The Importance of Precision in Mammography
Early detection is crucial in the fight against breast cancer, and mammography plays a vital role in identifying potential issues at their earliest, most treatable stages. This diagnostic procedure relies on X-rays to examine breast tissue with high precision.
Behind the scenes, SANYO DENKI’s SANMOTION DC Servo Motors ensure the accuracy and safety of mammography equipment, helping medical professionals obtain clear and reliable imaging.
How SANMOTION DC Servo Motors Enhance Mammography
During a mammogram, the breast is positioned between two plates. The compression plate applies controlled pressure to ensure optimal imaging conditions. SANYO DENKI’s DC Servo Motors enable precise motion control for key axis:
1. Vertical Movement of the Imaging Platform
- DC servo motors drive the imaging platform’s movement, ensuring smooth and controlled pressure application.
- Precision control adapts to different breast sizes and shapes, minimizing patient discomfort.
2. Rotation of the Imaging Platform
- Motors control both vertical positioning and rotational adjustments.
- This flexibility allows technicians to achieve the best imaging angles.
- DC servo motor is equipped with a brake to hold film plate steadily.
3. Movement of Compression Plate Vertical Axis
- DC servo motors power the upward, downward, and rotational movements of a compression plate.
- DC servo motor is equipped with gear to provide low speed and high torque, which is required in vertical axis of compression plate.
SANYO DENKI provides SANMOTION K, low cogging DC servo motors designed to meet the stringent requirements of mammography equipment. These motors enable smooth imaging operations, improve efficiency, and enhance image quality while minimizing patient discomfort and stress.
Key Advantages of SANMOTION K DC Servo Motors
Low Noise Design for Medical Applications
- The SANMOTION K series DC servo motor is engineered to operate with minimal noise.
- Optimized motor structure reduces operating noise, ensuring a quieter environment.
- Ideal for applications near people, particularly in medical settings like mammography, where loud motor sounds could cause discomfort for patients.
Enhanced Electrical Safety With Low Voltage Design
- Low-voltage design reduces the risk of electric shock.
- Essential for medical equipment that comes into direct contact with patients.
Meets CE Low Voltage Directive guidelines (<100 VAC) for safe operation.
In mammography, where electric actuators are often placed close to the human body, considerations for electric shock are necessary, which the low voltage K series addresses.
Reliability in High Radiation Environments
- DC servo motors do not require commutation sensors, making them more resistant to radiation exposure.
- Fewer electronic components mean higher durability and reliability.
Precise Movement
- Engineered for accurate low-speed operation.
- Features an octupolar motor design (8 poles vs. 4 poles in standard DC motors), enabling finer pole control and superior precision.
- Outperforms AC servo motors in achieving the exact, slow-speed movements required in mammography.
Precise Pressure Control
- The system monitors motor current to apply the right amount of pressure.
- Enhances imaging quality while minimizing discomfort for patients.
Highly Responsive Operation
- Low electrical time constant ensures fast response during starts and stops.
- Startup time is reduced by 30% to 48% compared to AC servo motors and competitor DC motors.
- Rapid compensation for external forces enhances performance.
Stable Velocity
- High-inertia rotors maintain constant machine speed, reducing sensitivity to external interference.
- Ensures minimal velocity variation at low speeds, making them ideal for mammography applications.
Maintenance-Free Operation
Minimal brush wear at operating speeds ensures a long lifespan with little to no maintenance.
Cost-Effective Amplifier and Controller
- Simple in-house production of DC amplifier controller circuits can reduce development and production costs.
- Compatible with SANMOTION T DC amplifiers and SANMOTION C controllers for enhanced flexibility.
Versatile Custom Options
Available with high-resolution encoders (up to 25,000 PPR with high noise resistance) and reduction gears to accommodate various customer needs.
Conclusion
By delivering high responsiveness, precise movement, and stable velocity even at low-speed rotation, SANYO DENKI DC servo motors play a critical role in enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of modern mammography systems. This ultimately benefits both medical professionals and patients, ensuring reliable imaging and improved diagnostic outcomes.