GE CRxFlex User manual

GE
Measurement & Control Technologies
Computed Radiography
CRxFlex
CRxFlex Operating Manual V1.1
LL ID 51179524

2 CRxFlex Operating Manual V1.11
Table of Contents
1Introduction to this Manual..............................................................................4
Scope........................................................................................................................... 4
Warning, Cautions, Instructions and Notes................................................................... 4
Disclaimer.................................................................................................................... 5
Technical Support ........................................................................................................ 5
2Introduction to CRxFlex....................................................................................6
Intended Use................................................................................................................ 6
Intended User............................................................................................................... 6
System Documentation................................................................................................ 6
Configuration................................................................................................................ 7
Connections................................................................................................................. 8
Operation Controls....................................................................................................... 8
The Erase Button ..........................................................................................................................................9
The Status Indicator......................................................................................................................................9
Compatibility................................................................................................................10
Compliance.................................................................................................................10
General .......................................................................................................................................................10
Equipment Classification.............................................................................................................................12
Connectivity.................................................................................................................12
Training.......................................................................................................................12
Installation...................................................................................................................13
Labels .........................................................................................................................15
Safety Instructions for Laser Products.........................................................................17
Cleaning of the CRxFlex .............................................................................................17
Cleaning of Image Plates ............................................................................................18
Preventive Maintenance..............................................................................................18
Quality Control ............................................................................................................18
Environmental Protection ............................................................................................19
Safety Directions.........................................................................................................20
General safety instructions..........................................................................................................................21
3Getting started with the CRxFlex...................................................................22
Starting the Digitizer Remote Display..........................................................................22
Starting Rhythm RT.....................................................................................................22
Starting the CRxFlex...................................................................................................25
Scanning an Image .....................................................................................................26
Stopping the CRxFlex .................................................................................................29
Before Switching Off....................................................................................................................................29
Switching Off...............................................................................................................................................29
4Operating the CRxFlex ...................................................................................30

CRxFlex Operating Manual V1.1 3
Re-erasing an Image Plate..........................................................................................30
Cleaning the Optics Unit..............................................................................................31
Troubleshooting ..........................................................................................................34
Digitizer Remote Display.............................................................................................................................34
Connection Problems..................................................................................................................................34
Removing a jammed image plate................................................................................................................35
5Technical Specifications ................................................................................36

4 CRxFlex Operating Manual V1.11
1 Introduction to this Manual
Scope
This manual contains information for safe and effective operation of the CRxFlex digitizer
system. It describes the basic operation with Rhythm RT. For more details on Rhythm RT or
Rhythm RT Lite consult the online manual of the respective application.
Warning, Cautions, Instructions and Notes
The following samples show how warnings, cautions, instructions and notes appear in this
document. The text explains their intended use.
WARNING: Warnings are directions which, if they are not followed, can cause
fatal or serious injuries to a user, engineer, or any other person or can lead to
a wrong inspection result.
The purpose of safety icons is to indicate at a glance the type of caution, warning or danger.
Caution: Cautions are directions which, if they are not followed, can cause
damage to the equipment described in this manual or any other equipment or
goods and can cause environmental pollution.
INSTRUCTION: This sign typically is used in combination with the warning
sign, when providing a specific instruction, which if followed exactly, should
avoid the subject of the warning.
NOTE: Notes provide advice and highlight unusual points. A note is not
intended as an instruction.
Magnetic Field
Hot Surface Laser Beam Ionizing Radiation
Obstacles High Voltage Corrosive Liquid Explosive Material

CRxFlex Operating Manual V1.1 5
Disclaimer
GE Sensing and Inspection Technologies assumes no liability for use of this document if any
unauthorized changes have been made to the content or format.
Every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information in this document.
However, GE assumes no responsibility or liability for errors, inaccuracies or omissions that
may appear in this document. To improve reliability, function or design GE reserves the right
to change the product without further notice. This manual is provided without warranty of any
kind, implied or expressed, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of
merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose.
Technical Support
For technical support contact your dealer, a local customer support center as listed on
http://www.ge-mcs.com or
GE Sensing & Inspection Technologies GmbH
Bogenstrasse 41
22926 Ahrensburg

6 CRxFlex Operating Manual V1.11
2 Introduction to CRxFlex
Intended Use
CRxFlex:
The CRxFlex will be used in an industrial environment by qualified staff to scan X-ray or
Gamma-ray exposed cassettes, containing an imaging plate for non-destructive testing
applications. It results in a digital image which is sent to the dedicated workstation.
Cassette / Image Plate:
The cassettes including the image plates will be used in an industrial environment by
qualified staff for non-destructive testing applications. The imaging plates are scanned by a
digitizer. The resulting digital images are sent to the dedicated workstation.
Workstation / Rhythm - Software:
The CRxFlex will be controlled and operated from a stationary or mobile workstation with
Rhythm RT Lite installed on it.
In addition a Digitizer Remote Display is available for CRxFlex status and error messages.
NOTE: In case of a usage different to the intended use, the provided
safeguards may be reduced in their effectiveness.
Intended User
This manual has been written for trained users of GE computed radiography products and
trained x-ray personnel who have received proper training.
Users are those persons who actually handle the equipment and those who have authority
over the equipment.
Before attempting to work with this equipment, the user must read, understand, note and
strictly observe all warnings, cautions and safety markings on the equipment.
System Documentation
The complete system documentation comprises:
This user manual
Online manual of Rhythm RT
Always keep this user manual close to the system.

CRxFlex Operating Manual V1.1 7
Configuration
The system consists of:
1 The CRxFlex Digitizer including the accessory kit.
2 Cassette in different sizes with image plate. Following image plate types are
available:
IPS for CRxFlex
IPC2 for CRxFlex
IPU for CRxFlex
3 Workstation for image processing and identification.
WARNING: Accessory equipment not complying with the safety requirements
of this product may lead to a safety hazard. In particular, the power cord may
not be replaced by an insufficient dimensioned cable.
The data transmission is performed via network.
Two configurations are possible:
1 Via local network (preferred)
2 Via network switch connection
Digitizer
Cassette
Processing Workstation

8 CRxFlex Operating Manual V1.11
Connections
1 Power connections
2 Network interface
3 Intergrounding connector
Operation Controls
The CRxFlex interfaces with the user via:
1 The Erase Button
2 The Status Indicator
3 The Power Button
4 The Digitizer Remote Display for CRxFlex status and error messages
5 The Rhythm RT front end with graphical user interface
1
2
3
1
2
3
4
5

CRxFlex Operating Manual V1.1 9
The Erase Button
Press the erase button to start the erasing cycle of an image plate.
After pressing the erase button, the upper part of the status indicator is continuously lighting
up in blue and the CRxFlex starts erasing the imaging plate of the cassette inserted next. If
no cassette with imaging plate has been inserted after 60 seconds, the system automatically
returns to standby mode.
For more information, refer to section “Re-erasing an Image Plate” on page 35.
The Status Indicator
The indicator informs the user by light signals about the status of the CRxFlex. It is
positioned at the front of the CRxFlex, so that it is visible from a distance.
The indicator is divided in two parts. The upper part is used to inform
the operator about the image plate erasing cycle progress and is
only then lit. The lower part is used for all other operational
indications.
Status
Indicator
CRxFlex Status
Meaning
Constant
blue
The erase cycle is active.
In combination with constant green: The CRxFlex will erase the next
image plate.
In combination with blinking green: The CRxFlex is busy with
erasing and return of the image plate into the cassette.
Constant
green
Ready for scanning
The CRxFlex is ready for scanning the next image plate.
The cassette is ready for removal.
Green
blinking
Busy
The CRxFlex is busy with scanning, erasing and return of the image
plate into cassette.
Yellow
blinking
(1 / sec.)
Boot-up
The CRxFlex is busy with the boot-up. Scanning is not possible.
Red
blinking
(1 / sec.)
Digitizer error or warning
User intervention or confirmation is required.
Constant
red
Fatal CRxFlex error or
service mode active (e.g.
shading calibration)
Scanning is not possible due to:
Service intervention is required or
Service function which blocks scanning is called up by the field
service engineer.
Fast red
blinking
(3 / sec.)
No connection to the
Digitizer Remote Display
Scanning is not possible as the Digitizer Remote Display on the
workstation is not up-to-date or not started up.
Triple
blinking
(3 / sec. +
1 sec. off)
No network connection
Scanning is not possible as the Network connectivity test of the
CRxFlex to the workstation failed.

10 CRxFlex Operating Manual V1.11
Compatibility
The CRxFlex must only be used in combination with other equipment or components if these
are expressly recognized by GE as compatible.
Changes or additions to the equipment must only be carried out by persons authorized to do
so by GE. Such changes must comply with best engineering practices and all applicable laws
and regulations.
Accessory equipment connected to any interfaces must be certified according to the
respective IEC standards. Furthermore, all configurations shall comply with the valid version
of the system standard. Everybody who connects additional equipment to the signal input
part or signal output part configures a system, and is therefore responsible that the system
complies with the requirements of the valid version of the system standard. If in doubt,
consult your local service organization
Compliance
General
The product has been designed in accordance to DIRECTIVE 2006/95/EC (Low Voltage
Directive) and DIRECTIVE 2004/108/EC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) of the EUROPEAN
PARLIAMENT and of the COUNCIL.
Applicable EC directive(s)
Directive 2004/108/EC EMC Directive
Directive 2006/95/EC Low Voltage Directive
Directive 2011/65/EU RoHS Directive
Directive 2012/19/EU WEEE Directive
Applicable EC harmonized standard(s)
EN 61010-1 : 2010
IEC/EN60825-1:2014
IEC 61326-1: 2012
IEC/CISPR 11:2009 + A1:2010 group 1, class A
IEC 61000-6-4:2006 + A1:2010
IEC 61000-3-2:2014
IEC 61000-3-3:2013
IEC 61000-6-2:2005

CRxFlex Operating Manual V1.1 11
The table showing the distribution of hazardous substances and its concentration to be
complaint to RoHS directive is shown below:
Table of hazardous substances’ name and concentration.
Component
Name
Hazardous substances’ name
Pb
Hg
Cd
CrVI
PBB
PBDE
Metal Parts
O
O
O
X
O
O
Plastic Parts
O
O
O
O
X
X
Elastomere Parts
O
O
O
O
X
X
Electromechanical
Components
X
O
O
O
X
X
Cables and Cable
Assemblies
X
O
O
O
X
X
Printed Circuit Boards
and PCB Assemblies
X
O
O
O
X
X
Optical Glasses
X
O
O
O
O
O
O: Indicates that this toxic or hazardous substance contained in all of the homogeneous
materials for this part is below the limit requirement in SJ/T11363-2006.
X: Indicates that this toxic or hazardous substance contained in at least one of the
homogeneous materials used for this part is above the limit requirement in SJ/T11363-2006.
Data listed in the table represents best information available at the time of publication
Applications of hazardous substances in this medical device are required to achieve its
intended clinical uses, and/or to provide better protection to human beings and/or to
environment, due to lack of reasonably (economically or technically available substitutes.

12 CRxFlex Operating Manual V1.11
Equipment Classification
The CRxFlex is classified as following:
Class I equipment
Equipment in which protection against electric shock does not rely on
basic insulation only, but includes a power supply cord with protective
earth conductor. For earth reliability always plug the main power cord
into an earthed mains power outlet.
Water ingress
The CRxFlex does not have protection against ingress of water.
Cleaning
See section on Cleaning of the Flex and Cleaning of Image Plates.
Operation
Continuous operation
Connectivity
The CRxFlex is connected to the workstation via network connection and uses the DICOM
protocol to communicate with the workstation.
Training
The user must have received adequate training on the safe and effective use of the product
before attempting to work with it. Training requirements may vary from country to country.
The user should ensure that training is received in accordance with local laws or regulations
that have the force of law. Your local representative can provide further information on
training.
The user must note the following information of this manual:
Intended Use
Intended User
Safety Directions

CRxFlex Operating Manual V1.1 13
Installation
Caution: When installing the CRxFlex, care must be taken to ensure that there
is either a mains plug or an all-cable disconnecting device in the internal
installation fitted near the CRxFlex and that it is easily accessible.
Caution: If the CRxFlex is installed inside of an X-ray room it must be protected
from stray radiation by proper shielding.
Caution: In case of unstable power conditions it is advised using an
uninterruptible power supply.
Warning: The CRxFlex is a tabletop digitizer. The structure and stability of the
table used, need to be suitable in relation with the size and weight of the
system. The table should not be subject to excessive shock and vibrations
from other sources, as this may influence the image quality.
Warning: The CRxFlex is heavy (approx. 72 kg. Risk of injuries when lifting the
CRxFlex.
Use proper foot and hand protection when lifting the CRxFlex.
Two persons are required to lift and carry the CRxFlex.
Observe local regulations for lifting and carrying of loads.

14 CRxFlex Operating Manual V1.11
The CRxFlex is equipped with two handles at the bottom left and right sides to move the
device easily to another location. Follow the instructions as illustrated below to lift the
CRxFlex out of the packing and to carry it to another location.
Do not lift the device by holding the input tray.
For two persons to lift the CRxFlex, each should stand at the side of the
CRxFlex.
Recommendation: Keep the original packing for transport from one site to another.
After unpacking compare the delivery with the packing list, which is part of delivery.

CRxFlex Operating Manual V1.1 15
Labels
Always take into account the markings and labels provided on the inside and outside of the
CRxFlex. A brief overview of these markings and labels and their meaning is given below.
Safety warning, indicating that the CRxFlex manuals should
be consulted before making any connections to other
equipment. The use of accessory equipment not complying
with the equivalent safety requirements of the CRxFlex may
lead to a reduced level of safety of the resulting system.
Consideration relating to the choice of accessory equipment
shall include:
Evidence that the safety certification of the accessory
equipment has been performed in accordance with the
appropriate harmonized national standard. The party that
makes the connections acts as system configurator and is
responsible for complying with the systems standard. If
required contact your local service organization.
In order to reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove
any covers.
Caution hot:
Keep hands clear from the erasure unit.
Supplementary protective earth connector:
Provides a connection between the digitizer and the
potential equalization busbar of the electrical system. This
plug should never be unplugged before the power is turned
off and the power plug has been removed.
Do not put your fingers in the input slot of the digitizer, they
can get hurt when caught between the cassette and the
fixation.
Insert the cassette as described in the section on Scanning
an Image.
Cassette positioning.
Insert the cassette as described in the section on Scanning
an Image.
Off (power: disconnection from the mains
On (power: connection from the mains
Date of manufacture
Manufacturer
Serial number

16 CRxFlex Operating Manual V1.11
WEEE Symbol, see section about Environmental Protection.

CRxFlex Operating Manual V1.1 17
Safety Instructions for Laser Products
The CRxFlex is a Class 1 Laser Product. It uses one laser diode of a 120 mW type,
classification class IIIb, wavelength 640-670 nm. The laser beam’s deflection frequency is
120 - 170 Hz. The laser beam divergence is 12 mrad.
Under normal operating conditions –CRxFlex with all covers - there can be no laser radiation
outside the CRxFlex.
The technical concept does not allow the user to remove the top cover. The concept provides
maximum reliability that no image plate jam can occur in the post scan area.
However, the user is allowed to open the front cover, e.g. to solve cassette or image plate
jams at the front side. When opening the front panel, all motor driven system movements will
be stopped (including the laser.
Warning: Risk of injury.
User interventions other than those described in this manual can be hazardous
with regard to laser radiation.
Cleaning of the CRxFlex
Caution: Device damage possible.
Make sure no liquid gets in the CRxFlex.
To clean the exterior of the CRxFlex:
1. Switch off the CRxFlex.
2. Remove the power plug from the socket.
3. Wipe the exterior of the CRxFlex with a clean, soft, damp cloth. Use a mild soap or
detergent if required but never use ammonia-based cleaner.
4. Plug the power plug into the socket.
To clean the interior of the CRxFlex please refer to section 6 of this manual.

18 CRxFlex Operating Manual V1.11
Cleaning of Image Plates
Warning: Reduced image quality possible if a wrong cleaning agent is used.
Only use the dedicated digital screen cleaner.
Follow the instructions which are part of the image plate precisely.
Each image plate is delivered with cleaning instructions.
When cleaning an image plate, follow these instructions.
Preventive Maintenance
Regular preventive maintenance needs to be done once per year for one shift operation. The
maintenance interval will also depend on the environmental condition.
Preventive maintenance has to be done by a qualified field service engineer.
Not performing the regular maintenance by appropriately certified people can have impact on
warranty commitments.
Quality Control
Apply regular quality control according local regulations.

CRxFlex Operating Manual V1.1 19
Environmental Protection
WEEE end user notice
The directive on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE aims
to prevent the generation of electric and electronic waste and to promote
the reuse, recycling and other forms of recovery. It therefore requires the
collection of WEEE, recovery and reuse or recycling.
Due to the implementation into national law, specific requirements can be
different within the European Member States. The WEEE symbol on the
products, and/or accompanying documents means that used electrical
and electronic products should not be treated as, or mixed with general
household waste. For more detailed information about take-back and
recycling of this product please contact your local service organization
and/or dealer. By ensuring this product is disposed of correctly, you will
help prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and
human health, which could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste
handling of this product. The recycling of materials will help to conserve
natural resources.
Battery notice
The battery symbol on the products, and/or accompanying documents
means that the used batteries should not be treated as, or mixed with
general household waste. The battery symbol on batteries or its
packaging may be used in combination with a chemical symbol. In cases
where a chemical symbol is available it indicates the presence of
respective chemical substances.
If your equipment or replaced spare parts contain batteries or
accumulators please dispose of them separately according to local
regulations.
For battery replacements please contact your local sales organization.
Li

20 CRxFlex Operating Manual V1.11
Safety Directions
Warning:
Strictly observe all warnings, cautions, notes and safety markings within this
document and on the product.
Warning:
Safety is only guaranteed when a qualified field service engineer has installed
the product.
Warning:
The product must be used by trained and qualified personnel.
Warning:
To avoid risk of electric shock, this equipment must only be connected to a
supply main with protective earth.
Warning:
The user is responsible for judging image quality and controlling ambient
conditions when viewing printed or softcopy images for inspection purposes.
Warning:
The following actions may lead to serious risk of injury and damage to the
equipment as well as making the warranty void:
Changes, additions or maintenance to the product carried out by
persons without appropriate qualifications and training.
Using unapproved spare parts.
Caution:
Position the CRxFlex so that it is possible to disconnect the mains power
connection if required.