Photographic Detector Support Patents (Class 378/167)
  • Patent number: 6811313
    Abstract: A C-arm X-ray system has a C-arm that carries an X-ray source and a detector opposite one another at its ends and that can be swiveled around the subject in multiple axes. The detector is mounted so as to be rotatable around the proceeding axis therefrom to the X-ray source and/or to be displaceable parallel to the detector surface and/or along a arcuate path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Rainer Graumann, Oliver Schuetz, Norbert Strobel
  • Patent number: 6811311
    Abstract: A patient support comprising a frame 22 supporting a translucent support surface 24 elevated above the frame 22 by frame members 23. The members 26 support an x-ray cassette tray 36 for sliding movement along the length of the frame 22. The x-ray cassette trays 36 can be loaded onto the members 26 from either or both the head 30 and foot 32 ends of the frame 22. All of the patient support surface can be covered by the x-ray cassettes. In use, the x-ray cassette tray 36 is pulled out from the members 26 and loaded with an x-ray cassette 53. The handle 39 is pulled out from within the tray 36 and locked into position against latch 38. The tray 36 is then slid back onto the members 26 and the position of the cassette 53 within the tray 36 is indicated by the position of the indicator 65 visible along the side of the frame 22.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Huntleigh Technology PLC
    Inventors: Stephen Hayes, Stephen Hollyoak
  • Publication number: 20040156063
    Abstract: A sheet media system comprising an apparatus for utilizing sheet media; and a radio-frequency identification transceiver associated with said apparatus for communicating with a transponder associated with sheet media utilized by said apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2004
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Inventors: Timothy S. Vraa, Steven W. Tanamachi, Douglas D. Jensen, Leah C. Featherstone, Terrance C. Joyce, Robert W. Spurr, Eric J. Donaldson
  • Patent number: 6733175
    Abstract: A child positioning apparatus for X-ray photography having improved adjustment mechanisms. In particular the positioning of the X-ray film cassette has been improved by using a friction fastner. The friction fastner passes through a groove in the vertical portion of a L-bracket and attaches to a tray for holding the X-ray film. The position of the tray is adjusted by loosening the friction fastener, positioning the tray and then re-tightening to fix the X-ray film cassette into place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Inventor: Jeffrey Pigg
  • Patent number: 6724855
    Abstract: An X-ray flat panel detector includes sensor elements constituted by a plurality of effective pixels that detect X-rays and a plurality of dummy pixels that are arranged adjacent to the effective pixel area and generate electrical signals irrelevant to X-rays, signal lines which read out electrical signals from the respective pixels, scanning lines which scan the respective pixels, a first electrostatic wiring line which distributes static electricity accumulated in the signal lines, and a second electrostatic wiring line which distributes static electricity accumulated in the scanning lines. A plurality of dummy pixels are classified into a DA area where noise superposed on the signal lines are removed and a DB area where noise superposed on the scanning lines are removed. The first and second electrostatic wiring lines are laid out around the sensor elements, and physically disconnected between the DA area and the DB area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Sugawara, Takayuki Tomisaki, Manabu Tanaka, Akira Tsukamoto
  • Publication number: 20030231740
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Inventors: Bhudatt R. Paliwal, Wolfgang Tome
  • Patent number: 6644851
    Abstract: A system, apparatus, method and computer program product for capturing a roentgenogram image comprises: a typical diagnostic type of roentgenogram film projector for holding a roentgenogram film of a predetermined part of patient's body to project the roentgenogram image thereon; an image capturing unit disposed face to face with the projector for capturing the projected roentgenogram image to produce a digital image data; and a personal computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Inventor: Yasuo Kumagai
  • Publication number: 20030179855
    Abstract: A patient support consisting of a frame 22 supporting a translucent support surface 24 elevated above the frame 22 by longitudinal channels 23. The channels 23 support an x-ray cassette tray 36 for sliding movement along the length of the frame 22. The x-ray cassette trays 36 can be loaded onto the channels 23 from either or both the head 30 and foot 32 ends of the frame 22. All of the patient support surface can be covered by the x-ray cassettes. In use, the x-ray cassette tray 36 is pulled out from the channels 23 and loaded with an x-ray cassette 38. The handle 39 is pulled out from within the tray 36 and locked into position against latch 38. The tray 36 is then slid back onto the channels 23 and the position of the cassette 38 within the tray 36 is indicated by the position of the indicator 66 visible along the side of the frame 22.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2002
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventors: Stephen Hayes, Stephen Hollyoak
  • Patent number: 6540399
    Abstract: A dental x-ray bite block (10) for securing an x-ray sensor (40) has a first block section (11) having a primary clamp face (17) and a second block section (12) having a secondary clamp face (23). The first block section (11) is configured with receiving means (41) to receive the second block section (12), such that the primary and the secondary clamp faces (17,23) are positioned in a spaced, opposing relation when the second block section (12) is received within the first block section (11). There is also stepped rachet members (50, 51) for affixing the position of the second block section (12) relative to the first block section (11) when received therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: Dentsply Research & Development Corp.
    Inventors: Hans Eppinger, Jerry Visak
  • Publication number: 20020176539
    Abstract: The film holder for dental technique comprises a bite portion (4) and an approximately U-shaped film clip (5) including an oral (6) and a facial (7) plate. For a safe retention also of thin digital picture plates or of films and picture plates having an uneven topography without damaging their sensitive surfaces, the facial plate (7) is provided with means allowing to obtain a pressure distribution adapted to different thicknesses and/or topographies of films or digital picture plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Applicant: Hawe Neos Dental SA
    Inventors: Marc Da Rold, Beat Kilcher, Rolf M. Klauser
  • Publication number: 20020131558
    Abstract: A system and method for automatically positioning an image receptor based on the position of a manually positioned diagnostic source assembly in an X-ray imaging device is provided. In a preferred embodiment of the automated tracking system, an operator manually positions a diagnostic source assembly (DSA) over the area of a patient to be imaged. Sensors in the diagnostic source assembly transmit the position of the DSA to a system controller. The system controller then calculates an optimal position of an image receptor based on the position of the DSA. Once the optimal position is calculated, the system controller sends the optimal position to a motor drive, which positions the image receptor in the calculated optimal position. Position sensors in the image receptor then send positional data of the image receptor to the system controller, which verifies that the image receptor is in the calculated optimal position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Inventors: Vincent Stanley Polkus, Manfred David Boehm, Xianfeng Ni
  • Patent number: 6448571
    Abstract: A radiation protection system around a patient on an x-ray table includes a radiation protection wall with an opening around the x-ray table, a radiation screen over the patient, and a flexible interface joining the cubicle and the x-ray table. The wall shields medical personnel in an operating region from most radiation output by an x-ray emitter. The radiation screen is attached to the x-ray table such that it can be retracted to the foot of the x-ray table and extended over the patient such that it is interposed between the patient and the medical personnel. The interface has flexible joints attached to the wall and a flexible radiation-resistant skirt that joins the wall to the screen and covers the opening in the wall. An access port may be formed in the screen, and a shielding cloak can cover the access port to surround medical instruments that are threaded through the port and inserted into the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventor: James A. Goldstein
  • Patent number: 6439769
    Abstract: A system and method for automatically positioning an image receptor based on the position of a manually positioned diagnostic source assembly in an X-ray imaging device is provided. In a preferred embodiment of the automated tracking system, an operator manually positions a diagnostic source assembly (DSA) over the area of a patient to be imaged. Sensors in the diagnostic source assembly transmit the position of the DSA to a system controller. The system controller then calculates an optimal position of an image receptor based on the position of the DSA. Once the optimal position is calculated, the system controller sends the optimal position to a motor drive, which positions the image receptor in the calculated optimal position. Position sensors in the image receptor then send positional data of the image receptor to the system controller, which verifies that the image receptor is in the calculated optimal position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLC
    Inventors: Vincent Stanley Polkus, Manfred David Boehm, Xianfeng Ni
  • Patent number: 6382831
    Abstract: A reusable bite block/film packet holder is taught which includes comfort enhancing features for holding intraoral radiographic film packets therein and for proper positioning in a patient's mouth. The bite block/film packet holder includes a bite-block and a support bracket extending at an angle of about 90° from the bite-block. There is a slot in the bite-block immediately adjacent the support bracket for engaging an edge of an intraoral film packet inserted therein. A perimetric border at the peripheral edge of the support bracket has a generally rounded cross-sectional configuration and extends beyond the dimensions of the intraoral film packet inserted in the slot. Thus, the sharp, die-cut edges of the film packet are prevented from uncomfortably engaging the soft/sensitive tissues of a patient's mouth. Rather the rounded, soft-feeling perimetric border of the bite block/film packet holder is the contacting element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Richard W. Bacchetta, Scott H. Schwallie, David C. Allen
  • Publication number: 20020039402
    Abstract: Embodiments of an X-ray cassette holder to be used in conjunction with a conventional X-ray machine are disclosed which may be used to removably hold any of a variety of conventional X-ray cassettes. The cassette holder includes means for adjusting the height of the X-ray cassette above the floor or table and a handle such that the X-ray cassette may be held in an appropriate X-ray position by an operator at a distance from the X-ray machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2001
    Publication date: April 4, 2002
    Inventor: Joseph Hecker
  • Publication number: 20010040939
    Abstract: There is disclosed a radiographic apparatus comprising a top plate for supporting a subject, an image receiver for receiving a radiographic image of the subject, a vertical moving mechanism for vertically moving the top plate and the image receiver, and means for limiting the action of the vertical moving mechanism according to the position relative to the top plate and/or posture of the image receiver. There is also disclosed a radiographic apparatus comprising a top plate for supporting a subject, an image receiver for receiving a radiographic image of the subject, a moving mechanism for varying the position relative to the top plate and/or posture of the image receiver, and means for limiting movement of the top plate in the predetermined direction in case the posture of the image receiver is not horizontal or limiting change in posture of the image receiver according to the position of the top plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventor: Masaaki Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 6282264
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: Hologic, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew P. Smith, Jay A. Stein, Kevin E. Wilson, Richard E. Cabral, Remo Rossi, James D. Miller
  • Patent number: 6276827
    Abstract: In a cassette tray for radiography, a positioning plate is provided on a rear surface of a tray, and the positioning plate includes grooves corresponding to cassette sizes. A stopper for holding a cassette has a spring, and engaging pieces which engage the groove and formed at a lower end of a slider moving vertically between a front plate of the tray and the positioning plate. When the engaging pieces of the stopper engage the grooves, the stopper projects from the front surface of the tray to hold the cassette at the position. When the engaging pieces of the stopper do not engage the grooves, the stopper is located on the same plane as the front plate surface of the tray. If the stopper is pressed and moved along the surface of the tray, the position for the cassette to be used can be selected. Accordingly, the cassette tray can securely hold various-sized cassettes, and the attaching operation therefor can be carried out easily in a short period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Assignee: Shimadzu Corporation
    Inventors: Toshiaki Nakamura, Goroh Hirata, Masahiro Kawano, Toshio Kadowaki
  • Patent number: 6256528
    Abstract: The scanner includes a patient table having a table support and a moveable table top for receiving a patient. The scanner further includes a computer tomography (CT) imaging device for obtaining an image of a patient placed on the table top. The CT imaging device has an X-ray source and an X-ray detector mounted for rotation about an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the table top, the table top being movable along this axis. Also included are a second conventional radiographic imaging device having a cassette for receiving a sheet of an x-ray sensitive material. The table top has a chamber for receiving the cassette of a length that is substantially equal to the length of the table top. Preferably, this chamber contains a trolley for carrying the cassette and a driving device for moving the trolley in the longitudinal direction of the table top over substantially the full length of the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventors: Frans W. Zonneveld, Johannes C. A. Op De Beek
  • Patent number: 6190042
    Abstract: An improved dental x-ray aiming device for longitudinal radiographic analysis is provided. The device includes a bite block, a guiding rod, an aiming ring, and a supplemental ring. The bite block includes a film holder that is not perpendicular to a top surface of the bite block. The guiding rod is also attached to the bite block in a non-parallel relationship to accommodate the non-perpendicular arrangement of the film holder. As a result, a proper relationship is maintained between the aiming ring (and hence a dental radiography device) and the film holder. The aiming ring is attached to the guiding rod through a sliding member. The sliding member secures the aiming ring at a predetermined distance from the guiding rod, while allowing the aiming ring to move on an axis parallel with the guiding rod. The bite block includes a slot for receiving and holding a reference device for later density reference measurements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Electro Medical Systems
    Inventors: S. Brent Dove, Marden E. Alder
  • Patent number: 6137861
    Abstract: A system for cleaning, storing and maintaining x-ray cassettes. The system is used within the environment of an x-ray exposure room for shooting x-ray images of x-ray subjects, and an x-ray dark room for developing x-ray images. The system may include a portable transport, cleaning and storage unit for storing, cleaning and transporting x-ray cassettes. The unit includes a work surface, at least one x-ray cassette receptacle for storing x-ray cassettes, and a vacuum apparatus for vacuuming dust particles from the x-ray cassettes and the unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: X-Ray Cassette Repair Co. Inc.
    Inventors: Leo Reina, James Sorgani
  • Patent number: 6126314
    Abstract: Mobile radiography device of the type comprising a chassis with wheels, an X-ray generator and a container for a plurality of cassettes each containing a film which is sensitive to X-rays and intended to be developed in a processing room. The cassette container can be separated from the mobile radiography device for the transport of the cassettes to the processing room, the container comprising rolling means and means for gripping by an operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: GE Medical Systems S.A.
    Inventor: Louis Morasse
  • Patent number: 6046458
    Abstract: A protective sheath (10) for an image plate, which covers a radiation- and light-sensitive surface (9) on an image plate (6) and which generally comprises a continuous first, reasonably rigid sheet section (1), having a size equal to that of the image plate, as well as a second reasonably rigid sheet section parallel to the first sheet section or two parallel second, reasonably rigid sheet sections (2a, 2b), which is/are at edges (15a, 15b) thereof attached (8) to two opposite outer edges (5a, 5b) of the first sheet section. A first (3) and a second surface (4), facing each other and included in the first sheet section and in the second sheet sections, respectively, have therebetween a distance (H1) which is substantially equal to a thickness (D1) of the image plate and the first surface (3) is provided with a coating (7) protecting the radiation- and light-sensitive image plate surface from damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: Orion-Yhtyma OY
    Inventor: Matti Rantanen
  • Patent number: 5943390
    Abstract: An x-ray cassette for computed radiography comprising: a top panel and a bottom panel, at least one panel formed from a material the panel being that which incident x-rays will pass through comprising a metal/thermoplastic/metal sandwich; the top and bottom panels being fastened for holding the front and the back panels together and create a cavity between the panels; and a storage phosphor device contained within the cavity between the first panel and the second panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: William C. Wendlandt, William F. Snyder
  • Patent number: 5912943
    Abstract: An imaging device includes a support member (30), a x-ray source (32) mounted to the support member via a first arm (34), and an x-ray detector (36) mounted to the support member via a second arm (38). The x-ray detector includes a sealed housing (72) mounted to the second arm and a flat panel image receptor (74) retained within the housing. A cooling system (G) exchanges heated air in the housing with ambient air located remote from the housing. The support member (30) includes an open channel (68), a closed channel (70), a common wall (106) separating the open channel from the closed channel, and a series of vents (108) through the common wall. The second arm (38) includes an inlet passage (92) and an exhaust passage (90) each of which communicate with the closed passage (70) and interior cavity (98) of the housing. At least one fan (100) is positioned in at least one of the exhaust passage and the inlet passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Assignee: Picker International, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph S. Deucher, Marc Piscitelli, Dennis K. Everett
  • Patent number: 5764724
    Abstract: A method of X-ray photography or a method of some other type of radiation sensoring, such as electronic image storage, employs the use of a receptor unit (2) which can be swung outwards and upwards from an initial position in or beneath a patient support table (1) about alternative pivot centers (11, 12) disposed in the region of respective side edges of the table to alternative positions for operating with a horizontal beam path. The receptor unit can be swung out about a vertical axis from these positions in which it is parallel with the longitudinal direction of the table to a position in which it is parallel with the longitudinal direction of the table to a position in which the unit is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the table, to enable pictures to be taken of a patient seated in a wheelchair, for instance. The invention also relates to a patient support table (1) provided with a receptor unit (2) of this kind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Assignee: AO Medical Products AB
    Inventor: Carl-Eric Ohlson
  • Patent number: 5703925
    Abstract: A support for an x-ray cassette which enables an x-ray cassette to be located and moved beneath a patient support surface. The support includes a spade on which an x-ray cassette can be located such as to be positioned beneath the patient support surface. The spade is located on a sliding surface. A handle permits manipulation of the cassette spade over the sliding surface. A raising and lowering mechanism controlled by an operating handle enables the cassette to be raised upwardly to locate closely beneath the patient support surface. An indicator enables the position of the spade to be determined. The indicator is mounted by a post which is engageable with frame to limit the extent by which the spade can be moved transversely in one direction with respect to the patient support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: Howard Wright Limited
    Inventor: Howard Stanley Wright
  • Patent number: 5684853
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for holding flexible cassettes such that the radiographic film loaded in the cassettes is in intimate contact with the intensifying screens in the cassettes, thereby improving the quality of radiographic images provided when using flexible cassettes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1997
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Therese K. Fick, John Fick, Bradley J. Hansen
  • Patent number: 5673302
    Abstract: An adjustable X-ray cassette holder is provided. A lead blocker device is also provided for selective use with the X-ray cassette holder. A frame is adapted for supporting first and second cassette edges of the X-ray cassette. A pair of frame adjusters are slidably connected to the frame. A movable frame is adapted for supporting third and fourth cassette edges of the X-ray cassette. A pair of tension springs are interconnected between the movable frame and respective first and second frame adjusters. A lead blocker frame has lead blocker frame sides in adjacency the frame and movable frame. An X-ray shielding plate is mounted to the lead blocker frame and disposed in an adjacent to parallel planar relationship with an upper surface of the X-ray cassette.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 30, 1997
    Inventors: Doretta L. Kriecha, James F. Kriecha, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5657367
    Abstract: A patient positioning device (FIG. 1a) made of a sheet of rigid material having a back (10) and a base (12) at right angles to one another, and of sufficient size to support a patient (24) (FIG. 2a) during movement into a lateral decubitus position. A pad (14) is placed upon the top surface of the base (12) of sufficient size to provide comfort and elevation to the patient (24). The pad (14) is placed at a certain distance from the back (10) to create a slot (16) to accommodate a film cassette (28) parallel to the back (10). The patient (24) is supported on an even plane with the film cassette (28) between patient (24) and back (10) when in a proper lateral decubitus position (FIG. 2e).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 12, 1997
    Inventor: Denver Couch
  • Patent number: 5640439
    Abstract: A device for positioning a patient adjacent an X-ray cassette has a plate on which a part of a human body may be located and a socket adjacent the plate. The socket has least one slot or cavity in it. This slot or cavity will receive X-ray cassettes of different thicknesses. Forces for holding the cassettes upright are provided to reduce the width of the slot by biasing two cams to engage against the lower portion of the cassettes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1997
    Inventor: Glenn G. Strawder
  • Patent number: 5631722
    Abstract: Apparatus for exposing a selected area of a film, and comprising a holding assembly for holding a film, and a first support assembly connected to and supporting the holding assembly. The apparatus further comprises an exposure area control assembly located adjacent the holding assembly and forming an adjustable opening to expose a selected area of the film, and a second support assembly connected to and supporting the exposure area control assembly. Preferably, the first support assembly supports the film assembly for movement upward and downward and forward and rearward, and for pivotal movement about horizontal and vertical axes. Also, the second support assembly supports the exposure area control assembly for forward and rearward movement, and for pivotal movement about horizontal and vertical axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1997
    Assignee: Grumman Aerospace Corporation
    Inventors: Edward V. Sullivan, Don DiMarzio
  • Patent number: 5625666
    Abstract: A radiographic film retaining device for holding a film packet while producing a radiographic image of selected teeth of a patient's mouth is disclosed. The retaining device includes a substantially thin bite portion configured for placement between upper and lower teeth of the patient's mouth and a retaining structure positioned distally of the bite portion. The retaining structure has a film packet gripping structure for holding the film packet lingually adjacent the selected teeth when the bite portion is gripped between the upper and lower teeth. The retaining structure comprises a narrow extension of the bite portion. The film packet gripping structure includes a slit formed and extending through the retaining structure from the distal end thereof toward the bite portion. The device also has means for locating an x-ray machine cone in proper position relative to the film packet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1997
    Inventor: Timothy G. Willis
  • Patent number: 5594774
    Abstract: A holder (3) for retaining a sheet of X-ray sensitive film (24) for making X-ray pictures includes (1) an outer cassette (5) with a low-friction shape and surface and (2) an inner cassette (20) that can be opened and closed, that is lightproof when closed, and that can be accommodated in the outer cassette. The inside of the closed outer cassette is longer and wider than the film and considerably higher than the film is thick.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Assignee: AGFA Geavert
    Inventor: Manfred Schmidt
  • Patent number: 5574767
    Abstract: An X-ray film cassette holder which is small, lightweight, simple and economical to construct and use, having a base carrying an expandable frame incorporating two upwardly expandable risers releasably lockable in a plurality of expanded positions, said risers separated by a releasably lockable variable distance; and two film cassette clamps, each of which is pivotably carried by one of said upwardly expandable risers, and releasably lockable in fixed relation thereto, as well as provision for releasably lockable rotatable mounting of a cassette tray sized within a range determined by the variable distance between said risers on said frame, collectively adapted to hold cassettes steadily in a range of vertical positions above a surface whereon it is placed, at any inclination, and being rotatable on said surface, providing desirable adjustability for positioning an X-ray film cassette adjacent a portion of a patient's anatomy for convenient imaging thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Assignee: Hayes Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth J. Hayes
  • Patent number: 5569909
    Abstract: In a device for recognizing the format of a film cassette for use in a film cassette holder, such as in an x-ray examination apparatus, a radiation receiver is disposed at a location at which radiation incident on the receiver is altered by a corner of the film cassette when the film cassette is inserted. The radiation receiver generates an output signal dependent on the radiation incident thereon, which is supplied to a processor which identifies the format of the film cassette whose corner caused the alteration in the incident radiation. Dependent on the format configuration, the alteration in the radiation may either be an occlusion of the radiation, or a signal indicating an absence of occlusion. The radiation may simply be ambient light, or may be radiation transmitted by a radiation transmitter allocated to the radiation receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1996
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Carlo Bogani, Maria-Teresa Rubbi
  • Patent number: 5563926
    Abstract: A support for an x-ray cartridge includes a base to be placed under the patient having a series of projections or tie downs to which a length of gauze or surgical sponge may be attached. On one end of the base is a U-shaped member for receiving one edge of the x-ray cartridge. An upright U-shaped member is aligned with the first U-shaped member for supporting the cartridge in the aligned groove provided by the U-shaped members. The upright U-shaped member includes one or more projections or tie downs to which the gauge or surgical sponge may be attached. In use, a patient's foot is tied to the base and the upright member to stabilize the foot during exposure by a portable x-ray machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Inventor: S. Brent Brotzman
  • Patent number: 5533090
    Abstract: A wall-mounted x-ray system (10) includes a pair of parallel, spaced tracks (11, 12) mounted on a wall and capable of receiving, through either of their open ends (35, 36), traveller assemblies (13, 14). One traveller assembly (13) carries an x-ray tube (18) for the x-ray source and the other traveller assembly (14) carries x-ray receiving and patient locating equipment (16). The traveller assemblies (13, 14) are moveable on the tracks (11, 12), which movement is assisted by handles (42). Handles (42) are threaded into traveller assemblies (13, 14) and when the desired position along tracks (11, 12) is reached, by tightening the handles (42) the tracks (11, 12) are engaged to hold the traveller assemblies (13, 14) in place. Traveller assembly (14) is first properly positioned relative to the patient and then traveller assembly (13) is aligned with traveller assembly (14) by use of an optical transmitter (45) carried by traveller assembly (13) and a receiving target (47) carried by traveller assembly (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1996
    Inventor: Richard C. Nyzen
  • Patent number: 5473664
    Abstract: A device for positioning a patient adjacent an X-ray cassette has a plate on which a part of a human body may be located and a socket adjacent the plate. The socket has at least two slots. The two slots have different widths for receiving cassettes of different sizes. However, only one size of cassette is used at a time. The plate may be slipped between a part of the human body and a backboard to which such body is strapped. This positions a part of the body adjacent a cassette in one of said slots. The plate may also have a slanted surface to facilitate positioning a part of the body on the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1995
    Inventor: Glenn G. Strawder
  • Patent number: 5469492
    Abstract: Assemblies for mounting X-ray generating apparatus, and permitting the horizontal and vertical adjustment thereof, are provided, which mounting assemblies comprise(a) a frame comprising a pair of horizontally spaced vertical members and one or more horizontal members extending transversely across the vertical members;(b) a first carriage extending transversely across the vertical members of the frame;(c) slidable engaging means for enabling the first carriage to travel vertically up and down in respect to the vertical members of the frame;(d) a second carriage comprising means for attaching X-ray generating apparatus;(e) slidable engaging means for enabling the second carriage to travel horizontally from side to side in respect to the first carriage; and(f) removable decorator panels mounted to said frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1995
    Assignee: Optima Imaging, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert L. Burbury, Phillip P. Nuccio
  • Patent number: 5450465
    Abstract: An enclosure useful in enclosing a dental X-ray film pack upon taking an X-ray picture of a tooth is formed of an enclosing portion and a holding portion extending from the enclosing portion. To permit enclosure of a dental X-ray film pack provided with a bite block, the enclosing portion is formed of two separate sheets. After inserting the bite block into a basal part of the holding portion, the pack is covered between the two sheets and the two sheets are then fusion-bonded to seal the pack within the enclosing portion. The holding portion has a length sufficient to extend out of an oral cavity when the enclosing portion is inserted in the oral cavity. After taking the X-ray picture of the tooth, the dentist holds the enclosure at the holding portion, takes the enclosing portion out of the cavity, and then tears off the enclosure from a side of the holding portion, so that the dental X-ray film pack falls out of the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1995
    Assignee: Nix Company Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Tanaka
  • Patent number: 5428659
    Abstract: A device is disclosed for transferring electrical signals and electric energy to a data memory (6) of a cassette (1) for radiation-sensitive recording material (11), the memory being connectable to a signal processing unit (4) and a power source (5) of a cassette identification apparatus (2). Means are provided between cassette (1) and cassette identification apparatus (2) for radio-frequency and galvanically insulated transfer of the signals and the electric energy. Such means feature a coupling device (3) having capacitive, inductive or opto-electric coupling elements that are resistant to corrosion, soiling and wear. Furthermore, the means comprise a signal processing unit (4) having signal transmitter circuits (41, 42, 43) and signal receiver circuits (44, 45, 46) for radio-frequency signals, and a power source (5) having an energy transmitter circuit (52) and an energy receiver circuit (53) for a radio-frequency voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Meinrad Renner, Ulrich Barthold
  • Patent number: 5428660
    Abstract: A portable, lightweight medical radiographic device having an articulated support is described. The device includes a base, an elongated supporting structure having multiple sections interconnected by adjustable joints, a mount for a radiological camera, and a support for a film cartridge. The camera mount includes a concave, motorized track; the film cartridge support is also concave and may also provide motorized film advancement. A selected human body part to be imaged may be placed between the camera mount and the film track. When the camera, motorized track, and film support are energized, coordinated movement of the camera relative to the film results in a panoramic image of the body part on the exposed film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Assignee: Medical University of South Carolina
    Inventor: Charles R. Daniel, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5377254
    Abstract: A casing for x-ray cassettes for comfort of a patient during x-ray procedures, the casing being fabricated of a padded material with a surface that can be cleaned and disinfected, the casing being flat and generally square in configuration with corner handles for adjustment of the casing when used against a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1994
    Inventor: Michael A. Walling
  • Patent number: 5315632
    Abstract: An apparatus for clamping a cassette containing a photosensitive element. The apparatus includes a frame and a stop bar movably mounted to the frame for movement between an operative position and a non operative position. The stop bar has a registration surface for registering the forward end of cassette. A first jaw member is secured to the frame and has a second registration surface for engagement with a first side of the cassette. A second movable jaw member is provided movable between a clamping position and a non clamping position. The second jaw member having a clamping surface for engaging a second side of the cassette opposite the first side of the cassette so as to clamp the cassette between the first and second jaw members when the second jaw member is in the clamping position. A mechanism is provided for moving the second jaw member between the clamping and non clamping positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1994
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Michael R. Flynn, Wayne J. Arseneault, John C. Boutet, Jeffrey J. Yaskow, Thomas D. Baker
  • Patent number: 5301221
    Abstract: Apparatus made of stainless steel which can be attached to the side rail of an operating table to hold and position an x-ray grid and x-ray cassette, and can be readily disassembled for sterilization in an autoclave.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1994
    Inventor: Stephen Yakubisin
  • Patent number: 5226068
    Abstract: An X-ray cassette holder having a vertical cavity for receiving a cassette and positioning the cassette vertically next to a patient. The holder also provides a ramp for permitting an injured patent to be positioned on a raised flat portion of the device adjacent the vertical cassette.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1993
    Inventor: Glenn G. Strawder
  • Patent number: 5224148
    Abstract: A cassette holder and positioning assembly device for a portable x-ray mane, comprising: a mounting plate; oppositely adjustable vertical arms disposed in parallel relationship on the mounting plate attached in proximity to an outer periphery along vertical axes of the plate and opposite horizontal arms mounted fixedly on the plate and disposed in perpendicular relationship to the vertical arms; a selection handle disposed pivotally between alignment guides on a handle gear that meshes with a circumferential gear pivotally attached to linkage arms in perpendicular relationship to portions of the mounting plate beneath the alignment guides and pivotally attached to a backstop linkage arm in perpendicular relationship to the alignment guides, the backstop linkage arm is pivotally attached to a platform fixed to the mounting plate; a semi-circular indexing plate containing a plurality of notches in its inner arc and fixed in raised relation on the mounting plate above the selection handle; the selection handle h
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1993
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: David D. Baker, Jr., Louie D. Martin, Mark W. Brown
  • Patent number: 5189686
    Abstract: A spot compression and magnification device for use with mammographic units to aid in the spot compression of a female patient's breast to obtain a high degree of focal breast compression and a high quality x-ray image of a suspicious mass within the breast. The device has a base including an open bottom and an upstanding pedestal opening into the base, the pedestal having a flat top surface so that an air gap is provided between the top surface of the pedestal and the surface of the imaging platform or cassette cover of a conventional mammographic unit. The pedestal has a sustantially truncated conical form while the base has a substantially truncated pyramid configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1993
    Assignee: American Mammographics, Inc.
    Inventor: Gordon L. Hixson, Sr.
  • Patent number: RE37614
    Abstract: A method of X-ray photography or a method of some other type of radiation sensoring, such as electronic image storage, employs the use of a receptor unit (2) which can be swung outwards and upwards from an initial position in or beneath a patient support table (1) about alternative pivot centers (11, 12) disposed in the region of respective side edges of the table to alternative positions for operating with a horizontal beam path. The receptor unit can be swung out about a vertical axis from these positions in which it is parallel with the longitudinal direction of the table to a position in which it is parallel with the longitudinal direction of the table to a position in which the unit is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the table, to enable pictures to be taken of a patient seated in a wheelchair, for instance. The invention also relates to a patient support table (1) provided with a receptor unit (2) of this kind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: Hologic, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl-Eric Ohlson