Automated X-ray Source Positioning for Mobile Detectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual positioning of X-ray sources in X-ray systems is time-consuming and operator-dependent, affecting the quality and efficiency of X-ray image recording.
Innovation Solution
An automated method and system for positioning an X-ray source relative to a mobile X-ray detector, using position detection, communication, and positioning apparatus to align the X-ray source automatically, with features like position sensors, imaging, and wireless communication, enabling quick and precise alignment without operator input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual positioning of the X-ray source is used, then the operator can adjust the position, but the positioning process becomes time-consuming and operator-dependent
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-positioning by automatically detecting the detector's position and calculating the corresponding X-ray source position. The positioning apparatus autonomously moves the X-ray source to the aligned position without requiring manual intervention, thereby reducing positioning time while maintaining operational capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with an automated control system that uses position sensors, a control unit for calculating aligned positions, and a positioning apparatus with motorized actuation. This substitution eliminates operator-dependent manual adjustment while preserving the ability to achieve precise positioning
2Ease of operation
If manual positioning is used, then flexibility in adjustment is maintained, but positioning consistency and quality depend on operator skill
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses position sensors to detect the actual position of the X-ray detector and feeds this information back to the control unit. The control unit calculates the aligned position based on this feedback and controls the positioning apparatus to achieve precise alignment, ensuring consistent positioning quality independent of operator skill
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces operator-dependent manual positioning with an automated control system that uses position sensors, a control unit for calculating aligned positions, and a positioning apparatus with motorized actuation. This substitution eliminates operator-dependent manual adjustment while preserving the ability to achieve precise positioning
3Loss of time
If automated positioning is implemented, then positioning time is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it receives position data from sensors, calculates the aligned position of the X-ray source based on predetermined geometric relationships, and controls the positioning apparatus. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby managing system complexity while achieving automated positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces operator-dependent manual positioning with an automated control system that uses position sensors, a control unit for calculating aligned positions, and a positioning apparatus with motorized actuation. This substitution eliminates operator-dependent manual adjustment while preserving the ability to achieve precise positioning
Data Source
AI summary
In the interest of a particularly quick and simple X-ray examination, provision is made for a method for automatically positioning a positionable X-ray source (16) of an X-ray system (24) in respect of a mobile X-ray detector (15) with the following steps: —detecting the position of the mobile X-ray detector (15), —forwarding the position to the X-ray system (24), —determining a position of the X-ray source (16), aligned with the position of the mobile X-ray detector (15), for recording an X-ray image, and —driving the positionable X-ray source (16) to move into the aligned position.