Technique Or Detector Patents (Class 378/116)
  • Patent number: 7573979
    Abstract: When a signal S2 with a pulse width corresponding to an entire X-ray irradiation period is input, a pulse P3 (signal S5) with a predetermined pulse width is output at an input timing of the signal S2, and when a new signal S2 is input during output of the pulse P3, the pulse P3, being output, is extendingly output further for the above pulse width from the input timing of the signal S2. Then in a state in which either or both of the signal S2 and the pulse P3 are being input, a pulse P4 (signal S6), with a pulse width corresponding to a period of the input, is output at a start timing of the input period, and when the pulse P4 is input, the imaging unit 7 is controlled to start imaging based on a start timing of the pulse P4. An X-ray imaging apparatus that can appropriately detect an imaging start timing and can perform taking of a good X-ray image while preventing malfunctions due to noise is thereby realized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Hamamatsu Photonics K.K.
    Inventors: Akira Taoka, Kazuhisa Miyaguchi
  • Patent number: 7573980
    Abstract: A selectable mode of operation is disclosed for an X-ray computer tomograph for producing angiographical images. A patient accommodated on a couch is not moved relative to the measuring system in the z-direction, the entire area to be examined is irradiated at a prescribed first angle of rotation of the measuring system, and the X-ray radiation emerging from the area to be examined is detected isochronously using a matrix detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Gabriel Haras, Peter Aulbach
  • Patent number: 7558372
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for the separate three-dimensional representation of arteries and/or veins in a vascular system of the body by means of a C-arm biplanar system having two C-arms, which can each record a sequence of x-ray images from different projection angles during a mask or filler pass. With the filler pass, both C-arms record x-ray images, so that the x-ray images of the filler pass can be combined to form a first data record, which contains x-ray images from the arterial phase of the vascular contrasting and/or to form a second data record, which contains x-ray images from the venous phase of the vascular contrasting. This enables the arterial and venous phases to be reconstructed separately.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Michael Zellerhoff
  • Publication number: 20090168966
    Abstract: In a medical digital X-ray imaging apparatus having a plurality of imaging modes including computed tomography mode, a supporter supports an X-ray source and a digital X-ray sensor having a two-dimensional detection plane for detecting X-rays, while interposing an object between them. An image reconstructor acquires data from the digital X-ray sensor and reconstructs an image based on the acquired data. An operator selects one of a first imaging mode and a second imaging mode. The second imaging mode has an irradiation field different from the first imaging mode and has an area to be read in the digital X-ray sensor smaller than that in the first imaging mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventors: Masakazu Suzuki, Hideki Yoshikawa
  • Publication number: 20090154648
    Abstract: In order to improve the reliability of a radiographic image detection unit and the reliability of a radiographic apparatus, when it is not detected that the radiographic image detection unit is mounted on a support portion or a cooling portion, processing for restricting radiography of a moving image is executed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2007
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Applicant: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Tetsuo Watanabe
  • Patent number: 7531810
    Abstract: A method for routine monitoring and quality assurance of field asymmetry of high energy circular radiation beam producing equipment. The quality assurance process of field symmetry for devices such as stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) systems is simplified by directly measuring the integration of the half-beam profile. The method of the invention provides that the field symmetry is obtained by positioning the tip of an ion chamber, with a collecting length approximately half the diameter of the beam, at the central axis of the beam, and rotating the ion chamber at varying angular positions, acquiring and comparing readings at desired angular positions. Each pair of readings from positions 180 degrees opposed from each other, are plugged into the equation, Asymmetry=2(R1?R2)/(R1+R2) to compute asymmetry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Inventor: Xiaodong Wu
  • Patent number: 7532703
    Abstract: A diagnostic imaging system includes a high frequency electromagnetic energy source that emits a beam of high frequency electromagnetic energy toward an object to be imaged. An energy discriminating (ED) detector receives high frequency electromagnetic energy emitted by the high frequency electromagnetic energy source. The ED detector includes a direct conversion layer dynamically operable in a photon counting mode in one view and in an integrating mode in another view and an indirect conversion layer. A data acquisition system (DAS) is operably connected to the ED detector and a computer operably connected to the DAS.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Yanfeng Du, J. Eric Tkaczyk, David M. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 7532706
    Abstract: A correction process is performed using different gain correction signals (GSA, GSB) in accordance with radiographic modes (moving image radiographic mode/still image radiographic mode) set in an X-ray imaging apparatus, respectively. This makes it possible to acquire an image with decreased correction errors even when the X-ray imaging apparatus is configured using an imaging unit having different gain characteristics in the still image radiographic mode and moving image radiographic mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshio Kameshima, Tadao Endo, Tomoyuki Yagi, Katsuro Takenaka
  • Patent number: 7519156
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for hot swapping a portable detector to an imaging system. A portable detector having a unique identifier and calibration data is detected by an imaging system. The imaging system selects the calibration data for the detected portable detector. The imaging system uses the calibration data in the imaging process. In some embodiments, the selected calibration data can be stored in the portable detector or in the imaging system. In some embodiments, the calibration data is organized as both imaging system dependent and imaging system independent. In some embodiments, the imaging system integrates the portable detector and the associated calibration data into the operation of the imaging system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Rajeev R. Marar
  • Patent number: 7515678
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a method is provided for performing computed tomography (CT) imaging. The method includes obtaining EKG gating information from an object and obtaining attenuation measurements from the object utilizing a detector that is rotated in a scan plane around the object. The method further includes performing a first reconstruction based on a first portion of the attenuation measurements that are collected by a first region of the detector, where the first reconstruction is performed independent of the EKG gating information to obtain a first reconstruction data set. A second reconstruction is performed based on a second port of the attenuation measurements that are collected by a second region of the detector, where the second reconstruction is performed based on the EKG gating information to obtain a second reconstruction data set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Jiang Hsieh, Darin Robert Okerlund, Mark Edward Woodford
  • Publication number: 20090086915
    Abstract: When a gain correction is performed for the radiographed object image, the acquisition of the object image having a high grade quality and no artifact is realized. For that purpose, an image storing unit is provided for storing an image for correction radiographed based on conditions set with the table in a state in which no object exists to each operation modes of the plurality of operation modes; and an image processing unit is provided for performing a gain correction processing of the radiographed object image and performs the gain correction processing of the radiographed object image obtained based on the conditions set in the table of the operation mode selected by the selecting unit in a state in which the object exists using a corresponding image for correction extracted from the image storage unit based on the operation mode selected by the selecting unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Katsuro Takenaka, Tadao Endo, Toshio Kameshima, Tomoyuki Yagi, Keigo Yokoyama
  • Publication number: 20090080601
    Abstract: A CT detector includes a direct conversion material configured to generate electrical charge upon reception of x-rays, a plurality of metallized anodes configured to collect electrical charges generated in the direct conversion material, at least one readout device, and a redistribution layer having a plurality of electrical pathways configured to route the electrical charges from the plurality of metallized anodes to the at least one readout device. A plurality of switches is coupled to the plurality of electrical pathways between the plurality of metallized anodes and the at least one readout device, wherein each of the plurality of switches includes an input line electrically coupled to one of the plurality of metallized anodes, a first output node electrically coupled to the at least one readout device, and a second output node electrically coupled to at least one other switch of the plurality of switches.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Inventors: John Eric Tkaczyk, James Wilson Rose, Wen Li, Jonathan D. Short, Yanfeng Du
  • Publication number: 20090060138
    Abstract: A method for at least reducing the occurrence of differential ghosting in an X-ray image acquired in respect of a subject, wherein a deghost scan is performed at least once daily so as to generate an underlying strong homogeneous ghost so that further differential (non-homogeneous) ghosting during subsequent scans is minimised. The deghost scan comprises acquiring an ‘air’ image, when no subject is present between the X-ray source (4) and detector (5), as a relatively high detector dose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2006
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS, N.V.
    Inventor: Peter George Van De Haar
  • Patent number: 7492865
    Abstract: In flat-panel X-ray detectors which have a multiplicity of detector elements which are in each case associated with one pixel of an X-ray image, the individual detectors generate offset signals. These offset signals are detected by recording offset images in which there is no X-ray irradiation (dark images). The offset images are recorded after the X-ray images to be corrected in time. If for each X-ray image record, an associated offset image record is generated by using a single offset image or of two, the offset images can be recorded closely in time. Ghosting effects are then not disturbing because the offset images are only used for correcting the X-ray images which cause the ghosting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Gerhard Hahm, Mathias Hörnig, Martin Spahn
  • Patent number: 7489762
    Abstract: In a method for performing recordings for dual absorptiometry, a high-energy radiation pulse is performed before a low-energy radiation pulse. Furthermore the high-energy radiation pulse is arranged at the end of an assigned radiation window of the detector. This temporal sequence of a high-energy radiation pulse and a low-energy radiation pulse allows the total time for performing the recordings for dual absorptiometry to be minimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Philipp Bernhardt
  • Publication number: 20090028296
    Abstract: In an imaging acquisition system and method, successive x-ray images and successive optical images are respectively acquired from an examination subject. Positional identifiers associated with the examination subject are detected in the optical images, and acquisition of respective x-ray images is triggered only when the identifiers are detected in the optical images. The number of acquired x-ray images is therefore substantially fewer than the number of acquired optical images, and the x-ray images can be acquired with substantially no overlap, thereby avoiding exposing the examination subject to unnecessary radiation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2008
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventors: Rainer Graumann, Sorin-Alexandru Neagu, Sven Martin Sutter
  • Patent number: 7476027
    Abstract: When a gain correction is performed for the radiographed object image, the acquisition of the object image having a high grade quality and no artifact is realized. For that purpose, an image storing unit is provided for storing an image for correction radiographed based on conditions set with the table in a state in which no object exists to each operation modes of the plurality of operation modes; and an image processing unit is provided for performing a gain correction processing of the radiographed object image and performs the gain correction processing of the radiographed object image obtained based on the conditions set in the table of the operation mode selected by the selecting unit in a state in which the object exists using a corresponding image for correction extracted from the image storage unit based on the operation mode selected by the selecting unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Katsuro Takenaka, Tadao Endo, Toshio Kameshima, Tomoyuki Yagi, Keigo Yokoyama
  • Patent number: 7463719
    Abstract: During tomosynthesis a plurality of x-ray images is acquired. The angular position of the x-ray tube is changed from x-ray image to x-ray image. Absorption in the imaged object (patient) and also in the patient table changes as a function of the angle. To compensate for this, backlight is applied while the x-ray images are being acquired. The intensity of the back light is selected as a function of the angle of the x-ray tube to the normal of the flat x-ray detector. Backlight can also be directed during reading, with only the areas already read in each instance being irradiated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Mathias Hörnig
  • Patent number: 7453988
    Abstract: To comply with radiation protection provisions that differ from one another for different operating functions without operational restrictions, a radiation protection system is provided in the case of a multifunctional x-ray system for a solid state detector assigned to the x-ray system. The radiation protection system includes a device for restricting the current outer contours of an x-radiation field to bounding outer contours dependent on the selected operating function of the x-ray system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Hans-Joachim Greiner, Mathias Hörnig, Martin Spahn
  • Publication number: 20080279334
    Abstract: A radiation imaging apparatus is capable of taking a moving picture by acquisition by a reading circuit of a plurality of radiation image signals on the basis of a plurality of successive times of irradiation of a radiation detector with radiation rays. The radiation detector has a two-dimensional array of pixels. In a period between a start of an n-th time of irradiation with radiation rays and a start of an (n+1)-th time of irradiation with radiation rays, where n is a natural number, a controller switches an operation status of an analog-to-digital converter that converts electric signals read by the reading circuit into digital signals so that power consumption of the analog-to-digital converter is reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Katsuro Takenaka, Tadao Endo, Toshio Kameshima, Tomoyuki Yagi, Keigo Yokoyama
  • Patent number: 7433446
    Abstract: An image capturing apparatus includes an image sensing unit that receives X-rays and converts the received X-ray signal into an image signal, a control unit that controls the image capturing apparatus, including image capturing using the image sensing unit, and a communication unit including at least two communication interfaces to output the acquired image signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Masahiro Abe
  • Patent number: 7426261
    Abstract: An X-ray system includes a radiation source, a central control device, a mobile solid object detector, and a wireless communication link between the solid object detector and the control device. For an examination to run correctly, the mobile solid object detector includes a signaling unit for indicating an existing association with the central control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Martin Spahn
  • Patent number: 7421062
    Abstract: An X-ray CT apparatus comprises three X-ray generating units, three groups of detecting elements and a reconstructing unit. The three X-ray generating units are arranged so as to make an angle formed by a first X-ray exposure direction and a second X-ray exposure direction on a rotational plane thereof be a same angle as that formed by the second X-ray exposure direction and a third X-ray exposure direction on the rotational plane, the same angle being smaller than 120 degree. The three groups of detecting elements are arranged opposite to the three X-ray generating units respectively so as to make a field of view formed in a center wider than two side fields of view. The reconstructing unit is configured to reconstruct an image using detection data detected by at least desired one of the three groups of the detecting elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Miwa Okumura, Satoru Nakanishi, Masaharu Tsuyuki, Yasuo Saito
  • Patent number: 7421063
    Abstract: A radiation imaging apparatus is capable of taking a moving picture by acquisition by a reading circuit of a plurality of radiation image signals on the basis of a plurality of successive times of irradiation of a radiation detector with radiation rays. The radiation detector has a two-dimensional array of pixels. In a period between a start of an n-th time of irradiation with radiation rays and a start of an (n+1)-th time of irradiation with radiation rays, where n is a natural number, a controller switches an operation status of an analog-to-digital converter that converts electric signals read by the reading circuit into digital signals so that power consumption of the analog-to-digital converter is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Katsuro Takenaka, Tadao Endo, Toshio Kameshima, Tomoyuki Yagi, Keigo Yokoyama
  • Patent number: 7359483
    Abstract: A radiographer support system containing a storage apparatus provided in a case including a recoding medium for recording radiographic image data a recording device for recording radiograph related data of the first radiographic image data a first communication device electrically connected to the recording device for a data communication and a first electrode electrically connected to the first communication device capable of being in contact with a human body, and a wearable apparatus including a second communication device for communicating with the first communication device and a second electrode electrically connected to the second communication device capable of being in contact with a human body wherein the first communication device communicate with the second communication device for transmitting the radiographic image data or X-ray photograph related data each other via a human body as a transmission line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: Konica Minolta Medical & Graphic, Inc.
    Inventor: Fukuro Koshiji
  • Publication number: 20080069304
    Abstract: A radiography apparatus having an x-ray source, an x-ray imaging detector, and a support structure coupling the source and the x-ray detector and rotatable about a predetermined axis for positioning about a subject. The apparatus includes a first operator control console with a first command entry device for entry of operator setup instructions and a first display. A second operator control console is spaced apart from the first operator control console and has a second command entry device for entry of operator setup instructions and a second display. A control logic processor is responsive to the operator setup instructions for controlling operation of the radiography apparatus. At least some of the operator setup instructions entered at the first command entry device and operator setup instructions entered at the second command entry device are the same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2006
    Publication date: March 20, 2008
    Inventors: Jerald J. Muszak, Chad P. Paris, Bruce A. Leonard, John M. Staton
  • Patent number: 7342997
    Abstract: The dead time of a pulse type X-ray detector is measured without estimation of a true X-ray intensity. The first and the second conditions are used for varying an intensity of an X-ray entering the X-ray detector. The first condition may be the slit width of a receiving slit, at least three kinds of slit width being selected. The second condition may be with or without an absorption plate. The first observed X-ray intensities are observed, with the absorption plate inserted, for three or more values in slit width. Next, the second observed X-ray intensities are observed similarly but with the absorption plate removed. A predetermined relational expression is made up among the first observed X-ray intensity, the second observed X-ray intensity, a ratio k of the second observed X-ray intensity to the first observed X-ray intensity (depending upon attenuation in X-ray intensity caused by the absorption plate) and the dead time ? of the X-ray detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Assignee: Rigaku Corporation
    Inventors: Tomoyasu Ueda, Yoshiyasu Ito, Kazuhiko Omote
  • Patent number: 7343001
    Abstract: Methods of using an X-ray system having a central computer system, an X-ray source and a bank of wireless detectors. The methods include an automated X-ray system that requires the input of a type of X-ray to be performed on a patient, and the systems determine and identify which detector from the detector bank is appropriate for the ordered test.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Emad Abu Tabanjeh
  • Patent number: 7313225
    Abstract: In a method and an apparatus for acquisition of a digital x-ray image of an examination subject with a digital x-ray receiver, the digital x-ray image being composed of a number of individual images acquired in temporal succession and overlapping one another at least in one diagnostically-relevant subject region, at least one intermediate image composed of a number of individual images is evaluated to control at least one acquisition parameter used to generate the x-ray image. For the acquisition of digital x-ray images, an exposure control without exposure of the patient to an additional radiation dose is possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Thomas Mertelmeier
  • Patent number: 7298825
    Abstract: A detector for a portable imaging system includes a flash memory including a full set of configuration parameters and calibration files. The detector also includes a transmit and receive unit for communicating with the portable imaging system. The detector still further includes a detector controller responding to a request for identification of the detector received through the transmit and receive unit. The detector transmits calibration data and configuration data from the flash memory to the portable imaging system and boots the detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: General Electric Co.
    Inventors: Jon C. Omernick, Kenneth S. Kump, Sabih Q. Zaman
  • Patent number: 7292675
    Abstract: A method of providing an automatic protocol assistance includes determining a number of exposures for a scan of an object, acquiring a low dose AEC exposure of the object or acquiring at least one of a PA and an AP view, calculating an initial technique, and automatically determining whether to use the initial technique to perform the scan or to not perform the scan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Baojun Li, Stephen Wayne Metz, Rowland Frederick Saunders, Yaxi Shen
  • Publication number: 20070253534
    Abstract: There is provided an X-ray imaging system to which an X-ray sensing unit including a solid-state imaging device having sensitivity to X-rays interchangeably connects. The system includes an X-ray generation unit which applies X-rays to the X-ray sensing unit, and an imaging controller which controls the X-ray sensing unit and the X-ray generation unit. The system also includes a sensing unit information receiver which receives sensing unit information from the X-ray sensing unit. The system further includes a control parameter setting unit which automatically sets control parameters for the imaging controller on the basis of the sensing unit information received by the sensing unit information receiver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventor: Masahiro Abe
  • Publication number: 20070230661
    Abstract: A diagnosis aiding system that photographs an examination subject without a photographing order and generates image data of the examination subject, and thereafter links the image data with the examination subject, includes: an image generating unit that photographs an examination subject and generates data of a photographed image of the examination subject; a switching operation unit to input switching information on an examination subject; and a controller that stores one or more photographed images, of a single examination subject, generated by the image generating unit between input of preceding switching information and input of subsequent switching information via the switching operation unit, linking the one or more photographed images with examination subject information on the single examination subject.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventors: Wataru Motoki, Mamoru Umeki, Jiro Okuzawa
  • Patent number: 7272207
    Abstract: Systems, processes and apparatus are described through which non-destructive imaging is achieved, including a process for variable binning of detector elements. The process includes accepting input data indicative of image quality goals and descriptors of an imaging task, as well as parameters characterizing a test subject, relative to non-destructive imaging of an internal portion of the test subject and determining when the non-destructive imaging system is capable of achieving the image quality goals using binning of more than four pixels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Inventors: Richard Aufrichtig, John Robert Lamberty, Paul Richard Granfors
  • Patent number: 7263167
    Abstract: A method of scanning a subject to be imaged is presented. The method includes acquiring projection data from a first region of a pixel, where the first region has a first area. Additionally, the method includes acquiring projection data from a second region of the pixel, where the second region has a second area. The method also includes combining projection data from the first and second regions to obtain composite projection data for the pixel. Computer-readable medium and systems that afford functionality of the type defined by this method are also contemplated in conjunction with the present technique.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Deborah Joy Walter, John Eric Tkaczyk, Yanfeng Du
  • Patent number: 7260180
    Abstract: An x-ray examination apparatus comprises an x-ray source and an x-ray detector. The x-ray detector includes a photoconductor to derive electric charges from incident x-radiation and read-out elements which derive electrical pixel-signals from the electric charges from the photoconductor. A central group of the read-out elements is located in a central region of the x-ray detector and a peripheral group of the read-out elements is located in a peripheral region which surrounds the central region. The x-ray examination apparatus being provided with a selection system to select the central group of read-out elements so as to supply pixel-signals from the central group of read-elements to the output circuit. The selection system may include an encompassing electrode to drain electric charges from the peripheral group. Or the selection system shields the peripheral group from x-rays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics, N.V.
    Inventor: Herfried Karl Wieczorek
  • Patent number: 7248671
    Abstract: An X-ray diagnosis apparatus including an X-ray detector which has a plurality of detection elements. On the X-ray detector, there is a first area and a second area. A readout unit reads out an electric charge from a detection element on the first area before reading out the electric charge from a detection element on the second area. A display unit displays an X-ray image data which is created by the electric charge read out from the detection element on the second area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Seiichiro Nagai
  • Publication number: 20070165783
    Abstract: Methods of using an X-ray system having a central computer system, an X-ray source and a bank of wireless detectors. The methods include an automated X-ray system that requires the input of a type of X-ray to be performed on a patient, and the systems determine and identify which detector from the detector bank is appropriate for the ordered test.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2006
    Publication date: July 19, 2007
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventor: Emad Abu Tabanjeh
  • Patent number: 7239685
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for managing power consumption of a medical imaging detector by the use of triggering signals, environmental condition data, and/or determination of a variable time interval triggering event that is unique for each power consumption state. Systems and methods are provided for managing power and temperature of a device, after receiving a request for a function to be performed by the device determining an “on” trigger component, an “off” trigger component, associated circuits for performing the received function, providing power to the associated circuits upon the occurrence of the “on” trigger component, and removing power to the associated circuits upon the occurrence of the “off” trigger component. Further, an instruction is described for determining and displaying a variable time interval that is indicative of a time to change from one state to a desired state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventors: Scott W. Petrick, Donald F Langler, Paul R. Granfors, Ken S. Kump, Aaron A. Haen, Jibril Odogba, Jason R. Ertel, David C. Neumann, John R. Lamberty, Ping Xue, Habib Vafi
  • Patent number: 7218704
    Abstract: An inspection system based upon an enclosed conveyance such as a van, capable of road travel, for inspecting persons or objects. The conveyance is characterized by an enclosing body, or skin. A source of penetrating radiation and a spatial modulator for forming the penetrating radiation into a beam, both contained entirely within the body of the enclosed conveyance, irradiate the person or object with a time-variable scanning profile. A detector module generates a scatter signal based on the scatter of penetrating radiation. A proximity sensor may be employed to generate a relative motion signal based on a relative disposition of the conveyance and the inspected object. An image is formed of the contents of the object based in part on the scatter signal and the relative motion signal. A detector, which may be separate or part of the scatter detector module, may exhibit sensitivity to decay products of radioactive material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: American Science and Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: William L. Adams, Alex Chalmers, Lee Grodzins, Louis W. Perich, Peter Rothschild
  • Patent number: 7212612
    Abstract: X-ray device with a detector and an adjustable diaphragm for fading-in an examination area, whereby the detector (6) can be controlled and read-out asymmetrically and the diaphragm (8) can be moved asymmetrically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Burkhard Groh, Volker Heer, Mathias Hörnig, Bernhard Sandkamp
  • Patent number: 7203279
    Abstract: In the radiographic apparatus according to this invention, when a radiographic mode designator 16 designates a non-standard radiographic mode, a signal corrector 15 uses defect information stored in one of non-standard image defect information memories 18B–18E for correcting X-ray detection signals outputted from an FPD 2. Since the pixel defect information for non-standard X-ray images is acquired by a pixel defect information converter 19 through a conversion from defect information for standard X-ray images stored in a standard image defect information memory 18A, it is unnecessary to collect output signals for pixel defect information acquisition from the FPD 2 all over again. As a result, abnormal X-ray detection signals due to defects of radiation detecting elements may be corrected promptly, regardless of how the radiation detecting elements are assigned to the pixels in the X-ray images.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Assignee: Shimadzu Corporation
    Inventors: Keiichi Fujii, Shoichi Okamura, Susumu Adachi, Shinya Hirasawa, Toshinori Yoshimuta, Koichi Tanabe, Shigeya Asai, Akihiro Nishimura
  • Patent number: 7197112
    Abstract: Method of positioning a mobile X-ray detector unit of an X-ray system, X-ray system and mobile X-ray detector unit. method is described for positioning a mobile X-ray detector unit (25, 26) of an X-ray system (1). The X-ray system (1) deployed has X-ray radiation units (5, 6, 7) and at least one mobile X-ray detector unit (25, 26). The X-ray radiation units (5, 6, 7) thereby each have an active and a passive operating status. The X-ray radiation units (5, 6, 7) are each assigned a detector holder (8, 9, 10, 11, 12) to hold a mobile X-ray detector unit (25, 26). To generate X-ray recordings, X-ray radiation emitted by an active X-ray radiation unit (5, 6, 7) is detected by means of a mobile X-ray detector unit (25, 26), which is located in a detector holder (8, 9, 10, 11, 12) of said X-ray radiation unit (5, 6, 7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Michael Maschke
  • Patent number: 7190991
    Abstract: The invention described herein provides systems and methods for multi-modal imaging with light and a second form of imaging. Light imaging involves the capture of low intensity light from a light-emitting object. A camera obtains a two-dimensional spatial distribution of the light emitted from the surface of the subject. Software operated by a computer in communication with the camera may then convert two-dimensional spatial distribution data from one or more images into a three-dimensional spatial representation. The second imaging mode may include any imaging technique that compliments light imaging. Examples include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computer topography (CT). An object handling system moves the object to be imaged between the light imaging system and the second imaging system, and is configured to interface with each system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: Xenogen Corporation
    Inventors: Michael D. Cable, Bradley W. Rice, David Nilson
  • Patent number: 7167541
    Abstract: An X-ray photography apparatus includes a photographing system and a movement control section. The photographing system is made up of a normal X-ray source for irradiating X rays to a subject, a small focus X-ray source for irradiating X rays to the subject, and an X-ray detector for obtaining an image signal by detecting X rays transmitted through the subject. The movement control section moves and controls at least one component from among the normal X-ray source, the small focus X-ray source, and the X-ray detector so that the arrangement of the photographing system is switched between a first arrangement suitable for normal photography in which the subject is photographed employing the normal X-ray source, and a second arrangement suitable for magnified photography in which the subject is magnified and photographed, employing the small focus X-ray source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ryouzou Kaito
  • Patent number: 7156553
    Abstract: A portable radiation imaging system is provided which is capable of always performing imaging in a state where the tilt of the radiation emitted from a radiation source in relation to the detection surface of an image detection device is substantially perpendicular. The system is equipped with a tilt adjustment means that makes the tilt of the radiation in relation to the detection surface of a radiation image detection device substantially perpendicular by changing the tilt angle of a radiation source based on an angular signal representing the degree of tilt of the radiation in relation to said detection surface output by an angular signal output means, and a command means that generates an exposure command to the radiation source when the tilt of the radiation to be emitted from said radiation source in relation to the detection surface of said radiation image detection device is substantially perpendicular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Tanaka, Kazuo Shimura, Takeshi Ohkubo
  • Patent number: 7154994
    Abstract: Systems and methods of switching between data acquisition modes in an x-ray system are disclosed. The x-ray system includes a control device and a detector device, the detector device including one or more x-ray sensors. During changes in acquisition modes, responsibility for flushing the one or more x-ray sensors may be transferred from the control device to the detector device. When the detector device is ready to begin acquiring data in a new data acquisition mode, the responsibility is transferred back from the detector device to the control device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: Varian Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Keith Gray
  • Patent number: 7139367
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for processing signals output from an array of X-ray radiation detectors which receive X-ray radiation emanating from an object irradiated by a source beam of X-ray radiation, to thereby produce an visual image of internal object features, utilizes repetitive sampling P times and digital accumulation of signals output from each detector to increase signal-to-noise ratio of the images by the factor 1/?P. In a basic embodiment, each of the N detectors in a linear detector array is sampled P times. In another embodiment, artifacts resulting from decay of detector pre-amplifier output voltages on capacitors of low-pass filter circuits, referred to as pseudo-integrators, are reduced by sequentially sampling and accumulating each of N detector amplifier output voltages P times in turn, and repeating the sampling and accumulating sequence Q times, thereby reducing variations in the P×Q accumulated values between the first and last detector channels of an N detector array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Inventor: Khai Minh Le
  • Patent number: 7138635
    Abstract: A detector module is for CT and/or PET and/or SPECT examinations, and includes a number of measuring channels. Each measuring channel includes a direct converter for directly converting incident measuring radiation into analog electric signals, a pulse generator connected to the direct converter, for generating counting pulses as a function of the received electric signals, and a counting device that counts the received counting pulses over a prescribable time period and outputs the result. Arranged between the counting device and the pulse generator is an externally drivable changeover unit that can be used to switch over between the counting device and an event detector that registers and outputs for each received counting pulse the time and the associated measuring channel or an item of location information assigned to this measuring channel. The present detector module is of simple design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Bjoern Heismann
  • Patent number: 7130377
    Abstract: An X-ray image taking apparatus which takes an X-ray image by using an FPD juxtaposing TFTs performs the return processing of the FPD according to an inputted image taking parameter when the image taking parameter such as exposure time is inputted with an input unit for a long-time image taking operation mode, a high dose image taking operation mode, or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Matsuno