X-ray Ink Pen with Radiopaque Fluid for Permanent Marking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for marking objects for X-ray examination are limited, as they do not allow for flexible shaping, are non-permanent, or use toxic materials, and are restricted to specific applications and surfaces.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray ink pen with a reservoir and tip that dispenses a mixture of carrier fluid and X-ray opaque particles, enabling users to draw desired shapes on various surfaces without the limitations of existing methods, using non-toxic and chemically inert materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional marking methods (crayon, stencil, tube) are used, then X-ray opaque markings can be applied, but the markings are limited to pre-fabricated shapes, flat surfaces, or non-permanent applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of the marking material from solid (crayon, stencil) to liquid suspension, enabling freeform writing and drawing on various surfaces. The liquid carrier allows the X-ray opaque particles to be dispensed in any desired shape or pattern, resolving the limitation of pre-fabricated shapes and flat surfaces while maintaining ease of use through a simple pen apparatus
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite material by suspending X-ray opaque particles in a liquid carrier medium. This composite combines the X-ray blocking properties of the particles with the flow and writing characteristics of the liquid carrier, enabling permanent markings on diverse surfaces without the complexity of conventional methods
2Reliability
If lead-based marking materials are used, then X-ray opaque markings are achieved, but toxic materials are used
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameter by replacing toxic lead-based materials with non-toxic alternatives such as bismuth oxide or barium sulfate particles. These alternative materials maintain the required X-ray opaque properties while eliminating the harmful toxicity effects, achieving both reliability for X-ray imaging and safety for human contact applications
3Reliability
If surgical marking methods are used, then X-ray opaque markings are achieved, but only non-permanent markings are possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite material system where X-ray opaque particles are suspended in a liquid carrier that can be applied permanently to surfaces. Unlike surgical markings that are temporary, this liquid suspension can be written on skin or other surfaces and remains permanent, providing both X-ray visibility and long-lasting markings without fading or washing away
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
Enables permanent, flexible marking on diverse surfaces, including electronics and human skin, with X-ray visibility and stability across a wide temperature range, avoiding the use of toxic materials.
Implementation Method 1
particles of an X-Ray opaque material
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a pen. The pen includes a reservoir configured to store a fluid. The pen also includes a tip configured to transfer the fluid from the reservoir onto a surface of an object during writing. The pen further includes a regulator configured to control a flow of the fluid from the reservoir to the tip. The apparatus also includes the fluid stored within the reservoir. The fluid includes a carrier fluid and particles of an X-Ray opaque material.