Mobile Or Portable Patents (Class 378/102)
  • Patent number: 8615069
    Abstract: A portable radiographic imaging device and a portable X-ray source, that operate due to a first and second rechargeable battery respectively, can be accommodated in an accommodating case that is portable. While the accommodating case is being transported, a charging circuit provided in the accommodating case acquires electric power from a third rechargeable battery accommodated in the accommodating case, and charges the first and second rechargeable batteries. In this way, by accommodating the portable radiographic imaging device and the portable X-ray source in the accommodating case, the rechargeable batteries for the portable radiographic imaging device and the portable X-ray source are charged during transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Fujifilm Corporation
    Inventors: Takeshi Kamiya, Yasunori Ohta, Yusuke Kitagawa, Haruyasu Nakatsugawa
  • Patent number: 8611501
    Abstract: An X-ray imaging apparatus includes an X-ray sensor configured to convert an X-ray into an image signal, a drive control unit configured to perform wireless communication with an external device and control driving of the X-ray sensor, a power supply unit configured to supply power to the X-ray sensor and the drive control unit, and a display unit configured to display information differently in accordance with one of the state of transmission and reception in the wireless communication and the remaining battery level state of the power supply unit and in accordance with the driving state of the X-ray sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kensuke Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 8535337
    Abstract: Improved methods and apparatuses for inserting pedicle screws in accordance with embodiments of the present invention include an image correction algorithm. In various embodiments, an original image of a region of interest of a patient including a pedicle is created with an X-ray emitter and an X-ray detector. Due to the X-ray emitter not being aligned orthogonal to the X-ray detector, the original image will be skewed. Using a known location and orientation of the X-ray detector, a location and orientation of the X-ray emitter provided by a position monitoring system, and the original image, a processing system can execute the image correction algorithm to provide a corrected image to allow a surgeon to properly insert a pedicle screw along the axis of the pedicle while viewing an accurate corrected image in real time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventors: David Chang, Nicholas Ransom Powley, Alan Fischer, Andrew G. Fischer
  • Patent number: 8532261
    Abstract: A portable radiographic apparatus system reduces the number of types of spare rechargeable battery. A first rechargeable battery for operation of a portable radiographic apparatus has the same shape and characteristics as a second rechargeable battery for operation of a portable X-ray source. The first rechargeable battery and the second rechargeable battery are interchangeable. When, in order capture images during a visit to an individual's home or a visit to a nursing facility, the portable radiographic apparatus and the portable X-ray source are taken to the visit destination, spare rechargeable batteries must be taken in case of trouble with the rechargeable batteries. Because the first rechargeable battery and the second rechargeable battery are interchangeable, by bringing either the first rechargeable battery or the second rechargeable battery, trouble can be addressed if it arises. In this way, the number of types of spare rechargeable battery can be reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventors: Takeshi Kamiya, Yusuke Kitagawa, Yasunori Ohta, Haruyasu Nakatsugawa
  • Patent number: 8532260
    Abstract: A technique for aiding the determination of whether or not desired imaging can be performed by a mobile-type X-ray apparatus for X-ray imaging using a battery mounted therein as a drive source. From the imaging list showing scheduled imaging and pre-stored information about the power consumed when each region is imaged, a prediction of the consumption of the battery power of when all the imaging in the imaging list is performed is computed and presented together with the remaining battery power to the user. Various corrections can be applied to the computation. The difference between the remaining battery power and the predicted consumption of the battery power may be displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Hitachi Medical Corporation
    Inventors: Tomokazu Takae, Miyuki Fuse
  • Publication number: 20130223596
    Abstract: A mobile X-ray apparatus that performs a stable operation even if a sudden voltage drop or momentary power interruption occurs during operation of a commercial AC power source. The mobile X-ray apparatus includes a plug for connection to an external power source, a battery charged from the external power source through the plug, a unit that operates by being supplied with electricity from the commercial AC power source connected through the plug, and a second circuit including a rectifier that supplies electricity to the unit from the battery if a voltage from the commercial AC power source falls to or below a regulated value while the unit is being operated by the electricity supply from the commercial AC power source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: HITACHI MEDICAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Akira Kojima, Tomokazu Takae
  • Patent number: 8265225
    Abstract: The present invention provides a radiation imaging system, a power supplying apparatus, a charging apparatus, and a radiation imaging method that can prevent misidentification of an imaging subject to be imaged without requiring a large-scale configuration. Namely, a power supplying apparatus which is detachably mounted to an electronic cassette is provided with a display section that displays imaging subject information associated with an imaging subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventors: Naoyuki Nishino, Keizo Katayama, Atsushi Yamazaki, Yasunori Ohta
  • Patent number: 8254524
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and other modalities are described for (a) obtaining an indication relating to an emission module (which may be dangerous, e.g.) or its user (who may be untrained, e.g.) and for (b) configuring the module or causing an irradiation (for imaging, e.g.) in response to the indication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: The Invention Science Fund I, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Eric C. Leuthardt, Dennis J. Rivet, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8249218
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and other modalities are described for (a) obtaining an indication relating to an emission module (which may be dangerous, e.g.) or its user (who may be untrained, e.g.) and for (b) configuring the module or causing an irradiation (for imaging, e.g.) in response to the indication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: The Invention Science Fund I, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Eric C. Leuthardt, Dennis J. Rivet, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120163543
    Abstract: Provided is an X-ray device which can perform X-ray imaging without an object being subjected to ineffective exposure even when the X-ray imaging is interrupted by the occurrence of an error. The X-ray device is provided with an X-ray generator (10), an operation panel (30) configured to set an imaging condition, an X-ray irradiation control unit (92a) configured to control X-ray irradiation in accordance with the imaging condition, an error detecting unit (92c), configured to, during the X-ray irradiation, detect the occurrence of an error by which the X-ray irradiation should be interrupted, an irradiation interrupting unit (92d) configured to interrupt the X-ray irradiation when the occurrence of the error is detected, and a recovery unit (92j) configured to resume the X-ray irradiation for ensuring the X-ray amount defined by the imaging condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2010
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Applicant: HITACHI MEDICAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Miyuki Fuse, Tomokazu Takae
  • Patent number: 8199685
    Abstract: Systems and methods in which real-time ubiquitous imaging is feasible in local areas, such as inside a clinic, hospital room or doctor office are shown. This is achieved by designing a wireless network having a central processing server with, for example, distributed broadband acquisition and video bus capability. Remote access is possible using store-and-forward image transfer over a wide area network. With these capabilities, a physician can use a handheld transducer (such as an ultrasound transducer) as a basic tool to facilitate diagnostic decisions similar to the way a stethoscope is used today.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: SonoSite, Inc.
    Inventor: Juinjet Hwang
  • Patent number: 8130904
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and other modalities are described for (a) obtaining an indication relating to an emission module (which may be dangerous, e.g.) or its user (who may be untrained, e.g.) and for (b) configuring the module or causing an irradiation (for imaging, e.g.) in response to the indication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: The Invention Science Fund I, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Eric C. Leuthardt, Dennis J. Rivet, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8116429
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and other modalities are described for (a) obtaining an indication relating to an emission module (which may be dangerous, e.g.) or its user (who may be untrained, e.g.) and for (b) configuring the module or causing an irradiation (for imaging, e.g.) in response to the indication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: The Invention Science Fund I, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Eric C. Leuthardt, Dennis J. Rivet, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8111809
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and other modalities are described for (a) obtaining an indication relating to an emission module (which may be dangerous, e.g.) or its user (who may be untrained, e.g.) and for (b) configuring the module or causing an irradiation (for imaging, e.g.) in response to the indication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: The Invention Science Fund I, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Eric C. Leuthardt, Dennis J. Rivet, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120008748
    Abstract: A mobile X-ray device 1 is provided with a main body 2 having an X-ray generating part 10 and an image reader 50 for reading X-ray image information from an imaging plate storing the X-ray image information, a running part 60 for running the main body 2, a battery 70 for storing direct current electrical energy to be supplied to the running part 60 and discharging a direct current at a rated voltage of the running part 60, and a direct current power source voltage conversion part 80 for transforming direct voltage of the battery 70 to a rated voltage of the image reader 50, wherein the rated voltage of the image reader 50 transformed by the direct current power source voltage conversion part 80 is applied to the image reader 50.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2010
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Applicants: FUJIFILM CORPORATION, HITACHI MEDICAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Miyuki Fuse, Takashi Shimohira, Satoshi Arakawa, Tatsuo Iiyama, Kenji Takata, Jun Fukazawa
  • Publication number: 20120002784
    Abstract: A radiographic image capturing apparatus has a mobile cart unit, a radiation source device detachably attached to the cart unit and including a radiation source, a detector device detachably attached to the cart unit and including a radiation detector, a determiner for determining whether or not a present position of the cart unit is in a predesignated zone, and an electric power supply activator enabling supply of electric power at least between the radiation source device and the detector device, if the determiner judges that the present position is in the predesignated zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Applicant: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventors: Naoyuki Nishino, Yasunori Ohta
  • Publication number: 20110317817
    Abstract: A radiographic image capturing apparatus includes a mobile cart unit, a plurality of devices used for capturing a radiographic image, and an electric power supply activator enabling supply of electric power between the devices, based on an instruction of permission to supply electric power.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Applicant: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventors: Naoyuki Nishino, Yasunori Ohta
  • Patent number: 8083406
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and other modalities are described for (a) obtaining an indication relating to an emission module (which may be dangerous, e.g.) or its user (who may be untrained, e.g.) and for (b) configuring the module or causing an irradiation (for imaging, e.g.) in response to the indication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: The Invention Science Fund I, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Eric C. Leuthardt, Dennis J. Rivet, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20110306882
    Abstract: A system and method for pairing an X-ray system with a wireless device is provided. In one embodiment, a method includes generating a unique pairing code with control circuitry that controls the operation of the X-ray system, providing the unique pairing code to the wireless device in the form of a pulse sequence and receiving a wireless signal indicative of the unique pairing code from the wireless device. The wireless device is then paired and enabled for use with the X-ray system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2010
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Jeremy Patrick Hannon, Jonathan Mark Butzine
  • Publication number: 20110293070
    Abstract: A portable radiographic apparatus system reduces the number of types of spare rechargeable battery. A first rechargeable battery for operation of a portable radiographic apparatus has the same shape and characteristics as a second rechargeable battery for operation of a portable X-ray source. The first rechargeable battery and the second rechargeable battery are interchangeable. When, in order capture images during a visit to an individual's home or a visit to a nursing facility, the portable radiographic apparatus and the portable X-ray source are taken to the visit destination, spare rechargeable batteries must be taken in case of trouble with the rechargeable batteries. Because the first rechargeable battery and the second rechargeable battery are interchangeable, by bringing either the first rechargeable battery or the second rechargeable battery, trouble can be addressed if it arises. In this way, the number of types of spare rechargeable battery can be reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Applicant: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventors: Takeshi Kamiya, Yusuke Kitagawa, Yasunori Ohta, Haruyasu Nakatsugawa
  • Patent number: 8047714
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and other modalities are described for (a) obtaining an indication relating to an emission module (which may be dangerous, e.g.) or its user (who may be untrained, e.g.) and for (b) configuring the module or causing an irradiation (for imaging, e.g.) in response to the indication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: The Invention Science Fund I, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Eric C. Leuthardt, Dennis J. Rivet, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8041008
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and other modalities are described for (a) obtaining an indication relating to an emission module (which may be dangerous, e.g.) or its user (who may be untrained, e.g.) and for (b) configuring the module or causing an irradiation (for imaging, e.g.) in response to the indication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: The Invention Science Fund I, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Eric C. Leuthardt, Dennis J. Rivet, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8036340
    Abstract: An X-ray apparatus includes a converter into which there is integrated a control logic circuit configured to regulate the supply voltage of a high-voltage power supply source of the X-ray apparatus. To this end, the intelligent voltage-voltage, converter is placed between the power battery and the capacitor bank. This intelligent converter is capable of determining the optimum voltage to be delivered to the generator for the radiology examination to be undertaken in regulating the current of the power battery at the necessary level of current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Jose-Emilio Soto Santos
  • Patent number: 8033724
    Abstract: Methods and systems for X-ray imaging are disclosed. An X-ray imaging system includes an X-ray tube to generate X-rays and a detector array to capture scattered X-rays. A rotational collimator directs the X-rays at an object under inspection. Rotational mechanisms rotate the X-ray tube and the detector array about a roll axis and a yaw axis to inspect various portions of the object. A track unit mechanism moves the X-ray imaging system linearly along a track unit to further inspect portions of the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: William Talion Edwards, Morteza Safai, Gary E. Georgeson, Daniel Shedlock
  • Patent number: 8031838
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and other modalities are described for (a) obtaining an indication relating to an emission module (which may be dangerous, e.g.) or its user (who may be untrained, e.g.) and for (b) configuring the module or causing an irradiation (for imaging, e.g.) in response to the indication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: The Invention Science Fund I, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Eric C. Leuthardt, Dennis J. Rivet, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20110188633
    Abstract: A radiographic image capturing apparatus has a radiation source device including a radiation source, and a detector device including a radiation detector. At least one of the radiation source device and the detector device includes an electric power supply limiting unit for limiting supply of electric power. The electric power supply limiting unit has an activator/deactivator for determining activation or deactivation of supply of electric power between the radiation source device and the detector device, based on a present position of a corresponding one of the radiation source device and the detector device, or based on distance between the radiation source device and the detector device, and an electric power supply activator for enabling supply of electric power between the radiation source device and the detector device, if the activator/deactivator determines activation of supply of electric power between the radiation source device and the detector device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Applicant: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventors: Yosunori Ohta, Naoyuki Nishino, Haruyasu Nakatsugawa
  • Patent number: 7974381
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided through which in some embodiments, a mobile imaging system includes one or more fuel cells. Some embodiments include further electric power sources, such as battery and/or an external AC power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Richard Larry Anderton, Steven E. Curtis
  • Publication number: 20110110498
    Abstract: A technique for aiding the determination of whether or not desired imaging can be carried out by a mobile-type X-ray apparatus for X-ray imaging using a battery mounted therein as a drive source. From the imaging list showing scheduled imaging and pre-stored information about the power consumed when each region is imaged, a prediction of the consumption of the battery power of when all the imaging in the imaging list is carried out is computed and presented together with the remaining battery power to the user. Various corrections can be applied to the computation. The difference between the remaining battery power and the predicted consumption of the battery power may be displayed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2009
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Applicant: HITACHI MEDICAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tomokazu Takae, Miyuki Fuse
  • Patent number: 7916834
    Abstract: A hand-held, self-contained x-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer produces a small x-ray spot on a sample to interrogate the elemental composition of a sample region of millimeter-size characteristic dimension. The analyzer includes a collimator for aiming an x-ray beam toward a desired location on the sample and for determining the size of the spot produced on the sample. The analyzer may include a digital camera oriented toward the portion of the sample that is, or would be, interrogated by the x-ray spot to facilitate aiming the analyzer. The analyzer may generate a reticule in a displayed image to indicate the portion of the sample that is, or would be, illuminated by the x-ray beam. The analyzer may automatically annotate the image of the sample with text or graphics that contain information about the analyzed sample. The image may be stored in the hand -held analyzer or provided for external storage or display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Thermo Niton Analyzers LLC
    Inventors: Stanislaw Piorek, Mark Hamilton, Kenneth P. Martin, Pratheev Sreetharan, Michael E. Dugas, Paul Estabrooks, Lee Grodzins
  • Patent number: 7889335
    Abstract: A method for collecting and analyzing spectrum data to identify a composition of a sample material is described. The method includes obtaining a sample material, receiving a geographical location of the sample material at a handheld instrument, and analyzing the sample material to obtain sample spectrum data using the handheld instrument. The method also includes determining whether to perform an analysis of the sample spectrum data using the handheld instrument, or to perform the analysis of the sample spectrum data using a remote computer. The method also includes determining a composition of the sample material based on an analysis of the sample spectrum data and recording in a memory area at least one of the composition and the geographical location of the sample material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Bruker Biosciences Corporation
    Inventors: Roger David Durst, John Hooper Landefeld, Jeremy Lea, Larry Stephen Price
  • Patent number: 7874728
    Abstract: An X-ray imaging apparatus includes: a mobile system console with an X-ray irradiator and a control circuit; and a portable detector panel with an X-ray detector, an interface electronic circuit, and a power supply battery. The system console includes an accommodating section for accommodating the detector panel at the time of nonuse, and the detector panel includes feeding control device for unexecuting and executing feeding to the electronic circuit from the battery according to the accommodation and non-accommodation in the accommodating section, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLC
    Inventor: Yi Fan
  • Patent number: 7864923
    Abstract: A radiation detecting cassette includes an IC card detector which detects insertion of an IC card in a slot, outputs a detection signal representing that the IC card is inserted in the slot, and reads ID information stored in the IC card. An ID checker of the radiation detecting cassette checks the ID information against ID information stored in a card ID memory. A power unit controller controls supply of electric power from a power unit to a radiation detector and/or components of the radiation detecting cassette based on a checking result from the ID checker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Fujifilm Corporation
    Inventors: Yasunori Ohta, Eiichi Kito, Tsuyoshi Tanabe, Takuya Yoshimi
  • Patent number: 7839976
    Abstract: The X-ray device comprises an X-ray source and a high-voltage generator for supplying the X-ray source with voltage, wherein the high-voltage generator has an intermediate circuit voltage generator and a high-voltage generator, the high-voltage generator is connected to the X-ray source, and the intermediate circuit voltage generator is connected to the high-voltage generator, wherein the intermediate circuit voltage generator and the high-voltage generator are structurally separate and the high-voltage generator is structurally positioned near the X-ray source, thereby keeping the high-voltage line to the X-ray source short.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Rainer Häupl, Claus-Günter Schliermann, Thomas Will
  • Patent number: 7822180
    Abstract: A method includes automatically determining a specific mobile device to use from a plurality of mobile devices based on at least one of a battery metric, a patient procedure, and a location of the devices or of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Kevin Andrew Coombs
  • Patent number: 7805263
    Abstract: In a wireless battery operated medical component (10), a battery life monitor, particularly a voltage monitor (16), takes voltage readings of a battery (12) to assess charge level as the battery (12) drains. The monitored charge level and medical data are transmitted (20) to a receiver (22) associated with a remote host unit (24). The host unit includes historical and typical battery level information and estimates remaining life of the battery (12). Battery life and medical information are displayed on a user interface (42). Typical battery operated medical components include EKG sensors, pulse sensors, blood oxygen sensors, blood measure sensors, brain wave sensors, temperature sensors, perfusion pumps, IV drip controllers, patient identification tags or wrist bands, pacemakers, respirators, x-ray detectors, and an MRI coils.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventor: Hanns-Ingo Mack
  • Patent number: 7684544
    Abstract: A portable handheld digital radiographic device is disclosed. The device has a touchscreen interface, an x-ray generator, and a computer system. These components are integrated into one combined device that is designed to be small, lightweight and portable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Inventor: Kevin S. Wilson
  • Publication number: 20090190718
    Abstract: An X-ray imaging apparatus includes: a mobile system console with an X-ray irradiator and a control circuit; and a portable detector panel with an X-ray detector, an interface electronic circuit, and a power supply battery. The system console includes an accommodating section for accommodating the detector panel at the time of nonuse, and the detector panel includes feeding control device for unexecuting and executing feeding to the electronic circuit from the battery according to the accommodation and non-accommodation in the accommodating section, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2009
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Inventor: Yi Fan
  • Publication number: 20090180595
    Abstract: An X-ray imaging system includes a joint enabling rotation of an X-ray device rotatable arm unrestricted by cabling. An X-ray imaging system usable in medical interventional procedures includes a rotatable arm. A rotatable arm includes an X-ray radiation emitting device located towards one end of the rotatable arm and an X-ray detector device located towards the opposite end of the rotatable arm. The detector device acquires X-ray radiation emitted by the emitting device that has passed through a patient. A base unit supports the rotatable arm and includes a joint enabling rotation of the rotatable arm unrestricted by cabling, about a patient on a support surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Applicant: Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Martin Spahn
  • Patent number: 7561668
    Abstract: A radiation detecting cassette includes an IC card detector which detects insertion of an IC card in a slot, outputs a detection signal representing that the IC card is inserted in the slot, and reads ID information stored in the IC card. An ID checker of the radiation detecting cassette checks the ID information against ID information stored in a card ID memory. A battery controller controls a battery to start supplying electric power to a radiation detector based on a checking result from the ID checker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Fujifilm Corporation
    Inventors: Yasunori Ohta, Eiichi Kito, Tsuyoshi Tanabe, Takuya Yoshimi
  • Patent number: 7522704
    Abstract: A battery-powered x-ray imaging apparatus uses a battery with a reduced capacity as a power source. The x-ray imaging apparatus includes a DC-AC converting part for converting a direct current of a battery to an alternating current, a high-voltage transformer for increasing a magnitude of the alternating current to output a high-voltage alternating current, an AC-DC converting part for converting the high-voltage alternating current to a high-voltage direct current, and an x-ray tube having an anode terminal and a cathode terminal electrically connected to the AC-DC converting part. The x-ray tube is designed to generate x-rays by allowing electrons emitted from the cathode terminal to impinge on the anode terminal. The DC-AC converting part, the high-voltage transformer, the AC-DC converting part and the x-ray tube are sealingly received within the housing part filled with oil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: POSKOM Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ki-Bong Sung, Jong-Lae Park
  • Patent number: 7522705
    Abstract: Apparatus includes a fixed computed tomography (CT) system including a storage device configured to share power delivery with an input power line in order to reduce peak load requirements of the input power line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Jason Stuart Katcha, Jonathan Richard Schmidt
  • Patent number: 7499524
    Abstract: A system for reconstructing an image of an object includes a mobile imaging system, and a user removable module configured to be attached to the mobile imaging system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Richard Larry Anderton, Francois Emmanuel Falco, David Ellis Barker, Samuel Lee Alder
  • Patent number: 7496178
    Abstract: Portable x-ray devices and methods for using such devices are described. The devices have an x-ray tube powered by an integrated power system. The x-ray tube is shielded with a low-density insulating material containing a high-Z substance. The devices can also have an integrated display component. With these components, the size and weight of the x-ray devices can be reduced, and the portability of the devices enhanced. Thus, the portable x-ray devices are especially useful for applications where portability is an important feature such as in field work, remote operations, and mobile operations such nursing homes, home healthcare, teaching classrooms. This portability feature can be particularly useful in multi-suite medical and dental offices where a single x-ray device can be used in multiple offices instead of single using an x-ray device in each office.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: Aribex, Inc.
    Inventor: D. Clark Turner
  • Patent number: 7448801
    Abstract: Described is a self-contained, small, lightweight, power-efficient and radiation-shielded module that includes a miniature vacuum X-ray tube emitting X-rays of a controlled intensity and defined spectrum. Feedback control circuits are used to monitor and maintain the beam current and voltage. The X-ray tube, high-voltage power supply, and the resonant converter are encapsulated in a solid high-voltage insulating material. The module can be configured into complex geometries and can be powered by commercially available small, compact, low-voltage batteries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignees: INPHO, Inc., Newton Scientific Inc.
    Inventors: Peter E. Oettinger, Francis M. Feda, Ruth E. Shefer, Robert E. Klinkowstein
  • Patent number: 7448802
    Abstract: Described is a self-contained, small, lightweight, power-efficient and radiation-shielded module that includes a miniature vacuum X-ray tube emitting X-rays of a controlled intensity and defined spectrum. Feedback control circuits are used to monitor and maintain the beam current and voltage. The X-ray tube, high-voltage power supply, and the resonant converter are encapsulated in a solid high-voltage insulating material. The module can be configured into complex geometries and can be powered by commercially available small, compact, low-voltage batteries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignees: Newton Scientific, Inc., INPHO, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter E. Oettinger, Frank M. Feda, Ruth E. Shefer, Robert E. Klinkowstein
  • Patent number: 7443951
    Abstract: An x-ray fluorescence (XRF) device and a method for using the same to analyze a sample are described. The EMRXG source of the XRF device has a configuration that allows a greater amount of EMRXG to impinge on the sample being analyzed. The x-ray detector of the XRF device has a configuration that allows a greater amount of x-rays emitted by the sample to impinge on the detector. With such a configuration, the size and cost of the x-ray fluorescence device decreases. As well, fewer EMRXG are needed from the EMRXG source because of the greater efficiency and an exempt EMRXG source that is exempt from radioactivity licensing requirements can be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: KeyMasters Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald K. Kenning, L. Stephen Price, Bruce J. Kaiser
  • Patent number: 7430274
    Abstract: An XRF system, preferably handheld, includes an X-ray source for directing X-rays to a sample, a detector responsive to X-rays emitted by the sample, and a filter assembly with multiple filter materials located between the X-ray source and the detector. An analyzer is responsive to detector and is configured to analyze the intensities of X-rays irradiated by the sample at one power setting and to choose a filter material which suppresses certain intensities with respect to other intensities. A device, controlled by the analyzer, automatically moves the filter assembly to the chosen filter material and then the analyzer increases the power setting to analyze certain non-suppressed intensities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Assignee: Innov-X-Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Brendan Connors, Brad Hubbard-Nelson, Don Sackett
  • Publication number: 20080192897
    Abstract: A hand-held, self-contained x-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer produces a small x-ray spot on a sample to interrogate the elemental composition of a sample region of millimeter-size characteristic dimension. The analyzer includes a collimator for aiming an x-ray beam toward a desired location on the sample and for determining the size of the spot produced on the sample. The analyzer may include a digital camera oriented toward the portion of the sample that is, or would be, interrogated by the x-ray spot to facilitate aiming the analyzer. The analyzer may generate a reticule in a displayed image to indicate the portion of the sample that is, or would be, illuminated by the x-ray beam. The analyzer may automatically annotate the image of the sample with text or graphics that contain information about the analyzed sample. The image may be stored in the hand-held analyzer or provided for external storage or display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2008
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Inventors: Stanislaw Piorek, Mark Hamilton, Kenneth P. Martin, Pratheev Sreetharan, Michael E. Dugas, Paul Estabrooks, Lee Grodzins
  • Publication number: 20080187104
    Abstract: A battery-powered x-ray imaging apparatus uses a battery with a reduced capacity as a power source. The x-ray imaging apparatus includes a DC-AC converting part for converting a direct current of a battery to an alternating current, a high-voltage transformer for increasing a magnitude of the alternating current to output a high-voltage alternating current, an AC-DC converting part for converting the high-voltage alternating current to a high-voltage direct current, and an x-ray tube having an anode terminal and a cathode terminal electrically connected to the AC-DC converting part. The x-ray tube is designed to generate x-rays by allowing electrons emitted from the cathode terminal to impinge on the anode terminal. The DC-AC converting part, the high-voltage transformer, the AC-DC converting part and the x-ray tube are sealingly received within the housing part filled with oil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: POSKOM CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ki-Bong Sung, Jong-Lae Park
  • Patent number: 7397895
    Abstract: A mobile CT imaging system comprising a frame; a CT imaging unit mounted to the frame, wherein the CT imaging unit is adapted to scan anatomical objects and generate images of the same; a transport mechanism mounted to the frame, wherein the transport mechanism comprises a fine movement mechanism for moving the CT imaging unit precisely, relative to the patient, during scanning; an onboard networking unit mounted to the frame, wherein the on-board networking unit is adapted to connect the CT imaging unit to a workstation, hospital PACs system or other IT network without requiring the use of conventional physical cabling during the same; and an on-board power unit mounted to the frame, wherein the onboard power unit is adapted to provide the electrical power needed to operate the CT imaging unit, transport mechanism and networking unit without requiring the use of conventional physical cabling during the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: NeuroLogica Corp.
    Inventors: Eric M. Bailey, Andrew P. Tybinkowski, Bernard Gordon, Gerard Riley, Michael T. Limoli, Daniel A. Garland