CBCT imaging while maintaining structural stability through controlled mechanical movement rather than multiple fixed positions
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning mechanism is segmented into independent adjustment components: horizontal movement along the upper shelf and vertical positioning via the pivoting joint. This segmentation allows flexible combination of movements to achieve different scanning modes without requiring a completely complex reconfiguration system
3Stability of the object's composition
If heavy components are concentrated in one location, then the structure is simpler, but wobbling occurs during imaging due to uneven weight distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies counterweight principles by positioning heavy components (X-ray source and detector) symmetrically on opposite sides of the rotation axis. This creates a balanced weight distribution that prevents wobbling during rotation while maintaining a relatively simple structural design without requiring active balancing mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
While the overall weight distribution aims for symmetry, the patent strategically places the pivoting joint and control mechanisms asymmetrically to optimize accessibility and control. The asymmetric placement of control elements does not compromise imaging stability because the heavy imaging components remain balanced
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple detectors are used for different imaging modes, then imaging versatility is improved, but the device becomes more complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The detector unit is designed with multi-functionality to perform multiple imaging modes (Panoramic, Cephalometric, CBCT) using the same physical detector. The detector can be repositioned and reconfigured through the movable mounting mechanism, eliminating the need for separate dedicated detectors for each imaging mode while maintaining versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The detector mounting mechanism provides dynamic repositioning capabilities, allowing the single detector to be moved to different positions and orientations required for various imaging modes. This dynamic flexibility replaces the need for multiple static detectors, reducing complexity while preserving imaging versatility
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 results in a more compact, cost-effective imaging unit with improved image quality by stabilizing the rotating part and simplifying movements between imaging modes, reducing manual effort and time required for workflow changes.
Implementation Method 1
The upper shelf is configured to enable the rotating part to move with respect to the upper shelf by means of a linear movement and to be attached to a column with a pivoting joint for enabling a pivot movement (P) of the upper shelf around the column
Implementation Method 2
The upper shelf is configured to enable the rotating part to move with respect to the upper shelf by means of a linear movement
Data Source
AI summary
The application relates to an X-ray imaging unit for a medical imaging. The unit includes a rotating part with a first X-ray source and an X-ray imaging detector unit configured to provide an image with at least a rotational movement (R) around a rotation axis of the rotating part. The unit includes an upper shelf configured to enable the rotating part to move with respect to the upper shelf with a linear movement (L) and to be attached to a column with a pivoting joint for enabling a pivot movement (P) of the upper shelf around the column. The rotating part is configured to be positioned by the linear movement and the pivot movement during the imaging.