KR102328122B1 - Mobile X RAY APPARATUS AND OPERATION METHOD OF THE SAME - Google Patents

Abstract

A mobile X-ray device for controlling an operation of a protection circuit for a lithium ion battery and an operating method thereof are provided.

Description

Mobile X-ray apparatus and method of operation thereof

The present disclosure relates to a mobile X-ray device including a lithium ion battery and an operating method thereof.

X-ray is an electromagnetic wave with a wavelength of 0.01 to 100 angstroms (Å) in general, and has a property of penetrating an object, so it is generally used in medical equipment for imaging the inside of a living body or non-destructive testing equipment in general industry. It can be widely used.

An X-ray apparatus using X-rays may transmit X-rays emitted from an X-ray source to an object, and an X-ray detector detects a difference in intensity of the transmitted X-rays to obtain an X-ray image of the object. The X-ray image may identify an internal structure of the object and diagnose the object. The X-ray apparatus has an advantage in that the internal structure of the object can be easily grasped by using the principle that the transmittance of X-rays varies according to the density of the object and the atomic number of atoms constituting the object. When the wavelength of the X-ray is short, the transmittance increases and the screen becomes clear (brightness).

An object of the present invention is to provide a mobile X-ray device including a lithium ion battery and a method of operating the same.

A mobile X-ray apparatus according to a first aspect includes: an X-ray irradiator; a control unit for controlling the X-ray irradiation unit; and a power supply unit including a lithium ion battery for supplying operating power to the X-ray irradiator and the controller, and a Battery Management System (BMS) for controlling the operation of a protection circuit for the lithium ion battery.

In addition, the BMS may change the reference value for the operation of the protection circuit against overcurrent when the X-ray irradiation unit emits X-rays.

In addition, the BMS may change the reference value for the operation of the protection circuit against overdischarge when the X-ray is irradiated by the X-ray irradiator.

In addition, the BMS may change the overcurrent reference value for the operation of the protection circuit to be high and the overdischarge reference value for the operation of the protection circuit to be low, based on the X-ray irradiation preparation signal.

Also, the BMS may re-change the changed overcurrent reference value and overdischarge reference value to the overcurrent reference value and overdischarge reference value before the change, based on the X-ray irradiation completion signal.

In addition, the BMS may control so that a protection circuit for at least one of overcurrent and overdischarge does not operate when X-ray irradiation is performed by the X-ray irradiator.

In addition, the BMS may control the operation of the protection circuit for at least one of overdischarge, overcurrent, overheating, and unbalance between cells of the lithium ion battery during X-ray irradiation, and at the time of X-ray irradiation, the protection circuit for at least one Behavior can be exceptionally controlled.

In addition, the mobile X-ray apparatus may further include a charging unit for charging the lithium ion battery, and the charging unit may control a charging operation of the lithium ion battery when X-ray irradiation is performed by the X-ray irradiator.

Also, the charging unit may stop the charging operation of the lithium ion battery based on the X-ray irradiation preparation signal.

Also, the charging unit may resume a charging operation for the lithium ion battery based on the X-ray irradiation completion signal.

In addition, the X-ray apparatus further includes a first current sensor for detecting a current of a relatively low intensity and a second current sensor for detecting a current of a relatively high intensity, and the BMS is, when X-ray irradiation by the X-ray irradiator , by using the second current sensor, it is possible to detect an overcurrent caused by X-ray irradiation.

Also, the BMS may activate the second current sensor and deactivate the first current sensor based on the X-ray irradiation preparation signal.

Also, the BMS may activate the first current sensor and deactivate the second current sensor based on the X-ray irradiation completion signal.

In addition, the BMS and the control unit may each include a communication interface, and the BMS and the control unit may communicate through the communication interface.

According to a second aspect, a method of operating a mobile X-ray apparatus including a lithium ion battery includes: receiving a command for X-ray irradiation from a user; and controlling the operation of the protection circuit for the lithium ion battery during X-ray irradiation.

1 is an external view illustrating an X-ray apparatus implemented as a mobile X-ray apparatus.
2 is an external view of the X-ray detector.
3 illustrates an X-ray apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment.
4 illustrates an embodiment in which the BMS controls the operation of the protection circuit when X-rays are irradiated.
5 illustrates an embodiment in which the BMS controls the operation of the protection circuit against overdischarge (overvoltage) when X-rays are irradiated.
6 illustrates an X-ray apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment.
7 illustrates an embodiment in which a charging unit controls a charging operation when X-rays are irradiated.
7 illustrates an X-ray apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment.
8 illustrates an X-ray apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment.
9 illustrates an embodiment in which the X-ray device senses a current flowing through a lithium ion battery through a current sensor.
10 illustrates an embodiment in which the BMS controls the first current sensor and the second current sensor during X-ray irradiation.
11 is a view for explaining a method of operating an X-ray apparatus.

This specification clarifies the scope of the present invention, explains the principles of the present invention, and discloses embodiments so that those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains can practice the present invention. The disclosed embodiments may be implemented in various forms.

Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. This specification does not describe all elements of the embodiments, and general content in the technical field to which the present invention pertains or content that overlaps among the embodiments is omitted. As used herein, the term 'part' (part, portion) may be implemented in software or hardware, and according to embodiments, a plurality of 'parts' may be implemented as one element (unit, element), or one ' It is also possible for part' to include a plurality of elements. Hereinafter, the working principle and embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

In the present specification, an image may include a medical image obtained by a medical imaging apparatus such as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) apparatus, a computed tomography (CT) apparatus, an ultrasound imaging apparatus, or an X-ray imaging apparatus.

In the present specification, an 'object' is a subject to be photographed, and may include a person, an animal, or a part thereof. For example, the object may include a body part (such as an organ or an organ) or a phantom.

1 is an external view illustrating an X-ray apparatus implemented as a mobile X-ray apparatus.

Referring to FIG. 1 , the X-ray apparatus 100 includes an X-ray irradiation unit 110 for generating and irradiating X-rays, an input unit 151 for receiving a command from a user, a display unit 152 for providing information to the user, and an input command. Accordingly, the control unit 120 controls the mobile X-ray apparatus 100 and the communication unit 140 communicates with an external device.

The X-ray irradiation unit 110 may include an X-ray source that generates X-rays and a collimator that adjusts an irradiation area of X-rays generated from the X-ray source.

When the X-ray apparatus 100 is implemented as a mobile X-ray apparatus, the main body 101 to which the X-ray emitter 110 is connected can move freely, and the arm 103 that connects the X-ray emitter 110 and the main body 101 also rotates and Since linear movement is possible, the X-ray irradiator 110 can be freely moved in a three-dimensional space.

The input unit 151 may receive a command for controlling an imaging protocol, imaging conditions, imaging timing, position control of the X-ray irradiator 110 , and the like. The input unit 151 may include a keyboard, a mouse, a touch screen, a voice recognizer, and the like.

The display 152 may display a screen for guiding a user's input, an X-ray image, a screen indicating the state of the X-ray apparatus 100, and the like.

The controller 120 may control the imaging timing and imaging conditions of the X-ray radiator 110 according to a control command input from the user, and may generate a medical image using the image data received from the X-ray detector 200 . have. Also, the controller 120 may control the position or posture of the X-ray irradiator 110 according to the imaging protocol and the position of the object P.

The controller 120 may include a memory in which a program for performing the above-described operation and an operation to be described later is stored and a processor for executing the stored program. The controller 120 may include a single processor or a plurality of processors. In the latter case, the plurality of processors may be integrated on one chip or physically separated.

A storage unit 105 for storing the X-ray detector 200 may be provided in the main body 101 . In addition, a charging terminal capable of charging the X-ray detector 200 is provided inside the storage unit 105 , so that the X-ray detector 200 can be stored while charging can be performed.

The input unit 151 , the display unit 152 , the control unit 120 , and the communication unit 140 may be provided in the main body 101 , and the image data acquired by the X-ray detector 200 is transmitted to the main body 101 to obtain an image. After the processing, it may be displayed on the display unit 152 or transmitted to an external device through the communication unit 140 .

Also, the control unit 120 and the communication unit 140 may be provided separately from the main body 101 , and only some of the components of the control unit 120 and the communication unit 140 may be provided in the main body 101 .

The X-ray apparatus 100 is connected to an external device (eg, an external server 31 , a medical device 32 and a portable terminal 33 (smartphone, tablet PC, wearable device, etc.)) through the communication unit 140 . data can be sent or received.

The communication unit 140 may include one or more components that enable communication with an external device, and may include, for example, at least one of a short-range communication module, a wired communication module, and a wireless communication module.

Alternatively, the communication unit 140 receives a control signal from an external device and transmits the received control signal to the control unit 120 so that the control unit 120 controls the X-ray apparatus 100 according to the received control signal. possible.

In addition, the control unit 120 transmits a control signal to the external device through the communication unit 140 , so that it is possible to control the external device according to the control signal of the control unit. For example, the external device may process data of the external device according to a control signal of the controller 120 received through the communication unit 140 .

Also, the communication unit 140 may further include an internal communication module that enables communication between components of the X-ray apparatus 100 . A program for controlling the X-ray apparatus 100 may be installed in the external device, and the program may include a command for performing some or all of the operations of the controller 120 .

The program may be pre-installed in the portable terminal 33, and it is also possible for a user of the portable terminal 33 to download and install the program from a server that provides an application. The server providing the application may include a recording medium in which the corresponding program is stored.

Also, the communication unit 140 may further include an internal communication module that enables communication between components of the X-ray apparatus 100 .

2 is an external view of the X-ray detector.

As described above, the X-ray detector 200 used in the X-ray apparatus 100 may be implemented as a portable X-ray detector. In this case, the X-ray detector 200 may operate wirelessly including a battery for supplying power, and as shown in FIG. 2 , the charging port 201 is connected to a separate power supply and a cable (C). and may work.

Inside the case 203 forming the exterior of the X-ray detector 200, a detection element that detects X-rays and converts them into image data, a memory that temporarily or non-temporarily stores image data, and a control signal from the X-ray apparatus 100 A communication module for receiving or transmitting image data to the X-ray apparatus 100 and a battery may be provided. Also, image correction information of the detector and unique identification information of the X-ray detector 200 may be stored in the memory, and the stored identification information may be transmitted together when communicating with the X-ray apparatus 100 .

3 illustrates an X-ray apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment.

The X-ray apparatus 100 may include an X-ray irradiation unit 310 , a control unit 320 , and a power supply unit 330 . The X-ray apparatus illustrated in FIG. 3 may be implemented as a mobile X-ray apparatus as shown in FIG. 1 , and only components related to the present embodiment are illustrated. Accordingly, it can be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art related to the present embodiment that other general-purpose components may be further included in addition to the components shown in FIG. 3 . For example, the X-ray apparatus 100 may include a high voltage generator (not shown).

The X-ray irradiator 310 may include the contents of the X-ray irradiator 110 of FIG. 1 , and overlapping contents will be omitted. In addition, since the control unit 320 may include the contents of the control unit 120 of FIG. 1 , overlapping contents will be omitted.

The power supply unit 330 may include a lithium ion battery 334 and a battery management system (BMS) 332 .

The lithium ion battery 334 is a type of secondary battery, and may be divided into three parts, such as a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and an electrolyte. For example, lithium cobalt oxide or lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) may be used as the positive electrode, and graphite may be used as the negative electrode. The lithium ion battery 334 may have a structure in which a plurality of battery cells are connected and combined. For example, the lithium ion battery 334 may be configured with 88 series combinations and 4 parallel combinations, for a total of 352 cells.

In addition, the lithium ion battery 334 may be suitable for use in a mobile X-ray device because of its relatively small size and weight compared to a conventional lead-acid battery. For example, the total weight of the power supply unit 330 including the lithium ion battery 334 and peripheral circuits may be 33.2 kg, which may be smaller than the 35 kg limit of air transport regulations. Accordingly, the power supply unit 330 may be transported by air in a single unit state.

The power supply unit 330 may supply operating power to the X-ray irradiation unit 310 and the control unit 320 through the lithium ion battery 334 . Also, the power supply unit 330 may supply operating power to each component requiring operating power in the X-ray apparatus 100 through the lithium ion battery 334 . For example, the power supply 330 may supply operating power to the input unit 151 of the X-ray apparatus 100 , the display unit 152 and the communication unit 140 through the lithium ion battery 334 .

A battery management system (BMS) 332 may detect states such as voltage and temperature of the lithium ion battery 334 . According to one example, the BMS 332 may include a circuit called a battery stack monitor that may monitor the voltage of the lithium ion battery 334 and the battery cell temperature. The BMS 332 may control and manage the power supply 330 based on the state of the lithium ion battery 334 . Also, the BMS 332 may operate a protection circuit for the lithium ion battery 334 based on the state of the lithium ion battery 334 . In other words, the BMS 332 may operate a protection circuit to prevent a dangerous state of the lithium ion battery 334 based on the state of the lithium ion battery 334 . Specifically, the BMS 332 may operate a protection circuit for at least one of over-discharge, over-current, over-temperature, and unbalancing between battery cells based on the state of the lithium-ion battery 334 .

The BMS 332 may operate a protection circuit when the voltage of the lithium ion battery 334 is in an overdischarge state that is lower than a reference value. For example, when the voltage of the lithium ion battery 334 drops below 275V, the BMS 332 operates a shutdown circuit that is a protection circuit so that the BMS 332 can be turned off by itself. In addition, the BMS 332 may operate the protection circuit when the current of the lithium ion battery 334 is in an overcurrent state that becomes higher than the reference value. For example, when the current of the lithium ion battery 334 is 40A or more, the BMS 332 operates a shut-down circuit that is a protection circuit so that the BMS 332 can be turned off by itself. The BMS 332 may operate a protection circuit when the temperature of the lithium ion battery 334 is in an overheating state that is higher than a reference value. For example, the BMS 332 may turn off the BMS 332 by operating a shutdown circuit when the temperature of the lithium ion battery 334 is 70 degrees or more. The BMS 332 may operate a protection circuit when the lithium ion battery 334 is in an unbalanced state between cells constituting the battery. For example, when the voltage difference between cells of the lithium ion battery 334 continues for more than 10 seconds in a state of 0.5 V or more, the BMS 332 operates a shutdown circuit so that the BMS 332 can be turned off by itself. have. According to another example, the BMS 332 operates a shutdown circuit when the difference between the maximum value and the minimum value among the voltages of each of the cells of the lithium ion battery 334 is 0.5 V or more and continues for 10 seconds or more. 332) can be turned off by itself.

As another example, the BMS 332 operates a protection circuit when at least one of overdischarge, overcurrent, overheat, and unbalancing between battery cells occurs based on the state of the lithium ion battery 334 . The charging path and/or the discharging path may be blocked by using the charging control unit and/or the discharging control unit that control the charging path and/or the discharging path prior to discharging. The charge control unit may include a charge FET, and the discharge control unit may include a discharge FET.

The BMS 332 may control the operation of the protection circuit during X-ray irradiation by the X-ray irradiation unit 310 . During X-ray irradiation by the X-ray irradiator 310, the lithium-ion battery 334 may be temporarily overdischarged, overcurrent, overheated, or unbalanced between cells due to an instantaneous overcurrent, and thus the BMS 332 may The protection circuit may be activated unnecessarily. In this case, the X-ray may not be irradiated due to the operation of the protection circuit. Accordingly, in order to prevent unnecessary protection circuit operation, the BMS 332 may exceptionally control the operation of the protection circuit when X-rays are irradiated.

According to an embodiment, when X-rays are irradiated, the BMS 332 may change the overcurrent reference value and/or the overdischarge reference value of the lithium ion battery 334 for the protection circuit operation. In other words, when X-rays are irradiated, the BMS 332 may increase the current reference value for operating the protection circuit due to overcurrent, and may lower the voltage threshold for operating the protection circuit due to overdischarge. have. Also, the BMS 332 may change the overcurrent reference value and/or the overdischarge reference value based on the X-ray irradiation preparation signal. Specifically, the BMS 332 may receive a signal that X-rays will be irradiated from the controller 320 and change the overcurrent reference value and/or the overdischarge reference value based on the received signal. Subsequently, the BMS 332 may re-change the overcurrent reference value and/or the overdischarge reference value as before, based on the X-ray irradiation completion signal. Specifically, the BMS 332 may receive a signal indicating that X-ray irradiation is complete from the controller 320 , and may change the overcurrent reference value and/or the overdischarge reference value changed based on the received signal back to the existing ones. Similarly, when X-rays are irradiated, the BMS 332 may change an overheating reference value and/or an inter-cell unbalancing reference value of the lithium ion battery 334 for a protection circuit operation.

According to another embodiment, when X-rays are irradiated, the BMS 332 may control the protection circuit against overdischarge and/or overcurrent not to operate. More specifically, the BMS 332 may receive a signal that X-rays will be irradiated from the controller 320 and may control the overdischarge and/or overcurrent protection circuit not to operate based on the received signal. Subsequently, the BMS 332 may receive a signal indicating that the X-ray irradiation is completed from the controller 320 , and may control the overdischarge or overcurrent protection circuit to be operable based on the received signal. Similarly, when X-rays are irradiated, the BMS 332 may control the protection circuit against overheating and/or unbalance between cells not to operate.

Each of the power supply unit 330 and the control unit 320 may include a communication interface capable of communicating with each other. For example, each of the power supply unit 330 and the control unit 320 may communicate with each other according to a controller area network (CAN) through a communication interface. In addition, according to another example, the communication between the power supply unit 330 and the control unit 320 is a high-speed digital interface such as LVDS (Low Voltage Differential Signaling), asynchronous serial communication such as a universal asynchronous receiver transmitter (UART), or erroneous synchronous serial A low-latency network protocol such as communication may be used, and various communication methods may be used within the range apparent to those skilled in the art.

In addition, each of the power supply unit 330 and the control unit 320 may be configured as a modular unit separate from each other.

4 illustrates an embodiment in which the BMS controls the operation of the protection circuit against overcurrent when X-rays are irradiated.

In step s401, the controller 320 may obtain an X-ray irradiation preparation signal. According to an embodiment, the controller 320 may obtain an X-ray irradiation preparation signal through the input unit 151 . For example, when the input unit 151 is implemented as a two-step press type hand switch, the user can press the first stage of the button of the hand switch, which is the input unit 151 indicating the X-ray irradiation command, The control unit 320 may receive the X-ray irradiation preparation signal through the first pressing of the button of the hand switch of the input unit 151 .

In operation s403 , the controller 320 may transmit a control signal generated based on the received X-ray irradiation preparation signal to the BMS 332 . According to an example, the controller 320 may transmit a control signal generated based on the X-ray irradiation preparation signal to the BMS 332 through the communication interface. In other words, the controller 320 may transmit a control signal to the BMS 332 as a signal indicating that X-ray irradiation is ready. According to another example, the BMS 332 may directly receive the irradiation preparation signal generated from the input unit 151 as a control signal. At this time, the irradiation preparation signal may be transmitted to the BMS without passing through the control unit.

In step s405, the BMS 332 may change the overcurrent reference value based on the received control signal. According to an embodiment, the BMS 332 may increase a current reference value for operating the protection circuit due to overcurrent. For example, the BMS 332 may change the current threshold from 40A to 300A or more.

In operation s407, the controller 320 may control the X-ray irradiator 310 to radiate X-rays. According to an embodiment, when the user presses all the buttons of the input unit 151 in the one-step press state (two-step press), the control unit 320 receives the X-ray irradiation signal, and the X-ray irradiation unit 310 can be controlled to irradiate X-rays. As X-rays are irradiated, an overcurrent may occur in the lithium ion battery 334 , but the BMS 332 may not operate the protection circuit based on the overcurrent reference value changed in s405 . Accordingly, since the BMS 332 can prevent unnecessary protection circuit operation, a current flows from the battery 334 to the X-ray emitter 310 through the high voltage generator, and the X-rays generated from the X-ray emitter 310 are irradiated to the object. can be

In step s409, the controller 320 may obtain an X-ray irradiation completion signal. According to an embodiment, the controller 320 may obtain an X-ray irradiation completion signal from the high voltage generator or the X-ray detector of the X-ray apparatus 100 . In addition, according to another embodiment, when the state in which the user does not press the button of the input unit 151 any longer continues for a predetermined time or when the button of the input unit 151 is released, the controller 320 indicates that the X-ray irradiation is complete. signal can be received.

In operation s411 , the controller 320 may transmit a control signal to the BMS 332 based on the received X-ray irradiation completion signal. According to an example, the controller 320 may transmit a control signal generated based on the X-ray irradiation completion signal to the BMS 332 through the communication interface.

In step s413, the BMS 332 may change the overcurrent reference value changed in s405 back to the existing one based on the received control signal. That is, in order to exceptionally operate the protection circuit only when X-rays are irradiated, if X-ray irradiation is completed, the BMS 332 may set the overcurrent reference value as before. Accordingly, the BMS 332 may change the overcurrent reference value to prevent the protection circuit from operating because the overcurrent does not reach the overcurrent reference value even if the overcurrent flows to generate X-rays, and accordingly, the X-rays may be irradiated.

As another example, the BMS 332 may be configured to change the overcurrent reference value to the original state when a set predetermined time (eg, 10 seconds) passes without the step of receiving the control signal of step s411 .

As another example, the BMS 332 may control the overcurrent protection circuit not to operate without changing the reference value for the overcurrent in step s405 . Therefore, even when X-rays are irradiated in step S407, the BMS 332 is not turned off. Thereafter, when the BMS 332 receives the control signal generated based on the X-ray irradiation completion signal in step S411, the BMS 332 may control the overcurrent protection circuit to operate again in step S413.

5 illustrates an embodiment in which the BMS controls the operation of the protection circuit against overdischarge (overvoltage) when X-rays are irradiated.

In step s501, the controller 320 may obtain an X-ray irradiation preparation signal.

In operation s503 , the controller 320 may transmit a control signal generated based on the X-ray irradiation preparation signal to the BMS 332 .

In step s505, the BMS 332 may change the overdischarge reference value based on the received control signal. According to an embodiment, the BMS 332 may lower a voltage reference value for operating the protection circuit due to overdischarge. For example, the BMS 332 may change the voltage threshold from 275V to 200V or less.

In operation s507, the controller 320 may control the X-ray irradiator 310 to radiate X-rays. As X-rays are irradiated, overdischarge may occur in the lithium ion battery 334 , but the BMS 332 may not operate the protection circuit based on the overdischarge reference value changed in s505 . Accordingly, the BMS 332 can prevent unnecessary protection circuit operation.

In step s509, the controller 320 may obtain an X-ray irradiation completion signal. For example, the controller 320 may receive an X-ray irradiation completion signal from the high voltage generator or the X-ray detector. As another example, the BMS 332 may directly receive the irradiation preparation signal generated from the input unit 320 as a control signal. In this case, the irradiation preparation signal may be transmitted to the BMS 332 without passing through the control unit 320 .

In step s511 , the controller 320 may transmit a control signal generated based on the X-ray irradiation completion signal to the BMS 332 .

In step s513, the BMS 332 may re-change the over-discharge reference value changed in s505 to the existing one based on the received control signal. That is, in order to exceptionally operate the protection circuit only when X-rays are irradiated, if X-ray irradiation is completed, the BMS 332 may set the overdischarge reference value as before.

As another example, the BMS 332 may be configured to change the overvoltage reference value to the original state when a predetermined time (eg, 10 seconds) passes without the step of receiving the control signal of step s511 .

As another example, the BMS 332 may control the overvoltage protection circuit not to operate without changing the reference value for the overvoltage in step S505 . Accordingly, even when X-rays are irradiated in step S507, the BMS 332 is not turned off. Thereafter, when the BMS 332 receives the control signal generated based on the X-ray irradiation completion signal in step S511 , the BMS 332 may control the overvoltage protection circuit to operate again in step S513 .

4 and 5, an embodiment in which the BMS 332 controls the operation of the protection circuit for overcurrent and overdischarge, respectively, has been described, but similarly to FIGS. It is possible to control the operation of the protection circuit for the state.

As another example, when the BMS 332 receives a control signal generated based on the irradiation preparation signal from the control unit 320 , the BMS 332 may control the protection circuit not to operate based on the received control signal. In other words, even if any one of overcurrent, overdischarge, overheat, and unbalanced state is received from the sensor during X-ray irradiation, the BMS does not generate a signal for operating the protection circuit.

6 illustrates an X-ray apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment.

The X-ray apparatus 100 of FIG. 6 may further include a charging unit 510 .

The charging unit 510 may charge the power supply unit 330 . More specifically, the charging unit 510 may supply charging power so that the lithium ion battery 334 of the power supply unit 330 is charged. In this case, the charging power may mean power generated by the charging unit 510 . According to an embodiment, the charging unit 510 may be configured to be coupled to an external power supply unit, and may receive power from the power supply unit. Subsequently, the charging unit 510 may supply charging power to the lithium ion battery 334 by controlling the received power according to a user input or an internal operation of the device.

The charging unit 510 may control a charging operation when X-ray irradiation is performed by the X-ray irradiation unit 310 . The charging unit 510 may stop the charging operation when the X-ray irradiator 310 irradiates X-rays. When X-rays are irradiated while the charging unit 510 is connected to the power supply 330 and performing a charging operation, the charging unit 510 may be damaged due to an instantaneous overload. Therefore, in order to prevent damage due to instantaneous overload, when the X-ray irradiator 310 irradiates X-rays, the charging unit 510 may exceptionally stop the charging operation. When the X-ray irradiation is completed, the charging unit 510 may resume the charging operation.

Each of the power supply unit 330 , the charging unit 510 , and the control unit 320 may include a communication interface capable of communicating with each other. For example, each of the power supply unit 330 , the charging unit 510 , and the control unit 320 may communicate with each other according to a controller area network (CAN) through a communication interface. In addition, according to another example, communication between the power supply unit 330 , the charging unit 510 , and the control unit 320 is a high-speed digital interface such as LVDS (Low Voltage Differential Signaling), or asynchronous serial such as a universal asynchronous receiver transmitter (UART). A low-delay type network protocol such as communication or erroneous synchronous serial communication may be used, and various communication methods may be used within the range apparent to those skilled in the art.

In addition, each of the power supply unit 330 , the charging unit 510 , and the control unit 320 may be configured as a modular unit separate from each other. As each of the power supply unit 330 , the charging unit 510 , and the control unit 320 is configured as a different modular unit, the control unit 320 does not need to directly monitor the high voltage, so a high voltage circuit can be configured in the control unit 320 . There is no need, and as a result, it can be effective in terms of stability by reducing the risk factors caused by high voltage circuits.

Specifically, in a mobile X-ray device using a conventional lead-acid battery, the control unit may include a circuit for monitoring a high voltage, and thus there is a risk that the control unit may be damaged by the high voltage. Since the BMS can monitor the high voltage state and transmit the high voltage state to the controller 320 , such a risk factor can be reduced.

In addition, as each of the power supply unit 330 , the charging unit 510 , and the control unit 320 is configured in different modularized units, the power supply unit 330 , the charging unit 510 , and the control unit 320 are different from each other in the mobile X-ray apparatus. Since it can be used in , a common platform design may be possible. In addition, as each of the power supply unit 330 , the charging unit 510 , and the control unit 320 is configured as a different modular unit, the power supply unit 330 , the charging unit 510 , and the control unit 320 are each provided with a shield case. ) to prevent EMI (Electro Magnetic Interference)/EMC (Electro Magnetic Compatibility) noise that may occur with each other.

7 illustrates an embodiment in which a charging unit controls a charging operation when X-rays are irradiated.

In step s601, the controller 320 may obtain an X-ray irradiation preparation signal. According to an embodiment, the controller 320 may obtain an X-ray irradiation preparation signal through the input unit 151 . For example, when the input unit 151 is implemented as a hand switch, the user may partially press a button of the input unit 151 indicating an X-ray irradiation command, and the control unit 320 may press a part of the button of the input unit 151 through the pressed button. An X-ray irradiation preparation signal may be obtained.

In step s603 , the control unit 320 may transmit a control signal generated based on the X-ray irradiation preparation signal to the charging unit 510 . According to an example, the control unit 320 may transmit a control signal generated based on the X-ray irradiation preparation signal to the charging unit 510 through the communication interface.

As another example, the charging unit 510 may directly receive the irradiation preparation signal generated from the input unit 151 as a control signal. In this case, the irradiation preparation signal may be transmitted to the charging unit 510 without passing through the control unit 320 .

In step s605 , the charging unit 510 may stop the charging operation of the power supply unit 330 based on the received control signal.

In operation s607 , the controller 320 may control the X-ray irradiator 310 to radiate X-rays. According to an embodiment, if the user presses all the buttons of the input unit 151 that have been partially pressed, the controller 320 may control the X-ray radiator 310 to radiate X-rays. As X-rays are irradiated and the charging unit 510 stops the charging operation, the charging unit 510 may prevent damage due to an instantaneous overload.

In step s609, the controller 320 may obtain an X-ray irradiation completion signal. According to an embodiment, the controller 320 may obtain an X-ray irradiation completion signal from the high voltage generator or the X-ray detector of the X-ray apparatus 100 . Also, according to another embodiment, when the state in which the user does not press the button of the input unit 151 any longer continues for a predetermined time, the controller 320 may obtain a signal indicating that the X-ray irradiation is complete.

In step s611 , the control unit 320 may transmit a control signal generated based on the X-ray irradiation completion signal to the charging unit 510 . According to an example, the control unit 320 may transmit a control signal received through the communication interface to the charging unit 510 , and the charging unit 510 may receive the control signal.

In step s613 , based on the received control signal, the charging unit 510 may resume the stopped charging operation. That is, the charging unit 510 may exceptionally stop the charging operation only when X-rays are irradiated.

As another example, without the step of the charging unit 510 receiving the control signal of step s 613 , the charging unit 510 may be configured to resume the charging operation after a set predetermined time (eg, 10 seconds) passes.

8 illustrates an X-ray apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment.

The power supply unit 330 includes a lithium ion battery 334 , a BMS 332 , a discharge field effective transistor (FET) 760 , a charge FET 770 , a shutdown circuit 710 , and a first current sensor 730 , a second current sensor 740 , a DC-DC converter 720 , and a fuse 780 may be included. Also, the X-ray apparatus 100 may include a third current sensor 750 . The first and second current sensors 730 and 740 may include Hall sensors, and the shutdown circuit 710 as a protection circuit may include a switching circuit such as an FET.

The BMS 332 may control the charging path and the discharging path using the charge FET 770 as a charge control unit and the discharge FET 760 as the discharge control unit. That is, the BMS 332 may control the charging path and the discharging path by controlling the on/off of the charging FET 770 and the discharging FET 760 .

The BMS 332 may communicate with the control unit 320 through a communication interface in relation to the state of the power supply unit 330 .

The discharge FET 760 may include a plurality of FETs in parallel. Since an overcurrent may be discharged to the X-ray emitter 310 during X-ray irradiation by the X-ray emitter 310 , the discharge FET 760 may include FETs having a predetermined capacity in parallel. For example, when X-ray irradiation by the X-ray irradiation unit 310, an overcurrent of 300A or more may flow in the power supply unit 330, so that the overcurrent of 300A or more can be handled. It may be configured to be connected to

The discharge FET 760 and the charge FET 770 may be configured as N-channel FETs according to an example.

The discharging FET 760 and the charging FET 770 may control a path of a discharging current or a charging current when the lithium ion battery 334 is discharged or charged. According to an embodiment, when the lithium ion battery 334 is discharged, the charging FET 770 may be turned off, and a discharge current loop through the discharging FET 760 that is in an on state will be formed. can According to another embodiment, when the lithium ion battery 334 is being charged, the discharge FET 760 may be turned off, the body diode of the discharge FET 760 and the charging FET (on) state (on). A charging current loop through 770 may be formed. In addition, the lithium ion battery 334 may be discharged or charged simultaneously through the discharge FET 760 and the charge FET 770 .

As another example, the BMS 332 may sequentially perform discharging and charging by sequentially controlling the discharging FET 760 and the charging FET 770 .

The BMS 332 may sense the current of the lithium ion battery 334 using different current sensors 730 and 740 . The BMS 332 may sense a current flowing through the lithium ion battery 334 using the first current sensor 730 . The first current sensor 730 may be a small-capacity sensor for sensing a relatively low-intensity current. In other words, the first current sensor 730 may be a sensor for detecting a current having an intensity equal to or less than a reference value. For example, the first current sensor 730 may be a sensor for detecting a current of 50A or less. In addition, when an overcurrent flows in the lithium ion battery 334 , it is difficult to accurately detect the overcurrent with the first current sensor, so the BMS 332 uses the second current sensor 740 to send the lithium ion battery 334 to the lithium ion battery 334 . A flowing overcurrent can be detected. The second current sensor may be a large-capacity sensor for sensing a relatively high-intensity current. In other words, the second current sensor may be a sensor for detecting a current having an intensity greater than or equal to a reference value. For example, the second current sensor may be a sensor for detecting a current of 300A or more. Accordingly, the first and second current sensors 730 and 740 may be configured to sense different current capacities, for example, the second current sensor may sense a higher current than the first current sensor.

According to one embodiment, the BMS 332 activates the first current sensor 730 and deactivates the second current sensor 740 , using the first current sensor 730 to flow through the lithium ion battery 334 . current can be sensed. Subsequently, when the X-ray irradiator 310 irradiates X-rays, the BMS 332 deactivates the first current sensor 730 and activates the second current sensor 740 , using the second current sensor 740 . An overcurrent generated during X-ray irradiation can be detected. Subsequently, when the X-ray irradiation is completed, the BMS 332 deactivates the second current sensor 740 and activates the first current sensor 730 , and uses the first current sensor 730 to use the lithium ion battery 334 . ) can be detected.

As another example, when the X-ray irradiator irradiates X-rays, the BMS 332 activates the second current sensor 740 to detect overcurrent, and also activates the first current sensor 730, but the BMS 332 The signal received from the first current sensor 730 may be ignored. After completion of X-ray irradiation, the second current sensor 740 may be deactivated.

As another example, the first current sensor 730 and the second current sensor 740 may be maintained in an on state regardless of whether the X-ray is irradiated. In this case, the BMS 332 may selectively use signals received from the first current sensor 730 and the second current sensor 740 depending on whether X-rays are irradiated. For example, before receiving the X-ray irradiation preparation related signal and after receiving the X-ray irradiation completion related signal, the BMS 332 may control the power supply unit 330 based on the signal transmitted from the first current sensor 730 . can Also, from after receiving the X-ray irradiation preparation related signal to before receiving the X-ray irradiation completion related signal, the BMS 332 may control the power supply unit 330 based on the signal transmitted from the second current sensor 740 .

The BMS 332 may check the remaining amount of the lithium ion battery 334 through the amount of current sensed using the different current sensors 730 and 740 . Specifically, the BMS 332 may check the remaining amount of the lithium ion battery 334 using a current accumulating method (Coulomb Counting Based Gauging) based on the sensed amount of current.

Also, the X-ray apparatus 100 may further include a third current sensor 750 for measuring a charging current. That is, the X-ray apparatus 100 may further include a third current sensor 750 at the output end of the charging unit 510 . When the lithium ion battery 334 is simultaneously charged and discharged, the current measured by the first current sensor 730 or the second current sensor 740 may be the sum of the discharging current and the charging current. Accordingly, in order to accurately measure the discharging current and the charging current, the X-ray apparatus 100 may measure the charging current using the third current sensor 750 .

BMS 332 may be turned off by itself using shutdown circuit 710 . As a result of detecting the state of the lithium ion battery 334 , the BMS 332 may recognize a dangerous situation such as overdischarge and overcharge, and may be turned off by itself using the shutdown circuit 710 as a protection circuit. When the BMS 332 is turned off, the current supply may be stopped through the charging path and the discharging path as the charging control unit and the discharging control unit are turned off, and the power supplied to the control unit 320 is also stopped, so that the control unit 320 also turns off

The fuse 780 is a device for preventing an excessive current exceeding a prescribed value from continuously flowing in the power supply unit 330 , and may protect battery cells in case of an external short circuit of the lithium ion battery 322 .

The DC-DC converter 720 may convert the voltage of the lithium ion battery 334 into DC power for the operating power of the BMS 332 .

In addition, although the load 406 receiving power from the lithium ion battery 334 through a charging path and/or a discharging path is illustrated as including the control unit 320 and the X-ray irradiation unit 310 , the load 406 . ) may further include each component requiring power in the X-ray apparatus 100 . For example, the rod 406 may include a high voltage generator, a motor driver for moving the X-ray apparatus, and the like.

9 illustrates an embodiment in which the X-ray device senses a current flowing through a lithium ion battery through a current sensor.

In step s901 , the X-ray apparatus 100 may sense a current flowing through the lithium ion battery through the first current sensor. The X-ray apparatus 100 may activate the first current sensor to detect a current flowing through the lithium ion battery through the activated first current sensor. The X-ray apparatus 100 may detect a current flowing through the lithium ion battery through the first current sensor in normal times. The sensed current value is transmitted to the BMS 332 .

In step s903 , the X-ray apparatus 100 may detect an overcurrent flowing through the lithium ion battery through the second current sensor during X-ray irradiation. The X-ray apparatus 100 may activate the second current sensor when irradiating X-rays to detect an overcurrent flowing in the lithium ion battery through the activated second current sensor. The X-ray apparatus 100 normally detects a current flowing through the lithium ion battery through the first current sensor, and when X-rays are irradiated, the X-ray apparatus 100 may detect an overcurrent flowing through the lithium ion battery through the second current sensor.

10 illustrates an embodiment in which the BMS controls the first current sensor and the second current sensor during X-ray irradiation.

In step s1001 , the BMS 332 may activate the first current sensor 730 . At this time, the BMS 332 deactivates the second current sensor 740 together with the activation of the first current sensor 730 so that the BMS 332 does not receive a signal from the second current sensor 740 . have. Accordingly, the BMS 332 may sense a current flowing through the lithium ion battery 334 using the first current sensor 730 .

As another example, when the second current sensor 740 is maintained in an activated state, the BMS 332 may be configured to not use or ignore the signal received from the second current sensor 740 to control the power supply unit 330 . .

In step s1003, the controller 320 may obtain an X-ray irradiation preparation signal. According to an embodiment, the controller 320 may obtain an X-ray irradiation preparation signal from the high voltage generator or the X-ray detector, or may obtain an X-ray irradiation preparation signal through the input unit 151 . For example, when the input unit 151 is implemented as a hand switch, the user may partially press a button of the input unit 151 indicating an X-ray irradiation command, and the control unit 320 may press a part of the button of the input unit 151 through the pressed button. An X-ray irradiation preparation signal may be obtained.

In step s1005 , the controller 320 may transmit a control signal generated based on the X-ray irradiation preparation signal to the BMS 332 . According to an example, the controller 320 may transmit a control signal generated based on the X-ray irradiation preparation signal to the BMS 332 through the communication interface.

In operation s1007, the BMS 332 may activate the second current sensor based on the X-ray irradiation preparation signal. At this time, the BMS 332 may deactivate the first current sensor 730 so that the BMS 332 does not receive a signal from the first current sensor 730 .

As another example, when the first current sensor 730 is maintained in an activated state, the BMS 332 may be configured to not use or ignore a signal received from the first current sensor to control the power supply unit 330 .

In operation s1009, the controller 320 may control the X-ray irradiator 310 to radiate X-rays. According to an embodiment, if the user presses all the buttons of the input unit 151 that have been partially pressed, the controller 320 may control the X-ray radiator 310 to radiate X-rays. As X-rays are irradiated, an overcurrent may occur in the lithium ion battery 334 , and the BMS 332 may sense a current of the lithium ion battery 334 through the activated second current sensor 740 .

In step s1011, the controller 320 may obtain an X-ray irradiation completion signal. According to an embodiment, the controller 320 may obtain an X-ray irradiation completion signal from the high voltage generator or the X-ray detector of the X-ray apparatus 100 . Also, according to another embodiment, when the state in which the user does not press the button of the input unit 151 any longer continues for a predetermined time, the controller 320 may obtain a signal indicating that the X-ray irradiation is complete.

In step s1013 , the controller 320 may transmit a control signal generated based on the X-ray irradiation completion signal to the BMS 332 . According to an example, the controller 320 may transmit a control signal generated based on the X-ray irradiation completion signal to the BMS 332 through the communication interface.

In step s1015 , the BMS 332 may activate the first current sensor 730 based on the received control signal. In this case, the BMS 332 may deactivate the second current sensor 740 together with the activation of the first current sensor 730 . That is, the BMS 332 may detect the overcurrent by activating the second current sensor 740 exceptionally only when X-rays are irradiated.

As another example, when the second current sensor 740 is maintained in an activated state, the BMS 332 may be configured to not use or ignore a signal received from the second current sensor to control the power supply unit 330 .

11 is a view for explaining a method of operating an X-ray apparatus.

The method shown in FIG. 11 may be performed by each component of the X-ray apparatus 100 of FIGS. 1, 3, 6, and 8 , and overlapping descriptions will be omitted.

In operation s1101, the X-ray apparatus 100 may receive a command for X-ray irradiation from the user. According to an embodiment, the X-ray apparatus 100 may receive a command for X-ray irradiation from a user through an input unit of the X-ray apparatus 100 . For example, when the input unit is implemented as a hand switch, the user may press a hand switch button indicating an X-ray irradiation command, and the X-ray apparatus 100 may receive an X-ray irradiation command from the user through the pressed button. Also, according to an embodiment, the user may partially press a hand switch button indicating an X-ray irradiation command, and the X-ray apparatus 100 may receive an X-ray irradiation preparation command from the user through the partially pressed button, and the X-ray apparatus ( 100) may receive a command for X-ray irradiation from the user through all pressed buttons.

In operation s1103, the X-ray apparatus 100 may control the operation of the protection circuit for the lithium ion battery during X-ray irradiation. Specifically, during X-ray irradiation, the lithium ion battery may be temporarily overdischarged, overcurrent, overheated, or unbalanced between cells due to instantaneous overcurrent, which causes the X-ray apparatus 100 to unnecessarily operate the protection circuit. can do it Accordingly, in order to prevent unnecessary protection circuit operation, the X-ray apparatus 100 may exceptionally control the operation of the protection circuit when X-rays are irradiated.

According to an embodiment, when X-rays are irradiated, the X-ray apparatus 100 may change the overcurrent reference value and/or the overdischarge reference value of the lithium ion battery for the protection circuit operation. In other words, when X-rays are irradiated, the X-ray apparatus 100 may increase the current reference value for operating the protection circuit due to overcurrent, and/or set the voltage reference value for operating the protection circuit due to overdischarge. can be lower than before.

Also, the X-ray apparatus 100 may change the overcurrent reference value and/or the overdischarge reference value based on the X-ray irradiation preparation signal. For example, when the input unit is implemented as a hand switch, the X-ray apparatus 100 may obtain an X-ray irradiation preparation signal through some pressed buttons. Subsequently, the X-ray apparatus 100 may change the changed overcurrent reference value and the overdischarge reference value back to the existing ones based on the X-ray irradiation completion signal. For example, the X-ray apparatus 100 may obtain an X-ray irradiation completion signal from a high voltage generator in the X-ray apparatus 100 . Also, similarly, when X-rays are irradiated, the X-ray apparatus 100 may change the overheating reference value and/or the inter-cell unbalancing reference value of the lithium ion battery for the protection circuit operation.

According to another embodiment, when X-rays are irradiated, the X-ray apparatus 100 may control the protection circuit against overdischarge and/or overcurrent not to operate. More specifically, the X-ray apparatus 100 may control the protection circuit against overdischarge and/or overcurrent not to operate based on the X-ray irradiation preparation signal. Subsequently, the X-ray apparatus 100 may control the overdischarge or overcurrent protection circuit to be operable based on the X-ray irradiation completion signal. Similarly, when X-rays are irradiated, the X-ray apparatus 100 may control the protection circuit against overheating and/or unbalance between cells not to operate.

The X-ray apparatus 100 may control a charging operation of the lithium ion battery during X-ray irradiation. The X-ray apparatus 100 may stop the charging operation based on the X-ray irradiation preparation signal. Subsequently, the X-ray apparatus 100 may resume the charging operation based on the X-ray irradiation completion signal.

Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a computer-readable recording medium storing instructions and data executable by a computer. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, a predetermined program module may be generated to perform a predetermined operation. Further, the instruction, when executed by a processor, may perform certain operations of the disclosed embodiments.

The disclosed embodiments have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings as described above. Those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains will understand that the present invention may be practiced in other forms than the disclosed embodiments without changing the technical spirit or essential features of the present invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting.

Claims (13)

In the mobile X-ray device,
X-ray irradiation unit;
a control unit controlling the X-ray irradiation unit;
a lithium ion battery for supplying operating power to the X-ray irradiator and the control unit;
a protection circuit configured to protect the lithium ion battery from overcurrent or overdischarge; and
a battery management system (BMS) for controlling the operation of the protection circuit based on the operation state information of the lithium ion battery;
including,
The BMS receives the X-ray irradiation preparation signal from the control unit, and controls the protection circuit not to operate during a preset time period from a time point when the X-ray irradiation preparation signal is received.
According to claim 1,
The BMS controls to restart the operation of the protection circuit after the preset time period has elapsed.
According to claim 1,
The control unit controls the X-ray irradiation unit to complete the X-ray irradiation before a second time point when the preset time period elapses from a first time point when an X-ray irradiation preparation signal is transmitted to the BMS.
4. The method of claim 3,
The BMS receives the X-ray irradiation completion signal from the controller before the second time point, the mobile X-ray apparatus.
According to claim 1,
The X-ray irradiation unit,
and at least one capacitor that is charged using power from the lithium ion battery and supplies power to the X-ray irradiator using a discharge voltage.
6. The method of claim 5,
The at least one capacitor supplies power to the X-ray irradiator using a discharge voltage while the X-ray irradiator irradiates the object with X-rays based on the X-ray irradiation preparation signal received from the controller.
6. The method of claim 5,
The capacity of each of the at least one capacitor is 10000 microfarads (μF) or less, mobile X-ray apparatus.
6. The method of claim 5,
The at least one capacitor is composed of two capacitors, mobile X-ray device.
The method of claim 1,
The BMS and the control unit each include a communication interface,
The BMS and the control unit communicate through a communication interface, a mobile X-ray device.
A method of operating a mobile X-ray device including a lithium ion battery, the method comprising:
Receiving an instruction (instruction) for preparing for X-ray irradiation from a user;
stopping the operation of a protection circuit for protection of the lithium ion battery during a preset time period from the time of receiving the command; and
radiating X-rays to the object based on the received command;
comprising, a method of operation.
11. The method of claim 10,
resuming the operation of the protection circuit after the predetermined time period has elapsed; Further comprising, the method of operation.
11. The method of claim 10,
The step of irradiating the X-rays includes completing the X-ray irradiation before the time when the preset time period elapses from the time when the command is received.
A computer-readable recording medium in which a program for executing the method of any one of claims 10 to 12 in a computer is recorded.

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