X-Ray Power Source Selector Adapts to Voltage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile x-ray imaging systems face challenges in adapting to varying power sources and preventing overdrawn power, particularly in locations where 208 VAC outlets are not readily available, necessitating flexible power management to ensure efficient operation across different voltage conditions.
Innovation Solution
A power source selector system with a power module that senses electrical signals from multiple power sources, routes power through switches, and communicates feature lockout signals to manage power consumption, allowing the system to operate within the capacity of available power sources by selectively enabling or disabling components based on the detected voltage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the system is designed to operate from a 208 VAC supply to provide more power, then the power capacity is improved, but the ease of installation and availability of outlets deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its operation based on the detected power source characteristics. The control module detects whether 208 VAC or 115 VAC is available and automatically adjusts system configuration, enabling the same equipment to be installed in locations with either voltage type without requiring fixed design decisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes its operational parameters based on the detected power source. When 115 VAC is detected instead of 208 VAC, the control module modifies power distribution, limits high-power component operation, and adjusts system performance to match the available power capacity, allowing flexible deployment across different electrical infrastructures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the system automatically adapts to different power sources, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-detection and self-configuration when connected to a power source. The control module automatically detects the voltage type (208 VAC or 115 VAC) and configures appropriate operational parameters without requiring manual intervention or complex user setup procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the power source characteristics through detection circuits and uses this feedback to adjust its operation. The control module receives feedback about available power capacity and dynamically configures system components accordingly, maintaining optimal operation across different electrical environments.
Data Source
AI summary
Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a method for providing power to an x-ray imaging system including: sensing an electrical signal from a second power source; and routing the electrical signal from the second power source through at least one switch to an x-ray imaging system in response to the sensing an electrical signal from the second power source, wherein the at least one switch is capable of routing an electrical signal from at least one of: a first power source and the second power source. In an embodiment, the method further includes communicating a feature lockout signal to the x-ray imaging system in response to the sensing the electrical signal from the second power source. In an embodiment, the method further includes detecting the status of a safety sensor before routing the electrical signal from the second power source through the at least one switch.