With Grid Moving Means Patents (Class 378/155)
  • Patent number: 11134905
    Abstract: A device for attaching an x-ray grid holder to a commercial structure such as a pipe so that the modern digital grid can be used in analysis and inspection. The x-ray grid holder attach device is constructed to be attached to a structure and can include a flat grid holder part, the grid holder part having at least one peripheral slot; a structure contact part constructed to be strapped to a structure to be x-rayed, the structure contact part having a key sized to mate with the peripheral slot, the key having a lock constructed to hold the key in the peripheral slot; the structure contact part can a means to attach it to the structure to be x-rayed such as a strap or suction cups.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2021
    Assignee: X-Ray Cassette Repair Co, Inc.
    Inventors: Leo Reina, Steven A. Gdula, James Sorgani
  • Patent number: 10973473
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, an X-ray diagnostic apparatus includes an X-ray movable diaphragm and processing circuitry. The X-ray movable diaphragm limits an irradiation field of an X-ray. The processing circuitry sets an FOV size related to the irradiation field, sets a virtual field of view having the FOV size, the virtual field of view being able to include an outside region of an X-ray detection region and at least a part of the X-ray detection region, and controls the X-ray movable diaphragm so as to apply the X-ray to a common region between the virtual field of view and the X-ray detection region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Assignee: Canon Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshimasa Kobayashi, Kazunari Shima, Hayato Kasaoka, Takahiro Tanaka, Hisanori Kato, Nobuo Kobayashi, Norimitsu Kosugi
  • Patent number: 10682106
    Abstract: An anti-scatter device (10) for an X-ray detector (100) is provided. The anti-scatter device (10) comprises an anti-scatter grid (12) with a plurality of slats (13) for absorbing X-rays and a cover element (14, 14a) arranged on a side (17a) of the anti-scatter grid (12), wherein ends (16a) of the slats (13) are coupled to the cover element (14, 14a), and the cover element (14, 14a) comprises an electroactive polymer material. A dimension of the cover element (14, 14a) is changeable by applying a voltage to the electroactive polymer material, such that a distance between the ends (16a) of the slats is changeable by applying the voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Christiaan Kok, Johannes Wilhelmus Maria Jacobs, Robertus Marinus Wilhelmus Raaijmakers
  • Patent number: 10401507
    Abstract: A collimator includes a plurality of modules each of which has a grid formation and in each of which a plurality of walls are arranged in a row in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction. The plurality of modules are connected together by one or more connecting parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2019
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Canon Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroki Tashiro, Hideshi Nakano, Tooru Tanaka, Aya Watase, Shuya Nambu
  • Patent number: 9804106
    Abstract: A method and system for imaging an object are described herein. A scatter image of the object is generated at a projection angle. In generating the scatter image, a non-grid image of the object is acquired using a radiation source and a detector. An aperture plate is positioned between the object and the detector and a first grid image of the object is acquired. The aperture plate includes a plurality of apertures positioned on a grid. The aperture plate is moved to a second position and a second grid image of the object is acquired. A scatter image of the object is generated based on the non-grid image, the first grid image, and the second grid image and stored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Nils Rothe
  • Patent number: 9599577
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and an imaging system (100) for generating X-ray images. The system (100) comprises at least one X-ray source, preferably an array of X-ray sources (101a-101d), and an X-ray detector (103) with an array of sensitive pixels (103a-103e). A collimator (102) is arranged between the X-ray source and the detector such that two openings (P) of the collimator (102) allow the passage of X-rays towards two neighboring pixels (103a-103e) while the region between said pixels is substantially shielded. This shielding of the usually insensitive regions between pixels reduces unnecessary X-ray exposure. A sufficiently large X-ray intensity can be achieved by using a plurality of small X-ray sources (101a-101d).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2017
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Klaus Juergen Engel, Gereon Vogtmeier
  • Patent number: 9342903
    Abstract: When an image for PET attenuation correction is generated from an MR image, the MR image captured by MRI is segmented into regions according to pixel values. In a region in which a radiation attenuation coefficient is considered to be uniform, a radiation attenuation correction value is determined by referring to an existing radiation attenuation correction value table. In a region including multiple tissues having different radiation attenuation coefficients, a radiation attenuation correction value is determined by referring to a standard image. In such a manner, an image for PET attenuation correction in which tissues having similar pixel values in the MR image but different attenuation coefficients for radiation can be distinguished and that can accommodate individual differences and an affected area such as a space occupying lesion (for example, a cancer, abscess, or the like) and an organic defect is generated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignees: NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF RADIOLOGICAL SERVICES, SHIMADZU CORPORATION
    Inventors: Taiga Yamaya, Takayuki Obata, Mikio Suga, Hiroshi Kawaguchi, Yoshiyuki Yamakawa
  • Patent number: 9263160
    Abstract: A collimator module which may be disposed in a radiation detector of a radiological imaging apparatus using the collimator module may include a first collimator having a plurality of openings, through which radiation having passed through an object passes, and a second collimator located below the first collimator and having a plurality of openings, through which radiation having passed through the first collimator passes. The first collimator or the second collimator is designed so as to be movable or rotatable relative to the second collimator or the first collimator. Through movement of the first collimator or the second collimator, the size of a passage region that allows radiation having passed through the object to pass through the first collimator or the second collimator is adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ji Hoon Kang, Byung Sun Choi
  • Patent number: 9105366
    Abstract: An arrangement for an X-ray image system with a grid frame arranged to enable the grid frame to oscillate is provided. The arrangement includes a switch unit, with which an anti-scatter grid inserted into the grid frame may be detected. An X-ray emission is only triggered by the switch unit at a predeterminable activation time if an anti-scatter grid is inserted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Klaus Hruschka, Michael Kleber, Philip Materne, Josef Rupprecht
  • Patent number: 8964935
    Abstract: An apparatus for tomosynthesis and/or mammography includes: an X-ray detector, for receiving and detecting X-rays in a first, detection plane; an X-ray source, which can be activated individually and is positioned to emit a corresponding X-ray beam towards the first, detection plane; a processing and control unit, for activating the X-ray source and receiving a signal relating to X-rays which passed through the breast and were detected by the detector to derive a radiographic image representative of the internal structure of the breast; a grille for removing diffuse radiation, interposed between the source and the detector to receive X-rays which passed through the breast. The grille including plates positioned opposite the chest of the patient when the breast is positioned in a positioning region, and which are angled to converge towards the same region proximal to the X-ray source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: I.M.S. Internazionale Medico Scientifica S.r.l.
    Inventors: Achille Albanese, Bruno Toniolo, Sara Vecchio, Paolo Vignoli, Giovanni Borasi
  • Patent number: 8917815
    Abstract: A grid employs dynamic and adjustable grid lines that communicates with a transmitting object and/or a receiving object. The grid lines may be but not limited to liner, crosshatched or pinwheel shaped. The grid may switch between opaque and translucent and the grid lines may target, calibrate to and track an object either transmitting or receiving. The grid may be employed as a filter or a privacy screen on a computer screen for instance. The grid lines are angled to match an angle of a user's position with respect to the grid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Inventor: Zachary A. Miller
  • Patent number: 8891735
    Abstract: An auto grid moving apparatus for an X ray imaging device is provided. The apparatus includes: a grid; a grid holder on which the grid is disposed; a fixing base; and a double sided timing belt geared with at least two timing wheels at the two ends of the timing belt on the inner side face of the timing belt and geared with the grid holder at the outer side face of the timing belt, wherein one of the timing wheels has a motor disposed thereon, the motor being configured to drive the timing wheel to move the timing belt and to drive the grid holder to move.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company LLC
    Inventors: Yuqing Li, Fusheng Li, Yingjie Jia, Weining Xi
  • Patent number: 8848876
    Abstract: According to a radiographic apparatus of this invention, parameters obtained on an assumption that an X-ray tube 2 is moved Wd×m, which is an integral multiple of pixel pitch Wd, in a B? direction opposite to B+ direction which is a direction of movement by Y-direction adjust screws of a moving mechanism, are corrected as parameters obtained when X-rays are emitted from the X-ray tube 2 in a state of a grid 6 having been moved Wd×m by the Y-direction adjust screws. This allows only the grid 6 to be moved without moving the X-ray tube 2. Therefore, parameters equivalent to the parameters which should be obtained when the X-ray tube 2 is moved are obtained by moving the grid 6, and position shifting can be reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Shimadzu Corporation
    Inventor: Shoji Kuwabara
  • Publication number: 20130188780
    Abstract: An arrangement for an X-ray image system with a grid frame arranged to enable the grid frame to oscillate is provided. The arrangement includes a switch unit, with which an anti-scatter grid inserted into the grid frame may be detected. An X-ray emission is only triggered by the switch unit at a predeterminable activation time if an anti-scatter grid is inserted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Inventors: Klaus Hruschka, Michael Kleber, Philip Materne, Josef Rupprecht
  • Patent number: 8418348
    Abstract: Problems Solved The information solves the problem of how to provide a structure and a manufacturing method that can inexpensively and stably obtain a scattered X-ray eliminating grid wherein air serves as an intermediate substance even as X-ray absorbing substance parts are accurately positioned and held.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Shimadzu Corporation
    Inventor: Hiromichi Tonami
  • Patent number: 8335294
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process for acquisition of one or more radiological image(s) of an object of a region of interest on a patient, obtained by means of a radiological imaging system, in which the system includes: a radiation source, a detector arranged opposite the source and at least one anti-diffusion grid, which process includes steps consisting of: determining characteristics of the object to be imaged; controlling, according to the characteristics determined, a movement of the anti-diffusion grid in order to position it in or remove it from an operational position between the object and the detector, in which the operational position corresponds to a position of the grid centered on the source-detector axis and parallel to the plane including the detector; and acquiring images of the structure exposed to the radiation emitted by the source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Remy Klausz
  • Publication number: 20120275570
    Abstract: An auto grid moving apparatus for an X ray imaging device is provided. The apparatus includes: a grid; a grid holder on which the grid is disposed; a fixing base; and a double sided timing belt geared with at least two timing wheels at the two ends of the timing belt on the inner side face of the timing belt and geared with the grid holder at the outer side face of the timing belt, wherein one of the timing wheels has a motor disposed thereon, the motor being configured to drive the timing wheel to move the timing belt and to drive the grid holder to move.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Inventors: Yuqing Li, Fusheng Li, Yingjie Jia, Weining Xi
  • Patent number: 8284902
    Abstract: In a radiographic apparatus, positions of a radiation grid and a radiation detector are determined such that, when a radiation source and the radiation detector are in a standard position, an arrangement pitch of shadows of absorbing foil strips appearing on a detecting plane of the radiation detector as a result of a radiation beam being emitted from the radiation source and blocked by the radiation grid is an integral multiple of an arrangement pitch in a transverse direction of radiation detecting elements. Further, the shadows of the absorbing foil strips appear without covering transversely adjacent pairs of the detecting elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Shimadzu Corporation
    Inventor: Akinori Fujita
  • Publication number: 20110274252
    Abstract: According to a radiographic apparatus of this invention, parameters obtained on an assumption that an X-ray tube 2 is moved Wd×m, which is an integral multiple of pixel pitch Wd, in a B? direction opposite to B+ direction which is a direction of movement by Y-direction adjust screws of a moving mechanism, are corrected as parameters obtained when X-rays are emitted from the X-ray tube 2 in a state of a grid 6 having been moved Wd×m by the Y-direction adjust screws. This allows only the grid 6 to be moved without moving the X-ray tube 2. Therefore, parameters equivalent to the parameters which should be obtained when the X-ray tube 2 is moved are obtained by moving the grid 6, and position shifting can be reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2009
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: Shoji Kuwabara
  • Patent number: 8049193
    Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a first isogrid defining a first plurality of zones, each zone from said first plurality of zones comprising a plurality of ligaments, each zone from said first plurality of zones defining a plurality of spaces, each space bounded by a first sub-plurality of ligaments from said plurality of ligaments, each of said ligaments comprising a plurality of ligament surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Mikro Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael P. Appleby, William T. Randolph, Jill E. Klinger
  • Patent number: 7983390
    Abstract: In energy subtraction processing, grid information representing grid use conditions at the time of imaging operations for a plurality of radiation images of an object is acquired. Weight factors are adjusted in accordance with the grid information, which has been acquired. A weighted addition or subtraction process is performed on corresponding pixels in the plurality of the radiation images of the object by use of the weight factors, which have thus been adjusted. A constituent image representing a predetermined constituent in the object is thus formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Fujifilm Corporation
    Inventor: Yoshiro Kitamura
  • Patent number: 7907701
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention provide an antiscatter grid including an electromagnetic coil array integrated with the antiscatter grid. The electromagnetic coil array is registered with the antiscatter grid. The electromagnetic coil array is configured to detect an electromagnetic field at the antiscatter grid. In an embodiment, the electromagnetic coil array may be positioned in front of the antiscatter grid. In an embodiment, the electromagnetic coil array may be positioned behind the antiscatter grid. In an embodiment, the electromagnetic coil array may be attached to the antiscatter grid. In an embodiment, a portion of the electromagnetic coil array may be transparent to x-rays. In an embodiment, the electromagnetic coil array may include one or more electromagnetic coils. In an embodiment, the electromagnetic coil array may be a printed circuit board (PCB) electromagnetic coil array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Peter Traneus Anderson
  • Patent number: 7864921
    Abstract: Radiation images, which are obtained while reciprocally moving a scattered radiation removing means, are efficiently corrected. An image processing apparatus performs shading correction and gain correction on a radiation image which is obtained by detecting radiation that passes through a subject and is detected by a radiation detector while reciprocally moving the scattered radiation removing means, using a reference image. An irradiation control means controls irradiation of radiation during obtainment of the reference image such that irradiation is ceased after the scattered radiation removing means is reciprocally moved for k periodic reciprocal motions (k is an integer greater than or equal to 1) from initiation of irradiation. Meanwhile, irradiation of the radiation during obtainment of the radiation image is controlled such that irradiation is ceased after the scattered radiation removing means is reciprocally moved for m periodic reciprocal motions (m is an integer greater than or equal to 1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroshi Yamakita
  • Patent number: 7787596
    Abstract: An x-ray absorption grid produced by a lithography method for use in a phase-contrast CT system has at least two individual grids arranged atop one another in the radiation direction. Each individual grid has a grid area with a grid structure including grid webs and grid gaps in alternation. Each individual grid has a region outside of the grid area (outer region). The outer region of the at least two individual grids has toothed structures corresponding to one another at least two points. The toothed structures are generated as well in the production of the grid structure. The toothed structures have a position that is defined relative to the grid structure, such that a defined alignment of the individual grids occurs given a combination of the individual grids by engagement of the toothed structures of individual grids lying atop one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Eckhard Hempel, Martin Hoheisel, Stefan Popescu
  • Patent number: 7724877
    Abstract: A radiographic imaging system comprises: a grid located opposite a surface of a radiographic image data detector to remove scatter radiation occurring when a radiation penetrates the subject; a grid moving mechanism for moving the grid at least in a direction; control means for acquiring first radiographic image data with the radiographic image data detector in a preset imaging time while moving the grid with the gird moving mechanism; and anomaly detection means for calculating a displacement of a grid image in the first radiographic image data based upon a position in which the grid is located and a displacement of the grid effected by the grid moving mechanism during the preset imaging time and detecting a defect in the first radiographic image data having a length agreeing with the calculated displacement of the grid image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Fujifilm Corporation
    Inventor: Tetsuya Kojima
  • Patent number: 7715524
    Abstract: A grid comprises an alternate assembly of radiation-permeable members and radiation-impermeable members which extend substantially parallel to the chest wall of a subject. When a radiation emitted from a radiation source is applied through a breast of the subject and the grid to a radiation detector, a radiation image of the breast is captured. While the radiation is being applied to the breast, the grid reciprocates in directions perpendicular to the direction in which the radiation-impermeable members extend.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroshi Yamakita
  • Patent number: 7688940
    Abstract: A mammographic imaging system is optimized for use with a single fixed size flat panel digital image receptor. It accommodates compression devices (paddles) of varying sizes, and positions them properly in the field of view of the image receptor. When a compression paddle with size smaller than the field of view of the image receptor is used, the compression paddle can be shifted laterally in the direction parallel to the chest wall, so as to facilitate different views of different size breasts, and permit the image receptor to image as much of the desired tissue as possible. An automatic x-ray collimator restricts the x-ray illumination of the breast in accordance with compression paddle size and location in the field of view. An anti-scatter grid, mounted inside the image receptor enclosure, just below the top cover of the enclosure, can be retracted out of the field of view of the image receptor for use in magnification imaging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: HOLOGIC, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth F. Defreitas, Anthony Pellegrino, Thomas A. Farbizio, Roman Janer, Georgia Hitzke
  • Patent number: 7639856
    Abstract: The disclosure is made for an apparatus for processing a radiation image of an object obtained by radiography using a grid which is used to remove scattered radiation from the object. The apparatus includes generation means for generating image components due to the grid on the basis of data of the radiation image, to remove the image components due to the grid from the radiation image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hitoshi Inoue, Makoto Nokita
  • Patent number: 7566172
    Abstract: There is provided a radiation image taking apparatus having: a radiation source for irradiating an object; a radiation image detector; a focusing grid provided between the radiation source and the radiation image detector and consisting of radiation-transparent and opaque areas that alternate in a direction parallel to the radiation-receiving plane of the radiation image detector; a moving means that moves the radiation source in such a direction that the perpendicular from the radiation source to the focusing grid crosses the borderline between a radiation-transparent area in the focusing grid and the adjacent radiation-opaque area; and an inclining means that inclines the focusing grid in such a way that the focus of the focusing grid is brought into agreement with the radiation source that has been moved by the moving means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventor: Nobuhiko Kashiwagi
  • Patent number: 7518136
    Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments of the present invention comprise a device comprising a cast computed-tomography collimator descended from a lithographically-derived micro-machined metallic foil stack lamination mold. Certain exemplary embodiments of the present invention comprise a method comprising filling a mold having a stacked plurality of micro-machined metallic foil layers with a first casting material to form a first cast product; demolding the first cast product from the mold; filling the first cast product with a second casting material to form a cast computed-tomography collimator; and demolding the cast computed-tomography collimator from the first cast product. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. This abstract is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Tecomet, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Appleby, Iain Fraser, James E. Atkinson
  • Patent number: 7519152
    Abstract: An angular analysis system that can be controlled to receive radiation at a defined angle from a defined focus region. The angular analysis system is used for level 2 inspection in an explosive detection system. Level 2 inspection is provided by a three-dimensional inspection system that identifies suspicious regions of items under inspection. The angular analysis system is focused to gather radiation scattered at defined angles from the suspicious regions. Focusing may be achieved in multiple dimensions by movement of source and detector assemblies in a plane parallel to a plane holding the item under inspection. Focusing is achieved by independent motion of the source and detector assemblies. This focusing arrangement provides a compact device, providing simple, low cost and accurate operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: L-3 Communications Security and Detection Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard C. Smith, Robert W. Madden, James M. Connelly
  • Patent number: 7519162
    Abstract: A lifting drive for a radiation filter in a mammography device is provided. The lifting drive includes a recording apparatus that accommodates the radiation filter. The recording apparatus is embodied so that the radiation filter is operatively supported to allow movement for executing a lifting movement in at least one lifting direction. A first drive element is operable to create a drive movement. A first movement transmission element is operable to transmit the drive movement to the recording apparatus. The recording apparatus is operable to convert the drive movement into the lifting movement. A shape of the first movement transmission element is operable to be changed, so that the drive movement is able to be transmitted over different paths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Norbert Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 7474735
    Abstract: To prevent an imaging of an antiscatter grid particularly effectively, even in the case of dynamic applications, an antiscatter grid is disclosed for an X-ray detector which exhibits an active pixel matrix. The antiscatter grid, in at least one embodiment, includes absorbing laminas, aligned substantially parallel to the direction of an X-radiation, for reducing a scattered radiation in an X-ray machine. The absorbing laminas are movable in a fashion perpendicular to the direction of the X-radiation at a minimum frequency value of 10 Hz, and at a maximum travel value of two pixel sizes of the X-ray detector that can be assigned to the antiscatter grid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Martin Spahn
  • Patent number: 7471770
    Abstract: A radioscopy device is provided. The radioscopy device includes a detector grid; and a scattered radiation matrix. The detector grid is disposed relative to the scattered radiation matrix, which is substantially perpendicular to a direction in which the integral across both location-frequency coordinates of the Fourier transforms of the detector grid and the scattered radiation matrix is at a minimum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Markus Lendl
  • Patent number: 7433449
    Abstract: In a diagnostic X-ray system having a scattered radiation grid driven via a wobble bearing, restoring forces generated via the wobble bearing and hence the vibration on the diagnostic X-ray system are minimized while simultaneously requiring a minimal space. A plate-like compensatory mass disposed parallel to the scattered radiation grid is provided, which during operation executes a linear motion that is contrary to the linear motion of the scattered radiation grid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Reger Johannes, Trottmann Jürgen
  • Publication number: 20080080673
    Abstract: A radiation image capturing apparatus includes a radiation source for applying radiation to a subject, a radiation image information detector for detecting radiation from the radiation source that has passed through the subject in order to capture radiation image information of the subject, a grid disposed between the subject and the radiation image information detector for removing scattered radiation rays produced when the radiation passes through the subject, a grid moving mechanism for moving the grid in at least one direction, and a grid movement controller for controlling the grid moving mechanism. The grid moving mechanism moves the grid such that vt=constant, where v represents a speed at which the grid is moved and t represents a period elapsed from a time when the grid starts to move.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2007
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Applicant: FUJIFILM CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hiroshi YAMAKITA
  • Patent number: 7340029
    Abstract: An x-ray computed tomography apparatus has a stationary device (3) for generating x-ray radiation from an x-ray focus that moves around the examination volume on a target that at least partially surrounds an examination volume of the apparatus in one plane. From the x-ray focus an x-ray beam is directed through the examination volume onto respective, momentarily opposite detector elements of a stationary x-ray detector that at least partially surrounds the examination volume. One or more shaping elements for influencing one or more beam parameters of the x-ray beam are arranged between the target and the detector elements. One or more of the shaping elements is/are arranged on a carrier frame that can rotate around a system axis in synchronization with the movement of the x-ray focus. The shaping elements rotating with the x-ray focus enable an optimal beam shaping and/or suppression of scatter radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Stefan Popescu
  • Patent number: 7327826
    Abstract: In order to achieve a particularly good image sharpness, in a method and apparatus for radiological imaging of an examination subject, a digital x-ray detector is arranged behind the subject and a scattered-ray grid is positionable between the subject and the x-ray detector. The scattered-ray grid is designed for reduction of the scattered ray proportion of x-rays penetrating the subject. If the thickness of the subject is below a defined thickness, the scattered-ray grid is removed from the beam path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Wilhelm Hanke, Thomas Mertelmeier
  • Patent number: 7319734
    Abstract: Scatter effects are reduced in a radiographic imaging device, such as a digital slot scan mammographic imaging device, by reducing detected scatter and processing detector information to compensate for scatter effects. A digital mammographic imaging system (10) may include a source (24) for transmitting a narrow beam (28) and a detector assembly (32) for detecting the beam (28). The beam (28) and the detector assembly (32) may synchronously scann across the patient's breast (48) to obtain an image. Collimator slats (74) at the leading and trailing edges of the detector may reduce detected scatter. Attenuators (76 and 92) at the ends of the scanned motion and at the anterior edge of the detector array may assist in determining a spatial intensity profile. The spatial intensity profile information together with other imaging signal and patient dependent parameters may be used to estimate and compensate for various scatter effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Assignee: Hologic, Inc.
    Inventors: Guy M. Besson, Morgan W. Nields, Mike Tesic
  • Patent number: 7206382
    Abstract: A device for the adjustment of the anti-scattering grid (G) of a radiological equipment to the different focal lengths that said equipment can provide includes a pair of pressing members (P) mobile in the direction transverse with respect to the plane of the grid (G), which is arranged and restrained between said pressing members (P) and a pair of corresponding underlying contrast members (C), the convex/concave profile of each pair of members (P, C) being obtained as locus of the local deformations, calculated point by point with a suitable spatial resolution, necessary to adjust the orientation of the segments of the grid (G) when going from one reference focal length to a second focal length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: Mecal S.R.I.
    Inventor: Luigi Besana
  • Patent number: 7200199
    Abstract: An X-ray diagnostic device is for mammography examinations and includes an arm for an X-ray tube and an object table having an image receptor. The X-ray tube is able to emit a radiation field towards the image receptor. Further, an X-ray grid is included, that is introducable into the radiation field, as well as an attachment unit that can be attached to the object table. In order to obtain an X-ray diagnostic unit having an arrangement that eliminates the risk of exposing the patient to be examined to an unnecessarily high dose of X-ray radiation, the object table is provided with a sensing arrangement that is connected to a transport device for the X-ray grid. Upon applying the attachment unit to the object table, the attachment unit actuates the sensing arrangement in such a way that the transport device transports the X-ray grid out of the radiation field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Jesper Andreasson, Stefan Karlsson
  • Patent number: 7180073
    Abstract: A radiation image taking apparatus includes a case that contains a radiation detecting unit that has a detection surface in which a photoelectric conversion element that detects a radiation transmitted through an object is located, a grid unit which is detachably attachable to an outside of the case and removes a scattered radiation, and a photo timer unit which is detachably attachable to the outside of the case and measures a dose of the radiation. One of a first mode in which the grid unit is attached to the case, a second mode in which the photo timer unit is attached to the case, and a third mode in which the grid unit is attached to the second mode can be freely used in configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Watanabe Tetsuo
  • Patent number: 7127038
    Abstract: The invention relates to a grid holder for an X-ray diagnostic system. The grid holder cooperates with a flexible X-ray grid, which in a flat state has a first focus distance/convergence distance of about 120 cm. A flexing means, preferably in the form of an inflatable element, which can exert a pressure on the surface of the grid, is arranged to flex the grid in a first direction to a first position in which it has a second convergence distance of about 180 cm. Another corresponding flexing means is arranged to flex the grid in the opposite direction to a second position in which it has a third convergence distance of about 80 cm. This allows variable convergence distances with minimum flexing of the grid. The invention also relates to grid devices with grid holders and grids as well as X-ray diagnostic systems comprising such grid holders/grid devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignees: Arcoma AB, Gridline AB
    Inventors: Dick Kondradsson, Lennart Rapp, Jonas Ernfridsson
  • Patent number: 7127028
    Abstract: A tomosynthetic image taking apparatus takes an x-ray image of an object in each of a plurality of positions of an x-ray source to obtain a desired tomogram of the object by adding up the x-ray images thus obtained. A heartbeat phase is detected and the tomosynthetic image taking apparatus is controlled to take an x-ray image of the object in each of the plurality of positions of the x-ray source when the heartbeat of the object is in the same heartbeat phase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Lts.
    Inventor: Tomonari Sendai
  • Patent number: 7116758
    Abstract: A Potter-Bucky device for a radiation image recording apparatus in which an image recording medium is exposed to radiation which has passed through an object in order to record a radiation image of the object on the recording medium includes a grid which is movably supported between the object and the recording medium and is reciprocated parallel to the recording medium. A counter-weight is connected to the grid and is reciprocated in synchronization with the grid but in an opposite direction. Among other benefits and features, the disclosure reduces or eliminates vibrations produced by the reciprocating grid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Analogic Corporation
    Inventor: Gilbert W. McKenna
  • Patent number: 7110502
    Abstract: This invention provides a radiographic apparatus and method, which can suitably set a grid in radiography or fluoroscopy and execute fluoroscopy or radiography of an object under optimum imaging conditions. The radiographic apparatus includes an X-ray unit (102) which irradiates an object with radiation (X-rays), a two-dimensional detector (106) which detects, through a grid, the radiation which has passed through the object, and a read control unit (107) which acquires an image of the object from the detected X-rays. The apparatus further includes a user interface (113) capable of setting imaging conditions such as an X-ray condition, grid condition, and read condition, a grid switching unit (105) which selects one of a plurality of grids on the basis of the set imaging conditions, and a grid stripe reduction unit (109) which reduces grid stripes generated on the image by the grid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Osamu Tsuji
  • Patent number: 6996208
    Abstract: An X-ray optical system comprising an X-ray source (1), from which X-ray radiation (2) is guided to a sample (4) under investigation, and an X-ray detector (7) for receiving radiation (5) diffracted or scattered from the sample (4), wherein a beam-guiding X-ray optical element (3, 6), such as e.g. a collimator, a mono- or polycapillary, an X-ray mirror or a monochromator, is disposed between the source (1) and the sample (4) and/or between the sample (4) and the detector (7), is characterized in that a wobble means is provided for moving the X-ray optical element (3, 6) in an oscillating fashion during the measurement. The inventive X-ray optical system obtains averaged X-ray analysis information from objects under investigation having large mass which consist of macrocrystalline material without destroying or accelerating the object under investigation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: Bruker Axs GmbH
    Inventors: Kurt Helming, Lutz Brügemann
  • Patent number: 6968041
    Abstract: An antiscatter device, such as a grid or collimator, is for absorption of secondary radiation which is scattered by an object. The antiscatter device includes an absorption structure with a plurality of elements. Two or more elements form a cell-like structure with a beam channel for primary radiation. Further, the elements and thus the cell-like structures are arranged and/or formed such that the absorption structure has a non-regular, aperiodic pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Martin Hoheisel, Hartmut Sklebitz
  • Patent number: RE42793
    Abstract: The object of this invention is to provide an imaging apparatus capable of providing a high-quality image optimum for medical diagnosis or the like by an arrangement for preventing any degradation in image quality due to the influence of electromagnetic noise and vibration caused by grid movement. In order to achieve this object, as operation control in receiving radiation transmitted through an object by an image sensing element through a movable grid and reading the accumulated signal from the image sensing element, a control device stops moving drive movement of the grid after the end of radiation irradiation for the object, and after the stop of moving drive stopping the movement, starts reading the accumulated signal from the image sensing element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshikazu Tamura, Tatsuya Yamazaki, Akira Hirai
  • Patent number: RE42852
    Abstract: The object of this invention is to provide an imaging apparatus capable of providing a high-quality image optimum for medical diagnosis or the like by an arrangement for preventing any degradation in image quality due to the influence of electromagnetic noise and vibration caused by grid movement. In order to achieve this object, as operation control in receiving radiation transmitted through an object by an image sensing element through a movable grid and reading the accumulated signal from the image sensing element, a control device stops moving drive movement of the grid after the end of radiation irradiation for the object, and after the stop of moving drive stopping the movement, starts reading the accumulated signal from the image sensing element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshikazu Tamura, Tatsuya Yamazaki, Akira Hirai