Dose Regulated Patents (Class 378/108)
  • Patent number: 11974873
    Abstract: A method is for the automatic regulation of radiation doses of a person for an examination with a medical X-ray device, which has a first dose regulation. In an embodiment, the method includes a specification of X-ray parameters of an X-ray examination based upon patient information and a specification of a dose regulation as a function of X-ray parameters as well as a limit value for deterministic radiation damage and/or a guide value for stochastic effective doses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2024
    Assignee: Siemens Healthineers AG
    Inventors: Philipp Bernhardt, Gregor Niewalda, Michael Wiets
  • Patent number: 11707248
    Abstract: In an automatic exposure control method for X-ray imaging, a visible light image of a subject under test is acquired, an initial region of interest (ROI) is defined on the visible light image, the subject under test is pre-exposed with a set pre-exposure dose to obtain a first image, an ROI on the first image is defined based on the initial ROI, a reference pixel value is defined based on the ROI, and a main exposure dose for an actual exposure is calculated according to the reference pixel value. With the imaging quality guaranteed, a physical automatic exposure control (AEC) chamber may be omitted, and the number, positions and sizes of ROIs can be adjusted according to the actual requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2023
    Assignee: Siemens Healthcare GmbH
    Inventor: Wei He
  • Patent number: 11622741
    Abstract: An X-ray source transmits X-rays through a subject and a detector receives the X-ray energy after having passed through the subject. A processing system generates a pre-shot image of the subject using low energy X-ray intensity from the X-ray source and determines a plurality of acquisition parameters for a main scan of the subject based on the pre-shot image. A saturation time of the detector for the corresponding acquisition parameters is determined based on detector calibration data and to determine a number of time frames required to reach the targeted dose based on the saturation time. An X-ray dosage level of the subject is then applied using the X-ray source based on the number of time frames and to generate the image of the subject based on the detected X-ray energy at the X-ray detector for the applied X-ray dosage level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2023
    Assignee: GE Precision Healthcare LLC
    Inventors: Xavier Mancardi, Remy Klausz, Fanny Patoureaux
  • Patent number: 11612765
    Abstract: A radiotherapy system is configured to determine in vivo dose deposition of a radiotherapy treatment beam. The system includes the following components. A bi-planar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) apparatus comprising a pair of spaced apart magnets. One of the magnets includes a hole proximal the centre thereof. A treatment beam source configured to generate a radiotherapy treatment beam. The treatment beam source is positioned to transmit the treatment beam through the hole in the magnet. A patient support configured to position a patient with the system so that a treatment target is proximal the treatment beam. A Positron Emission Tomography (PET) detector configured to obtain PET data of the treatment beam impacting the patient. The PET detector is positioned so that a transverse section of the patient that includes the treatment target lies between opposing portions of the PET detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2023
    Assignee: ALBERTA HEALTH SERVICES
    Inventors: B. Gino Fallone, Brad Murray
  • Patent number: 11497459
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for adjusting medical imaging parameters based on imaging parameters used during a previous imaging session. In one embodiment, a method for a computed tomography (CT) system includes reducing a radiation level of at least one CT scan of one or more successive CT scans performed on a patient based on CT scan information obtained from a previous CT scan performed on the patient, the radiation level reduced relative to a radiation level of the previous CT scan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2022
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: John Irvin Jackson, Dominic Joseph Crotty, Franco Rupcich, John Londt, Mark Vincent Profio, Darin Robert Okerlund
  • Patent number: 11475559
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method for medical imaging method for locating anatomical landmarks of a predetermining defined anatomy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2022
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventors: Fabian Wenzel, Tom Brosch
  • Patent number: 11430631
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method comprising: generating a plurality of probe spots on a sample by a plurality of beams of charged particles; while scanning the plurality of probe spots across a region on the sample, recording from the plurality of probe spots a plurality of sets of signals respectively representing interactions of the plurality of beams of charged particles and the sample; generating a plurality of images of the region respectively from the plurality of sets of signals; and generating a composite image of the region from the plurality of images.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2022
    Assignee: ASML Netherlands B.V.
    Inventors: Kuo-Shih Liu, Xuedong Liu, Wei Fang, Jack Jau
  • Patent number: 11382594
    Abstract: Various systems and methods are provided for interventional imaging with remote processing. In one embodiment, a method for an imaging system comprises, during a scan, transmitting data to a remote computing system, controlling the imaging system according to results of remote processing of the data via the remote computing system responsive to receiving the results of the remote processing before a latency deadline, and controlling the imaging system according to results of local processing at the imaging system responsive to receive the results of the remote processing after the latency deadline. In this way, improved or enhanced images may be processed remotely and displayed to a user in real-time during an interventional procedure, and locally-processed images may be displayed if the remote processing is delayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2022
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Francois Kotian, Francisco Sureda
  • Patent number: 11348290
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system and method for image correction. The method may include obtaining image data of a target object; determining a target image based on the image data; determining a target aspect ratio of the target object in the target image; determining a correction function for correcting artifacts in the target image based on the target aspect ratio; and obtaining a corrected image of the target image by correcting the target image based on the correction function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2022
    Assignee: SHANGHAI UNITED IMAGING HEALTHCARE CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Yanyan Liu
  • Patent number: 11331066
    Abstract: A system includes a storage device storing a set of instructions and at least one processor in communication with the storage device, wherein when executing the instructions, the at least one processor is configured to cause the system to determine a first scan area on a scanning object. The system may also acquire raw data generated by scanning the first scan area on the scanning object and generate a positioning image based on the raw data. The system may also generate a pixel value distribution curve based on the positioning image, and determine a second scan area on the scanning object based on the pixel value distribution curve. The system may also scan the second scan area on the scanning object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Assignee: SHANGHAI UNITED IMAGING HEALTHCARE CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Tianyi Xu
  • Patent number: 11300528
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, an X-ray computed tomography apparatus includes an X-ray detector, data acquisition circuitry, and processing circuitry. The X-ray detector detects X-rays emitted by an X-ray tube and transmitted through an object and outputs an electrical signal concerning the detected X-rays. The data acquisition circuitry amplifies the electrical signal by a variable gain and acquires detection data based on the amplified electrical signal. The processing circuitry decides the gain and a modulation condition of a tube current in directional modulation scan based on body thickness information of the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2022
    Assignee: Canon Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Satoru Nakanishi
  • Patent number: 11253221
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for configuring a medical device for a medical procedure. The systems may perform the methods to initialize a gantry angle of a medical device of a new scan. The systems may also perform the methods to obtain a pre-set gantry angle associated with the new scan. The systems may also perform the methods to determine whether the initialized gantry angle is consistent with the pre-set gantry angle. The systems may also perform the methods to adjust the initialized gantry angle of the medical device to the pre-set gantry angle in response to a determination that the initialized gantry angle is inconsistent with the pre-set gantry angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2022
    Assignee: SHANGHAI UNITED IMAGING HEALTHCARE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yiwen Xu, Yangyang Lin, Jiawen Zhou, Jie Yu
  • Patent number: 11207048
    Abstract: A method of controlling an X-ray image capturing apparatus, including acquiring, using a camera, a first image by photographing a detector configured to receive X-rays emitted from an X-ray emission surface, generating a second image by performing a correction on the first image, wherein the correction includes changing a first detector shape in the first image to match a second detector shape photographed in a direction perpendicular to the X-ray emission surface, and displaying the second image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2021
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Dong-wook Kim, Min-cheol Park
  • Patent number: 11090021
    Abstract: An image processing apparatus for processing a radiation image output from a radiation detection unit including a plurality of pixels, comprises: an imaging protocol obtaining unit configured to obtain an imaging protocol for imaging a subject; and a dose obtaining unit configured to obtain dose information of radiation based on a feature amount of the radiation image and information obtained from the imaging protocol.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2021
    Assignee: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Shinya Katsumata
  • Patent number: 11083410
    Abstract: An image acquisition unit acquires a breast image, and a first estimation unit calculates a first estimated value of a direct arrival dose in a direct X-ray region, which is included in the breast image and to which X-rays are directly emitted, based on the imaging conditions at the time of X-ray imaging. A second estimation unit calculates a second estimated value of the direct arrival dose based on the pixel value of the direct X-ray region included in the breast image. A determination unit determines a direct arrival dose, which is used for calculation of the mammary gland content rate, based on the first estimated value and the second estimated value. A calculation unit calculates a mammary gland content rate using the direct arrival dose determined by the determination unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2021
    Assignee: FUJIFILM CORPORATION
    Inventor: Junya Morita
  • Patent number: 11016041
    Abstract: A calculating unit for calculating a recording trajectory of a CT system has a receive interface, an optimizer and a control unit. The receive interface serves for receiving measurement and simulation data relative to the object to be recorded. The optimizer is configured to determine the recording trajectory based on known degrees of freedom of the CT system, based on the measurement and simulation data and based on a test task from a group having a plurality of test tasks. The control unit is configured to output data in correspondence with the recording trajectory for controlling the CT system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2021
    Assignees: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Foerderung der angewandten Forschung e.V., Julius-Maximilians-Universitaet Wuerzburg
    Inventors: Richard Schielein, Wolfgang Holub
  • Patent number: 10959697
    Abstract: Synchronizing operation between a digital radiographic detector's integration periods and an x-ray generator's x-ray pulse rate by transmitting a frame rate to the detector and the generator. In a first mode, the detector monitors one or more pixels to detect an x-ray pulse. The firing time of the detected x-ray pulse relative to an internal clock of the detector is used to synchronize the detector's integration periods with the pulse rate of the x-ray generator based on the transmitted frame rate and the detected firing time of the x-ray pulses. Successive pulses may also be used to determine a frame rate without prior transmission thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Assignee: Carestream Health, Inc.
    Inventors: Samuel Richard, Xiaohui Wang, Timothy J. Wojcik, Nathan J. Packard
  • Patent number: 10912527
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for generating dual energy X-ray imaging data. It is described to position (210) an X-ray detector relative to an X-ray source such that at least a part of a region between the X-ray source and the X-ray detector is an examination region for accommodating an object. A grid filter is positioned (220) between the examination region and the X-ray source. The X-ray source produces (230) a focal spot on a target to produce X-rays. The X-ray source moves (240) the focal spot in a first direction across a surface of the target. The grid filter has a structure in a first orientation such that the movement of the focal spot in the first direction results in an associated change in an intensity of X-rays transmitted by the grid filter. The X-ray source moves (250) the focal spot in a second direction across the surface of the target that is orthogonal to the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2021
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Gereon Vogtmeier, Roger Steadman Booker
  • Patent number: 10801975
    Abstract: Methods and systems for performing simultaneous optical scattering and small angle x-ray scattering (SAXS) measurements over a desired inspection area of a specimen are presented. SAXS measurements combined with optical scatterometry measurements enables a high throughput metrology tool with increased measurement capabilities. The high energy nature of x-ray radiation penetrates optically opaque thin films, buried structures, high aspect ratio structures, and devices including many thin film layers. SAXS and optical scatterometry measurements of a particular location of a planar specimen are performed at a number of different out of plane orientations. This increases measurement sensitivity, reduces correlations among parameters, and improves measurement accuracy. In addition, specimen parameter values are resolved with greater accuracy by fitting data sets derived from both SAXS and optical scatterometry measurements based on models that share at least one geometric parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2020
    Assignee: KLA-Tencor Corporation
    Inventors: Michael S. Bakeman, Andrei V. Shchegrov
  • Patent number: 10695008
    Abstract: The present invention provides an X-ray imaging device including an X-ray emitter and an X-ray detector rotating while facing each other with an imaging subject interposed therebetween, a device controller controlling the X-ray imaging device such that a first X-ray imaging is performed with a first dose in a partial section of a rotation locus of the X-ray emitter and the X-ray detector and a second X-ray imaging is performed with a second dose lower than the first dose in a remaining section, and an image processor producing an X-ray image by receiving first and second X-ray image data of the first and the second X-ray imaging from the X-ray detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2020
    Assignees: VATECH Co. Ltd., VATECH EWOO Holdings Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yong-Joo Yang, Keun-Yeoung Kim, Tae-Woo Kim, Sung-Il Choi
  • Patent number: 10582905
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for controlling an x-ray imaging system. In one embodiment, a method for an x-ray imaging system, includes acquiring, with the x-ray imaging system, a plurality of images as an x-ray tube current of the x-ray imaging system is ramping from a predefined x-ray tube current to an updated x-ray tube current, the updated x-ray tube current determined based on an estimated patient thickness estimated from a prior image acquired with the x-ray imaging system while the x-ray tube current is at the predefined x-ray tube current, combining the plurality of images into a final image, and outputting the final image for display via a display device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2020
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: James Zhengshe Liu, Naveen Stephan Chandra
  • Patent number: 10565516
    Abstract: Updating a prediction model, where the prediction model is used for time series data, a computer selects a first prediction time window in an order from a plurality of prediction time windows associated with the prediction model, and predicts predicted values of the time series data at time points within the first prediction time window. The computer calculates a prediction error associated with the first prediction time window based on the one or more predicted values and one or more actual measured values of the time series data at the plurality of time points. The computer determines whether the prediction error is larger than a predefined error threshold associated with the first prediction time window, and in response to determining the prediction error is larger than the predefined error threshold, provides a notification of updating the prediction model.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2020
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Dong Chen, Sier Han, Long Jiao, Jing Zhang, Weicai Zhong
  • Patent number: 10548208
    Abstract: An X-ray device may comprise a timer for monitoring a nonoperation time, such as a time from a previous signal input to a control circuit to the next input signal. When the timer detects that the nonoperation time has exceeded a preset time, the control circuit controls the contactors and so as to turn off the contactors. The standby power of the X-ray device when the frequency of use during the nonoperation time is low can be reduced. Further, when the next signal is input to the control circuit, the control circuit controls the contactors so as to close the contactors, thereby restoring power supply. Therefore, when the next signal is input to the control circuit, the X-ray device is turned to a usable state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2020
    Assignee: Shimadzu Corporation
    Inventors: Takuya Yuasa, Norimasa Hishida, Makoto Katoh
  • Patent number: 10524758
    Abstract: The invention provides an automatic exposure control method for a digital X-ray imaging device. The automatic exposure control method for a digital X-ray imaging device includes the following the steps. First, a parameter database is provided before imaging scan. A depth information is generated, wherein the depth information by a depth sensor detect the thickness of a region of interest of an object. Imaging exposure parameters, mAs and kV, are estimated according to the depth information and the parameter database. Then, X-ray imaging is performed according to the imaging exposure parameters estimated by the method described in this application. In addition, an automatic exposure control system for a digital X-ray imaging device is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2020
    Assignee: INSTITUTE OF NUCLEAR ENERGY RESEARCH, ATOMIC ENERGY COUNCIL, EXECUTIVE YUAN, R.O.C
    Inventors: Meei-Ling Jan, Sheng-Pin Tseng, Chia-Hao Chang
  • Patent number: 10531549
    Abstract: Provided is an X-ray apparatus and a method of controlling an X-ray apparatus capable of detecting a sign of breakage of a filament. A method of controlling an X-ray apparatus for performing control involving controlling a filament current flowing through a filament of a cathode part to maintain constant a tube current flowing between the cathode part and an anode part with a target, includes: monitoring the current value of at least one of the filament current and the tube current; detecting the mode of change in the current value; determining the presence or absence of a sign of breakage of the filament based on the mode of change in the current value; and issuing a warning based on the determination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2020
    Assignees: Job Corporation, Ishida Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshiharu Obata, Shigeru Hanamatsu, Osamu Hirose, Takashi Kabumoto
  • Patent number: 10390781
    Abstract: Provided is an X-ray apparatus. The X-ray apparatus includes: an X-ray photographing unit configured to acquire first image information by irradiating an X-ray of a first dose to an object; a control unit configured to determine existence/nonexistence of a density abnormality of the object on the basis of the first image information; and an output unit configured to display information about the existence/nonexistence of the density abnormality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Min-cheol Park, Phill-gu Jung
  • Patent number: 10321882
    Abstract: A method for triggering image capture by a group of simultaneously X-ray exposed multiple wirelessly interlinked self-triggering direct radiography (DR) detector assemblies includes the steps of performing an initiation step to identify the group of participating DR detector assemblies prior to X-ray exposure, detecting the X-ray exposure by a first participating DR detector assembly, the first participating DR detector assembly performing a trigger step to signal all participating DR detector assemblies to start image capture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2019
    Assignee: AGFA NV
    Inventors: Walter Exelmans, Eric De Broeck
  • Patent number: 10303849
    Abstract: A set of set of first modality data is received including at least one view comprising a plurality of gates. The set of first modality data is received from a first imaging modality of an imaging system. A set of second modality data is received from a second imaging modality of the imaging system. A motion corrected model of the set of first modality data is generated by forward projecting the set of first modality data including a motion estimate. An update factor for each of the plurality of views is generated by comparing at least one of the plurality of gates to the motion corrected model. The motion corrected model is updated by the update factor to generate a motion corrected image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Michal Cachovan, Alexander Hans Vija
  • Patent number: 10285661
    Abstract: In an x-ray imaging method, the acquisition of a signal image is split off into acquisition of two or more subimages or frames. The first subimage may be acquired with an exposure of a low dose followed by a readout cycle. The dose of the exposure for acquiring the first subimage can be chosen such that it is below the default dose for a particular anatomy. The first subimage may be used to calculate or estimate the parameters of exposure for acquiring a second or subsequent images subimage. The estimation may be such that the total dose received by the imager, in acquiring the first and second subimages, achieves an expected target value to provide an image of good quality. The first and second subimages can be combined to form the final image. A detector array supporting automatic exposure control (AEC) includes AEC pixels providing AEC signals. The AEC pixels are independently or individually addressable and/or readable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Assignee: Varian Medical Systems International AG
    Inventors: Daniel Morf, Reto Filiberti
  • Patent number: 10279197
    Abstract: A radiation-treatment plan that comprises a plurality of dose-delivery fractions can be optimized by using fraction dose objectives and at least one other, different dose objective. This use of fraction dose objectives can comprise accumulating doses delivered in previous dose-delivery fractions. The other, different dose objective can comprise a remaining total dose objective, a predictive dose objective, or some other dose objective of choice. An existing radiation-treatment plan having a corresponding resultant quality and that is defined, at least in part, by at least one delivery parameter can be re-optimized by specifying at least one constraint as regards that delivery parameter as a function, at least in part, of that resultant quality and then applying that constraint when re-optimizing the existing radiation-treatment plan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2019
    Assignee: Varian Medical Systems International AG
    Inventors: Janne I. Nord, Jarkko Y. Peltola, Juha Kauppinen
  • Patent number: 10231686
    Abstract: A system including initialization, imaging, alignment, processing, and setting modules. The initialization module obtains patient parameters for a patient and procedure and surgeon parameters. The initialization module selects first settings for an x-ray source based on the patient, procedure, and surgeon parameters. The image module obtains a first sample set of images of a region-of-interest of the patient and a master sample set of images. The first sample set was acquired as a result of the x-ray source operating according to the first settings. The alignment module aligns the first sample set to the master sample set. The processing module processes pixel data corresponding to a result of the alignment based on a pixel parameter or one of the patient parameters. The setting module adjusts the first settings to provide updated settings. X-ray dosage associated with the updated settings is less than x-ray dosage associated with the first settings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Assignee: Medtronic Navigation, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard J. Brody
  • Patent number: 10206648
    Abstract: An X-ray projection of a region of examination and an associated X-ray parameter are received via an interface, the X-ray projection including X-ray intensities in a first pixel set. The X-ray parameter relates to at least one X-ray voltage from an X-ray source. Scattered radiation intensity is determined in a second pixel set, the second pixel set being a subset of the first pixel set. A first calculation of first exposure parameters in the second pixel set then occurs, each of the first exposure parameters in a pixel of the second pixel set being based on the X-ray intensity in the pixel and the scattered radiation intensity in the pixel. Furthermore, a second calculation of a scalar second exposure parameter occurs based on the first exposure parameters and an adjustment of the X-ray parameter is performed by comparing the scalar second exposure parameter with a reference value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: SIEMENS HEALTHCARE GMBH
    Inventors: Philipp Bernhardt, Rudolf Leiblein
  • Patent number: 10147382
    Abstract: A touch panel, a display panel, and a display unit achieving prevention of erroneous detection caused by external noise, are provided. The touch panel includes: a plurality of detection scan electrodes extending in a first direction; and a plurality of detection electrodes facing the plurality of detection scan electrodes and extending in a second direction which intersects the first direction. A ratio of fringe capacitance to total capacitance between one or more selected detection scan electrodes and a first detection electrode is different from a ratio of fringe capacitance to total capacitance between the one or more selected detection scan electrodes and a second detection electrode. The one or more selected detection scan electrodes are selected, in a desired unit, from the plurality of detection scan electrodes, to be supplied with a selection pulse, and each of the first and the second detection electrodes is selected from the plurality of detection electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2018
    Assignee: JAPAN DISPLAY INC.
    Inventors: Takayuki Nakanishi, Koji Noguchi, Koji Ishizaki, Yasuyuki Teranishi, Takeya Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 10111639
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a medical image diagnostic apparatus includes an X-ray tube, a rotor and processing circuitry. The X-ray tube radiates an X-ray. The rotor holds the X-ray tube, and rotates together with the X-ray tube at least any of a first rotation speed used for scanning an object and a second rotation speed lower than the first rotation speed. The processing circuitry acquires information on a waiting time up to timing of exposure by the X-ray tube. The processing circuitry further controls a rotation speed of the rotor during the waiting time in accordance with the information on the waiting time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2018
    Assignee: Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Masahiro Karahashi
  • Patent number: 10105118
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method of processing a medical image are provided. The apparatus is configured to generate a cross-sectional image of an object by transmitting X-rays through a region of the object, and includes an X-ray generator configured to generate the X-rays. The apparatus further includes a controller configured to determine sub-regions included in the region, based on positions of body parts included in the region, determine image qualities of the sub-regions based on types of the body parts included in the sub-regions, control doses of the X-rays based on the image qualities, and control the X-ray generator to transmit the controlled X-rays to the region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ji-young Jung, Toshihiro Rifu, Gun-woo Lee, Jong-hyon Yi, Chang-lae Lee
  • Patent number: 10085698
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for automated tube current modulation (ATCM). In one embodiment, a method for an imaging system comprises: calculating a desired dose level based on a clinical task, a size of a subject to be scanned, and an image quality level; generating a scan protocol based on a relation between the image quality level and at least one characteristic of the imaging system; and performing a scan of the subject at the desired dose level and according to the generated scan protocol. In this way, ATCM can be optimized based on elements that impact image quality such as the clinical task, the physical characteristics of the imaging system, the individual patient, and the reader's preference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: Genereal Electric Company
    Inventors: Jiahua Fan, Xiaoyu Tian, Dominic Joseph Crotty
  • Patent number: 10064596
    Abstract: A method for controlling an X-ray dose of a CT scan includes: setting an initial X-ray dose; performing a first CT scan with the initial X-ray dose to obtain an initial scan image; setting a region of interest (ROI) in the initial scan image; calculating a subsequent X-Ray dose with image values of the ROI in the initial scan image; perform an additional CT scan with the calculated subsequent X-Ray dose to obtain an average image; before receiving an end instruction, repeating the following operations: recalculating a subsequent X-Ray dose with image values of the ROI in the average image and performing an additional CT scan with the calculated subsequent X-Ray dose to obtain a new average image; and saving the average image when receiving the end instruction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2018
    Assignee: Shenyang Neusoft Medical Systems Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shanshan Lou, Gang Fang, Jiangwei Zhao
  • Patent number: 10054555
    Abstract: Disclosed are an X-ray transmission inspection apparatus and an inspection method using the same that are capable of preventing over-detection and erroneous detection of foreign matter even when variations in vertical position of the sample occur. The X-ray transmission inspection apparatus includes: an X-ray source (2) irradiating a sample with X-rays; a sample moving device (3) moving the sample S continuously to a predetermined direction while X-rays X are emitted from the X-ray source; a time delay integration sensor (TDI sensor) (4) provided opposed to the X-ray source based on the sample, and detecting the X-rays transmitted through the sample; a distance sensor (5) measuring a distance between the X-ray source and the sample; and a TDI controller (6) controlling the TDI sensor by changing a charge transfer speed of the TDI sensor (4) in real time based on variations in the distance measured by the distance sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Assignee: HITACHI HIGH-TECH SCIENCE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshiki Matoba, Akihiro Takeda, Shingo Tsuboi, Toshihiro Sakai
  • Patent number: 10056911
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a phase-locked loop (PLL) system comprises a phase-frequency detector (PFD) configured to compare a phase-frequency reference signal and a feedback signal, a charge pump (CP) electrically coupled to the PFD and configured to produce a first tuning signal based on an output of the PFD, multiple integrator cells electrically coupled to the CP and configured to output multiple second tuning signals based on a voltage of the first tuning signal relative to a voltage reference signal, and a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) electrically coupled to the CP and to the multiple integrator cells and configured to adjust a capacitance value of the VCO based on the multiple second tuning signals. The capacitance value and the first tuning signal affect a frequency of the feedback signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Assignee: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Gerd Rombach
  • Patent number: 10034643
    Abstract: An X-ray apparatus and system are capable of preventing possible generation of after-images and ghost images due to partial imaging of an object by determining an order of imaging operations with respect to a plurality of partial X-ray imaging regions based on size information about portions of the object respectively represented on the plurality of partial X-ray imaging regions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2018
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Sang-uk Kim
  • Patent number: 10028719
    Abstract: An X-ray projection of a region of examination and an associated X-ray parameter are received via an interface, the X-ray projection including X-ray intensities in a first pixel set. The X-ray parameter relates to at least one X-ray voltage from an X-ray source. Scattered radiation intensity is determined in a second pixel set, the second pixel set being a subset of the first pixel set. A first calculation of first exposure parameters in the second pixel set then occurs, each of the first exposure parameters in a pixel of the second pixel set being based on the X-ray intensity in the pixel and the scattered radiation intensity in the pixel. Furthermore, a second calculation of a scalar second exposure parameter occurs based on the first exposure parameters and an adjustment of the X-ray parameter is performed by comparing the scalar second exposure parameter with a reference value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Assignee: SIEMENS HEALTHCARE GMBH
    Inventors: Philipp Bernhardt, Rudolf Leiblein
  • Patent number: 9968327
    Abstract: An X-ray image detection system includes a charge accumulation device, a switch device, a comparator device and an analog to digital converter. The charge accumulation device receives current produced by a pixel and converts the current to a voltage signal. The switch device has an input terminal, a first output terminal, and a second output terminal. The input terminal is connected to the charge accumulation device to receive the voltage signal. The comparator device is connected to the first output terminal for generating first or second indication signal according to the voltage signal. The analog to digital converter is connected to the second terminal. When the first indication signal is generated, the input terminal of the switch device is connected to the first output terminal. When the second indication signal is generated, the input terminal of the switch device is connected to the second output terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2018
    Assignee: INNOLUX CORPORATION
    Inventor: Yu-Heing Chen
  • Patent number: 9962134
    Abstract: A system including initialization, imaging, alignment, processing, and setting modules. The initialization module obtains patient parameters for a patient and procedure and surgeon parameters. The initialization module selects first settings for an x-ray source based on the patient, procedure, and surgeon parameters. The image module obtains a first sample set of images of a region-of-interest of the patient and a master sample set of images. The first sample set was acquired as a result of the x-ray source operating according to the first settings. The alignment module aligns the first sample set to the master sample set. The processing module processes pixel data corresponding to a result of the alignment based on a pixel parameter or one of the patient parameters. The setting module adjusts the first settings to provide updated settings. X-ray dosage associated with the updated settings is less than x-ray dosage associated with the first settings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: Medtronic Navigation, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard J. Brody
  • Patent number: 9943707
    Abstract: Tracking a target structure contained within a target volume using an x-ray tomosynthesis imaging detector is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: ACCURAY INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Calvin R. Maurer, Jr., Mu Young Lee, Gopinath Kuduvalli, Petr Jordan, Prashant Chopra
  • Patent number: 9907529
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus are disclosed for patient-dependent optimization and reduction of the contrast medium amount. An embodiment includes provisioning patient-specific data, containing information about a patient cross-section relevant for the imaging measurement; establishing CT values and/or CNR values of a contrast medium to be expected for at least one region of interest of the patient for different candidate settings of x-ray source arrangement and/or of an image reconstruction device; determining a relevant candidate contrast medium amount for the different candidate settings, which would lead to a CT value or CNR value of the contrast medium which corresponds to the CT value or CNR value of the contrast medium at the reference setting of the x-ray source arrangement and/or image reconstruction device; and displaying an optimum relative candidate contrast medium amount and of the associated candidate setting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Thomas Flohr, Bernhard Schmidt
  • Patent number: 9901750
    Abstract: A multi-mode cone beam computed tomography radiotherapy simulator and radiotherapy treatment machine is disclosed. The radiotherapy simulator and radiotherapy treatment machine both include a rotatable gantry on which is positioned a cone-beam radiation source and a flat panel imager. The flat panel imager captures x-ray image data to generate cone-beam CT volumetric images used to generate a therapy patient position setup and a treatment plan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Assignee: VARIAN MEDICAL SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Edward G. Shapiro, Edward J. Seppi, John M. Pavkovich, Stanley W. Johnsen, Richard E. Colbeth
  • Patent number: 9877696
    Abstract: An image obtainment unit obtains a radiographic image radiographed by irradiating a subject with radiation. A first information obtainment unit obtains information about at least one of a radiography condition during radiography of the subject, a subject condition and detector characteristics, which are characteristics of the radiation detector. A second information obtainment unit obtains body thickness information representing the body thickness of the subject. A target S/N setting unit sets a target S/N of the radiographic image based on the body thickness information and the information about at least one of the radiography condition, the subject condition and the detector characteristics. An image processing unit corrects the S/N of the radiographic image to the target S/N by performing, on the radiographic image, noise removal processing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2018
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventor: Tomoko Taki
  • Patent number: 9867587
    Abstract: A method of controlling radiation dosage of an X-Ray CT system includes applying radiation to a patient along a z-axis in an x-y plane at angles during rotations around the z-axis. The method also includes acquiring projections of the patient to reconstruct a 3D image of the patient's anatomy and controlling a dosage of the radiation by causing a same dosage of the radiation to be applied in the x-y plane to a posterior of the patient and to an anterior of the patient at a first portion along the length of the z-axis and causing a varied dosage of the radiation to be applied in the x-y plane at a second portion along the length of the z-axis. The varied dosage includes a first dosage applied to the posterior and a second dosage applied to the anterior that is less than the first dosage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2018
    Assignee: Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas O'Donnell
  • Patent number: 9839402
    Abstract: A method for diagnosis and evaluation of tooth decay comprises: locating in an x-ray image the contour of the dento-enamel junction (DEJ); measuring optical density along contours substantially parallel to and on either side of the DEJ contour; and calculating at least one numerical decay value from the measured optical densities. A method for diagnosis and evaluation of periodontal disease comprises: measuring in an x-ray image a bone depth (BD) relative to the position of the cemento-enamel junctions (CEJs) of adjacent teeth; measuring bone density along a contour between the adjacent teeth; and calculating a numerical crestal density (CD) value from the measured bone density. Calibration standards may be employed for facilitating calculation of the numerical values. A dental digital x-ray imaging calibration method for at least partly correcting for variations of the optical densities of images acquired from the dental digital x-ray imaging system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2017
    Inventor: Leigh E. Colby
  • Patent number: 9836825
    Abstract: A method and a device for dose modulated X-ray scanning, where, according to an example of the method, a theoretical X-ray scanning dose for a scanning region may be calculated according to a target image quality standard set for the scanning region and a reference data level determined for the scanning region. Then, an X-ray attenuation difference between each data level corresponding to the scanning region and the reference data level may be calculated according to the theoretical X-ray scanning dose. In this way, a data level where the X-ray attenuation difference with the reference data level is higher than a threshold may be selected out from the data levels corresponding to the scanning region as a target to be de-noised, and a noise reduction may be performed for the target to be de-noised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: SHENYANG NEUSOFT MEDICAL SYSTEMS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shanshan Lou, Ling Pang