Mobile X-ray Unit Light Source Indicator for Beam Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile X-ray units face challenges in delineating the X-ray beam emitted from the applicator and aligning it with the target region on a patient, leading to potential inaccuracies in treatment.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a light source indicator that provides a visual representation of the X-ray beam's geometry, either within or around the X-ray applicator, to clearly delineate the beam's area and axis, ensuring precise alignment with the target region.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If an indicator is provided to delineate the X-ray beam, then treatment precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A light source is introduced as an intermediary element to visually indicate the X-ray beam geometry and central axis. This mediator allows operators to see the beam path without adding complex mechanical or electronic beam shaping mechanisms, thereby improving alignment precision while maintaining relatively simple device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs light sources that emit visible light to delineate the invisible X-ray beam. By using optical indicators (colorful light) to represent the beam geometry and central axis, the system achieves precise visual alignment without requiring complex detection or measurement systems.
2Loss of information
If the light source is arranged inside the X-ray applicator, then beam geometry visualization is improved, but ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The light source creates a visible light copy or representation of the invisible X-ray beam geometry. By projecting light through or around the applicator to match the beam's central axis and field shape, operators can visually align the treatment area without needing to interpret complex technical parameters or adjust multiple controls.
3Ease of operation
If the light source is arranged around the X-ray applicator, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The externally arranged light source acts as a mediator that projects visual indicators (such as laser lines or illuminated fields) to represent the beam geometry. This allows operators to easily align the applicator by matching visible light patterns with anatomical landmarks, achieving both operational simplicity and adequate alignment precision for clinical purposes.
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 enhances treatment efficacy by allowing for accurate alignment of the X-ray beam with the target region, reducing human error and improving the precision of radiation delivery.
Implementation Method 1
The indicator may include a light source configured to emit light providing a visual indication of at least a portion of an X-ray beam
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the present disclosure is directed to a mobile X-ray unit. The mobile X-ray unit may include a base having a control unit and a power supply. The mobile X-ray unit may further include an articulated arm associated with the base. The articulated arm may be coupled to an X-ray applicator having an X-ray tube. The X-ray tube may include a target for generating an X-ray beam, a collimator for shaping the X-ray beam, and an exit surface through which the X-ray beam is configured to exit the X-ray tube. The mobile X-ray unit may have at least one light source configured to illuminate at least a portion of the X-ray beam emitted from the exit surface.