Portable X-ray Drive Wheel Suspension for Shock Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable X-ray imaging systems experience high shock loading, vibrations, and noise due to rigidly attached wheels, which can damage components and affect operator comfort during movement in hospital settings.
Innovation Solution
A suspension system is coupled to the base unit and rear wheels, allowing flexible movement during transport and limiting movement when in imaging position to reduce shock loading and stabilize the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If rigidly attached wheels are used to allow operator to move the imaging system, then the imaging system can be moved between locations, but high shock loading occurs due to the weight of the imaging system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from rigidly attached wheels to suspension-mounted wheels that can dynamically adjust to terrain variations. The suspension system allows the wheels to move independently relative to the base unit, absorbing shocks and reducing impact forces transmitted to the imaging system components during movement between locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements beforehand cushioning by incorporating a suspension system with shock-absorbing elements (such as springs or dampers) that are pre-configured to cushion impacts before they reach the base unit. This prior cushioning mechanism reduces shock loading on sensitive components like circuit boards and drive trains before the shocks can cause damage.
2Ease of operation
If rigidly attached wheels are used, then the imaging system can be moved, but loud noises and vibrations occur during movement
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system enables dynamic movement of wheels relative to the base unit, allowing the imaging system to adapt to uneven surfaces during transport. This dynamic configuration reduces vibrations and noise by isolating the base unit from road irregularities, improving operator comfort during movement while maintaining mobility.
3Ease of operation
If rigidly attached wheels are used, then the imaging system can be moved, but abnormally large sudden loads occur on system components which can damage drive trains and wheels
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system provides beforehand cushioning by incorporating shock-absorbing elements that are pre-configured to mitigate impact forces before they reach critical components. This reduces the peak loads on drive trains and wheels, preventing damage from abnormally large sudden loads while maintaining the ability to move the imaging system.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension system acts as an intermediary between the wheels and the base unit, absorbing and dissipating shock forces. This intermediate layer protects the drive trains and other sensitive components from direct exposure to high impact loads during movement over uneven terrain.
4Reliability
If suspension system is added to reduce shock loading, then shock loading and vibrations are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a suspension system that introduces dynamic elements (springs, dampers, or elastomeric elements) between the wheels and base unit. While this increases device complexity compared to rigid mounting, it significantly reduces shock loading and vibrations, improving reliability and operator comfort during movement.
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 suspension system reduces shock loading, vibrations, and noise, enhancing operator comfort and minimizing damage to system components by absorbing shocks and maintaining stability during both transport and imaging positions.
Implementation Method 1
a suspension system coupled to the base unit and to the rear wheels and configured to permit flexible movement of the base unit and the rear wheels with respect to one another
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a portable X-ray imaging system is provided with a base unit and at least one front wheel on which the base unit is mounted. The base unit is also mounted on a pair of rear wheels. The imaging system is provided with a suspension system coupled to the base unit and to the rear wheels. The suspension system is arranged to permit flexible movement of the base unit and the rear wheels with respect to one another.