X-Ray Shielding Assembly With Standoff Datum Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray shielding devices using lead face challenges due to its toxicity, softness, and heaviness, leading to gaps that increase X-ray leakage and require cumbersome assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A datum structure with standoffs and brackets provides precise alignment and sealing of gaps between lead panels, using laminates and additional shielding to support the frame without lead, ensuring efficient X-ray containment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If lead panels are used for X-ray shielding, then X-ray attenuation is improved, but assembly precision deteriorates due to lead's softness requiring iterative assembly processes
Solution Approach 1:
A datum structure comprising rigid positioning elements (standoffs and brackets) is introduced as an intermediary between the lead shielding panels and the frame. This mediator provides precise alignment references that compensate for lead's softness and manufacturing variations, enabling accurate panel placement without iterative adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the positioning system by using rigid metal standoffs and brackets with specific dimensional tolerances rather than relying on lead panel precision. The standoff length and bracket dimensions are carefully controlled to accommodate lead panel thickness variations while maintaining alignment precision
2Ease of manufacture
If lead panels are divided into smaller sections for assembly, then ease of assembly is improved, but X-ray shielding effectiveness deteriorates due to gaps between panels
Solution Approach 1:
Overlapping metal brackets serve as intermediary elements that bridge adjacent lead panels. These brackets extend beyond the panel edges and overlap with neighboring panels, creating an interlocking system that seals gaps while maintaining ease of modular assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The shielding system is segmented into modular lead panels that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each panel is divided into manageable sections that fit within the overlapping bracket structures, combining the benefits of modular assembly with continuous shielding coverage
3Object-affected harmful factors
If lead is used for structural support, then X-ray shielding is improved, but device complexity increases due to cumbersome assembly processes
Solution Approach 1:
The structural support function is extracted from the lead material and assigned to separate rigid metal brackets and standoffs. This separates the shielding function (performed by lead) from the structural function (performed by the bracket assembly), eliminating the need for lead to provide structural integrity and simplifying assembly procedures
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
The solution achieves efficient X-ray shielding with reduced assembly time and cost, minimizing lead exposure and enhancing structural integrity while complying with regulatory standards.
Implementation Method 1
lead is one of the most effective X-ray shielding materials, owing to its large attenuation coefficient and high density
Implementation Method 2
a scintillator arranged to absorb the X-rays after interaction with an object that has been placed in the X-ray device, the scintillator being configured to emit light in response to absorption of the X-rays
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray device includes: an X-ray source configured to emit X-rays; a scintillator, the scintillator being configured to emit light in response to absorption of the X-rays; a detector; a frame enclosing the X-ray source and the detector; standoffs positioned on the frame; shielding panels comprising lead; one or more brackets with fasteners configured to attach to the standoffs; and exterior panels with fasteners configured to attach to the one or more brackets. The standoffs form a datum structure for the one or more brackets. Each of the standoffs has a length and a cross-sectional size, and each of the shielding panels includes holes having a cross-sectional size greater than the cross-sectional size of the standoffs by an amount that ensures the standoffs will pass through the holes. The length of the standoffs is greater than a maximum thickness possible for the given shielding panel due to variations in thickness.