Exposure Timer Patents (Class 378/96)
  • Patent number: 11140764
    Abstract: A power supply for an x-ray emitter is disclosed. A voltage source of the power supply is configured to provide an acceleration voltage or a heating voltage between a first internal contact and a second internal contact to, in a first operating mode, supply the x-ray emitter with power. The power supply includes a control device configured, in a second operating mode, to detect a voltage between the first and the second internal contact and/or to detect a current via the first and/or second internal contact. As a function of the detected voltage and/or of the detected current, the control device is configured to activate a warning device for giving a warning and/or to transmit a warning signal. A method is further disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2021
    Assignee: SIEMENS HEALTHCARE GMBH
    Inventors: Florian Bauer, Andreas Boehme, Peter Klinger
  • Patent number: 10939880
    Abstract: An X-ray fluoroscopic imaging apparatus includes a table, an imaging system including an X-ray source and a detector, and an operation panel unit including a plurality of operation input units. The plurality of operation input units include an emergency stop unit and a stop state release unit. The emergency stop unit and the stop state release unit are provided separately from each other at different positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2021
    Assignee: SHIMADZU CORPORATION
    Inventor: Koji Yoshida
  • Patent number: 10925570
    Abstract: A system includes one or more storage devices storing a set of instructions and at least one processor in communication with the storage device. When executing the instructions, the at least one processor is configured to cause the system to obtain a first operating state of an X-ray imaging device, and obtain a first input from a user via a terminal, the first input being associated with a second operating state of the X-ray imaging device. The at least one processor may further cause the system to determine whether the first input satisfies a switch condition. Upon a determination that the first input satisfies the switch condition, the at least one processor may further cause the system to transmit a first instruction to switch the X-ray imaging device from the first operating state to the second operating state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: SHANGHAI UNITED IMAGING HEALTHCARE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yongqin Xiao, Shouyuan Jin
  • Patent number: 10834806
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for an automatic exposure detection feature for adding to an x-ray panel readout device, including an imaging panel having a low power mode, a sense circuit for receiving an input signal in the low power mode and restricting an input signal voltage to a first voltage, and a sensor for sensing a change in the input signal voltage, wherein the change in input signal voltage indicates exposure to an x-ray signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: ANALOG DEVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Gary R. Carreau
  • Patent number: 10045750
    Abstract: A radiation image photographing system includes: a radiation generator installed on a round visit cart or a transportable radiation generator; and an FPD cassette including a plurality of radiation detecting elements arrayed two-dimensionally, wherein the radiation image photographing system performs videography by photographing a sequence of multiple radiation images using the FPD cassette, and the radiation image photographing system further includes: a calculation device configured to calculate remaining time before the photography of the sequence of multiple radiation images is finished; and a display device configured to display the calculated remaining time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2018
    Assignee: KONICA MINOLTA, INC.
    Inventors: Shin Shinotsuka, Emiel Visser
  • Patent number: 9474499
    Abstract: A method for the determination of the delay time of a radiographic generator and to the setting of a standard value for such delay time. According to the method it is determined by a series of decreasing chosen values for the delay time whether a signal for the confirmation of the start of the radiographic exposure is rendered by the radiographic generator. The last value of the chosen delay time whereby still such a confirmation signal is rendered, is retained as standard operational value for the delay time of the radiographic system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2016
    Assignee: AGFA HEALTHCARE NV
    Inventors: Walter Exelmans, Patrick Pandelaers, Patrick Lambrechts
  • Patent number: 9332949
    Abstract: An extra-oral imaging system having a mount supported on a column that is adjustable in height, wherein the mount supports an x-ray source and at least one imaging sensor that are adjustable in height. A column base section remains stationary during height adjustment. A height sensing apparatus has a contact member that contacts a sensor element to provide a signal that is indicative of the height adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Assignee: TROPHY
    Inventors: Jacques Lemaire, Philippe Congy
  • Patent number: 9001972
    Abstract: A radiation image detection apparatus, includes: a control unit configured to drive an imaging unit so that a radiation image data is acquired, an image receiving unit is reset after acquiring the radiation image data, and a dark image data is acquired; in which: the control unit changes at least one of a reset time of the image receiving unit and a reduction ratio of an reduced image data on the basis of the communication speed by such that the transmission of the reduced image data is completed at least prior to reading-out an electrical charge signal from the image receiving unit when acquiring the dark image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventors: Yasufumi Takahashi, Makoto Sugizaki, Naoto Iwakiri
  • Publication number: 20150085984
    Abstract: A scanning method and device are provided. The method includes: determining values for a first scanning dosage and a second scanning dosage used in a scanning process based on a trigger condition which varies regularly and attenuation fluctuations of an object to be scanned, wherein the first scanning dosage is higher than the second scanning dosage, and at least one of the first scanning dosage and the second scanning dosage has an inconstant value; and scanning a target position with the determined values. In the present disclosure, a scanning dosage may be reduced and different image noises may be kept consistent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2013
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Applicant: Shenyang Neusoft Medical Systems Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Xinliang LI, Ling Pang, Shanshan Lou
  • Publication number: 20150078522
    Abstract: An X-ray imaging system includes an X-ray imaging apparatus and an access controller, which controls communication access of the X-ray imaging apparatus having an electronic cassette for forming an X-ray image and wirelessly transmitting the X-ray image. Before the electronic cassette starts transmitting the X-ray image, a priority request signal for priority of the first radio communication channel to the electronic cassette over a portable terminal device of radio communication is received. Upon receiving the priority request signal, presence of the portable terminal device is checked, in which a radio communication channel of overlap of frequency on the first radio communication channel is used. In presence of the portable terminal device with the overlap, the portable terminal device is regulated in communication regulation while the electronic cassette transmits the X-ray image. Also, the X-ray imaging apparatus is communicable by use of a communication network in wireless communication connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Applicant: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuhiro MAKINO, Keiji TSUBOTA, Yoshimitsu KUDO, Yasunori OHTA
  • Patent number: 8971494
    Abstract: Besides normal pixels, a plurality detection pixels are arranged in an imaging surface of an FPD. In preliminary imaging, X-rays are emitted to an imaged body portion of a patient. The detection pixels receive the X-rays passed through the body portion, and output AEC detection signals. If an integral value of the AEC detection signals has reached a threshold value, X-ray emission is stopped and the preliminary imaging is completed. A main exposure condition determination unit determines a main irradiation time, being an irradiation time with the X-rays during the main imaging, based on an irradiation time with the X-rays during the preliminary imaging and the integral value of the AEC detection signals. The main imaging is performed using the main irradiation time. The normal pixels continue a charge accumulation operation over the preliminary imaging and the main imaging to produce an X-ray image for use in diagnosis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventor: Takashi Tajima
  • Patent number: 8755490
    Abstract: Disclosed is an X-ray imaging device with which X-ray exposure will not be stopped due to the backup time, causing underexposure, in phototimer imaging, because the body of the subject is thick. A database unit (18) stores a database showing the relationships among a variety of subject (M) body thicknesses (t), X-ray parameters, and imaging times. A search processor (16) searches the aforementioned database for data matching X-ray parameters stored in a parameter storage unit (15) and body thicknesses (t) calculated by a body thickness measurement unit (17), and requests the corresponding imaging time. If the imaging time is longer than the backup time set by an X-ray controller (12), the search processor (16) instructs the X-ray controller (12) to extend the backup time to the imaging time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Shimadzu Corporation
    Inventor: Shoji Takamura
  • Patent number: 8693632
    Abstract: Controlling the timing of acquiring x-ray images based on target movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Accuray Incorporated
    Inventor: John W. Allison
  • Publication number: 20140064454
    Abstract: An X-ray imaging system is provided. The X-ray imaging system includes an X-ray radiation source. The X-ray imaging system also includes a source controller coupled to the source and configured to command emission of X-rays for image exposures. The X-ray imaging system further includes a digital X-ray detector configured to acquire X-ray image data without communication from the source controller, wherein the digital X-ray detector includes a photovoltaic device, and the digital X-ray detector is configured to determine one or more of a beginning, end, or duration of an image exposure via the photovoltaic device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Christopher Alden Hammond, Ping Xue, Diego Fernando Freire Muñoz, Amanda Lynn Pratt, Robert Carl Minnich, Gregory Donald Schumacher-Novak, Michael Lee Spohn
  • Patent number: 8666022
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are described including implantable radiation sensing devices having exposure determination devices that determines cumulative exposure information based on the at least one in vivo measurand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Eric C. Leuthardt, Michael A. Smith, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20130195250
    Abstract: Controls and methods of operating a radiographic device facilitate intuitive control of the device. A touch screen may display selectable items and a processor may have a memory for storing one or more routines for performing functions associated with the selectable items. Some of the selectable items may provide projection shortcuts, in which the memory has stored a predetermined set of voltage and exposure time values for a given projection angle and/or patient body type that are accessed and executed by the processor. Other selectable items may be provided that permit discrete, incremental changes in radiographic device settings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: X-CEL X-RAY CORPORATION
    Inventor: X-Cei X-Ray Corporation
  • Publication number: 20130064348
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are described including implantable radiation sensing devices having exposure determination devices that determines cumulative exposure information based on the at least one in vivo measurand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Eric C. Leuthardt, Michael A. Smith, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, JR.
  • Patent number: 8391441
    Abstract: The present embodiments specify a method and an associated X-ray facility for estimating a radiation dose of an X-ray that is generated by an X-ray source and penetrates an object under examination. First dose values of the X-ray are determined by measurement in an automatic exposure control chamber. A second dose value is determined by estimating the radiation dose that is emitted by an X-ray source in a dead time of the automatic exposure control chamber. The estimated radiation dose is determined by the first dose value and the second dose value last determined being added. The second dose value represents a correction value for a non-measurable dose during the dead time of the automatic exposure control chamber that is taken into account when determining the estimated radiation dose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Johannes Walk, Marcel Wellnitz
  • Publication number: 20120163543
    Abstract: Provided is an X-ray device which can perform X-ray imaging without an object being subjected to ineffective exposure even when the X-ray imaging is interrupted by the occurrence of an error. The X-ray device is provided with an X-ray generator (10), an operation panel (30) configured to set an imaging condition, an X-ray irradiation control unit (92a) configured to control X-ray irradiation in accordance with the imaging condition, an error detecting unit (92c), configured to, during the X-ray irradiation, detect the occurrence of an error by which the X-ray irradiation should be interrupted, an irradiation interrupting unit (92d) configured to interrupt the X-ray irradiation when the occurrence of the error is detected, and a recovery unit (92j) configured to resume the X-ray irradiation for ensuring the X-ray amount defined by the imaging condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2010
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Applicant: HITACHI MEDICAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Miyuki Fuse, Tomokazu Takae
  • Publication number: 20120134474
    Abstract: A radiation imaging system includes a radiation detector for detecting radiation emitted from a radiation generator; a quick-connect unit configured to activate the radiation generator to initiate radiation emission and to activate the radiation detector to initiate detection of the radiation; and a notification unit included within the quick-connect unit that is configured to notify an operator of a time when the radiation detector is ready to detect the radiation. The quick-connect unit is connectable to the radiation detector and the radiation generator without having to make hardware modifications therein. In an alternate embodiment, the quick-connect unit is a handswitch to be held by an operator, where the notification unit notifies the operator that the radiation detector is ready to detect the radiation, by emitting at least one of a visual signal, a tactile signal and an audible signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2011
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Applicant: VIRTUAL IMAGING, INC.
    Inventors: Christopher Duca, Edward Thieman, Michael Markert
  • Publication number: 20110261930
    Abstract: In order to optimize the recording time, provision is made of a method for recording an X-ray image using an X-ray system with an X-ray detector, an X-ray source, a system control, and a computational unit, wherein information relating to the relative direct radiation component in a reference X-ray image and information relating to the utilized recording geometry and/or the utilized primary X-ray dose and/or the utilized filtering is used to determine a relaxation time, during which a ghosting effect of the X-ray detector resulting from a preceding X-ray image decays at least in part, which relaxation time is adapted to the X-ray image to be recorded, and the determined relaxation time is utilized to actuate the recording of the X-ray image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2011
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventors: Bernhard Geiger, Rainer Kaltschmidt, Peter Scheuering, Markus Schild
  • Patent number: 7894575
    Abstract: A radiation image capturing system is provided. A radiation source control device includes a first timing component, and a control component that, when a time of the first timing component has reached a pre-specified exposure start time, controls a radiation source, which emits radiation, and performs control to cause radiation to be irradiated for a predetermined duration from the radiation source. A radiation image capturing device includes a second timing component that measures time, which is synchronized with the first timing component, a sensor portion that generates charges in accordance with irradiation of radiation and that is irradiated with the radiation from the radiation source, and a generation component that, after a time of the second timing component has passed through the predetermined duration from the exposure start time, reads out the charges generated at the sensor portion and generates image data representing a radiation image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventors: Keiji Tsubota, Yutaka Yoshida, Kouichi Kitano, Naoyuki Nishino, Yasunori Ohta
  • Patent number: 7856084
    Abstract: In a computed tomography scanner having an emitter for emitting a beam of given radiation through an object to be analysed, a detector for receiving said beam after the beam itself has traversed the object, and a rotating arm, which supports the emitter and the detector and rotates the emitter and the detector about the object along a series of angular positions, there is generated a succession of first pulses, each of which activates the detector in one respective angular position, and a succession of second pulses for activating the emitter so that it will emit a dose of radiation in each angular position, associated to which is a respective dose of radiation in such a way as to pre-define a distribution of doses of radiation along the series of angular positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Cefla Societa' Cooperativa
    Inventors: Alessandro Pasini, Eros Nanni
  • Publication number: 20100239069
    Abstract: A system and method to manage direction of an ionizing radiation toward an exposed subject is provided. The system can perform receiving a request from a customer to establish an internet connection to communicate between a remote office and the system directing the ionizing radiation toward the exposed subject; automatically communicating a status information and individual dose data associated with an event where direction of ionizing radiation that exceeds a threshold; automatically creating and communicating a report via the internet connection to the customer. The report can include an indication of the event where direction of ionizing radiation exceeds the threshold and a comparison of the individual radiation dose data and an individual status operation of system at time of the event relative to a benchmark defined by radiation dose data and status information acquired from a population of other systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Guillaume Bourdeaux, Jennifer Esposito, David Ysseldyke, Barry Belanger
  • Patent number: 7769137
    Abstract: A portable X-ray detector unit includes a portable, hand-held cassette having exposure detection fields for measuring the level of radiation to which a subject to be imaged is exposed. An Automatic exposure control terminates radiation supplied to a subject when it is determined that the level of exposure exceeds a predetermined threshold as interpreted in the portable detector unit. A user-interface is provided to control the exposure detection fields and/or the automatic exposure control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Hanns-Ingo Maack, Waldermar Lumma
  • Patent number: 7639779
    Abstract: An irradiation dose calculator calculates a pre-exposure-mode-required irradiation dose using the thickness of a breast which measured by a thickness measuring unit, as a parameter, and the irradiation time of a pre-exposure mode is controlled to apply a radiation to the breast in the pre-exposure mode. According to the dose of the radiation detected by a dose detecting sensor in the pre-exposure mode, the irradiation dose calculator calculates a main-exposure-mode-required irradiation dose, and the irradiation time of a main exposure mode is controlled to apply the radiation to the breast in the main exposure mode, thereby capturing a radiation image of the breast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventors: Nobuhiko Kashiwagi, Hajime Nakata
  • Patent number: 7570742
    Abstract: This invention describes a method for increasing the speed of the parabolic marching method by about a factor of 256. This increase in speed can be used to accomplish a number of important objectives. Firstly, the speed can be used to collect data to form true 3-D images or 3-D assembled from 2-D slices. Speed allows larger images to be made. Secondly, the frequency of operation can be increased to 5 MHz to match the operating frequency of reflection tomography. This allow the improved imaging of speed of sound which in turn is used to correct errors in focusing delays in reflection tomography imaging. This allows reflection tomography to reach or closely approach its theoretical spatial resolution of ½ to ¾ wave lengths. A third benefit of increasing the operating frequency of inverse scattering to 5 MHz is the improved out of topographic plane spatial resolution. This improves the ability to detect small lesions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Techniscan, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven A. Johnson, David T. Borup, James Wiskin, Michael J. Berggren
  • Publication number: 20090122960
    Abstract: A portable X-ray detector unit comprising a portable, hand-held cassette (10) having a plurality of exposure detection fields (identified by markings (12)) for measuring the level of radiation to which a subject to be imaged is exposed. Automatic exposure control means (26), for terminating radiation supply to the subject (4) when it is determined that the level of exposure exceeds a predetermined threshold, are interpreted in the portable detector unit, and a user-interface (16, 18) is provided to control the exposure detection fields (12) and/or the control means (26).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2005
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS, N.V.
    Inventors: Hanns-Ingo Maack, Waldemar Lumma
  • Patent number: 7528376
    Abstract: A photo timer includes an X-ray dose detector for detecting the dose of X-rays irradiated from an X-ray irradiation apparatus, a stop-signal output means for outputting a stop signal to stop irradiation of the X-rays from the X-ray irradiation apparatus when the detected X-ray dose exceeds a predetermined value, and a communication means for sending the stop signal to the X-ray irradiation apparatus by wireless means. A radiographic apparatus includes the photo timer, a solid state detector for recording image information by irradiation of X-rays which carry the image information and outputting an image signal representing the image information, and a communication means for sending the image signal to a photography control means by wireless means. Further, cables are not required to connect the X-radiographic apparatus (photo timer) and the X-ray irradiation apparatus, or the X-radiographic apparatus and the photography control means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventor: Takashi Shoji
  • Publication number: 20090086911
    Abstract: A system for radiographic inspection of an object is provided. The system comprises a radiation source configured to generate radiation, a display unit for generating a graphical user interface (GUI) including multiple fields. A user provides input data via the fields in the GUI. A processor configured to compute a plurality of exposure parameters based on the input data and a control system is configured to initialize the radiation source with the exposure parameters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2007
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Manoharan Venugopal, Nityanand Gopalika, Manoj Kumar Meethal, Debasish Mishra
  • Patent number: 7496176
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and arrangement for controlling exposure in an e-ray apparatus, for depicting an object. The apparatus comprises an x-ray source and a displaceable detector being arranged to move with a controllable speed across an image exposure area. The method comprises the step of: acquiring a signal relating to photons incident on at least a part of the detector, comparing said acquired signal with a target value, and controlling the speed of detector, displacement with respect to the result of the comparison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: Sectra Mamea
    Inventor: Magnus Aslund
  • Publication number: 20080292054
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a radiation monitoring device 2; 20; 30; 40; 50; 60; 79, such as an implant or plaster, fixable relative to a target area 1; 73; 84 within a living body 10; 74. The radiation monitoring device is provided with at least one internal element Tx; Tx/Rx; 61, 62 for tracking variations of a position of the device relative to a radiation source 76, 82 arranged outside said target area 1, 73, 84. The radiation monitoring device is further provided with a dose measuring device to detect an administrated dose from the radiation source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2006
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Applicant: Micropos Medical AB
    Inventors: Bengt Rosengren, Bo Lennernas, Roman Iustin, Tomas Gustafsson
  • Patent number: 7436929
    Abstract: A radiographic system is provided, which is capable of displaying brightness of laterally corresponding points with equivalent brightness, when an object having equivalent texture structures or micro areas of equivalent X-ray transmittance at laterally symmetric positions. The radiographic system includes an exposure time deriving section that obtains a period during which the object has been exposed to X-rays in a process of generating each charge signal output from an X-ray image detecting section based on vertical transfer information held at the vertical transfer information holding section, a correction coefficient deriving section that obtains a correction coefficient for correcting the value of an image signal obtained by being converted from each charge signal, based on the exposure time, and an image generating section that generates an image signal from the charge signal output from the X-ray image detecting section and the correction coefficient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Atsushi Sakata, Toshiyoshi Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20080123813
    Abstract: Systems and methods for automatically determining a beam parameter at each of a plurality of treatment nodes are disclosed. The beam parameter may include a beam shape, beam size and/or beam orientation. Systems and methods for automatically selecting multiple collimators in a radiation treatment system are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Inventors: Calvin R. Maurer, Jay B. West, John W. Allison
  • Patent number: 7289598
    Abstract: The change in the sample size and a change in background intensity due to the coexisting element are measured in real time to thereby automatically change a measurement time, the detection lower limit is kept constant, so that a fluorescent X-ray apparatus is provided that is capable of measuring every time in the same detection lower limit even in a case where there have existed a change in size of a sample, a change in sensitivity due to a difference in main ingredient, and a change of a magnitude in background due to an influence of a coexisting element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: SII Nano Technology Inc.
    Inventor: Yoshiki Matoba
  • Patent number: 7221729
    Abstract: An X-ray computer tomography apparatus which performs prep scanning prior to main scanning to acquire information for use in reconstruction of a tomographic image for diagnosis, the main scanning including rotary scanning around a rotation axis, and axial scanning along the rotation axis, the X-ray computer tomography apparatus includes determination unit which determines a speed based on a change of a characteristic amount concerning information obtained by the prep scanning, and a unit which controls, to the determined speed, a speed of the axial scanning in a period from the start to the completion of the main scanning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Misako Wakai, Shinsuke Tsukagoshi, Tatsuo Maeda
  • Patent number: 7196341
    Abstract: A binderless storage phosphor screen comprises a vacuum deposited CsBr:Eu phosphor layer on a support, wherein the support includes a layer of amorphous carbon and optionally one or more auxilliary layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Agfa-Gevaert
    Inventor: Paul Leblans
  • Patent number: 7130377
    Abstract: An X-ray image taking apparatus which takes an X-ray image by using an FPD juxtaposing TFTs performs the return processing of the FPD according to an inputted image taking parameter when the image taking parameter such as exposure time is inputted with an input unit for a long-time image taking operation mode, a high dose image taking operation mode, or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Matsuno
  • Patent number: 7102143
    Abstract: A binderless storage phosphor screen comprises a vacuum deposited phosphor layer on a support, wherein the support includes a layer of amorphous carbon and, optionally, one or more auxilliary layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Agfa-Gevaert
    Inventors: Paul Leblans, Toshio Takabayashi Toshio
  • Patent number: 7054412
    Abstract: In an x-ray apparatus and method to determine the radiation dose in x-ray examinations, the x-ray apparatus has an x-ray radiator, an automatic exposure timer, and a laser range finder to detect the focus-patient separation between the x-ray radiator and a patient, and a computer device determines the necessary radiation dose using the thickness of the body part of the patient to be examined. The thickness is calculated from the acquired focus-patient distance and geometric data of the x-ray apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Peter Scheuering
  • Patent number: 7012988
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of controlling an X-ray apparatus containing an X-ray emitter. Control means for the X-ray apparatus are provided with exposure time correction data for given mains voltages and the current mains voltage is measured before and/or during exposure and the exposure time is corrected in accordance with the correction data, and to an X-ray apparatus for carrying out said method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: Sirona Dental Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Rolf Adler, Michael Dalpiaz
  • Patent number: 6873682
    Abstract: An apparatus for recording a 2D image of an object comprises a plurality of 1D detector units, each exposed to ionizing radiation, as transmitted through or scattered off the object, and being arranged for 1D imaging of the radiation, to which it is exposed. The detector units are distributed in an array such that the 1D images of the radiation from the detector units are distributed over a substantial portion of the 2D image. The apparatus includes a device for moving the detector units relative the object while the detector units repeatedly detect to create the 2D image of the object; and a control device for controlling the detector units to detect ionizing radiation during a short period of time before or during an initial part of the movement; calculating an optimum exposure time for the repeated detection based on the short period of time detection; and controlling the repeated detection to automatically obtain the optimum exposure time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: XCounter AB
    Inventors: Tom Francke, Stefan Thunberg
  • Patent number: 6847698
    Abstract: When a phototimer unit is used for exposure control, a deterioration in a S/N ratio occurs, and optimal exposure cannot be performed due to a deviation from a proper image sensing position and the like. Therefore, there is provided a radiation image sensing apparatus comprising an X-ray image sensing panel which is capable of non-destructive reading and adapted to sense an object image by allowing radiation from an X-ray source to pass through an object, and a control circuit adapted to perform control to stop emission of radiation from the X-ray source on the basis of a signal obtained from the X-ray image sensing panel by non-destructive reading in the image sensing operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Noriyuki Kaifu, Kazuaki Tashiro, Osamu Yuki
  • Patent number: 6643411
    Abstract: An apparatus for obtaining a radiation image of an object includes a radiation image sensing unit having a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements two-dimensionally arranged in a matrix manner, and a sensor for detecting irradiation of radiation. The apparatus also includes a determining system for determining an irradiation state of radiation on the basis of an output from the sensor, and a controlling system for controlling both a start and an end of an image sensing state of the radiation image sensing unit on the basis of the determination by the determining step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hideki Nonaka
  • Patent number: 6516098
    Abstract: An apparatus for obtaining a radiation image of an object includes a radiation image sensing unit having a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements two-dimensionally arranged in a matrix manner, and a sensor for detecting irradiation of radiation. The apparatus also includes a determining system for determining an irradiation state of radiation on the basis of an output from the sensor, and a controlling system for controlling both a start and an end of an image sensing state of the radiation image sensing unit on the basis of the determination by the determining step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hideki Nonaka
  • Publication number: 20020191741
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for exposure control which is intended notably for dynamic X-ray examinations of an object involving a varying X-ray absorption as well as to an X-ray generator which includes an automatic exposure control unit for carrying out such a method. The method and the device are characterized notably in that an exposure kV start voltage and a maximum exposure time Tmax (for example, 100 ms) can be defined; in order to avoid motional unsharpness in the image, these variables may not be exceeded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventors: Joachim Brendler, Horst Allmendinger
  • Patent number: 6370219
    Abstract: A self-modulated solid state laser comprises an intracavity optical waveguide that supports a multiplicity of lasing filaments each at a different optical frequency. At least two of the filaments temporally beat with one another so as to modulate the intensity of the laser output. In accordance with one embodiment of our invention, the waveguide supports a multiplicity of transverse modes, and the laser includes a mode mixing mechanism that mixes the energy of at least two pairs of the modes, each coupled pair generating a separate filament. In an illustrative embodiment, the filaments are mode locked and the laser output is modulated at a frequency on the order of 1 THz.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: David Reese Peale
  • Publication number: 20020034277
    Abstract: A device for determining exposure values in an X-ray panoramic and/or cephalometric apparatus (20) for imaging patient's head (3). The apparatus comprises adjustable support means (11) provided with support elements (1a, 1b) with a variable spacing (W1) therebetween, and said support means being adapted for positioning against the patient's head prior to exposure. A sensor (2) is connected to said support elements and it provides an electrical output proportional to the dimension (W2) of the patient's head therebetween. An exposure control means (10) adjust the tube current and/or the tube voltage of the X-ray tube and/or the exposure time to be at one of a plurality of predetermined levels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2001
    Publication date: March 21, 2002
    Inventor: Kai Valter Laner
  • Publication number: 20020009175
    Abstract: When an exposure shot region cannot converge to a predetermined focus precision while a substrate is scanned, the exposure shot is determined as an error. A wafer stage controller (101) for controlling a shot beam from a pulse laser source (116) stops emission of the pulse laser source (116) if a non-exposure focus error is determined, and executes forced exposure to completely expose the remaining portion of the exposure shot region if an exposure abort focus error is determined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2001
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Inventor: Hiroshi Kurosawa
  • Patent number: 6330302
    Abstract: A method of and a device for forming an image of an irradiated object in which images are formed with different exposure levels and the differently exposed images are combined so as to form a single image. The device includes a source and an imaging device which is connected to the source in order to form the image, the imaging device being arranged to form images with different exposure levels and being provided with an image processor in which the differently exposed images are combined so as to form the single image. The device produces images of a quality which is comparable to that of images acquired by means of a device having a much larger dynamic range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventor: Johannes H. M. Joosten