Patent ID: 6038287
Filing Date: 2000-03-14
Classification: A61B,H05G,Y10T

Abstract:
A method for generating an X-ray image, comprising the step of:(a) providing a portable X-ray device, comprising:an enclosure;an X-ray tube mounted within the enclosure;a collimated tube mounted to the enclosure and positioned such that X-rays will be emitted into the collimated tube when the X-ray tube is activated;wiring extending between an interior of the enclosure and an exterior of the enclosure and operative to couple an external power supply to the X-ray tube; andpower supply circuitry operative to generate a voltage to drive the X-ray tube, wherein the power supply circuitry is not contained within the enclosure and is coupled to the enclosure by the wiring;whereby a weight of the enclosure is significantly reduced;(b) providing an articulating arm having a connector thereon, adapted to couple the X-ray device to the articulating arm;(c) coupling the X-ray device to the articulating arm;(d) aiming the collimated tube at an X-ray image receptor;(e) moving the articulated arm such that a structure to be imaged is positioned between the collimated tube and the receptor;(f) depressing an enable switch; and(g) depressing an exposure switch, wherein the X-ray device will not emit X-rays unless both the enable switch and the exposure switch are depressed.