Abstract: The invention relates to an X-ray device (1) provided with a column (2) and an arm which is upwardly (3) displaceable therealong and on which at least one X-ray picture detector (4) and/or an X-ray transmitter (5) are mounted. A receiving means (6) arranged on the column is used for receiving a picture carrier (7) on the plane part (8). Preferably, said receiving means is embodied in the form of a support for interchangeably receiving the picture carrier in such a way that large-surface images are placeable on the column without affecting the arm operation.

Abstract: An adapter for connecting a ring guide and rod with a holder for a radiation sensing device is provided herein. The adapter includes but is not limited to a first engagement member for engaging a complementary engagement member formed on the rod and a second engagement member for engaging a holder for a radiation sensing device. The adapter also includes but is not limited to a handle connecting the first engagement member to the second engagement member.

Abstract: An X-ray detecting device comprises a support mechanism for supporting a detector housing pivotably about a horizontal shaft parallel to an X-ray incidence surface, a shaft connected at one end to the detector housing and having an opposite end adapted to perform a rectilinear motion to induce a pivotal motion of the detector housing, a drive mechanism having a drive end connected to the opposite end of the shaft, the drive mechanism inducing the rectilinear motion of the opposite end of the shaft in a mutually connected state of the drive end and the opposite end of the shaft, a switching mechanism for between connection and non-connection of the opposite end of the drive shaft and the drive end, a brake mechanism for inhibiting the pivotal motion of the detector housing, and brake operating means for switching between operation and non-operation of the brake mechanism.

Abstract: The present invention is a radiographic sensor positioning system. In particular, the present invention is directed to a system for positioning a digital dental radiographic sensor in a patient's mouth and for positioning a radiographic device, e.g. a gamma ray source, to interact with the sensor. A preferred embodiment of the dental radiography positioning system comprises an aimer ring that slides onto an extension bar in one of several positions. The extension bar is preferably curved with a flared end and a tined end. The extension bar inserts into a bite block at one of three slots. The bite block has a bite surface above the three slots and a preferably tapered sensor holder slot with two stabilizer posts. A sensor holder is inserted into the sensor holder slot. For posterior images, the stabilizer posts can stabilize the sensor.

Abstract: A coupler is provided with a protrusion and a flange-shaped locking portion. A case of an image receptor houses an X-ray detector and an unlocking mechanism including a movable locking portion. The movable locking portion is made to protrude into a depression by the urging force of a locking assist spring. When the case is attached to the coupler, the movable locking portion locks the locking portion, thereby holding the case and the coupler together. The central axis of the cylindrical surface of the depression corresponds to substantially the center of the X-ray detection area of the X-ray detector.

Abstract: A radiation photographing apparatus includes: a housing in which an opening portion for allowing ventilation of the inside of the housing with ambient air is formed at a side surface of the housing; a covering member provided at the side surface of the housing, that is made of an elastic material which absorbs impact acting from the outside of the housing, and covers the opening portion; and an opening and closing mechanism that opens and closes the covering member with respect to the opening portion is provided so deterioration of constituent components caused by external impact and heat is suppressed with a small number of components.

Abstract: An imaging system includes a platform having mounted thereon a coded-aperture imaging device and positioned to receive radiation over a baseline. The imaging system includes a computer configured to acquire a plurality of far-field datasets over the baseline, the plurality of far-field datasets comprising data received via the coded-aperture imaging device. The computer is also configured to form a preliminary image based on the acquired plurality of far-field datasets, and apply an expectation maximization (EM) algorithm to the preliminary image; wherein the EM algorithm includes an ordered subset algorithm.

Abstract: An x-ray apparatus is provided. The x-ray apparatus includes a patient support supported on a support unit in such a manner that it can be repositioned by way of a support arm and an x-ray detector likewise supported on the support arm, embodied in particular as a solid-state detector. The x-ray detector can be moved perpendicular to the patient support by way of a retaining column of a repositioning mechanism and can be rotated relative to the patient support about a first longitudinal axis extending in a longitudinal direction of the patient support. To increase the flexibility of the x-ray apparatus, the x-ray detector is supported in such a manner that it can be rotated relative to the patient support about a transverse axis extending in a transverse direction of the patient support.

Abstract: The present embodiments relate to a displacement apparatus for a C-arm arranged on a trolley. The displacement apparatus includes at least a first and at least a second guide element arranged in a plane, whereby the first and second guide elements are arranged at right angles to one another, a first displacement device which can be moved along the first guide element, and a second displacement device, which can be moved along the second guide element. A linking device connects the first and second displacement device in such a way that any movement of the first displacement device will result in the second displacement device being moved along the second guide element. This avoids the possibility of any jamming which may arise as a consequence of the leverage forces generated when a C-arm is moved.

Abstract: An X-ray detecting device comprises a support mechanism for supporting a detector housing pivotably about a horizontal shaft parallel to an X-ray incidence surface, a shaft connected at one end to the detector housing and having an opposite end adapted to perform a rectilinear motion to induce a pivotal motion of the detector housing, a drive mechanism having a drive end connected to the opposite end of the shaft, the drive mechanism inducing the rectilinear motion of the opposite end of the shaft in a mutually connected state of the drive end and the opposite end of the shaft, a switching mechanism for between connection and non-connection of the opposite end of the drive shaft and the drive end, a brake mechanism for inhibiting the pivotal motion of the detector housing, and brake operating means for switching between operation and non-operation of the brake mechanism.

Abstract: A cassette accommodating device accommodates cassettes with various sizes. Each cassette houses a rechargeable battery and a radiation detection unit that generates a radiographic image according to an amount of received radiation and each cassette is provided with a power receiving unit for recharging the rechargeable battery on at least one of two connected side faces of each cassette. The device includes a groove portion formed with a sloping face that faces one of the two connected side faces of an accommodated cassette and a bottom face that faces another of the two connected side faces of the accommodated cassette. The bottom face is inclined such that the cassette moves toward the sloping face when the cassette is loaded. A power supply unit is formed to the sloping face and/or the bottom face so as to supply power to the power receiving unit when the cassette has been accommodated.

Abstract: A cover is elastically supported on a frame by elastic members. Engaging members are provided between the frame and the cover, and the cover is fixed to the frame by the engaging members as necessary. In the first state in which the movement of the cover is not restricted, the cover is movable with respect to the frame. In the second state, the cover is engaged with the frame and is fixed.

Abstract: An X-ray detecting stand that includes an X-ray detector, a vertical column that supports the X-ray detector so as to be movable, and elevating device for raising and lowering the X-ray detector along the column through a belt, including a balancing mechanism that exerts force, which balances a load by the X-ray detector, to the belt by a clockwork spring. The balancing mechanism has a wire having one end coupled to the belt at the side opposite to the X-ray detector, a wheel that reels up the other end of the wire, and a clockwork spring that applies take-up torque to the wheel.

Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided through which in some embodiments, a medical imaging apparatus includes a medical image receptor, a wallstand, and a mechanism that provides at least 3 degrees of freedom. The mechanism is operably coupled to the medical image receptor and the mechanism is operably coupled to the wallstand.

Abstract: A system is provided for rotating a detector of an imaging system about an axis of rotation. The system includes a shaft extending a length between a pair of opposite end portions. The shaft is threaded on an exterior surface thereof. A carriage is mounted on the shaft. The carriage is threadably connected to the shaft such that rotation of the shaft moves the carriage along the length of the shaft. A connection member has a first portion mounted on the carriage, and a second portion configured to be connected to the detector such that movement of the carriage along the shaft rotates the detector about the axis of rotation.

Abstract: A cover is elastically supported on a frame by elastic members. Engaging members are provided between the frame and the cover, and the cover is fixed to the frame by the engaging members as necessary. In the first state in which the movement of the cover is not restricted, the cover is movable with respect to the frame. In the second state, the cover is engaged with the frame and is fixed.

Abstract: The system includes a conductive window, a spectrum changing layer, a fiber optic bundle, a camera sensor, and a power supply. The spectrum changing layer is excited by the x-rays and emits a different wavelength of light, such as visible light. The fiber optic bundle receives the visible light from the spectrum changing material and transmits the visible light to the camera sensor. The camera sensor detects the light emitted from the spectrum changing layer and converts the information to electronic signals. The camera sensor is cooled by a cooling device, as such thermal conduction may cool the fiber optic bundle. To avoid condensation, current may flow through the conductive window thereby heating the conductive window.

Abstract: An apparatus for multimodal imaging of an object includes a support stage for receiving an object to be imaged; an object supported on the stage, the object having been treated with a biocompatible imaging probe comprising nanoparticles carrying one or more targeting moieties and one or more diagnostic components for enabling capture of images of the object; a light source for producing a beam to illuminate the object; a filter positioned to receive and pass the beam toward the object; and a lens and camera system for capturing an image of the object. The apparatus may include a tiltable filter for filtering light from the source.

Abstract: A radiation imaging apparatus including a tabletop onto which a patient lays down, a radiation imaging unit positioned below the tabletop and configured to detect radiation that transmits through the patient, a widthwise moving member supporting the tabletop and configured to move the tabletop in a widthwise direction, a moving mechanism unit including a lengthwise moving mechanism configured to move the tabletop in a lengthwise direction, the moving mechanism unit supporting the widthwise moving member and supporting the radiation imaging unit so as to be movable in the lengthwise direction, and a base unit supporting the moving mechanism unit.

Abstract: A portable X-ray detector unit (10) comprising a detection panel (12) housed within a cassette (14), wherein a margin is provided around the detection panel (12), between a peripheral edge thereof and the inner wall of the cassette (14), at at least the corners (16) of the detection panel (12) such that shock absorption functionality may be provided at at least those corners (16), at least one side (18) of the unit (10) having little or no margin so as to maximise the active area of the unit (10) at that side (18) and enable harder-to-reach areas of a subject (200) to be imaged.

Abstract: A shoulder joint is provided. The shoulder joint includes a main support; a fold-out arm including an upper arm and a lower arm, the upper arm operable to pivot about a pin and the lower arm operable to pivot on a spindle on one end of the upper arm; and a first wheel attached to the pin, and a second wheel attached to the spindle. The upper arm and the lower arm are mechanically linked via the two wheels in such a way that rotation of the upper arm about the pin cause rotation of the second wheel and the lower arm relative to the upper arm, resulting in a bending or straightening of the arm.

Abstract: An X-ray imaging cassette having a cover side and a tube side is suitable for use in radiotherapy applications, if comprising, in admixture with storage phosphor particles in the phosphor layer of a loaded radiation image storage phosphor plate, metal or metal compound particles in form of powder, dispersed in a binder.

Abstract: An X-ray detector drawer, into which an X-ray detector is insertable in two alternate orientations, has guide elements by which an inserted X-ray detector is fixedly positioned and oriented. The X-ray detector drawer has a securing device, by which an asymmetrical insertion of an X-ray detector with respect to either one of the two alternate orientations is hindered. The securing device includes a blocking element, whose position is altered as a function of the removal of the X-ray detector drawer. A receptacle for the X-ray detector drawer is configured to facilitate a removal the X-ray detector drawer from either of two opposite directions.

Abstract: A telescoping rail for an X-ray detector drawer, which rail has at least three rail elements movable relatively to one another, namely a basic rail element, an intermediate rail element that is displaceable relative to the basic rail element, and an end rail element that is displaceable relative to the intermediate rail element. At least one driver is disposed between the rail elements. the driver is pivotably supported about a shaft oriented transversely or in inclined fashion to the displacement direction of the end rail element, and as a function of the intermediate rail element having been displaced out of the basic position, the driver is pivotable about the shaft into a slaving position which displaces the intermediate rail element along in the direction of the basic position until the basic position is reached, as a function of a displacement of the end rail element.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for supporting a radiographic cassette during the taking of an x-ray. The device as shown in FIG. 1 is especially useful to support a radiographic cassette for an x-ray of the patellofemoral joint utilizing an inferosuperior projection. The device consists of a counter balancing base unit and two straps each with attachment means to attach to the top of the radiographic cassette. When attached the device holds the cassette in position by counter balancing force.

Abstract: An improved portable patient support and radiographic cassette holder includes first and second modules which include connectors for coupling the modules together without the need for tools to provide a base cassette receiver. The two modules are preferably identical in configuration, each including a base wall and a pair of sidewalls. The modules also preferably include a pair of arms which form partial end walls presenting a passage therebetween. The arms and the sidewalls include respective ledges and shelves, such that a support panel for a patient can be positioned thereon. An X-ray film cassette may be inserted through either end of base cassette receiver, and one or both of a headrest and a footrest may be mounted thereon. Patient restraints may be inserted through vertical slots in the sidewall.

Abstract: An apparatus configured for an insertion of a cassette comprises at least one distance sensor operably measuring in a contactless manner a distance from a corresponding location on the apparatus to the inserted cassette. An electronic evaluator is operably connected to the at least one distance sensor to receive at least one distance signal corresponding to distances measured by at least one distance sensor, such that the electronic evaluator generates a position signal, resulting from the at least one distance signal, which is dependent on a dimension and a position of the inserted cassette in the apparatus. A control unit is operably connected to the electronic evaluator such that the control unit receives the position signal from the electronic evaluator.

Abstract: A radiographic system(100) is provided wherein a single X-ray detector can be handled freely using a cable and which can prevent an operator or a patient from being troubled by the cable. The radiographic system(100) comprises a radiographic panel(5) configured to radiograph in two dimensions a radiation exposed to a subject and output radiation image data, a cable(6) for the supply of electric power to the radiographic panel and transfer of the radiation image data, a conveyance unit(8) for conveying the cable in a predetermined direction, a cable length adjusting unit(7) provided in the conveyance unit to adjust the length of the cable, and a movement control unit(72) configured to move the conveyance unit in accordance with a tilting direction of the cable from the cable length adjusting unit to the radiographic panel.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a device for recording X-ray images by means of a robotically controlled C-arm system which includes an image recording system (9, 10) that can be rotated in a recording plane around a turning center (17) by means of a C-arm (7) and with which, through rotating of the C-arm (7), a plurality of radioscopic images of a region (14) of interest in an object (13) positioned on an object positioning facility (15) are recorded at different rotation angles, from which images one or more cross-sectional images or a three-dimensional image of a region (14) in the object can be reconstructed. With the method, the C-arm (7) is compliantly repositioned in a collision-free manner in synchronism with the rotation such that the region (14) of interest in an object will, at least at each rotation angle at which image recording takes place, be located within a cone beam (16) of an X-ray bundle of the image recording system (9, 10).

Abstract: The invention related to a radiation protection arrangement for screening radiation emitted from a radiation source, especially an x-ray source. Said arrangement is provided with a screening element consisting of, or comprising, a radiation protection material, and a cover, which fully surrounds the screening element. Said cover can be pulled over the screening element and completely separated from the same. As the cover can be changed, the radiation protection arrangement can be kept clean and sterile in a simple manner.

Abstract: Apparatus includes a digital x-ray detector holder configured to hold x-ray detectors of at least two different sizes, wherein the holder is user positionable and is user lockable to maintain a user positioned relationship between the holder and an x-ray source.

Abstract: There is described a radiographic imaging system to read radiation image stored in a radiation-image storing sheet. The radiographic imaging system includes a plurality of controllers, each of which has an image-display section; a plurality of radiation-image reading apparatus to read a radiation image stored in a radiation-image storing sheet so as to generate image data; and a network to link the plurality of controllers and the plurality of radiation-image reading apparatus; wherein the controller requests a radiation-image reading apparatus to transmit the image data, read by the radiation-image reading apparatus, to the controller.

Abstract: There is described an X-ray system having at least one component (12, 2, 31, 32) that is shiftable (moveable) or pivotable along at least one traverse path to at least one predeterminable locking position (Bx). Components of this kind are in particular the moving parts of a stand such as the moving parts of a ceiling stand (1), floor stand or wall stand for an X-ray generator (2, 21), and the X-ray generator (2, 21) that is fastened to the stand in such a way as to be capable of being pivoted and extended or retracted. Such components also include the shiftable (moveable) or pivotable top of a patient table and a film cassette that is displaceably or pivotably mounted in the table or on a wall stand.

Abstract: A detector drawer for an X-ray detector has at least one stop (5) by which the mobility of an inserted X-ray detector in at least one direction is restricted. The mobility of the inserted X-ray detector is hindered by the at least one stop to two alternate stop positions with respect to that direction; and that the respective stop position becomes operative as a function of the motion of the X-ray detector upon its insertion, for instance as a function of the direction of the motion. By using the alternate stop positions, which automatically become operative, portable digital X-ray detectors, which are constructed asymmetrically, are automatically positioned centrally in the detector drawer regardless of their orientation or the desired orientation of the image to be made. The detector drawer is advantageously used in an X-ray system, and desirably in an X-ray system with a detector that is pulled out from opposite sides of a patient examination table.

Abstract: A driving means for moving a detector in a C-arm includes a first frame including a first pulley, a motor connected to the first pulley, and a first belt stretched over the first pulley, a second frame for supporting the detector, and a third frame provided between the first frame and the second frame. Since the first belt and the third frame are connected to each other by a first connection member, a second pulley and a second belt stretched over the second pulley are mounted, and the second belt is connected to the first frame by a second connection member, an interval between an X-ray tube device and the detector for detecting X-ray becomes wider and a patient can be easily set at a photographing position. In addition, it is possible to lengthen a movement range of the detector to improve a freedom degree of photographing.

Abstract: A detector drawer is provided in which an X-ray detector can be placed, and so as to be inserted from both sides of an examination table into a detector drawer receptacle that is open on both sides. The detector drawer has a stop actuator, which as a function of the insertion of an X-ray detector can be put into an actuation position that enables the actuation of a stop of the detector drawer receptacle and as a function of the removal of the X-ray detector into a position of repose that minimizes the actuation of the stop. A detector drawer receptacle is also provided, which is open on both sides and into which a detector drawer can be inserted from both sides of the receptacle. The receptacle has a stop which is actuatable by a stop actuator of the detector drawer as a function of an insertion of the detector drawer. The stop may include a sliding stop, which is actuatable by the stop actuator in a thrust position that is dependent on the direction of insertion of the detector drawer.

Abstract: An X-ray equipment includes a movable carriage, an X-ray tube for irradiating an X-ray on a subject, and a cassette storage box for storing a cassette with a radiographic storage medium such as a film. In the X-ray equipment, when the cassette storage box is pulled and tilted, a gateway for the cassette is opened. When the cassette storage box is pushed back, the gateway is closed. The X-ray equipment further includes a storage box locking device for locking the cassette storage box in a state where the gateway is closed and for unlocking the cassette storage box when the locked state is released, and a locking release holding device for holding the storage box locking device in a released state.

Abstract: A digital radiography apparatus. The apparatus includes a support member having a first axis; a bucky; and a mounting member attached to the support member and supporting the bucky. The mounting members is adapted to move the bucky substantially along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis between a retracted position wherein the bucky is disposed proximate the support member to an extended position wherein the bucky is not disposed proximate the support member.

Abstract: An X-ray equipment includes a movable carriage, an X-ray tube, and a cassette storage box for storing a cassette with a radiographic storage medium. In the X-ray equipment, when the cassette storage box is pulled and tilted, a gateway for the cassette is opened. When the cassette storage box is pushed back, the gateway is closed. The X-ray equipment further includes a storage box locking device for locking the cassette storage box in a state where the gateway is closed and for unlocking the cassette storage box when the locked state is released, and a locking release holding device for holding the storage box locking device in a released state. An auto-lock switching device is also attached to the storage box locking device for switching the storage box locking device from the released state to the locked state when the cassette storage box is closed.

Abstract: An X-ray cassette or a radiographic grid and X-ray cassette is (are) mounted within a device for positioning the cassette or grid and cassette beneath a patient lying upon a bed or other support to enable an X-ray image of a portion of the patient to be taken. The device has a plastics envelope formed of a material that is both substantially radiotranslucent and impervious to water or other biological fluids. This envelope defines first and second envelope sections separated from each other by a common edge. The first envelope section is generally rectangular in configuration and defines an openable pouch in which the X-ray cassette or radiographic grid and X-ray cassette are received. The second envelope section has a stiffening member therein. The second envelope section has its greatest width along the common edge and narrows to a minimum width at its edge furthest from the common edge.

Abstract: An apparatus that mounts on a standard dental x-ray film view box, and holds a moveable camera chassis with a high resolution CCD video board camera therein, is disclosed. The advantage of this invention is that users will be able to quickly, easily, and inexpensively convert a standard dental x-ray viewer into analog and/or digital x-ray image viewing systems, utilizing computer or video monitors. The camera chassis with CCD video board camera is mounted on tracks set on a line disposed to be parallel to both the X-axis and Y-axis of the plane of the translucent viewing plate of a standard dental x-ray viewer. The CCD video camera can slide over a target x-ray film placed thereon, for selective viewing on a video monitor or computer monitor. Additionally, the CCD video camera mechanism can be rotated up and away from the x-ray film set, which allows the dentist to visually scan the entire x-ray film set without visual obstruction.

Abstract: An apparatus for rotating a bucky about an axis between a first and second position. The apparatus includes a base member stationarily disposed on the bucky and having a first and second rotational position; a first and second absorption member; and a first and second assembly. The first assembly is disposed at the first position and is slidably mounted relative to the base member. It includes a first detent adapted to receive a roller when the bucky is in the first position. The first assembly is disposed intermediate the first absorption member and base member such that the first absorption member biases the first assembly toward the base member. The second assembly is disposed at the second position and is slidably mounted relative to the base member. It includes a second detent adapted to receive a roller when the bucky is in the second position.

Abstract: A volume phantom for radiation therapy verification employs film held in a spiral configuration within a equalizing ring of attenuating material. The ring provides improved uniformity in radiation measurement and may be extended, for example, to a hemisphere to provide improved modeling and simulation of treatments in the region of the head.

Abstract: A portable device for taking an X-ray of a human or animal patient comprising: a base for positioning an X-ray cassette holder adjacent to a patient, the patient being positioned on an operating table, and an X-ray cassette holder; the base comprising a first plate member having an upper surface and a bottom surface, the X-ray cassette holder being positioned on the upper surface and means positioned on the bottom surface for attaching the portable device to a surface adjacent to the operating table; the X-ray cassette holder comprising a second plate hingedly attached to the upper surface of the first plate so that the second plate can be positioned between a storage position and a functional position; the second plate defining channels at opposite sides thereof for positioning an X-ray film cassette adjacent to the patient to be X-rayed; means for locking the second plate in the functional position; and, a method for employing the device to X-ray a patient.

Abstract: Plural images photographed with an X-ray photographing system are consecutively input and plural photographing images of optional sizes are arranged in an output area. When the plural photographing images can not be arranged in the output area as a result of the arrangement, marginal portions of the photographing images are deleted on the basis of widths of photographing image arranging areas or a width of a runover image and the images are arranged once again. On the basis of a final arrangement result, the images are output to a laser imager or the like for printout on a film or the like.

Abstract: A subject table for a mammography apparatus has a slot for an X-ray film cassette extending therethrough, as well as a locking mechanism for the cassette arranged in the slot. The locking mechanism has a spring-loaded arm carrying a first detent, and a second detent, at least one of the detents being spring-loaded such that the detents lie tightly against the narrow sides of the cassette when a cassette is introduced into the slot. For simplified removal or replacement of a cassette, the arm is displaceable in its longitudinal direction, and the second detent is displaceable perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction of the arm. When the second detent is removed from the cassette by an operating manipulation, the spring loading of the first detent causes the cassette to be ejected from the slot to a sufficient extent to allow it to be grasped by the operator.

Abstract: A digital, flat panel, two-dimensional x-ray detector moves reliably, safely and conveniently to a variety of positions for different x-ray protocols for a standing, sitting or recumbent patient. The system makes it practical to use the same detector for a number or protocols that otherwise may require different equipment, and takes advantage of desirable characteristics of flat panel digital detectors while alleviating the effects of less desirable characteristics such as high cost, weight and fragility of such detectors.

Abstract: A storage phosphor cassette for use in recording radiographic images of elongated objects. The cassette includes: first and second storage phosphor plates having first and second length dimensions, a shell having first and second opposite open ends; a first assembly for detachably mounting said first storage phosphor plate in said shell from said first open end; and a second assembly for detachably mounting said second storage phosphor plate in said shell from said second open end, wherein said first and second storage phosphor plates are mounted in said shell such that they form a substantially continuous storage phosphor composite for recording an elongated radiographic image.

Abstract: An apparatus configured for an insertion of a cassette comprises at least one distance sensor operably measuring in a contactless manner a distance from a corresponding location on the apparatus to the inserted cassette. An electronic evaluator is operably connected to the at least one distance sensor to receive at least one distance signal corresponding to distances measured by at least one distance sensor, such that the electronic evaluator generates a position signal, resulting from the at least one distance signal, which is dependent on a dimension and a position of the inserted cassette in the apparatus. A control unit is operably connected to the electronic evaluator such that the control unit receives the position signal from the electronic evaluator.

Abstract: A reusable flat radiolucent compression cushion is placed on one or both compression surfaces of a mammography machine. The cushion has a cover or enclosure of a radiolucent bio-compatible plastic film, e.g., polyurethane film, and a flat core of a radiolucent plastic foam material, e.g., cross-linked polyethylene foam. The plastic foam material and the film of the enclosure are substantially free of visible artifacts at the low radiological energies used during mammography, so that the breast tissues image clearly. Outside the imaging area, there are fastener strips or patches, e.g., Velcro, for removably attaching the cushion to the associated compressive surface. The mammography compression cushions are light weight and can be easily stored in a convenient shelf or drawer near the mammography machine. The cushions can be easily cleaned with a mild soap and water, and may be disinfected using any standard hospital disinfecting solution.