Power source for portable medical devices
Inventors
Hansen, Douglas P. • Decker, Keith • Cassinat, Jacob
Assignees
Publication Number
US-11355808-B2
Publication Date
2022-06-07
Expiration Date
2040-01-31
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Abstract
This application describes an internal, re-chargeable power source for a portable medical device. The power source contains a removable battery pack comprising a lithium-containing material with 5 to 7 battery cells in series, each individual cell having a current capacity ranging from about 3000 mAh to about 3700 mAh. The power source can have a total energy capacity ranging from about 65 Watt-hour to about 170 Watt-hours. Other embodiments are described.
Core Innovation
The invention described is an internal, re-chargeable power source for portable medical devices, particularly for portable x-ray imaging devices. This power source utilizes a removable battery pack comprised of a lithium-containing material with 5 to 7 battery cells arranged in series, where each individual cell possesses a current capacity ranging from about 3000 mAh to about 3700 mAh. The total energy capacity of the power source ranges from about 65 Watt-hours to about 170 Watt-hours.
The background identifies the problem of traditional medical x-ray imaging equipment being heavy, cumbersome, and requiring significant electrical power, making miniaturization and portability for hand-held operation challenging. Advances in technology have created the opportunity for smaller, lighter, and more portable devices, but these necessitate an effective, internal battery system capable of delivering the necessary power for high-demand, short-duration imaging operations as well as extended lower-power operation, rapid wake-up, and continuous battery life suitable for prolonged procedures.
The solution offers a lightweight, internal, and removable battery pack integrated within the housing of portable medical devices, and specifically within the C-shaped support arm of handheld x-ray devices. This configuration supports high momentary power demands required during image acquisition, combined with the ability to sustain lower-power operations and rapid readiness for immediate use. The system is designed to balance operational longevity, portability, compliance with air travel energy limits, and overall ease of use for both medical and non-medical imaging applications.
Claims Coverage
There are two independent claims in this patent, each defining inventive features related to the configuration and use of internal, rechargeable power sources for portable medical devices, particularly x-ray devices.
Portable medical device with internal rechargeable power source
A portable medical device features a housing that includes a C-shaped support arm, with a rechargeable power source internal to the support arm. The power source contains a removable battery pack comprising a lithium-containing material with 5 to 7 battery cells connected in series. Each battery cell has a charge capacity ranging from about 3000 mAh to about 3700 mAh.
Portable x-ray device with integrated rechargeable power and imaging components
A portable x-ray device includes: - A C-shaped support arm; - An x-ray source contained near one end of the support arm; - A rechargeable power source, with a total energy capacity from about 65 Watt-hour to about 170 Watt-hour, internal to the support arm; - An x-ray detector contained near the other end of the support arm.
The inventive features are centered on portable medical or x-ray devices with an internal, removable lithium-based battery pack, 5 to 7 cells in series and a capacity design that supports prolonged and portable use.
Stated Advantages
The portable x-ray device is lighter than traditional C-arm devices, weighing between about 10 to 25 pounds, improving portability and ease of use.
The device features an internally powered, removable battery, eliminating the need for external power cords or data cables.
The internal power source provides high-power delivery for short imaging sequences and supports long operational lifetimes between charges.
Rapid wake-up capability allows the system to be ready for operation within a few seconds after reactivation from standby.
Wireless data transfer capability is enabled, reducing system complexity and facilitating integration with external electronic devices.
The system is designed to potentially comply with air travel battery restrictions, allowing for easier transport, such as fitting into an airline overhead bin.
Documented Applications
Portable x-ray imaging devices, particularly those that are hand-held or hand-carried.
Portable C-arm x-ray systems for medical imaging in operating rooms and during medical procedures.
Other portable medical devices requiring high power for short periods and low power for extended periods, such as ultrasound and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) imaging systems.
Non-medical applications including imaging of animals, inspection of industrial components such as electronic circuit boards, and inspection of containers or passenger luggage.
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