Object Positioning Or Aligning Patents (Class 378/20)
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Patent number: 7934869Abstract: Embodiment of the invention describes a system and a method for positioning an object from a first pose to a second pose. The method displays concurrently a first image and a second image on a display device, wherein the first image and the second image represent respectively the first pose and the second pose of the object. The method updates, in response to a change in a pose of the display device, the second image such that an alignment of the first image and the second image on the display device depends on the change in the pose of the display device, and positions the object from the first pose to the second pose based on the change in the pose of the display device.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2009Date of Patent: May 3, 2011Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Research Labs, Inc.Inventors: Yuri A. Ivanov, John C. Barnwell, III, Andrea E. G. Bradshaw
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Publication number: 20110075798Abstract: A method for correcting truncated projection data of a rotation for a reconstruction technique for computed tomography scans with truncated projection data in the computed tomography images produced by a C-arm is proposed. At least one truncated projection is recorded. The truncated portions prior to acquisition of the rotation for the at least one truncated projection is captured. The truncated projection and the truncated portions are assembled into at least one complete projection. Truncated projection data is acquired during the rotation. The truncated data is estimated based on a model of the patient geometry from the at least one complete projection. A reconstruction technique is performed on the basis of the acquired and the estimated data.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2010Publication date: March 31, 2011Inventors: Jan Boese, Klaus Klingenbeck
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Patent number: 7916832Abstract: A control device of a breast image radiographing apparatus relating to the present invention controls a driving device, in response to a press-down of a position adjustment switch of an input device, so as to adjust the position of a subject table. The position of compression board is adjusted by the operator such as a radiographing technician, the subject H is pressed and fixed, and when the enlargement factor of the phase contrast radiographing is inputted through the input device, the control device controls a driving device according to the positions of the subject table and the compression board and the inputted enlargement factor, so as to make a holding member ascend and descend and thereby the relative distances of the subject table to a radiation source and to a radiation image detector are adjusted to distances satisfying the enlargement factor=(R1+R2)/R1.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2006Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Assignee: Konica Minolta Medical & Graphic, Inc.Inventors: Hirotaka Hara, Mamoru Umeki, Hisashi Yonekawa, Sumiya Nagatsuka, Tomonori Gido
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Patent number: 7909036Abstract: A head holder made of radiolucent material is attached near an end of a table to support a head of a patient during a CT scan. The head holder includes a base portion that supports the shoulders and upper back of the patient and a head rest that supports a patient's head. The head holder is moveable relative to the table in a direction that is generally parallel to a length of the table. A position of the head rest is adjustable in a vertical direction relative to the base portion. The radiolucent material of the head holder does not affect the quality of a resulting CT scan.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2008Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Assignee: Xoran Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Michael Thomas Kusner, Jr., James A. Bertolina, William C. Van Kampen, Joseph Webster Stayman, Jonathan Alspaugh
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Patent number: 7881426Abstract: A method for generating an image of an object using a scanning system includes performing a first portion of a scan in a first scanning mode to acquire a first dataset, receiving a halt command for a conveyor within the scanning system, decelerating the conveyor to a halt based on the halt command using a conveyor controller, and, when the object is present within an examination region after the conveyor has halted, performing a second portion of the scan in a second scanning mode to acquire a second dataset. The second scanning mode is different than the first scanning mode. The method also includes reconstructing the first dataset using a first reconstruction algorithm and reconstructing the second dataset using a second reconstruction algorithm. The second reconstruction algorithm is different than the first reconstruction algorithm. The image is generated using the first reconstructed dataset and the second reconstructed dataset.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2009Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Assignee: Morpho Detection, Inc.Inventors: Samit Kumar Basu, Jian Gao, Steven Leslie Hills, Eugene Alex Ingerman, Pierfrancesco Landolfi, Sussan Pourjavid-Granfors
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Publication number: 20110019796Abstract: A method and system for automated testing and/or measurement of a plurality of substantially identical components by means of X-ray radiation comprises a testing/measuring device with an X-ray device, a protection cabin surrounding the testing/measuring device, a conveying device for continuously conveying components to or away from the testing/measuring device, and a control/evaluation unit, which is set up for automated control of the system and for evaluation of the X-ray signals. The testing/measuring device comprises a support and a rotor mounted on the support so as to be continuously rotatable, the X-ray device being arranged on the rotor and the conveying device being set up for serial conveying of the components through the rotor and the control/evaluation unit for computer tomographic evaluation of the X-ray signals.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2010Publication date: January 27, 2011Applicant: GE SENSING & INSPECTION TECHNOLOGIES GMBHInventors: MICHAEL WUESTENBECKER, INGO STUKE
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Patent number: 7874030Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention may provide a cradle transferring device, which moves and withdraws a cradle to and from an examination table of an MRI apparatus in a PET-MRI hybrid system. The cradle transferring device includes: a cradle, on which a subject lies; a shuttle table supporting the cradle and moving and withdrawing the cradle to and from the examination table of the MRI apparatus; and a cradle receiving member provided on the examination table of the MRI apparatus. The shuttle table is provided with a transfer member for holding and transferring the cradle and a transfer member driving means for reciprocating the transfer member along the shuttle table. The cradle transferring device is further provided with a cradle locking means, which locks the cradle to the examination table after the cradle is moved to the examination table.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2007Date of Patent: January 25, 2011Assignee: Gachon University of Medicine & Science Industry—Academic Cooperation FoundationInventors: Zang Hee Cho, Cheol Ok Lee, Young Bo Kim, Ja Weon Yun, Hyung Jin Ahn, Dong Sung Kim, Hong Shim
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Patent number: 7876875Abstract: Computed tomography (CT) systems and related methods involving multi-target inspection are provided are provided. In this regard, a representative method includes: simultaneously directing X-rays toward multiple targets from an X-ray source; during the directing of the X-rays, independently reorienting the targets with respect to the X-ray source; and obtaining information corresponding to attenuation of the X-rays attributable to the multiple targets for producing computed tomography images of the targets.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2008Date of Patent: January 25, 2011Assignee: United Technologies Corp.Inventors: Rodney H. Warner, Royce McKim
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Publication number: 20110007867Abstract: A radiation therapy system including a radiation therapy apparatus for generating a therapeutic treatment beam, with which an object is irradiated, an imaging apparatus for generating a medical image of the object, and a positioning apparatus, with which the object is positioned in the radiation therapy system for irradiation and imaging purposes, is provided. The imaging apparatus and the radiation therapy apparatus are both rotatably mounted so that the object is positioned in a first rotation state in the imaging apparatus and is positioned in the radiation therapy apparatus in a second rotation state.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2010Publication date: January 13, 2011Inventor: FRANZ FADLER
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Patent number: 7869562Abstract: A patient positioning system for positioning a patient relative to radiographic equipment. The system includes: a 3D optical imaging system for optically scanning the patient, such 3D optical imaging system having a focal plane and providing, for each position on the object, data representative of the intensity of reflected energy received by the system from such position and data representative of distance from such position on the object to the focal plane; a table apparatus for supporting the patient and for moving the table relative to the radiographic equipment in response to positioning signals; and a processor responsive to data from the radiographic equipment and the data from the a 3D optical imaging system for producing the positioning signals. The system enables a method for displaying temporal changes in a patient positioned with a bore of radiographic equipment.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2009Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Ali Khamene, Stefan Käpplinger, Gabriel Haras, Eike Rietzel
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Patent number: 7857513Abstract: To realize a method of automatically identifying a table apparatus and a medical imaging apparatus. There is provided a table apparatus identifying method in which when a table apparatus having a plurality of movable portions that are movable in the respective axial directions, independently, an absolute position of each of the movable portions on the axis is detected with respect to each of the axes, the passages of the movable portion at the predetermined two positions apart from each other by the given distance along the axis are optically detected, the respective absolute positions of the movable portion at that time is stored as characterization information, and the arrivals of the movable portion at two block positions on both ends of the axis are detected, respectively, and the respective absolute positions of the movable portion at that time are stored as the configuration information.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2007Date of Patent: December 28, 2010Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLCInventor: Qinglei Li
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Publication number: 20100322377Abstract: Provided is a medical X-ray CT imaging apparatus including: a base (22); a support part (30) including a support arm part (30) that supports an X-ray source (36) and an X-ray detector (37) so as to be opposed to each other, and a rotation support part that supports the support arm part (32) in a rotatable manner with respect to the base (22); and a rotary drive part that rotatively drives the support part (30). At least one of the base (22) and the rotary support part (40) includes a cavity (48) forming a space around a rotation axis (A). The cavity (48) is provided with a cylindrical body (60) disposed in a rotatable state with respect to the support part (30).Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2010Publication date: December 23, 2010Inventor: Ryuichiro Niizeki
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Patent number: 7856080Abstract: For facilitating the optimal positioning of a patient resting on the couch of a C-arm computed tomography system, an input is received, via individual pixels or areas of pixels selected in a predetermined image data set, thus enabling the area of interest to be highlighted. Image data of the patient resting on the couch is acquired. These two processes together make it possible to calculate the position, relative to the couch, of a marked-out point that is to coincide with the isocenter for the rotation of the C-arm, and from this at least one coordinate that serves to define the position of the couch can be derived. If this coordinate is displayed, a doctor performing the treatment can move the couch to the appropriate position by hand. The couch can also be designed to be automatically movable by electric motors after determining the coordinate.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2008Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Klaus Klingenbeck-Regn
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Publication number: 20100310040Abstract: A CT system includes a scintillator array having a first length in an axial direction of the CT system, the scintillator array includes a plurality of scintillator cells along the first length. The CT system includes a controller configured to repeatedly position a subject fore and aft along the axial direction and over a second length of the CT system, the second length greater than the first length, energize an x-ray source to emit x-rays toward the subject while the subject is being repeatedly positioned, and obtain non-uniform projection data of the subject from the scintillator array, the non-uniform projection data comprising the x-rays received from the x-ray source while the subject is repeatedly positioned.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 3, 2009Publication date: December 9, 2010Inventors: Jiang Hsieh, Paul E. Licato, Akira Hagiwara, Mark Vincent Profio, Karen Ann Procknow, Saad Ahmed Sirohey, Srinivas Aluri, Olga Imas
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Patent number: 7844027Abstract: System and method for XRD-based false alarm resolution in computed tomography (“CT”) threat detection systems. Following a scan of an object with a megavoltage CT-based threat detection system, a suspicious area in the object is identified. The three dimensional position of the suspicious area is used to determine a ray path for the XRD-based threat detection system that provides minimal X-ray attenuation. The object is then positioned for XRD scanning of the suspicious area along this determined ray path. The XRD-based threat detection system is configured to detect high density metals (“HDMs) as well as shielded Special Nuclear Materials (“SNMs”) based on cubic or non-cubic diffraction profiles.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2009Date of Patent: November 30, 2010Assignee: Morpho Detection, Inc.Inventors: Geoffrey Harding, Joseph Bendahan
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Patent number: 7838852Abstract: A medical radiation apparatus has a beam source and a deflection apparatus, which can be activated by means of a data processing device according to a radiation schedule generated using a recording of tissue to be irradiated produced using a medical imaging diagnosis device, said data processing device being set up for data purposes such that characteristics of the radiation acting on the tissue according to different irradiation scenarios can be visualized in a common display.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2006Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Eike Rietzel
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Patent number: 7835489Abstract: An apparatus and a method is proposed which allow for a simplified patient positioning based on the selection of a region of interest for the tomographic image of the dentition of a patient. The region of interest is selected on a previously acquired panoramic image of the dentition of the patient.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2009Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: Cefla S.C.Inventors: Nunzio Alberto Borghese, Iuri Frosio, Eros Nanni, Gerardo Rinaldi, Giuseppe Rotondo
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Patent number: 7831294Abstract: A system and method are provided for control of a navigation system for deploying a medical device within a subject, and for enhancement of a display image of anatomical features for viewing the projected location and movement of medical devices, and projected locations of a variety of anatomical features and other spatial markers in the operating region. The display of the X-ray imaging system information is augmented in a manner such that a physician can more easily become oriented in three dimensions with the use of a single-plane X-ray display. The projection of points and geometrical shapes within the subject body onto a known imaging plane can be obtained using associated imaging parameters and projective geometry.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2004Date of Patent: November 9, 2010Assignee: Stereotaxis, Inc.Inventor: Raju R. Viswanathan
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Patent number: 7827635Abstract: A subject loading system is provided for moving a subject disposed in an isolation zone into and out of a diagnostic system disposed outside the isolation zone. A tube extends away from the isolation zone. The tube has an inner volume open to the isolation zone and operatively coupled with the diagnostic system. An elongated subject support pallet is disposed in the isolation zone and dimensioned to fit into the tube. A base including a mechanical drive is disposed in the isolation zone and is configured to align the elongated subject support pallet with the tube and to move the elongated subject support pallet into and out of the tube.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2007Date of Patent: November 9, 2010Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventors: Zhengyan Wang, Steven J. Plummer, Jacin C. Barnes, Matthew D. Fleischhauer, Michael G. Ambrosia, Dennis K. Everett, Robert G. Henderson
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Publication number: 20100278300Abstract: An apparatus for cone beam computed tomography of an extremity has a digital radiation detector and a first device to move the detector along a circular detector path extending so that the detector moves both at least partially around a first extremity of the patient and between the first extremity and a second, adjacent extremity. The detector path has radius R1 sufficient to position the extremity approximately centered in the detector path. There is a radiation source with a second device to move the source along a concentric circular source path having a radius R2 greater than radius R1, radius R2 sufficiently long to allow adequate radiation exposure of the first extremity for an image capture by the detector. A first circumferential gap in the source path allows the second extremity to be positioned in the first circumferential gap during image capture.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2010Publication date: November 4, 2010Inventors: John Yorkston, Robert Asento, Jeffrey H. Siewerdsen, David H. Foos
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Patent number: 7826587Abstract: A CT system includes a gantry, an x-ray source, a generator configured to energize the x-ray source to a first kVp and to a second kVp, a detector, and a controller. The controller is configured energize the x-ray source to the first kVp for a first time period, subsequently energize the x-ray source to the second kVp for a second time period, integrate data for a first integration period that includes a portion of a steady-state period of the x-ray source at the first kVp, integrate data for a second integration period that includes a portion of a steady-state period of the x-ray source at the second kVp, compare a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) during the first integration period (SNRH) and the second integration period (SNRL), adjust an operating parameter of the CT system to optimize an SNRH with SNRL, and generate an image using the integrated data.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2009Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: David Allen Langan, John Eric Tkaczyk, James Walter LeBlanc, Colin R. Wilson, Xiaoye Wu, Dan Xu, Thomas Matthew Benson, Jed Douglas Pack
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Publication number: 20100272229Abstract: At least one non-stationary coil in a magnetic resonance tomography system is attached with a fastener to a displaceable bed. The fastener has a position detector incorporated therein to determine the position or a component of the position of the non-stationary coil. The portion of the position is, for example, the position along the axis of symmetry of the measurement tube.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 21, 2010Publication date: October 28, 2010Inventors: Stephan Biber, Carl Udo Maier, Jochen Ostermaier, Kay Uwe Seemann
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Patent number: 7822462Abstract: A diagnosis device having a device for producing a series of images, such as a computer tomography device or an ultrasound device. There is also a device for the passive movement of an object and a device that can be stereotactically moved independent of the passive movement object, wherein this stereotactial movement object can be driven by a motor. These two devices can be arranged on or in the diagnosis device to perform a treatment or examination. By controlling the diagnosis device, it is possible to produce a series of images in real time during a passive movement of an object or of the device for performing a treatment or examination.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2005Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Inventor: Ilan Elias
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Patent number: 7817774Abstract: The present invention provides a system 10 for irradiating a breast 20 of a patient 22. The system 10 comprises a gantry 12 rotatable about a horizontal axis 14 and comprising a radiation source 16 for generating a radiation beam 18 and a detector 24 spaced from the radiation source 16, and a barrier 26 disposed between the patient 22 and the gantry 12. The barrier 26 is provided with an opening 30 adapted to allow a breast 20 passing therethrough to be exposed to the radiation beam 18. In some embodiments, the barrier 26 is provided with an opening 30 adapted to allow both the breast 20 and the tissue leading from the breast to axilla and the muscle tissue of the adjacent chest wall passing therethrough to be exposed to the radiation beam 18.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2008Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Assignee: Varian Medical Systems, Inc.Inventors: Larry D. Partain, David Humber
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Patent number: 7807981Abstract: A data processing device, comprising a plurality of emitter antennas arranged on a movable data acquisition device and adapted to emit electromagnetic radiation including data acquired by the movable data acquisition device, a plurality of receiver antennas each adapted to receive the electromagnetic radiation emitted by each of the plurality of emitter antennas, and a data processing unit coupled to the plurality of receiver antennas and adapted to extract the data acquired by the movable data acquisition device from the electromagnetic radiation received by the plurality of receiver antennas.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2006Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventors: Thomas Frach, Gereon Vogtmeier
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Patent number: 7809102Abstract: An apparatus and method for optimally positioning a region of interest of a subject for imaging by a CT scanner. The scanner provides a source of one or more X-ray beams, at least one of which is used for acquiring a CT image of the subject, a movable support for the subject, and a controller that controls the X-ray source. To position the region of interest of the subject, the controller operates to illuminate the subject with X-rays to acquire stereo image data for the region of interest and controls the position of the support responsive to the stereo image data.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2008Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Assignee: Arineta Ltd.Inventors: Rafael Brada, Ehud Dafni
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Patent number: 7792242Abstract: There are provided an X-ray CT system and an X-ray CT method in which a subject can be brought as close as possible to an X-ray source at all times while preventing interference of the subject with the X-ray source at the time of rotation, without confirmation by an operator by rotating a rotary stage before CT projection. A subject W placed on a rotary stage 3 is captured by an optical camera 6, and information about a shape, a size and a position relative to a rotational axis R, of the subject W, are acquired by image processing using captured data. Then, interference between the subject W and an X-ray source 1 is monitored on the basis of the information, or the rotary stage 3 is automatically positioned at a location where the subject approaches most closely to the X-ray source 1 without interference.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2005Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: Shimadzu CorporationInventor: Masayuki Kamegawa
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Patent number: 7787929Abstract: A control system for medical equipment comprises an examination/treatment system, an optical detection system which is operably affixed to the examination/treatment system and configured to collect data corresponding to detected gestural inputs made by an operator in relation to a targeted examination/treatment area on a patient positioned on a patient examination apparatus, and an evaluation system configured to adjust operation parameters of the examination/treatment system as a function of the collected gestural input data communicated by the optical detection system.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2004Date of Patent: August 31, 2010Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Robert Kagermeier
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Patent number: 7787927Abstract: In one embodiment, an adaptive medical image registration procedure includes a motion estimation procedure involving estimating or determining an amount of patient or tissue motion along a set of axes; an evaluation procedure involving evaluating an estimated amount of motion relative to a correction threshold; and a correction procedure involving performing a two dimensional image resampling, a three dimensional image resampling, or possibly avoiding an image resampling based upon a relationship between an estimated amount of motion and the correction threshold. Axes considered by a motion estimation procedure may include an axis of lowest image resolution, and the correction threshold may have a value given by a fraction of a lowest image resolution.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2003Date of Patent: August 31, 2010Assignee: Merge CAD Inc.Inventors: Chris H. Wood, Tanya L. Niemeyer
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Publication number: 20100215143Abstract: A method for scanning a stream of objects includes continuously acquiring raw data of the stream of objects using an X-ray system including a detector, determining a leading edge and a trailing edge of a first object of the stream of objects from the raw data acquired by the detector using a control system, processing acquired raw data of the first object based on the determined leading edge and the determined trailing edge using the control system, and reconstructing an image of the first object using at least the processed raw data. A system configured to perform the method is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 24, 2009Publication date: August 26, 2010Inventors: Samit Kumar BASU, Pierfrancesco LANDOLFI, Eugene Alex INGERMAN, Jian GAO, Mikhail KOURINNY
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Publication number: 20100215144Abstract: A method for generating an image of an object using a scanning system includes performing a first portion of a scan in a first scanning mode to acquire a first dataset, receiving a halt command for a conveyor within the scanning system, decelerating the conveyor to a halt based on the halt command using a conveyor controller, and, when the object is present within an examination region after the conveyor has halted, performing a second portion of the scan in a second scanning mode to acquire a second dataset. The second scanning mode is different than the first scanning mode. The method also includes reconstructing the first dataset using a first reconstruction algorithm and reconstructing the second dataset using a second reconstruction algorithm. The second reconstruction algorithm is different than the first reconstruction algorithm. The image is generated using the first reconstructed dataset and the second reconstructed dataset.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2009Publication date: August 26, 2010Inventors: Samit Kumar Basu, Jian Gao, Steven Leslie Hills, Eugene Alex Ingerman, Pierfrancesco Landolfi, Sussan Pourjavid-Granfors
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Patent number: 7783001Abstract: An X-ray CT apparatus includes image reconstructing device which specifies a first imaging range, a second imaging range and a third imaging range located between the first imaging range and the second imaging range in association with each position on a body axis of a subject, image-reconstructs a tomographic image included in the first imaging range using a first projection data amount necessary for image reconstruction of the tomographic image, image-reconstructs a tomographic image included in the second imaging range using a second projection data amount less than the first projection data amount, and image-reconstructs a tomographic image included in the third imaging range using a third projection data amount less than the first projection data amount and greater than the second projection data amount.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2008Date of Patent: August 24, 2010Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLCInventor: Akira Hagiwara
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Patent number: 7775715Abstract: A method of calibrating a computed tomography system includes the steps of mounting a scan geometry defining tool on a rotating object positioning unit of a computer tomography scanner. The scan geometry defining tool has structure of precisely measured dimensions. A beam is directed from an x-ray source of the computed tomography system through the structure of the scan geometry defining tool. A detected image after absorption of the x-ray from the scan geometry defining tool is analyzed, and utilized to determine a distance from the x-ray source spot location to the center of rotation of the object positioning unit. A beam is also directed from the x-ray source through a system performance test standard tool and analyzes a number of electronic and computer performance characteristics. The analyzed characteristics can be compared to expected characteristics to provide feedback on the operation of electronic and computer functions within the computed tomography system.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2008Date of Patent: August 17, 2010Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventors: Rodney H. Warner, Edwin L. Strickland, III, Henry W. Sikorski
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Patent number: 7773719Abstract: A method to obtain a patient based organ model from patient data, having steps of obtaining a computerized organ model based upon at least one data set of patients, the computerized organ model having a set of classifiers that are used to determine physical parameters of the patients heart, placing the patient in a diagnostic scanner device, taking representative data images of a patients organ while changing position of the image scan, the data images taken with ECG synchronization; and preparing the patient based organ model by evaluating the representative data images of the patients organ with the set of classifiers in the computerized organ model.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2008Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc.Inventors: Adam K. Galant, Dorin Comaniciu
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Patent number: 7760852Abstract: An X-CT scan system includes a base, an object rotary support, an X-ray generation device and a data acquisition system, wherein one side of the detector is leveled to or beyond the prolong line of the connecting line between the X-ray source of the X-ray generation device and the center of the object rotary support, the length of the beyond portion is less than the radius of the imaging field. The advantage of the invention is in that the invention can reconstruct the entire image of the object by means of X-ray projection data which only covers half of the area of the object. Compared with the traditional CT scan system, half of the detector size can be saved at most. The X-CT scan system is simplified and the projection data amount for scan and computation amount for image reconstruction are also reduced with the reconstructed image quality guaranteed.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2006Date of Patent: July 20, 2010Assignees: Tsinghua University, Nuctech Company LimitedInventors: Zhiqiang Chen, Kejun Kang, Li Zhang, Haifeng Hu, Yuxiang Xing, Liang Li, Yongshun Xiao, Ziran Zhao, Yuanjing Li, Yinong Liu
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Patent number: 7761136Abstract: In a storing unit of a medical image processing apparatus, first 3D image corresponding to a first period and second 3D image data corresponding to a second period are stored. The first 3D image data corresponds to a period before contrast agent injection operation and/or therapeutic operation. The second 3D image data corresponds to a period after the contrast agent injection operation and/or therapeutic operation. A 3D subtracting unit subtracts the first 3D image data from the second 3D image data. In 3D subtraction image data, a portion having undergone a change due to contrast agent injection operation and/or therapeutic operation is emphasized. A pseudo 3D image data generating unit generates pseudo 3D image data on the basis of 3D subtraction image data. A displaying unit displays the pseudo 3D image data.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2005Date of Patent: July 20, 2010Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Satoru Ohishi, Kunio Aoki
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Publication number: 20100177867Abstract: A computed tomography system (100) includes a stationary gantry (104) that houses at least one x-ray source (112) that rotates about an examining region (120) and at least one detector (116) that resides opposite the examining region (120) from the at least one x-ray source (112). The stationary gantry (104) further includes an annular ring (132) disposed about the examination region (120) in a path of the x-ray beam between the at least one x-ray source (112) and the at least one detector (116), wherein the annular ring (132) is substantially opaque to visible light.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2007Publication date: July 15, 2010Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N. V.Inventors: Peter J. Kozelj, Harry A. Gray, JR., Joanne M. Stack-Oyen
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Publication number: 20100177866Abstract: [PROBLEMS] To eliminate the pain of an examinee. A very high diagnosing accuracy is realized with a minimum exposure dose. [MEANS FOR SOLVING PROBLEMS] A breast inspection system comprising a CT device (3) provided with a suction cups (1) each having on the inner surface thereof a suction recess (4) sucked to the chest of the examinee (20) and sucking a breast (21) in a non-clamping state, a sucker (2) for sucking a breast (21) to the suction recess (4) of a suction cup (1), and a housing unit (5) capable of placing suction cups (1) thereinside, wherein suction cups (1) are placed in the housing unit (5), and breasts (21) are irradiated with radiation ray by the CT device (3) to pick up the tomographic images of the breasts (21). The inspection system uses a sucker (2) to suck breasts (21) into the suction recesses (4) to allow them to protrude from the chest, and places the protruding breasts (21) in the housing unit (5) via suction cups (1).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 31, 2006Publication date: July 15, 2010Inventor: Keizi Shibuya
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Patent number: 7756244Abstract: A system for determining a position of an object includes a block having a base, and a plurality of elongate members secured to the block. A system for determining a position of an object includes a processor configured to obtain an image of portions of respective elongated members, and determine a position of an object that is coupled to the plurality of elongated members. A method of determining a position of an object includes obtaining a first image of portions of respective elongated members, and determining a first position of an object using the first image.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2006Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Assignee: Varian Medical Systems, Inc.Inventor: Hassan Mostafavi
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Patent number: 7756242Abstract: The present invention is directed to realize an X-ray CT apparatus and a scan control method of performing contrast imaging by a helical shuttle scan with a smaller exposure amount. An X-ray CT apparatus for performing contrast imaging by repeating a reciprocating helical scan on a region in a subject repeats the helical shuttle scan (solid-line arrow) including, in shuttle (broken-line arrow) of a helical shuttle scan using an X-ray of a first X-ray dose, a helical scan using an X-ray of a second X-ray dose higher than the first X-ray dose. The start timing of the helical scan using the X-ray of the second X-ray dose is determined on the basis of a change in the CT number of a region of interest of an image captured by a helical scan using the X-ray of the first X-ray dose.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2008Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLCInventor: Masayuki Kudo
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Publication number: 20100172468Abstract: A mobile medical imaging device that allows for multiple support structures, such as a tabletop or a seat, to be attached, and in which the imaging gantry is indexed to the patient by translating up and down the patient axis. In one embodiment, the imaging gantry can translate, rotate and/or tilt with respect to a support base, enabling imaging in multiple orientations, and can also rotate in-line with the support base to facilitate easy transport and/or storage of the device. The imaging device can be used in, for example, x-ray computed tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) applications.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2009Publication date: July 8, 2010Applicant: MOBIUS IMAGING, LLCInventor: Eugene A. Gregerson
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Publication number: 20100172469Abstract: The present invention provides a method for estimation of retrospective and real-time 3D target position by a single imager. The invention includes imaging a target on at least one 2D plane to determine 2D position and/or position components of the target, and resolving a position and/or position component along at least one imager axis of the target using a spatial probability density. The present invention provides a probability-based method for accurate estimation of the mean position, motion magnitude, motion correlation, and trajectory of a tumor from CBCT projections. The applicability of the method for tumors with periodic respiratory motion and for prostate are provided. Clinical feasibility is demonstrated for a pancreas tumor. The method includes monoscopic tracking of the 3D prostate position utilizing the spatial probability density to estimate the unresolved motion from the resolved motion. The method is applicable to prostate tracking even with a population-based probability density.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 1, 2009Publication date: July 8, 2010Inventors: Per Rugaard Poulsen, Byungchul Cho, Katja Langen, Patrick Kupelian, Paul J. Keall
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Patent number: 7736056Abstract: A bed and gurney extender for selective attachment to a standard hospital bed or gurney for supporting the head of a patient during scanning, comprising: a support for supporting the head of the patient during scanning, wherein at least a portion of the support is X-ray transparent; and an adapter for selectively attaching the support to the bed or gurney.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2007Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Assignee: NeuroLogica Corp.Inventors: Andrew P. Tybinkowski, Lidia Nemirovsky
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Patent number: 7729469Abstract: An X-ray imaging apparatus includes an X-ray imaging unit, rotating unit configured to rotate a subject about an axis of rotation relative to the X-ray imaging unit, supporting unit configured to support the subject, and a limiting unit configured to limit the range in which the X-ray imaging unit is moveable along the axis of rotation depending on the position of the supporting means relative to the axis of rotation.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2008Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Masaaki Kobayashi
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Patent number: 7720522Abstract: This document discusses, among other things, fiducial marker devices, tools, and methods. One example illustrates a combined imagable fiducial locator and divot for receiving a positioning wand of an image-guided surgical (IGS) workstation. A further example is reflective such that it is locatable by a remote detector of an optical positioning system. A generally cylindrical (e.g., faceted cylindrical) columnar locator permits easy application of reflective tape. Other examples discusses a unitary fiducial marker with multiple divots and a swiveling and/or tilted fiducial marker divot, each of which allows manipulation of a positioning wand into a remote camera's field of view. Another example includes at least one reflector that can be aimed. A further example discusses an imagable fiducial marker carrier that is attachable to a single location on a patient's skull to reduce trauma.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2003Date of Patent: May 18, 2010Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventors: Matthew S. Solar, Thomas L. Bridges, David Lee, Mark Stephen Freas
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Patent number: 7720191Abstract: This invention relates to a computer tomography apparatus, especially to a computer tomography apparatus intended for use in connection with odontological diagnostics. In the computer tomography apparatus according to the invention, it is essential that one has arranged thereto, in addition to a computer tomography imaging station, a second imaging station comprising second patient support means 16? at a distance from said computer tomography imaging station. The invention enables more versatile odontological imaging than prior art apparatuses, whereby one does not have to acquire to the clinic, in addition to the computer tomography apparatus, e.g. a separate skull-imaging device.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2006Date of Patent: May 18, 2010Assignee: Planmeca OyInventor: Timo Muller
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Patent number: 7714304Abstract: A computer tomography measuring device includes a radiation source for generating invasive radiation, in particular X-rays, and a rotating device which is embodied and arranged in such a way that it enables a measurement object to be rotatable about an axis of rotation of the rotating device, thereby enabling the invasive radiation to penetrate into the measurement object at different angles. A detecting device detects the radiation penetrating through the measurement object. A positioning device provided with an adjusting element is used for adjusting the position of the measurement object with respect to the rotating device.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2006Date of Patent: May 11, 2010Assignee: Carl Zeiss Industrielle Messtechnik GmbHInventors: Christof Poglitsch, Ronald Lonardoni
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Patent number: 7711084Abstract: A CT scanner is employed having a first coordinate system called the CT coordinate system related to the CT scanner for determining an actual position of a structure of an object to be examined. A coordinate measuring instrument (MI) is employed which is either a tactile or an optical or multisensor or an ultrasonic coordinate measuring instrument and which has a second coordinate system, the MI coordinate system, related to said coordinate measuring instrument. According to a variant, a) the coordinates of the object are determined in the MI coordinate system, b) the target position of the structure is predefined, c) after steps a) and b) the target position is determined in the MI coordinate system, d) and, the object is positioned in such a way that the target position of the structure comes to lie within a volume detected by the CT scanner using the result of step c).Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2008Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Assignee: MYCRONA Gesellschaft fur innovative Messtechnik GmbHInventors: Mario Schroeder, Wolfram Schmidt
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Patent number: 7711083Abstract: To enable an artifact free reconstruction even in the case of large regions of interest and with scanning paths of below 360°, provision is made for a method, with which a three-dimensional image volume is reconstructed from a number of two-dimensional projection images of a region of interest, which were recorded about the region of interest during a rotation of a recording system, comprising an x-ray source with a focal point and a detector, by calculating the gray scale values of the voxels of the image volume by back projection of the projection images, with which each two-dimensional projection images is composed in each instance from at least two individual projection images to form an extended two-dimensional projection image, with the respectively at least two individual projection images being recorded with a constant relative position between the focal point and the region of interest.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2007Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Benno Heigl, Stefan Hoppe, Joachim Hornegger, Ernst-Peter Rührnschopf, Holger Scherl, Bernhard Scholz, Michael Zellerhoff
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Patent number: 7706498Abstract: For the purpose of X-ray CT imaging a heart of a subject with high image quality while reducing stress on the subject, once an optimal cardiac phase has been set by an optimal cardiac phase setting section 30b and a target position in a subject to be scanned when the cardiac phase of the subject is at an optimal cardiac phase is defined at a target position defining section 30c, a transport-starting-cardiac-phase calculating section 30b calculates a transport-starting cardiac phase such that the target position is scanned at the optimal cardiac phase, using the optimal cardiac cycle, target position, scan start position, transport speed of an imaging table, and approach-run time for the imaging table. A scan control section starts transport at the imaging table 4 when the cardiac phase of the subject coincides with the transport-starting cardiac phase, and performs a helical scan with a helical pitch of one or more, for example.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2008Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLCInventor: Yasuhiro Imai