Description:PREAMBLE TO THE DESCRIPTION
The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed:
TITLE OF THE INVENTION
MOBILE X-RAY DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS WITH PULSED ENERGY BANK SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLED HIGH-VOLTAGE POWER DELIVERY
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of medical diagnostic imaging systems, and more particularly to a mobile X-ray diagnostic apparatus configured with a pulsed energy bank (PEB) system. The invention pertains to an electrical energy delivery architecture and control algorithm that enables controlled, high-voltage pulsed output for energizing an X-ray tube, wherein said architecture is optimized for compactness, energy efficiency, and rapid recharge capability, particularly suited for use in portable or mobile imaging applications.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Mobile radiographic systems play a critical role in delivering diagnostic imaging in environments where traditional, stationary imaging infrastructure is unavailable or impractical. These environments may include emergency rooms, ambulatory units, intensive care bedsides, disaster relief zones, military field hospitals, and rural healthcare setups. The increasing demand for compact, deployable diagnostic tools has necessitated innovation in portable X-ray technology, especially in the area of power delivery.
[0003] X-ray tubes used in such systems require short-duration but high-power pulses of electrical energy—often in the range of several kilowatts—to generate sufficient radiation for imaging anatomical structures. While mains-powered stationary systems typically have access to stable high-power input lines, mobile systems are constrained by the availability of limited power input, battery capacity, and physical size restrictions.
[0004] Existing portable X-ray machines often use transformer-driven charge circuits or large sealed lead-acid or lithium-ion battery banks to energize capacitors that subsequently discharge into the X-ray tube. However, these approaches are often inefficient, slow to recover between exposures, and generate significant heat. Moreover, the bulky nature of such systems limits maneuverability and poses challenges in rapid deployment scenarios.
[0005] Conventional capacitor banks used in high-voltage power conditioning suffer from several limitations including energy leakage, high dielectric absorption, and increased risk of overvoltage or short circuit conditions if not actively balanced. Additionally, capacitor aging can result in reduced peak voltage, unpredictable discharge profiles, and increased maintenance overhead.
[0006] Supercapacitors, also referred to as ultracapacitors or electric double-layer capacitors (EDLCs), present a viable solution due to their superior charge acceptance rates, higher power density, and long cycle life. When properly configured and managed, supercapacitor banks can deliver the requisite pulsed energy profile for X-ray excitation with reduced charging time, higher energy utilization efficiency, and improved system longevity.
[0007] However, integration of supercapacitor banks into medical X-ray systems requires careful architectural and control design. Challenges include voltage balancing across series-connected capacitors, implementing fast-acting yet safe switching mechanisms, managing thermal conditions during rapid charge-discharge cycles, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations stipulated by authorities such as the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), and international equivalents.
[0008] Furthermore, medical applications demand real-time synchronization of energy discharge with exposure control commands, exposure parameter programmability via operator interfaces, and fault detection with automatic shut-off features. These capabilities must be embedded into the pulsed energy system to ensure safe and accurate operation under clinical conditions.
[0009] Despite the advancements in energy storage technologies, there is presently a lack of commercially available, compact, supercapacitor-based pulsed energy bank modules that are optimized for mobile X-ray applications. Existing systems do not adequately address integration simplicity, modular construction, and rechargeability under constrained power availability conditions.
[0010] The present invention seeks to overcome the limitations of the prior art by providing a pulsed energy bank system that is compact, modular, and engineered specifically for use in mobile X-ray diagnostic machines, offering rapid charging, precise energy delivery, and embedded intelligence for safe and reliable operation in clinical and field environments.
OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
[0011] It is an object of the present invention to provide a mobile X-ray diagnostic apparatus comprising a pulsed energy bank (PEB) system capable of delivering controlled, high-voltage electrical energy pulses for radiographic imaging applications.
[0012] It is another object of the invention to enable the generation of short-duration, high-power energy bursts using a supercapacitor-based energy storage architecture, wherein said bursts are synchronized with X-ray exposure events and tailored to imaging protocols.
[0013] It is yet another object of the invention to provide a power delivery system that operates with minimal input power, such as a standard 230V AC line or portable battery source, while still achieving peak output power levels required for diagnostic imaging, such as up to 8 kW.
[0014] It is a further object of the invention to incorporate a capacitor charge balancing circuit, a high-speed switch circuit, and an intelligent charge/discharge controller that ensure voltage stability, safe operation, and thermal protection during cyclic use.
[0015] It is also an object of the invention to provide a compact and modular system architecture that can be integrated into existing mobile radiographic platforms without requiring substantial modification to system dimensions, cooling systems, or workflow.

[0016] It is still another object of the invention to enable programmable exposure parameters, feedback-based control loops, and diagnostic fault logging to ensure safety, reliability, and traceability in clinical deployment.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] The present invention provides a mobile X-ray diagnostic apparatus incorporating a pulsed energy bank (PEB) system for high-voltage, short-duration energy delivery suitable for energizing an X-ray tube. The PEB system comprises a supercapacitor array configured to store electrical energy and discharge it through a high-speed switching circuit in response to imaging trigger signals.
[0018] In one embodiment, the supercapacitor array includes a plurality of individual supercapacitor cells are rated in millifarads, connected in parallel to form a bank capable of achieving an aggregate output intermediate high voltage. This energy bank is charged by a power input unit configured to receive a standard low-power AC input (e.g., 230V, 6A) and convert it into regulated DC via a buck-boost converter and soft-start charging circuitry.
[0019] The discharge of stored energy is controlled by a switching circuit, such as an insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) or equivalent solid-state device, that is operatively linked to a control unit. The control unit receives exposure commands and synchronizes the switching operation with configured radiographic parameters such as kilovoltage (kV), tube current (mA), and exposure duration and other user requirements.
[0020] The apparatus further includes a thermal monitoring subsystem, a capacitor balancing module, and a safety interlock mechanism that collectively ensure the operational integrity of the system under clinical usage. The control unit is programmed with exposure profiles and also stores energy usage data, discharge timing, and thermal logs in non-volatile memory.
[0021] The system is integrated into a mobile diagnostic housing designed for field portability. The mechanical structure accommodates the PEB module, X-ray generator, and display console while preserving manoeuvrability and ease of use.
[0022] By implementing a pulsed supercapacitor-based energy architecture, the invention enables reduced recharge times, lower heat dissipation, improved electrical efficiency, and minimized dependency on high-capacity power infrastructure, thereby extending the applicability of mobile X-ray diagnostics to underserved and off-grid regions.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] The accompanying drawings, which form an integral part of the present specification, illustrate various embodiments of the invention and serve to explain the construction, integration, and operation of the mobile X-ray diagnostic apparatus incorporating the pulsed energy bank (PEB) system.
[0024] Figure 1 illustrates an external view of the mobile X-ray diagnostic apparatus identifying major structural components including: a tube head, collimator, articulating support arm with spring assist, user control console, exposure switch, voltage stabilizer, cassette compartment, front and rear wheels, wheel brakes, and main power interface.
[0025] Figure 2 shows a detailed view of the control interface panel comprising selectable controls for patient anatomy type, patient size, tube voltage (kV) and current-time product (mAs), along with memory set and recall options, exposure enable/reset switches, and status indicators including system faults and readiness for exposure.
[0026] Figure 3 presents dimensional views of the mobile diagnostic apparatus including front, side, and top elevation drawings. The dimensions specify footprint width and depth, maximum arm extension height, and tube focal point alignment to ground level for various patient positioning configurations.
[0027] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating the internal configuration of the pulsed energy bank module, showing a plurality of supercapacitors connected in series with balancing resistors across each unit, energy discharge path terminals, and protective fusing and sensing circuits.
[0028] Figure 5 includes photographic top and side views of the physical PEB enclosure showing the metallic housing, connector panel, cooling vent layout, and output cable routing features.
[0029] Figure 6 shows the integration of the PEB module into the lower compartment of the mobile diagnostic apparatus. The image highlights how the energy bank is physically housed within the frame, interfaced to the system control circuitry and supported with mechanical vibration damping.
[0030] Figure 7 presents exploded and perspective views of the PEB internal and external structures. The internal view reveals the organized capacitor array in segmented trays, whereas the external view displays the closed housing with manufacturing and safety labelling.
[0031] Figure 8 is a logical diagram of the operator interface display screen, showing parameter entry points for exposure configuration, active system status indicators, and alerts for temperature, voltage, or operational readiness.
[0032] Figure 9 is a functional flowchart diagram illustrating the energy cycle: including AC power input, supercapacitor charging, exposure readiness signalling, pulse delivery to the X-ray tube, and post-discharge cooldown and reset sequence.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION[0034] The present invention provides a mobile radiographic diagnostic apparatus equipped with a high-efficiency Pulsed Energy Bank (PEB) subsystem. The invention facilitates generation of high-voltage, short-duration pulses for energizing an X-ray source, enabling portable imaging operations particularly in resource-constrained environments. The PEB replaces conventional transformer-based power systems with a supercapacitor-based energy storage and discharge system that supports rapid recharge, minimal heat buildup, and compliance with applicable safety standards.
PEB Subsystem Architecture
[0035] The Pulsed Energy Bank (PEB) is configured as a modular energy storage assembly comprising multiple supercapacitor cells, These cells are interconnected in series, achieving a total nominal intermediate high voltage. However, for operational stability and controlled energy discharge, the system limits the capacitor charge voltage to a safer intermediate high voltage. This configuration yields an effective energy storage capacity of few kilojoules, suitable for delivering single-exposure, high-voltage pulses necessary for digital radiographic applications.
[0036] To ensure voltage uniformity across the capacitor array, each supercapacitor is bridged by a voltage balancing network of components on a printed circuit board. The assembly is encapsulated in thermally conductive polymer to enhance mechanical and thermal stability. The capacitors are arranged on modular tray boards that can be individually removed and serviced, thereby offering a field-replaceable and scalable design.
[0037] The system incorporates thermal protection circuitry comprising NTC thermistors and RTD sensors, strategically placed within the PEB enclosure. These sensors interface with a microcontroller that continuously monitors system temperature. If the internal temperature exceeds a predefined threshold (typically 70°C), a cooldown interlock is automatically activated via electromechanical relays, and the event is logged into non-volatile EEPROM memory for diagnostic review.
Power Supply and Charging Circuitry
[0038] The energy bank is charged from a 230V AC mains input, delivered through a fused IEC C14 inlet rated at 6A RMS. Surge protection is provided using a metal-oxide varistor (MOV). The AC input is filtered using a combination of CISPR-11 Class A compliant EMI filters, including a π-network and common-mode choke, before being converted to DC through a switch-mode buck-boost converter rated above 2.0 kVA.
[0039] Charging control is managed by a PWM-based soft-start circuit that limits inrush current during startup. Real-time monitoring of capacitor voltage is achieved using a high-speed ADC. When the charge level approaches the intermediate high voltage, a comparator triggers a “PEB FULL” status signal, which is transmitted through an opto-isolated interface to the main controller, thereby halting further charging until the next discharge cycle is initiated.
Pulse Discharge Module
[0040] Energy discharge is facilitated through a high-speed Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) bridge network capable of conducting peak current loads up to 100 A at 600 VDC. The IGBT gate drivers receive pulse-width modulation commands from the control processor via optically isolated channels. The pulse width can be dynamically controlled between 5 and 10 milliseconds to tailor the energy profile for diagnostic imaging requirements.
[0041] To reduce transient voltage spikes and ringing during discharge, a snubber circuit employing high-voltage polypropylene capacitors and bleed resistors is connected in parallel with the discharge path. The system includes an electromechanical interlock that prevents unintended activation and ensures pulse emission occurs only under verified operating conditions.

System Integration and Mechanical Configuration
[0042] The PEB is enclosed in a 3 mm thick anodized MS chassis fabricated from grade 304L alloy. The enclosure is made without ventilation and is rated to IP64 ingress protection standards. EMI gaskets are applied to all removable panel joints to prevent electromagnetic interference leakage.
[0043] The complete PEB module is mounted in the lower compartment of the mobile X-ray unit using silicone rubber vibration dampers (Shore A 40 hardness). Electrical and control connections include:
1. High-voltage armoured cables interfacing with the X-ray tube head,
2. A serial communication bus interface connected to the central control console,
3. Shielded twisted pair lines to the power regulation module, and
4. A failsafe relay line connected to the emergency cutoff system.
[0044] Additional system components include a manually height-adjustable tube arm, a rotatable tube head for multi-angle imaging, an integrated LED collimator for beam alignment, and storage compartments compatible with both CR cassettes and flat-panel DR detectors. The system supports full mobility and is operable by a single user in field settings.

Diagnostics, Logging, and Embedded Firmware
[0045] The firmware embedded in the control PCB offers the following functionalities:
1. Real-time fault and event logging to EEPROM via I²C interface,
2. Debugging access through an RS-232 serial interface,
3. A 10-second watchdog timer for system recovery,
4. Automated over-voltage and over-current protection mechanisms,
5. USB 2.0 diagnostics port supporting firmware upgrades,
6. Temperature-based derating algorithms,
7. A real-time clock and exposure log buffer storing up to 200 entries.
[0046] The user interface is a touchscreen panel featuring:
1. mAs and kV selection controls,
2. Anatomical region presets,
3. Visual indicators for CHARGING, READY, FAULT, and CAP FULL,
4. A countdown timer display for exposure cycles,
5. System-level diagnostics and debug menus.

Safety and Regulatory Compliance
[0047] The system is designed and tested to meet the following standards:
1. IEC 60601-1 – General electrical safety for medical devices,
2. IEC 60601-1-2 – Electromagnetic compatibility,
3. IEC 60601-2-54 – Specific safety requirements for diagnostic X-ray systems,
4. AERB Safety Code AERB/SC/MED-2 (Rev.1).
Key safety design features include:
• Double insulation on high-voltage lines,
• Minimum creepage distance of 10 mm between HV conductors,
• Short-circuit protection using 16A ceramic fuses,
• Integrated lead shielding to limit radiation leakage to below 1 mGy/hr at a distance of 1 meter,
• EMI-shielded enclosures to suppress conducted and radiated emissions.
Operational Advantages and Clinical Applications
[0048] The integration of the PEB subsystem into the mobile X-ray unit offers the following advantages:
1. Reliable operation under variable voltage or generator-supplied environments,
2. Accelerated recharge cycles enabling higher patient throughput,
3. Lightweight and compact form factor conducive to point-of-care and emergency deployments,
4. Elimination of bulky transformers, improving system efficiency and thermal profile,
5. Modular tray design for quick servicing and replacement,
6. Compliance with radiological safety norms and reduced total cost of ownership.
[0049] The mobile X-ray imaging system further integrates a digital radiography (DR) detection unit positioned in alignment with the X-ray tube focal spot. The system is compatible with both cassette-based computed radiography (CR) and flat-panel digital detectors (FPD), enabling flexibility across imaging workflows. The FPD module includes an amorphous silicon or cesium iodide-based detection panel, interfaced with the onboard processing unit via high-speed USB or Ethernet protocols. An onboard calibration module ensures grayscale linearity, spatial uniformity, and dynamic range correction prior to exposure cycles.
[0050] Imaging parameters such as kV, mAs, exposure time, and detector mode are programmable via the touchscreen graphical user interface (GUI), which supports both anatomical preset selection and manual override. Exposure initiation, image capture, and post-processing functions are managed by an embedded image processing controller configured with real-time preview and storage functions.
[0051] The system supports DICOM 3.0-compliant export for radiographic images, enabling seamless integration with hospital PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System). Imaging data, patient metadata, and acquisition logs are structured in accordance with IHE workflow profiles. Images are stored in DICOM format in onboard memory and optionally uploaded to an external server via Ethernet or Wi-Fi module.
[0052] For enhanced reliability in rural or mobile deployment, the mobile X-ray system includes a rechargeable battery module housed within the base compartment. The battery backup is rated to support a minimum of five full-capacitor charge–discharge cycles during a single power outage event. The power management unit intelligently switches between AC mains and battery input without interrupting the imaging session. An onboard battery monitoring controller with SOC (state-of-charge) and SOH (state-of-health) diagnostics is also provided.
[0053] The integration of the Pulsed Energy Bank (PEB) enables the system to operate effectively in settings with intermittent or unstable power supplies, such as rural clinics, field hospitals, disaster zones, and mobile diagnostic units. Its rapid energy storage and discharge capability reduces overall imaging cycle time, eliminates reliance on heavy transformer-based generators, and allows silent standby operation without thermal buildup, enhancing suitability for constrained or noise-sensitive environments.

, Claims:We claim:
1. A mobile X-ray imaging system, comprising:
i. a wheeled base;
ii. an X-ray tube assembly mounted on an articulated vertical arm;
iii. a Pulsed Energy Bank (PEB) housed within the wheeled base;
iv. a processing unit operatively coupled to the PEB and the X-ray tube assembly;
v. a touchscreen-based user interface;
wherein the PEB comprises:
i. a supercapacitor bank comprising multiple supercapacitor cells connected in parallel to yield a charge capacity of up to 2 Joules;
ii. a gate driver and discharge controller circuit configured to deliver pulsed high-voltage discharge to the X-ray tube;
iii. a charging module comprising a buck-boost converter receiving power from an AC main supply;
iv. a thermal management system comprising at least two axial cooling fans and multiple temperature sensors; and
v. an electromechanical safety interlock for enabling discharge only under verified operating conditions.
2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the supercapacitor bank comprises supercapacitor cells, and bridged with voltage equalization circuits.
3. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the discharge controller is configured to deliver pulses in the range of 5–10 milliseconds using IGBT-based switching elements rated for 600 VDC and up to 100 A.
4. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the PEB enclosure is made of anodized ss Sheetmetal graded as 304L and it provide EMI shielding and IP64 ingress protection.
5. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processing unit is configured to:
i. monitor real-time charge voltage via high-speed ADC;
ii. terminate charging upon reaching a voltage threshold of 420 VDC; and
iii. log operational data including exposure count, temperature history, and fault codes in EEPROM.
6. The system as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the X-ray tube assembly is configured for angular rotation and includes an LED-based collimator and digital radiography cassette interface.
7. The system as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the thermal protection module comprises a combination of NTC thermistors and RTD sensors interfaced to a microcontroller for real-time thermal monitoring and derating control.
8. The system as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the user interface comprises a capacitive touchscreen display configured to allow setting of kV/mAs parameters, triggering exposure cycles, and visualizing system diagnostics.
9. The system as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the PEB is mounted on vibration-damping elastomeric mounts rated Shore 75A to minimize mechanical shock during transport or mobile deployment.
10. The system as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the system is operable in field environments with unstable or off-grid AC supply and supports quick charge and discharge cycles enabling portable diagnostic radiography.
11. A method for delivering pulsed high-voltage energy for portable X-ray imaging, comprising the steps of:
i. providing means for energy storage, including a supercapacitor bank having a plurality of capacitors connected in series to achieve a voltage rating of high intermediary voltage.
ii. providing means for charging, including a buck-boost DC converter coupled to an AC power inlet, wherein said converter charges the supercapacitor bank under controlled current conditions;
iii. providing means for voltage monitoring, including an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) operable to continuously sample the voltage across said supercapacitor bank;
iv. providing means for triggering a pulse discharge, including a gate-controlled IGBT network configured to release stored energy from the bank as a short-duration, high-current pulse to an X-ray tube head;
v. providing means for thermal protection, including a plurality of temperature sensors operably connected to a microcontroller, wherein said microcontroller disables charging or discharging when a preset thermal threshold is exceeded;
vi. providing means for logging and diagnostics, including non-volatile memory for recording exposure events, faults, and thermal incidents, accessible through a digital communication interface;
vii. providing means for system control, including a microcontroller executing firmware logic to manage pulse width modulation (PWM), safety interlocks, and user interface operations.
12. The system as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the image acquisition module is configured to generate radiographic images in a format compliant with DICOM 3.0 standard and to transmit said images to an external PACS server or diagnostic workstation via Ethernet or wireless communication module.
13. The system as claimed in claim 12, wherein the image acquisition module further comprises:
i. a flat panel detector configured with amorphous silicon or cesium iodide sensor array;
ii. a calibration routine for grayscale linearity and uniformity correction; and
iii. a DICOM header generator that appends patient metadata and acquisition parameters to each image record.
14. The system as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the imaging workflow comprises:
i. an X-ray source configured to emit radiation upon receiving a trigger signal.
ii. a digital detector configured to capture the transmitted radiation and convert it to a digital image signal.
iii. a processing unit configured to apply real-time image correction algorithms and generate DICOM-compliant outputs; and
iv. a user interface configured to display the processed image and control exposure parameter
15. The system as claimed in any of the preceding claims, further comprising a rechargeable battery backup unit configured to:
i. Maintain uninterrupted operation of the Pulsed Energy Bank and control system during AC power outages;
ii. support at least five full imaging cycles under battery-only mode; and
iii. Provide state-of-charge and fault status updates via the touchscreen display.