X-ray Tube Latching Mechanism Decoupling Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional x-ray imaging systems face complexity in manufacturing tolerance control and installation due to coupled alignment requirements for vertical and horizontal x-ray projections, leading to inaccuracies in positioning the x-ray tube assembly.
Innovation Solution
A latching mechanism with a rotary plate and spring-loaded latches allows the x-ray tube assembly to be rotated between vertical and horizontal positions, decoupling the alignment of the first and second positions, and fine-tuning the latch positions to simplify the alignment process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single latching mechanism with multiple notches is used to lock the x-ray tube assembly in multiple positions, then the device can achieve multiple positioning functions, but the alignment accuracy deteriorates due to cumulative manufacturing tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single latching mechanism into multiple independent latching mechanisms (first latching mechanism for vertical position, second latching mechanism for horizontal position). Each mechanism independently controls one positioning function, eliminating the cumulative tolerance problem that would occur in a single multi-notch mechanism. This segmentation allows each latch to be precisely aligned without being affected by tolerances from other positions.
2Ease of operation
If multiple notches are provided on a single rotary plate for different positions, then the x-ray tube assembly can be locked in multiple orientations, but the alignment process becomes more complex due to coupled tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the positioning system into independent vertical and horizontal positioning subsystems, each with its own latching mechanism. This allows alignment of each subsystem to be performed separately and independently, reducing the complexity of coupled alignment procedures while maintaining the ability to switch between multiple orientations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the latching mechanism adjustable and movable during the alignment process. The latching mechanism can be moved to different positions for fine-tuning alignment, and the system provides adjustable alignment marks that can be repositioned. This dynamic adjustability simplifies the alignment process by allowing iterative refinement rather than requiring perfect initial positioning.
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 simplifies the alignment and installation of x-ray imaging systems by allowing separate adjustments for vertical and horizontal positions, reducing the impact of manufacturing tolerances and improving the accuracy of x-ray projections.
Implementation Method 1
a first spring-loaded latch and a second spring-loaded latch which are fixed on the supporting part, the first spring-loaded latch and the second spring-loaded latch being disposed diametrically and adjacent the rotary plate, the first spring-loaded latch being configured to be pressed removably into the first receiving portion to lock the x-ray tube assembly in a first position
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The present invention provides a latching mechanism for an x-ray tube assembly comprising a rotary plate, a first spring-loaded latch and a second spring-loaded latch which are disposed diametrically. The rotary plate comprises a first receiving portion and a second receiving portion spaced from each other by 90°. The first spring-loaded latch configured to be pressed removably into the first receiving portion to lock the x-ray tube assembly in a first position and the second spring-loaded latch is configured to be pressed removably into the second receiving portion to lock the x-ray tube assembly in a second position. According to the present invention, it is possible tomake manufacturing tolerance control and assembly of the x-ray imaging system much simpler and easier.