For Movable Film Or Plate Patents (Class 378/181)
  • Patent number: 11083286
    Abstract: A visual assistive stand includes a base; a vertical arm; and a horizontal attachment arm. The base has a configured receptacle for attaching the vertical arm. The vertical arm and the base have a detachable magnetic attachment. The horizontal attachment arm includes magnets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2021
    Assignee: Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired
    Inventors: Joseph A. Seyfried, Francis K. Tse, Stan Rickel, James W. Wilson, Michael K. Baskin, Joseph R. Kells
  • Patent number: 11000254
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for automatically adjusting a position of a table configured to be positioned in a bore of a medical imaging device. The table may be adjusted according to one or more of a table elevation, an anatomical reference, and a start scan location. The table elevation, anatomical reference, and start scan location may be obtained from a selected imaging protocol.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Mark Vincent Profio, Adam Pautsch, Darin Robert Okerlund, Scott McOlash, Vijay Subramanian
  • Patent number: 10966672
    Abstract: A sliding arrangement for mobile X-ray devices enabling functionality for tomosynthesis acquisitions on systems without this functionality. The sliding arrangement substitutes a conventional X-ray collimator mount for fixing an X-ray collimator onto the gantry of a mobile X-ray system, and which adds the supplementary mechanical functionality that is required to perform tomosynthesis acquisitions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2021
    Assignee: AGFA NV
    Inventors: Rainer Nebosis, Johannes Hoelzl, Vladimir Zemanek
  • Patent number: 10772585
    Abstract: An X-ray apparatus includes a light emitting unit, input interface circuitry, and processing circuitry. The light emitting unit includes a light source. The input interface circuitry inputs an X-ray condition. The processing circuitry controls an emission state of the light emitting unit to change to one of at least three states based on the X-ray condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: Canon Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Kansei Takahashi, Akira Mochiduki, Katsuo Takahashi, Norimitsu Kosugi
  • Patent number: 10751013
    Abstract: A source image distance (SID) adjustable X-ray imaging apparatus is provided. The X-ray imaging apparatus may include an arm including a first end and a second end, a first X-ray component arranged at the first end of the arm, and a second X-ray component arranged at the second end of the arm. The first X-ray component and the second X-ray component may be opposite to each other. The first X-ray component may be configured to generate X-rays or receive X-rays. The first end may include a first weight balancing mechanism. When the first X-ray component moves with respect to the first weight balancing mechanism, the SID of the X-ray imaging apparatus may change but the first weight balancing mechanism may maintain a center of gravity of the first end unchanged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignee: SHANGHAI UNITED IMAGING HEALTHCARE CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Wenqiang Liu
  • Patent number: 10595800
    Abstract: The present invention provides a support device for an X-ray detector and an X-ray detection device, the support device comprising a bottom plate and a limiting device mounted on the bottom plate, the limiting device comprising a limiting frame, two mounting members connected to the limiting frame, and two stoppers respectively arranged on the two mounting members. At least one of the two mounting members is configured to be able to move in a particular direction and to be limited at one of a plurality of fixed positions on the limiting frame, and the two stoppers are used for limiting the movement of the X-ray detector in the particular direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2020
    Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventor: Xiaojie Wang
  • Patent number: 10274547
    Abstract: A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to an embodiment includes an installer provided on a gantry and configured to be capable of installing thereon an electronic apparatus. The magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the embodiment includes a drawing structure configured to draw out the electronic apparatus installed on the installer to a position that is away from the gantry by a certain distance in excitation of a static magnetic field magnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2019
    Assignee: TOSHIBA MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Akio Mori
  • Patent number: 10143860
    Abstract: A radiation therapy apparatus includes: an annular gantry; an irradiation unit which is provided on the gantry and configured to radiate radiation; a support which supports the gantry; a rotation-driving mechanism which is provided between the gantry and the support and rotates the gantry around a horizontal central axis of the gantry. The rotation-driving mechanism includes: annular rails that are provided on the gantry; and sliding members which are provided on regions of the support that correspond to a lower half of the gantry, slidably guide the rails, and receive at least a load of the gantry in a vertical direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2018
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshitaka Tsumoto, Akihiro Miyamoto
  • Patent number: 10092258
    Abstract: A bucky tray for an X-ray imaging apparatus includes a first plate on which an X-ray detecting device is mountable, and a second plate configured to be coupled to the first plate to be movable to at least one of a first location where the X-ray detecting device of a first size is accommodated and a second location where another X-ray detecting device of a second size is accommodated. The X-ray detecting device is configured to be mounted on the bucky tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kyoung-choul Jang, Woo-sup Han, Seung-hwan Lee, Jae-won Lee, Min-hyung Chung
  • Patent number: 9782139
    Abstract: An X-ray device has a detector which is arranged on a mobile unit and is assigned to a first positioning unit. An X-ray source is arranged on an arcuate second positioning unit. The positioning of the first and second positioning units can be matched to one another in the course of their movements. The first positioning unit has at least one articulated arm and the second positioning unit has a first and a second arc-shaped positioning element. The first and second positioning units are arranged separately from one another on a movable unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Karl Barth, Rainer Graumann
  • Patent number: 9304092
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus (1) for examining test bodies (P), in particular electronic subassemblies and electronic devices, comprising at least one radiation source (2) for X-raying at least one test body (P), at least one detection unit (3) for detecting radiation (S) emitted by means of the radiation source (2), at least one holding element (4) for holding the at least one test body (P) and for positioning the latter between the radiation source (2) and the detection unit (3), and a movement unit (5), coupled to the holding element (4), for moving the holding element (4), wherein the movement unit (5) is constructed as a parallel-mechanism movement unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: MatriX Technologies GmbH
    Inventors: Jan Rimbach, Kirke Rimbach
  • Patent number: 9177681
    Abstract: A radiographic device may include a movable carriage disposed in a base and having a tray for holding an image receptor. A platform extending over the base may support the weight of the patient independent of the image receptor. The carriage may permit tray movement in lateral and longitudinal directions, thereby to align a desired portion of the image receptor with the patient target area and x-ray source. A base collimator may have one or more blades that are slidable to cover portions of the image receptor that are not being used in the current image capture process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2015
    Assignee: X-CEL X-RAY CORPORATION
    Inventor: William W. Morris
  • Patent number: 9173278
    Abstract: A gravity balance device for a cross arm of X-ray equipment, the gravity balance device is mounted within the cross arm for maintaining gravity balance of the cross arm, the gravity balance device comprises a counter weight module, configured to move along in a direction opposite to a moving direction of a tube of the X-ray equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2015
    Assignee: GE MEDICAL SYSTEMS GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY COMPANY LLC
    Inventors: Zhenggang Ling, Yicheng Wang, Zhengjun Wang
  • Patent number: 8989846
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and related computer program products for image-guided radiation treatment (IGRT) are described. For one preferred embodiment, an IGRT apparatus is provided comprising a gantry frame including a ring member, the ring member being rotatable around a substantially horizontal, longitudinally extending central axis, the ring member having first and second horizontally opposing ends. The IGRT apparatus further comprises a radiation treatment head coupled to the ring member by an arm member, the arm member being connected to the ring member at an arm member base. Preferably, the IGRT apparatus is further characterized in that the arm member extends outwardly from the first end of the ring member in a direction away from the second end and is supported only by the arm member base, and the radiation treatment head is dynamically movable in at least a longitudinal direction toward and away from the first end of the ring member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Accuray Incorporated
    Inventors: Gopinath Kuduvalli, Paul D. Treas, Adam J. Weber
  • Patent number: 8938046
    Abstract: A system for subsea imaging comprises a first plate having an inner surface, an outer surface, and a cavity formed in the inner surface. In addition, the system comprises a phosphor imaging plate disposed in the cavity. Further, the system comprises a second plate having an inner surface facing the inner surface of the first plate and an outer surface facing away from the outer surface of the first plate. Still further, the system comprises a seal member disposed between the inner surface of the first plate and the inner surface of the second plate. The seal member extends around the perimeter of the cavity and is configured to seal the phosphor imaging plate and the cavity from intrusion water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: BP Corporation North America Inc.
    Inventors: James Hunter, Danny Lee Keck, James Rae Sims, Jr., Scott Avery Watson
  • Publication number: 20150016588
    Abstract: A positioner arm for positioning an imaging material, an imaging material holder, an aiming device or a combination thereof is disclosed that includes at least one positioning arm having a first end and a second end, wherein each arm comprises at least two fixed arm angles and wherein at least one angle is not a 90 degree angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: LOUIS ELIOT SCHWARZBACH
  • Patent number: 8651739
    Abstract: The invention relates to an X-ray cassette (42, 50, 78, 82) for a phosphor storage plate (20), having two openings (14, 44) for inserting the phosphor storage plate (20) into the X-ray cassette (42, 50, 78, 82) and for withdrawing the phosphor storage plate (20) arranged in the X-ray cassette (42, 50, 78, 82) from the cassette. Two flaps (18, 48, 54, 80, 84) are also provided for closing the two openings (14, 44). The invention also relates to a system (10) comprising said type of X-ray cassette (42, 50, 78, 82) and a reading out device (34) for reading out the phosphor storage plate (20) arranged in the X-ray cassette (42, 50, 78, 82). The reading-out device (34) comprises a feeding element (32) for feeding the X-ray cassette (42, 50, 78, 82) into the device. Said feeding element (32) is designed in such a manner that if the X-ray cassette (42, 50, 78, 82) is fed into the feeding element with one of its openings (14), the other opening (44) of the X-ray cassette (42, 50, 78, 82) is accessible to an operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Agfa HealthCare NV
    Inventor: Anton Pirmann
  • Publication number: 20120243665
    Abstract: Disclosed is a digital X-ray image capturing device for easy mobility, including: a cassette having a built-in image plate; an image plate transfer device for taking the image plate out of the cassette and transferring the same to a scanning point; an image scanning device for scanning an X-ray latent image of the image plate by irradiating laser beams to the scanning point; an internal body including the image plate transfer device and the image scanning device; and an external housing surrounding the internal body. The image plate transfer device includes: a scan drum having a fastening means on a surface thereof, the fastening means being combined with an end of the image plate; at least one roller installed near the scan drum to closely wind the image plate on the surface of the scan drum; and an electric power means for applying torque to the scan drum. The slide mounting type or up-mounting type of cassette can be attached to the image plate transfer device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicant: 3D Imaging & Simulations Corp
    Inventors: Asbjorn Smitt, Sung Woon Lee
  • Publication number: 20110200174
    Abstract: The invention relates to an X-ray cassette (42, 50, 78, 82) for a phosphor storage plate (20), having two openings (14, 44) for inserting the phosphor storage plate (20) into the X-ray cassette (42, 50, 78, 82) and for withdrawing the phosphor storage plate (20) arranged in the X-ray cassette (42, 50, 78, 82) from the cassette. Two flaps (18, 48, 54, 80, 84) are also provided for closing the two openings (14, 44). The invention also relates to a system (10) comprising said type of X-ray cassette (42, 50, 78, 82) and a reading out device (34) for reading out the phosphor storage plate (20) arranged in the X-ray cassette (42, 50, 78, 82). The reading-out device (34) comprises a feeding element (32) for feeding the X-ray cassette (42, 50, 78, 82) into the device. Said feeding element (32) is designed in such a manner that if the X-ray cassette (42, 50, 78, 82) is fed into the feeding element with one of its openings (14), the other opening (44) of the X-ray cassette (42, 50, 78, 82) is accessible to an operator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2009
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Applicant: AGFA HEALTHCARE NV
    Inventor: Anton Pirmann
  • Publication number: 20110075816
    Abstract: A film support includes a plate for supporting a film member against an underside of a target structure and a shaft for supporting the plate. The shaft includes a first end and a second end. The shaft first end is rotatably coupled to the plate and the shaft second end is configured to engage a supporting surface below the plate such that the plate is capable of being releasably positioned between the target structure underside and the shaft such that the film member is supported against the target structure underside.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: James Davis
  • Patent number: 7785006
    Abstract: A medical diagnostic apparatus using X-ray photography and having a length-adjustable arm structure is disclosed. The medical diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention comprises an X-ray generation unit, a first arm moving the X-ray generation unit forward and backward, a detector unit, a second arm connected to the detector unit, and a main body, a vertical drive motor and a rotational drive motor. The second arm comprises a guide rod connected to the main body; a drive motor rotating the guide rod; and a guide groove unit including a guide rod hole which is screw-fitting with the guide rod; a second guide plate disposed on both sides of the guide rod, and a guide rail formed on an inside of the second guide plate; a plurality of rollers to contact with the guide rail, and a guide rail groove to insert the guide rail therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Inventor: Ik-Han Kim
  • Publication number: 20090225956
    Abstract: A medical diagnostic apparatus using X-ray photography and having a length-adjustable arm structure is disclosed. The medical diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention comprises an X-ray generation unit, a first arm moving the X-ray generation unit forward and backward, a detector unit, a second arm connected to the detector unit, and a main body, a vertical drive motor and a rotational drive motor. The second arm comprises a guide rod connected to the main body; a drive motor rotating the guide rod; and a guide groove unit including a guide rod hole which is screw-fitting with the guide rod; a second guide plate disposed on both sides of the guide rod, and a guide rail formed on an inside of the second guide plate; a plurality of rollers to contact with the guide rail, and a guide rail groove to insert the guide rail therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventor: Ik-Han KIM
  • Patent number: 7573034
    Abstract: An apparatus for capturing information associated with an x-ray image recordable on an x-ray imaging plate. The apparatus is configured to be held in a hand of a user of the apparatus and includes a receiving area, a display, a replaceable rechargeable power supply, one or more non-image sensors, and a computer system. The receiving area receives the x-ray image plate or attaches the apparatus to the x-ray imaging plate. The non-image sensors collect information associated with the x-ray image recorded on the x-ray imaging plate. The computer system includes memory, and is configured to receive, measure, store, and subsequently communicate to another computer system, the collected information associated with the x-ray image recorded on the x-ray imaging plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Carestream Health, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael D. Heath, Joshua M. Sibermann
  • Patent number: 7566170
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Inventors: Matthew Aaron Halsmer, Jonathon Carl Boomgaarden
  • Publication number: 20090168970
    Abstract: A cassette tray includes a front clamp, a rear clamp, and opposing side clamps. A front clamp supporting unit supports the front clamp such that the front clamp may be moved in a direction vertical to a surface of the X-ray film cassette. A rear clamp supporting unit supports the rear clamp such that the rear clamp may be moved in a direction parallel to the surface of the X-ray film cassette. A side clamp supporting unit supports the side clamps such that the side clamps may be moved in a direction in which the side clamps are apart from each other and in a direction in which the side clamps are close to each other, wherein the side clamps are driven by a driving unit according to the advance and retreat of the rear clamp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventors: Jiake Xu, Xu Yong
  • Patent number: 7543985
    Abstract: A radiographic apparatus is provided for rotating a radiographic assembly about a virtual pivot axis. The apparatus includes a structure for mounting a radiographic assembly having an x-radiation sensitive element for rotation about a pivot axis coincident with the center line of the element, wherein the structure mounts the assembly at a location other than at the pivot axis and a drive drivingly coupled to the structure for rotating the structure and the mounted radiographic assembly about the pivot axis, wherein the drive is also located at a location other than at the pivot axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Carestream Health, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond P. Chapman, Michael P. Simunek
  • Patent number: 7478947
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Masaaki Kobayashi
  • Publication number: 20080267357
    Abstract: A radiographic apparatus is provided for rotating a radiographic assembly about a virtual pivot axis. The apparatus includes a structure for mounting a radiographic assembly having an x-radiation sensitive element for rotation about a pivot axis coincident with the center line of the element, wherein the structure mounts the assembly at a location other than at the pivot axis and a drive drivingly coupled to the structure for rotating the structure and the mounted radiographic assembly about the pivot axis, wherein the drive is also located at a location other than at the pivot axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventors: Raymond P. Chapman, Michael P. Simunek
  • Patent number: 7425094
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Thomas Dippl, Bernhard Schukalski
  • Patent number: 7348588
    Abstract: These and other objects of the present invention are achieved by an apparatus and process for evaluating an image-wise exposed storage film positioned about a cylindrically-shaped member and linearly passed a cylindrically-shaped slot for interrogation by a light beam wherein a processing assembly is co-axially disposed within a processing chamber formed by the cylindrically-shaped member and wherein the processing assembly includes a plate member disposed for rotation in a plane perpendicular to the axis of the processing chamber and having a pentaprism and a fluorescence light sensor positioned proximate a contact point of the interrogating light beam with the storage film and further including converting electronics for the thus generated fluorescence light wherein after interrogation, the storage film is immediately restored in the same apparatus for subsequent reuse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Air Techniques, Inc.
    Inventors: Edgar Alzner, Walter Gross
  • Patent number: 7306368
    Abstract: An X-ray detector support apparatus is adapted to move an X-ray detector in any of six directions along three orthogonal axes, and keep a detection plane of the X-ray detector in either one of vertical and horizontal positions. The detector support apparatus includes a plurality of indicator devices adapted to indicate the movement directions of the detector and associated with corresponding push buttons for designating movement directions. The detector support apparatus is designed to automatically change a relationship between the movement directions and respective indication of the indicator devices, depending on whether the detection plane is kept in the vertical position or in the horizontal position, and controllably move the detector according to the changed relationship. The X-ray detector support apparatus allows an operator to intuitively designate the movement directions of the detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Shimadzu Corporation
    Inventor: Hirotaka Isono
  • Patent number: 7144158
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Thomas Dippl, Peter Rauh, Claus-Günter Schliermann, Dieter Wöhrl
  • Patent number: 7144157
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Thomas Dippl, Peter Rauh, Claus-Günter Schliermann, Dieter Wöhrl
  • Patent number: 7125164
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: James W. Sekol, Ted G. Young
  • Patent number: 7066645
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: X-Ray Slider, Ltd.
    Inventors: Paul Reid, Ian Luscombe
  • Patent number: 6940948
    Abstract: In order to provide an improved X-ray imaging quality an X-ray detector (14) is equipped with means (13, 15) for orienting it towards an X-ray source (2) during a scan (8a, 8b, 27). Means (9, 10, z) for reorienting a housing (10) comprising the X-ray detector (14) and a conventional cassette holder (4) and detector positioning means (9-12) cooperate to receive an X-ray beam (26a) with improved collimation quality. Thus the detection efficiency is increased, the image resolution is enhanced, and the beam exposure of patients (5) can be minimized. Embodiments relate to a linear X-ray detector (14) designed for a serial readout of image pixels, a collimator (3, 3a, 3b) for both scanning and wide-perture X-ray imaging, and a supporting arm (9) carrying the X-ray source (2), collimator (3) and detector arrangement (17).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: DDI Direct Digital Imaging AG
    Inventors: Vjatcheslav Tretiakov, Andrei Skok, Markus Portmann, Albert Geisser
  • Patent number: 6926441
    Abstract: An articulated x-ray table comprises a planar, rigid radiolucent top support and a base spaced therefrom to form a gap whereby radiographic plates can be inserted and withdrawn. The gap is maintained by the use of one or more trolleys that are moveable along the length of the table to be moved into proximity to the location where the plate is to be inserted. Generally, two of the trolleys are used along either side of the table for placement near the x-ray plate. The trolleys move in grooves or tracks on the edges of the base along the length of the table. Each trolley includes wheels that engage the grooves, and a separate roller that engages the top support. This permits the trolleys to be easily moved along the guide notwithstanding the weight of a patient on the table. The table can be used for animals and humans.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Inventor: Fred T. Stout, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6899459
    Abstract: A patient table including a table assembly and a bucky presentation assembly including at least one rail secured to the assembly, a runner slidably received on the rail, a bucky, and a hinge pivotally connecting the bucky to the runner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Analogic Corporation
    Inventor: Gilbert W. McKenna
  • Patent number: 6899458
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Jörgen Bjerg Damgaard
  • Patent number: 6862762
    Abstract: The patient support apparatus includes a base frame and a patient support assembly. The patient support assembly is pivotably mounted the base frame and is moved by a first actuator to rotate between a horizontal position and an upright position. The patient support assembly includes an upper body portion, a lower body portion and a leg portion. The upper body portion, the lower body portion and the leg portion are pivotably interconnected with a linkage frame so that they can be moved in unison by a second actuator between a supine configuration and an upright, chair shaped configuration. Thus, the patient support apparatus is adjustable between a flat, bed shaped configuration and a seat shaped configuration and is also movable between a horizontal position and an upright position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: WLF, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Michael Karl Johnson, Troy Dell Parson
  • 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
  • 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: 20020176540
    Abstract: A plurality of radiation images of an object is taken in different imaging positions. An area sensor which detects a radiation passing through the object is moved in a direction substantially parallel to the optical axis of the radiation. That the area sensor reaches one of the imaging positions is detected and the radiation is projected onto the area sensor only when the area sensor is in one of the imaging positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Applicant: FUJI PHOTO FILM CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hideyuki Sakaida
  • Patent number: 6450684
    Abstract: An X-ray image receiver is supported through a guide mechanism on a support bench. The guide mechanism consists of a pair of first guide members, a pair of first sliding members, a pair of second sliding members, a pair of third sliding members, a pair of second guide members, and a rotation link member. The first guide members, which are disposed opposite to each other, extend on top of the support bench along the shorter side of the tabletop. The first sliding members are slidably installed on the inside of the first guide members. The second sliding members are slidably installed on the inside of the first sliding members. The third sliding members are secured to the sides of the X-ray image receiver. The second guide members are installed on the outside of the third sliding members. The rotation link member rotatably links the second guide members with the second sliding members. Using a lock lever, the third sliding members are locked so that they do not slide with respect to the second guide members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Masaaki Kobayashi
  • 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: 20010022833
    Abstract: An X-ray image receiver is supported through a guide mechanism on a support bench. The guide mechanism consists of a pair of first guide members, a pair of first sliding members, a pair of second sliding members, a pair of third sliding members, a pair of second guide members, and a rotation link member. The first guide members, which are disposed opposite to each other, extend on top of the support bench along the shorter side of the tabletop. The first sliding members are slidably installed on the inside of the first guide members. The second sliding members are slidably installed on the inside of the first sliding members. The third sliding members are secured to the sides of the X-ray image receiver. The second guide members are installed on the outside of the third sliding members. The rotation link member rotatably links the second guide members with the second sliding members. Using a lock lever, the third sliding members are locked so that they do not slide with respect to the second guide members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Publication date: September 20, 2001
    Inventor: Masaaki Kobayashi
  • 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: 6263043
    Abstract: A medical examination system which allows the production of x-ray exposures in the context of an MR examination without re-situating the patient has a solid-state radiation detector integrated in the patient bed of an MR apparatus, and an adjustably mounted x-ray source with the further x-ray system components being allocated thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Michael Maschke
  • 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: 6095683
    Abstract: An x-ray cassette holder is configured to be coupled to a frame of a bed. The cassette holder apparatus includes first, second, and third tubes. The first and second tubes are coupled for sliding movement as are the second and third tubes. A first channel member is coupled to the first tube and configured to be coupled to the bed frame. A second channel member is coupled to the second tube and configured to be coupled to a first portion of an x-ray cassette. A third channel member is coupled to the third tube and configured to be coupled to a second portion of the x-ray cassette.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Hill-Rom, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard H. Heimbrock, Charles A. Howell