X-ray Source Unit Motorized Positioning Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Radiographic apparatuses require significant force and torque for manual movement due to the weight of the X-ray tube and frictional resistance, leading to operator fatigue, especially during repetitive movements.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a measurement unit to sense forces and torques applied to the X-ray source unit, coupled with a motor system controlled by a system control unit to assist in moving the X-ray source unit, reducing the necessary force and torque required for movement by generating control signals to operate the motors based on measured inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual movement mode is used to position the X-ray tube, then the operator has direct control over the tube position, but the operator experiences physical fatigue due to the weight of the X-ray tube and frictional resistance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical manual movement system with an electromechanical system. A motor is coupled to the X-ray tube through a transmission mechanism, converting electrical energy to mechanical motion. This substitution eliminates the need for the operator to directly overcome the weight and friction of the X-ray tube, while still allowing controlled positioning through manual input signals.
2Ease of operation
If automatic movement mode is used to position the X-ray tube, then the operator experiences less physical fatigue, but the system complexity increases due to the need for actuators and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the motorized system to serve multiple functions: it can operate in automatic mode when receiving input signals from the control unit, and in manual mode when the operator directly controls the positioning. This multi-functionality allows the same hardware infrastructure to support both automated operation and manual control, reducing the need for separate systems for each mode.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the X-ray tube is moved repetitively in manual mode, then the operator can adjust positioning as needed, but the operator experiences increased physical fatigue over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous operation without operator fatigue by maintaining the motorized assistance throughout the entire positioning process. The motor continuously provides the necessary force to overcome gravity and friction during movement, allowing the operator to perform repetitive positioning tasks without experiencing cumulative physical fatigue, as the mechanical assistance is continuously available.
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
This solution reduces the physical effort needed to move the X-ray source unit, minimizing operator fatigue and enabling smoother, more efficient positioning of the X-ray source unit during both automatic and manual movement modes.
Implementation Method 1
a measurement unit configured to measure either one or both of a force and a torque applied to the X-ray source unit
Implementation Method 2
at least one motor configured to move the X-ray source unit
Data Source
AI summary
A radiographic apparatus includes an X-ray source unit, a measurement unit configured to measure either one or both of a force and a torque applied to the X-ray source unit, at least one motor configured to move the X-ray source unit, and a system control unit configured to control the at least one motor to move the X-ray source unit according to a direction and a magnitude of the either one or both of the force and the torque measured by the measurement unit.