X-ray Component Positioning via Automated Braking Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing X-ray systems require manual mechanical adjustment of detent positions for components like X-ray sources and detectors, which is cumbersome and lacks flexibility in positioning.

Innovation Solution

A system with a position-ascertaining device, braking device, and control unit that automatically detects and adjusts the position of X-ray components using sensors and a drive mechanism, allowing for precise and flexible positioning without manual intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If manual mechanical adjustment of detent positions is used, then the system structure remains simple, but the positioning precision and flexibility are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning precisionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an automated control system comprising position-ascertaining devices (sensors), control units, and braking devices. This substitution eliminates the need for manual detent adjustment while achieving precise positioning through automated feedback control, directly resolving the contradiction between positioning precision and system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-positioning through automated detection and adjustment. The position-ascertaining device continuously monitors component positions, and the control unit automatically activates braking devices to maintain optimal positioning without requiring manual intervention, thereby improving precision while keeping operational complexity low.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If manual adjustment of detent positions is required, then the device structure is simpler, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of positioningVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Manual mechanical adjustment is replaced with an automated system that uses position sensors and control units to detect and adjust component positions automatically. This eliminates the need for operators to manually adjust detents, significantly improving ease of operation despite the increased electronic system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates position-ascertaining devices that provide continuous feedback to the control unit about component positions. The control unit processes this feedback and automatically activates braking devices to maintain optimal positioning, creating a closed-loop control system that simplifies operation while achieving precise positioning automatically.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If fixed detent positions are used, then the device structure is simpler, but the adaptability for different examinations deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning flexibilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from fixed detent positions to dynamic, programmable stop positions. The control unit can be programmed with different stop positions for various examination types, allowing the system to adapt to different medical procedures. This dynamic positioning capability significantly improves versatility while the programmable nature keeps the system manageable despite increased complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The automated positioning system serves multiple examination types through programmable stop positions. A single system can be configured for different examination requirements by loading appropriate position parameters into the control unit, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated systems and thereby improving adaptability without proportionally increasing physical complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Speed

If automated positioning with sensors and braking devices is implemented, then positioning precision and speed improve, but mechanical wear increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning speedVSAvoidmechanical wear
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces continuous mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an automated system that uses electronic sensing and controlled braking. Positioning is achieved through precise electronic control rather than continuous mechanical engagement, significantly reducing mechanical wear while enabling rapid positioning through automated actuation of braking devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The braking devices are activated periodically or intermittently only when positioning adjustments are needed, rather than maintaining continuous mechanical engagement. This periodic activation reduces cumulative mechanical wear while still achieving rapid positioning when required, balancing speed improvement with wear reduction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 rapid, accurate, and flexible positioning of X-ray components, allowing for easy adjustment of stop positions and reduced wear on braking devices, enhancing the efficiency and usability of X-ray diagnosis systems.

Implementation Method 1

a position-ascertaining device (60) that ascertains a position of the component

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSensor detection:

Implementation Method 2

a braking device (70) that brakes the movable component

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction braking: Friction

Implementation Method 3

with optional wireless communication and electromagnetic braking for secure fixation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic braking: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS7441952B2Method and system for X-ray diagnosis of an examination object
Publication Date: 2008.10.28 SIEMENS HEALTHINEERS AG
  • US7441952B2 patent drawing
  • US7441952B2 patent drawing
  • US7441952B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method for X-ray diagnosis of an examination object is provided. The system includes a component that is movable relative to a stretcher for the examination object and at least one predeterminable set stop position for the component. A position ascertaining device is operative to ascertain a position of the component. A braking device is operative to brake the movable component. A control unit is connected to the position-ascertaining device and to the braking device. The braking device is activatable as a function of the position of the component relative to the stop position.