Apparatus, system and method for reading out X-ray information stored in storage phosphor panels

An apparatus for reading out X-ray information stored in a storage phosphor panel, the apparatus comprising:

• an input device configured to receive a cassette containing a storage phosphor panel;
• and
• a read-out device configured to irradiate the storage phosphor panel with stimulating light and to detect emission light which is stimulated in the storage phosphor panel;
• and
• at least one mechanical element that is mechanically driven by a movement of the cassette when the cassette is being loaded into the input device and that locks and/or opens the cassette in the input device, the movement of the cassette being loaded into the input device being performed by an operator of the apparatus;
• wherein
• the input device includes a support and a carriage, and the carriage is configured to move together with the cassette relative to the support;
• and
• a tensioning element is configured to pretension the carriage with respect to the support by the movement of the cassette being loaded by the operator relative to the support such that, upon the movement of the carriage relative to the support in a shifting direction, the tensioning element generates a restoring force in a direction opposite to the shifting direction.