Diagnostic X-ray set comprising: 'Pedestal group' control unit; induction coil; Zenith interruptor-rectifier and 'Scott-Dean' diagnostic couch (incomplete), by Alfred E. Dean and Co. London, late 1920s

London; Leigh Place, Brooke St., Holborn

The portable X-ray machine shown here was bought by Dr Noel Hypher for £100 in the late 1920s. Dr Hypher ran a private practice and used this X-ray machine to treat and diagnose a range of patients. He transported the X-ray equipment and visited patients from the local TB clinic, dentist and veterinary practice. The portable unit was used on race horses too. During the Second World War, the machine was used to check for metal weakness in Spitfire and Hurricane aeroplanes.

The diagnostic X-ray set, complete with control unit and diagnostic couch, was made by Alfred E. Dean and Co. London. It was donated to the Science Museum by Dr. Hypher’s son in 1987.