Patent ID: 6459770
Filing Date: 2002-10-01
Classification: A61B,F16H,G21K,Y10T

Abstract:
A backlash-resistant sliding assembly for supporting a collimator, comprising:a) a base having an elongated aperture for passage of an x-ray beam therethrough, b) a first shaft secured to the base and extending generally perpendicular to the elongated aperture of the base, c) a second shaft spaced from, and extending substantially parallel to the first shaft, the second shaft rotatably secured to the base and having a threaded portion and at least one non-threaded portion; d) a carrier adapted to support a collimator having at least one elongated slit, the carrier including, a first support member having a bore slidingly receiving the first shaft, a second support member having a bore receiving the non-threaded portion of the second shaft, and an elongated opening extending between the support members and generally perpendicular to the shafts, the elongated opening for aligning with the aperture of the base and an elongated slit of a collimator for passage of an x-ray beam therethrough; e) a ball bearing sleeve positioned between the second support member and the non-threaded portion of the second shaft for allowing the second shaft to rotate with respect to the second member and for allowing the second member to slide on the non-threaded portion of the second shaft; and f) a backlash-resistant nut assembly threadingly received on the threaded portion of the second shaft and secured to the second support member.