Lifting Device for X-Ray Compression Paddle

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional X-ray imaging apparatuses face challenges in quickly releasing compression paddle pressure during power failures or unstable power supplies, and struggle to precisely adjust compression force based on individual patient biometrics, leading to patient discomfort and suboptimal image quality.

Innovation Solution

A lifting device for the compression paddle, comprising a driving unit, lifting pulley, and gear assemblies, allowing manual rotation and precise control of the compression force, enabling quick release during emergencies and adjustment based on patient-specific needs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If an electromagnetic clutch is used to release compression during power failure, then compression can be released in complete power interruption, but it fails to release compression during unstable power supply conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompression release reliabilityVSAvoidpower supply condition adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The lifting device segments the power supply dependency by introducing a dual-mode operation: motor-driven lifting for normal operation and manual cranking for emergency release. This segmentation allows the system to function reliably across different power supply conditions by separating the lifting function from the release function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The manual cranking mechanism enables the system to service itself during power failures or unstable conditions. The operator can directly crank the lifting pulley to release compression without relying on external power supply or electromagnetic clutch functionality, making the system self-sufficient in emergency conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Device complexity

If compression force is determined by predetermined manual value or repulsive force detection, then the control system is simple, but patient discomfort increases due to inability to accommodate individual biometric variations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol system complexityVSAvoidpatient comfort
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The lifting device transforms the static compression force determination into a dynamic, adjustable parameter. The manual cranking mechanism allows real-time adjustment of compression force based on patient response and biometric characteristics, enabling the system to adapt to individual needs while maintaining simple hardware architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Device complexity

If uniform compression force is applied to all patients, then the control system is simple, but image quality deteriorates when patient movement occurs due to pain

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompression control complexityVSAvoidimage quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The device enables dynamic adjustment of compression force during the imaging process. If patient movement is detected or pain is indicated, the operator can manually crank the lifting pulley to reduce compression force, thereby maintaining patient stillness and ensuring high-quality imaging without requiring complex automated control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Reliability

If quick release mechanism is added for emergency situations, then compression can be released during power failure, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveemergency release capabilityVSAvoidlifting device complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lifting device merges the emergency release function with the normal lifting mechanism. The manual cranking capability is integrated into the existing lifting pulley system, allowing the same mechanical structure to serve both lifting and emergency release functions, thereby minimizing additional complexity while ensuring reliable emergency release.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 quick manual release of compression during power failures or unstable power, and precise adjustment of compression force, reducing patient discomfort and improving image quality by accommodating individual biometric variations.

Implementation Method 1

a lifting pulley configured to be manually rotated and engaged with the lifting belt

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Data Source

PatentUS10631809B2Lifting device for compression paddle and X-ray imaging apparatus including the same
Publication Date: 2020.04.28 RAYENCE
  • US10631809B2 patent drawing
  • US10631809B2 patent drawing
  • US10631809B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a lifting apparatus for a pressure paddle, the lifting apparatus for the pressure paddle comprising: a lifting belt rotated by a driving means; a lifting pulley manually rotated by the lifting belt hung thereon; a lifting frame on which the lifting pulley is mounted; and a pressure paddle mounted on the lifting frame.