Clamping device for a portable X-ray imaging device
Inventors
Youd, Thomas L. • Hansen, Douglas P. • Messick, Casey Owen
Assignees
Publication Number
US-10856822-B2
Publication Date
2020-12-08
Expiration Date
2038-11-23
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Abstract
Clamping devices used to assist with operating small, portable x-ray devices are described in this application. In particular, this application describes clamping devices used to connect portable X-ray devices to external support structures. The clamping devices contain a cradle configured to support a portion of a C-arm of a portable x-ray device, the cradle comprising a restraint configured to fit in an upper opening of the C-arm, a mounting plate configured to support a bottom portion of the portable x-ray device, a registration insert configured to mate with an opening in the bottom portion of the portable x-ray device, the registration insert also configured to move laterally along the mounting plate, a connecting member configured to move laterally along the mounting plate, and an attachment device configured to move the connecting member and the registration insert to attach the portable x-ray device to the cradle. Other embodiments are described.
Core Innovation
This invention describes clamping devices designed to securely connect small, portable X-ray devices, specifically those with a C-arm configuration, to external support structures. The clamping devices include a cradle that supports part of the C-arm, a mounting plate for the bottom of the device, a registration insert that mates with an opening in the device and can move laterally, a connecting member also configured for lateral movement, and an attachment device that moves both the registration insert and connecting member to attach the X-ray device to the cradle.
The clamping device provides a secure yet easily operable mechanism, allowing users to attach and detach the portable X-ray device from a support structure quickly, typically with just one hand. It specifically addresses the need for rapid and straightforward attachment and removal without accidental detachment, facilitating true portability and operational efficiency for the portable X-ray device during clinical procedures.
The background identifies the challenge that existing X-ray imaging systems, including those with mobile bases or gantries, either restrict device mobility due to semi-permanent attachments or require more complex and time-consuming processes for device removal. Conventional systems often rely on permanent connection by clamps tethered with data and power cables, impeding quick manual detachment for truly portable use. The invention overcomes these limitations by enabling fast, one-handed attachment and detachment while maintaining device security, promoting full portability and flexibility in clinical or industrial environments.
Claims Coverage
There are three independent claims in this patent, each introducing a main inventive feature for the clamping device, the x-ray system, and the imaging method.
Clamping device for a portable X-ray device with laterally-moving registration insert and attachment device
A clamping device that includes: - A cradle configured to support a portion of a C-arm of a portable x-ray device. - A mounting plate to support the bottom portion of the portable x-ray device. - A registration insert designed to mate with an opening in the bottom portion, with the registration insert being configured to move laterally along the mounting plate. - An attachment device structured to move the registration insert to attach the portable x-ray device to the cradle.
X-ray system incorporating a clamping device with laterally-moving registration insert and attachment device
An x-ray system comprising: - A portable x-ray device featuring a C-arm and a bottom portion. - A support structure for the portable x-ray device. - A clamping device including a cradle (connected to the support structure), a mounting plate, a registration insert (which mates with an opening and moves laterally along the mounting plate), and an attachment device for moving the registration insert to attach the device to the cradle.
Imaging method of attaching and locking a portable x-ray device using a single hand with a registration insert and attachment device
A method of imaging comprising: 1. Attaching a portable x-ray device (with a C-arm and bottom) to a supporting structure by single hand operation, employing a clamping device with: - Cradle supporting a portion of the C-arm. - Mounting plate for the bottom portion. - Registration insert mating with an opening in the device bottom and moving laterally along the plate. - Attachment device moving the registration insert to attach the device. 2. Locking the x-ray device onto the cradle by pulling a handle of the attachment device and moving the registration insert relative to the mounting plate. 3. Imaging an object using the portable x-ray device.
The inventive features of the patent collectively cover a clamping device and system enabling secure, quick, and convenient connection and detachment of portable x-ray devices using a registration insert and attachment device with lateral movement capability.
Stated Advantages
Allows rapid and easy attachment or detachment of the portable x-ray device to and from an external support structure using only a single hand.
Prevents accidental removal of the portable x-ray device from the support structure during use.
Enables true portability of the x-ray device by overcoming limitations of conventional systems that require complex or semi-permanent connections.
Facilitates operational efficiency by allowing medical personnel to quickly and securely position or remove the device during procedures.
Accommodates variations in thickness due to the use of sterile bags or drapes without loss of clamping effectiveness.
Reduces device and cradle thickness, allowing easy placement under a patient or object to be imaged without significant displacement.
Improves robustness and reduces wear compared to conventional ratchet-based clamping mechanisms.
Documented Applications
Attaching portable x-ray devices to support structures in clinical environments for imaging during radiology and surgery procedures.
Use with small, portable C-arm x-ray devices for imaging portions of a patient’s body.
Imaging animals and industrial components such as electronic circuit boards, containers, and passenger luggage.
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