X-ray Radiator Alignment via Angle Sensor Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing X-ray apparatuses face challenges in aligning the X-ray radiator with the detector efficiently, which affects the quality and accuracy of X-ray images due to variations in the inclination and rotation of the detector and radiator.

Innovation Solution

An X-ray apparatus with a driving controller that acquires angle information to determine the rotation angle and direction for aligning the X-ray radiator with the detector, using a Controller Area Network (CAN) for communication and displaying alignment information on an output unit, allowing for precise alignment while maintaining Source to Image-receptor Distance (SID) or Source to Object Distance (SOD).

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual alignment methods are used for the X-ray radiator and detector, then the device complexity is reduced, but the alignment precision and image quality deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment precisionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs angle sensors to detect the inclination angles of both the X-ray detector and radiator, feeds this information to a driving controller, and automatically adjusts the radiator's rotation angle to achieve precise alignment. This closed-loop feedback mechanism resolves the contradiction by automating the alignment process while maintaining high precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-alignment by automatically calculating the required rotation angle based on detected inclination angles and executing the adjustment without external intervention. The driving controller autonomously determines the rotation angle and direction, enabling the system to self-correct alignment deviations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If the X-ray detector is rotated to adapt to different examination positions, then the adaptability is improved, but the alignment accuracy with the radiator deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidalignment accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts the radiator's rotation angle based on the detector's current inclination angle. As the detector rotates to different positions, the system continuously updates the alignment parameters and rotates the radiator accordingly, maintaining accurate alignment throughout the range of motion rather than being fixed at a single position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the rotation angle parameter of the radiator in response to changes in the detector's inclination angle. By dynamically modifying this parameter based on real-time sensor data, the system maintains optimal alignment across various examination positions and orientations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Manufacturing precision

If automated alignment control is implemented, then the alignment precision is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment precisionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces manual mechanical alignment operations with an automated control system that uses angle sensors, a driving controller, and motorized rotation. This substitution of mechanical manual adjustment with automated electromechanical control achieves higher precision while managing complexity through integrated control architecture.

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

Data Source

PatentUS10098609B2X ray apparatus and method of operating the same
Publication Date: 2018.10.16 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US10098609B2 patent drawing
  • US10098609B2 patent drawing
  • US10098609B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An X-ray apparatus which aligns an X-ray radiator with an X-ray detector, an X-ray apparatus which aligns an X-ray radiator with an X-ray detector while maintaining a Source to Image-receptor Distance (SID) and a Source to Object Distance (SOD) therebetween, and methods of operating the X-ray apparatuses are provided.