November 27, 2023

Innovating medical imaging and radiotherapy: The ETEL advantage

As part of the esteemed HEIDENHAIN family of brands, ETEL is revolutionizing the way we build medical imaging and radiotherapy equipment. Modern medical machines need to be precise, fast, and reliable, and ETEL’s solutions are paving the way.

In the medical field, equipment like Computer Tomography (CT) Scanners, Radiotherapy machines, C-Arms, and Image Guided Radiation Machines are pivotal. These machines work by rotating a payload around a vast diameter that encircles the patient. This payload is a vital piece of equipment as it’s the mechanism that images and/or treats the cancer cells in a patient. Because of this, the mechanism that positions this equipment is vital to control.

The ETEL solution: Segmented Magway Solution

ETEL introduces their Segmented Magway Solution: an arrangement of linear motors using the same magnet tracks used in standard linear motor application but arranged in an arch shape. This innovative design allows for greater availability of the component pieces without the need for custom parts while still operating at the same performance level as if the magnet tracks were curved. Combined with ETEL’s AccurET controller, the speed stability can be improved even further ensuring the rotation goes exactly how the machine builder would want it. This patented design has the capability to achieve a maximum speed of 200rpm making it ideal for imaging machines aiming for speeds beyond 100rpm.

Why choose ETEL?

Quiet operation: Recognizing the importance of a stress-free environment for patients, ETEL’s low noise levels provide a calm atmosphere during treatment sessions.

Durability and savings: Absence of wear components ensures reduced contamination in cleanroom environments and decreases operational costs over time.

Precision and efficiency: Higher speeds and accurate dynamics lead to quicker image acquisition, more patients treated daily, and reduced radiation exposure.

Standard parts and cost-effectiveness: Unlike other solutions that rely on custom components, ETEL’s solution utilizes standard parts that are readily available, ensuring cost efficiency.

Comprehensive integration support: ETEL is not just about products but also the experience. With in-house test benches simulating client machine setups and direct drive integration classes, ETEL provides all-rounded services to assist machine builders with using direct drive.

Compact design: Given the intricate nature of medical machines, ETEL’s compact solution seamlessly integrates without causing space constraints.

In the realm of medical imaging and radiotherapy, ETEL is setting new standards.

ETEL S.A. is based in Switzerland with exclusive North American distribution through HEIDENHAIN CORPORATION in Schaumburg, IL and San Jose, CA. As a leading international supplier of direct drive and motion control components and integrated systems, ETEL supports high tech industry with linear motors, torque motors, positioning stages, and motion controllers/systems.

More ETEL information can be found at https://www.heidenhain.us/product/direct-drive-motors-and-motion-systems/ and https://www.etel.ch/