X-ray Imaging Projector-Collimator Independent Beam Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

The adjustment of the light beam position in X-ray imaging apparatuses is difficult and lacks accuracy due to the correlation of light beam position changes with the movement of multiple mirrors, especially when considering the frame line and strain of the light beam.

Innovation Solution

An X-ray imaging apparatus with a projector-collimator that includes a first reflecting section outside the irradiation field producing a first luminous flux orthogonal to the X-ray direction, and a second reflecting section within the orthogonal plane to produce a light beam, allowing independent adjustment of the light beam position through movement and rotation of the mirrors without changing their inclination.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple mirrors are used to guide the light beam through the projector-collimator, then the light beam can be directed to the X-ray irradiation field, but the adjustment of the light beam position becomes difficult and inaccurate because the position changes are correlated with all mirrors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight beam position accuracyVSAvoidadjustment difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the adjustment system into two independent segments: the first reflecting section (with first and second mirrors) controls positioning in one direction, while the second reflecting section (with third and fourth mirrors) controls positioning in the orthogonal direction. This segmentation decouples the adjustment variables, allowing independent control of light beam position without correlation between mirror movements, thereby improving both accuracy and ease of operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces orthogonal adjustment dimensions by arranging mirror pairs to control light beam displacement in perpendicular directions. The first mirror pair adjusts position along one axis while the second mirror pair adjusts along the orthogonal axis, transforming a coupled multi-dimensional adjustment problem into independent one-dimensional adjustments, which resolves the correlation issue and improves adjustability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the light beam is adjusted by moving multiple mirrors simultaneously, then the light beam position can be changed, but the complexity of coordination increases making accurate alignment difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition adjustment rangeVSAvoidmirror coordination complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustment mechanism is segmented into independent control groups where each mirror pair operates autonomously in its designated direction. This eliminates the need for coordinated movement of all mirrors simultaneously, reducing operational complexity while maintaining full positional adaptability across the irradiation field

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each mirror pair serves multiple functions: positioning the light beam in its specific direction, maintaining beam orientation, and working independently of other mirror pairs. This multi-functionality within segmented units simplifies the overall system complexity while preserving comprehensive adjustment capability

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

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

Facilitates easy and accurate adjustment of the light beam irradiation position on the subject, improving the precision and ease of alignment within the X-ray irradiation field.

Implementation Method 1

a first reflecting section which is positioned outside the irradiation field, produces a first luminous flux in an orthogonal direction orthogonal to the X-ray radiating direction, and reflects the first luminous flux within an orthogonal plane orthogonal to the orthogonal direction to produce a second luminous flux

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

a second reflecting section which reflects the second luminous flux in the direction of the irradiation field within the orthogonal plane to produce of third luminous flux

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 3

and reflects the third luminous flux in the X-ray radiating direction inside the irradiation field within the orthogonal plane to produce the light beam

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS7382866B2X-ray imaging apparatus
Publication Date: 2008.06.03 GE MEDICAL SYSTEMS GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY CO LLC
  • US7382866B2 patent drawing
  • US7382866B2 patent drawing
  • US7382866B2 patent drawing

AI summary

With a view to providing an X-ray imaging apparatus having a projector-collimator capable of adjusting an irradiation position of a light beam easily and accurately, a first luminous flux is made a luminous flux present within an orthogonal plate orthogonal to a y-axis direction which is an orthogonal direction and a second luminous flux present within the orthogonal plane is reflected and moved within the orthogonal plane to produce a light beam. Consequently, an irradiation position of the light beam over a subject can be adjusted in an independent manner by movement Δy in the orthogonal direction with use of a first screw and movement Δx within the orthogonal plane with use of a second crew. As a result, adjustment of an X-ray irradiation field position by an operator can be effected not only easily but also with a high accuracy.