With Display Or Signaling Patents (Class 378/98)
  • Patent number: 8526573
    Abstract: Systems and methods for remote diagnostic imaging. The systems include a diagnostic imaging kiosk. The kiosk includes, for example, a first housing module and a second housing module. The first housing module is configured to house, among other things, a diagnostic imaging system (e.g., an X-ray system). The second housing module is configured to house electronics associated with the operation, control, and networking of the kiosk. The electronics include, for example, a primary controller, an X-ray controller, an X-ray generator, an internal display controller, an external display controller, one or more routers, and a digital radiology module. The kiosk is configured to communicatively connect to a remote technician's workstation, and a remote technician at the workstation is able to remotely control the kiosk through a packet-switched network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Merge Healthcare Incorporated
    Inventor: Michael W. Ferro, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20130208868
    Abstract: Disclosed are an X-ray device to inform a patient of X-ray irradiation through a sound and a method for controlling the same. The X-ray device includes an input portion to output a first-step press signal and a second-step press signal according to an operator input, a high-voltage generating portion to perform pre-heating, and to output a ready completion signal when the high-voltage generating portion completes pre-heating, a control portion to output a sound output signal when it receives both the second-step press signal output from the input portion and the ready completion signal output from the high-voltage generating portion, and a sound output portion to receive the sound output signal output from the control portion and to output a predetermined sound.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
  • Publication number: 20130136235
    Abstract: A portable detector for use with an imaging system is disclosed. The portable detector automatically sets one or more operational states based on at least a determination as to whether the portable detector is connected to external power. An imaging system is also disclosed that ascertains whether the portable detector is connected via a tether. The imaging system may perform a compatibility check when connected to the portable detector to assess compatibility between the imaging system and the portable detector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: James Zhengshe Liu, Kenneth Scott Kump, Gireesha C. Rao, Francisco Ruiz Gomez, Xianfeng Ni, Rowland Frederick Saunders
  • Publication number: 20130129048
    Abstract: A radiation imaging apparatus includes a console that houses control circuitry and a computer; a radiation source attached to a movable arm, the movable arm being attached orthogonally to a column disposed adjacent to the console; and a wireless communication system that can communicate with a wireless radiation detector. The wireless communication system includes a plurality of antennas each of which is disposed within a predetermined distance from each other; the computer controls the communications system and the radiation detector so that the antennas transmit control signals from the console to the radiation detector or receive image signals from the radiation detector, and the antennas are positioned either within console immediately below a housing thereof or around the column so as to face a usable patient area, the usable patient area being an area surrounding the console where the radiation detector is positioned during an imaging operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: VIRTUAL IMAGING, INC.
    Inventor: Virtual Imaging, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8447088
    Abstract: An X-ray imaging system comprises: an imaging unit for irradiating a subject with X ray at different angles while moving an X-ray source in one direction in tomosynthesis imaging, detecting the X ray with which the subject has been irradiated with a flat panel detector to acquire projection data of X-ray images taken at different angles; and an image processor for reconstructing a first X-ray tomographic image using projection data acquired by the imaging unit, the image processor including: a correction decision unit for selecting, according to a given selection condition, one of previously provided different corrections to be performed on the projection data; a first image correction unit for performing correction based upon the correction selected by the correction decision unit on the projection data; and a first image reconstruction unit for reconstructing the first X-ray tomographic image using the corrected projection data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventors: Eiichi Kanagawa, Noriaki Ida, Sadato Akahori, Yasunori Ohta
  • Publication number: 20130121471
    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: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Applicant: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventor: FUJIFILM Corporation
  • Patent number: 8428220
    Abstract: A method for dynamically visualizing coronary information and an apparatus adapted to implement such method is described. In a preferred embodiment of the method, first dynamic cardiac data is acquired during a first cardiac stage and second dynamic cardiac data is acquired during a second cardiac stage. Then, the two data sets are visualized continuously the in a superimposed presentation, wherein the first cardiac data and the second cardiac data corresponding to a same phase within the cardiac cycle are visualized simultaneously. In this way for example information about the vessel geometry may be immediately linked with information about the muscle irrigation or perfusion. Furthermore, this useful information may be displayed in a high-contrasted and low-noise presentation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Antonius Johannes Cornelius Buijns, Peter Maria Johannes Rongen, Vincent Maurice Andre Auvray, Odile Bonnefous, Raoul Florent
  • Publication number: 20130094628
    Abstract: A method for managing a portable x-ray detector for an x-ray imaging apparatus registers at least one portable detector with a processor that is associated with the x-ray imaging apparatus. A generated signal is indicative of the location of the registered portable x-ray detector relative to the x-ray imaging apparatus. An alert indication is provided when the generated signal indicates separation of the registered portable x-ray detector from the x-ray imaging apparatus beyond a predetermined distance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Inventors: Michael C. Lalena, Peter A. Newman
  • Patent number: 8416916
    Abstract: In a method and an apparatus for representing an x-ray image of an examination subject, a measurement field is determined in the image field of the x-ray image, the measurement field being dependent on the position of a subject image region representing the examination subject in the image field and being essentially situated within this subject image region grey scale values for the image rendering are determined exclusively from the intensities measured within this measurement field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Oliver Schütz
  • Publication number: 20130077745
    Abstract: A method for adjusting a field of view for exposure of an X-ray system is provided. The method comprises: capturing an image of a patient on an examining table of the system by an image sensor, wherein the image sensor is placed at a predetermined position in the system; displaying the captured image on a display for selection of a region of interest or a point of interest by a user on the image; automatically determining a target position of an X-ray source in response to the selection of the region of interest or the point of interest on the image, wherein a desired field of view for exposure covering the region of interest or the point of interest is obtained when the X-ray source is located at the target position; and automatically locating the X-ray source at the target position in response to the determination of the target position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Applicant: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLC
    Inventors: Jian WANG, Bin YE, Yannan HUANG, Yonghui HAN
  • Patent number: 8391442
    Abstract: There is provided a technology that enables an operator to designate whether or not to continue imaging if divided capture has been interrupted in a radiographic apparatus. During continuation of divided capture, the state of an irradiation switch for designating irradiation of radiation is detected by an irradiation switch state detection unit. When a suspension of the designation of irradiation of radiation has been detected, information indicating continuation of imaging, performing of imaging again, or cancellation of imaging is presented to an operator, thereby preventing an unintended interruption of imaging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Naoki Yamada
  • Publication number: 20130051531
    Abstract: A radiation imaging apparatus includes an imaging unit and a handle unit detachably attached to the imaging unit. The imaging unit includes a digital radiation detector including a detection area, a housing incorporating the digital radiation detector, a power arranged on one side surface of the housing, and a display unit arranged on the one side surface and configured to indicate a state of the digital radiation detector. The handle unit includes a frame unit covering at least part of each of three side surfaces other than the one side surface of the housing and a grasping portion forming an opening between the handle unit and at least part of the one side surface, with the handle unit attached to the imaging unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Kensuke Kobayashi
  • Publication number: 20130044865
    Abstract: Upon a request for sharing radiation dose information, a hospital A transmits first specification data of a first X-ray imaging system to a hospital B. The first specification data is written to a storage device of the hospital B. The storage device stores absorption data and second specification data, besides the first specification data. A storing and retrieving processing unit outputs the first and second specification data to an arithmetic section. Also, the storing and retrieving processing unit retrieves absorptance corresponding to the type of used intermediate member from the absorptance data, and sends a retrieval result to the arithmetic section. The arithmetic section converts a first optimal dose used in the first X-ray imaging system into a second optimal dose suitable for specifications of a second X-ray imaging system, based on data transmitted from the storing and retrieving processing unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Applicant: FUJIFILM CORPORATION
    Inventor: Takeshi KUWABARA
  • Patent number: 8379793
    Abstract: A system positions a patient for X-ray imaging of a Left Atrium of a heart, using an imaging system for, acquiring data representing a frontal first X-ray image and representing a lateral second X-ray image of a patient. A display processor initiates generation of data representing a first composite display image including the first X-ray image and a first graphical overlay for aligning with vertebra in the first X-ray image. The display processor initiates generation of data representing a second composite display image including the second X-ray image and a second graphical overlay for aligning with vertebra in the second X-ray image. The imaging system is positioned for imaging a heart left atrium in response to movement of a table supporting the patient to align the first graphical overlay with the vertebra in the first X-ray image and to align the second graphical overlay with the vertebra in the second X-ray image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Soroosh Kargar, Weng Lei
  • Patent number: 8379796
    Abstract: A radiation imaging apparatus includes an imaging unit to capture a radiation image of an object, a discrimination unit to discriminate whether the current imaging mode is a mode of storing radiation images or a mode of storing no radiation image, a first calculation unit to calculate image size information, a second calculation unit to calculate image display region information indicating the size of an image display region, a first decision unit to decide a rotation condition for the rotation of an displayed image, and a second decision unit to decide an enlargement/reduction condition. If discriminated at the start of radiation irradiation that the current mode is the mode of storing no image, the second decision unit decides an enlargement/reduction condition from image size information and image display region information to maximize the ratio of an overall radiation image rotated under the rotation condition decided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Koji Takekoshi, Tsukasa Sako
  • Patent number: 8379795
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for archiving x-ray fluoroscopy images are provided. One method includes receiving fluoroscopic images from a fluoroscopic imaging system and storing all of the received fluoroscopic images during an image acquisition scan by the fluoroscopic imaging system. The received fluoroscopic images are displayed during the image acquisition scan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Daniel Mabini, John Close, Rathinasabapathy Ramalingam, Base Varghese Paul, Jon Charles Omernick, Ellyn Mae Schulte
  • Patent number: 8358739
    Abstract: The present subject matter relates to systems and methods for temporal multiplexing x-ray imaging of dynamic objects with high temporal resolution and fast imaging speed. A pulsed x-ray beam can irradiate an object undergoing a range of motion such as a cyclic motion. Multiple x-ray images can be acquired at different phases within a single motion cycle or range of the object. The multiple x-ray images can be demultiplexed to produce an individual phase image. Compared to sequential imaging, temporal multiplexing x-ray imaging can achieve high temporal resolution of dynamics object in multiple phases with imaging time comparable to that of a single phase. Temporal multiplexing x-ray imaging can thus be applied to a wide variety of applications, including biomedical imaging and industrial non-destructive testing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
    Inventors: Jianping Lu, Otto Zhou, Guohua Cao, Jian Zhang
  • Publication number: 20130010928
    Abstract: A medical imaging system includes a mobile imager. The mobile imager includes a source of X-ray radiation and at least two antennas for wireless communication. The medical imaging system also includes a digital X-ray detector configured to receive X-ray radiation from the source, wherein the digital X-ray detector includes at least one antenna to communicate wirelessly with the mobile imager.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2011
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Jeremy Patrick Hannon, Luke Gerard Beno
  • Patent number: 8351574
    Abstract: An X-ray diagnosis apparatus includes a display-image creating unit that creates a display image from three-dimensional medical image data such that a display image of three-dimensional medical image data substantially matches up with an anatomical structure on an acquired image by the X-ray diagnosis apparatus. Moreover, the X-ray diagnosis apparatus includes a display-image changing unit that changes a display image so as to maintain consistency of an anatomical structure in accordance with change in acquiring conditions by the X-ray diagnosis apparatus. Furthermore, the X-ray diagnosis apparatus includes a display unit that displays a display image that is at least one of created and changed by at least one of the display-image creating unit and the display-image changing unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Hisato Takemoto, Hajime Yoshida, Satoru Ohishi
  • Publication number: 20130003928
    Abstract: Device and method for synchronously switching activating a first and second charge accumulation section (31, 32) for a duration of a first and second predetermined sub-frame and a first and second X-ray source until lapse of a predetermined time frame for each of the first and second charge accumulation section (31, 32) for the accumulation of a plurality of temporally distributed partial charges according to an origin of a respective one of the plurality of spatially distributed X-ray sources so as to establish a specific relation between the focal spot position and a rule for accumulating the respective partial measurements, e.g. temporally distributed partial charges, belonging to the same focal spot positions, and to keep the focal spot temperature low by only activating the focal spot for a limited time according to a sub-frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Rainer Pietig, Walter Ruetten, Christoph Herrmann
  • Patent number: 8319189
    Abstract: A radiographic imaging assistance device is provided. An acquisition component acquires position information representing positions of defective pixels of an imaging device, the imaging device being plurally provided with pixels comprising detection elements which detect radiation that has passed through a subject of imaging, and the imaging device carrying out imaging by generating image information which represents a radiographic image in accordance with radiation amounts detected by the detection elements and storing the image information in a pre-specified storage region. A judgment component, based on detection region information, which represents a detection region with a size corresponding to the subject of imaging, and the acquired position information, judges whether or not an influence from the defective pixels in a detection region that is represented by the detection region information is within an acceptable level that accepts imaging a radiographic image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventors: Keiji Tsubota, Yutaka Yoshida, Takeshi Kamiya, Naoyuki Nishino, Yasunori Ohta
  • Publication number: 20120294412
    Abstract: In an arrangement and method for active vibration compensation of an x-ray radiator, a counter-vibration generation unit is arranged within the x-ray radiator to reduce a vibration arising during operation of the x-ray radiator. The counter-vibration generating unit is engaged in an active connection with the x-ray radiator and generates a counter-vibration that is phase-shifted by 180 degrees relative to the operational vibration. Operational vibrations generated by the x-ray radiator can be directly reduced at the point of origin by the application of active counter-vibrations in the immediate proximity of the vibration generator. Additional vibration transmission to other system parts (for example a C-arm) is thereby reduced or prevented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: Berthold Baumann, Andreas Koerner, Christian Obst
  • Publication number: 20120289821
    Abstract: A medical imaging system and a method electromagnetically track a position of structures with the medical imaging system and a C-arm arrangement. The medical imaging system contains a C-arm, a gantry, and at least one electromagnetic field generator assembly with at least one electromagnetic field generator which interacts with an electromagnetic sensor from receiving the electromagnetic radiation. Preferably, the electromagnetic sensor is positioned within a region of surgical interest in a patient. The electromagnetic field generator is directly embedded into the C-arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicants: THE JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY, SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Rainer Graumann, Gerhard Kleinszig, Jeffrey Siewerdsen, Jongheun Yoo
  • Patent number: 8297839
    Abstract: A radiation imaging apparatus includes a C-arm, a radiation source configured to irradiate a subject with radiation, and a two-dimensional detection device configured to detect the radiation having passed through the subject. The radiation source and the two-dimensional detection device are arranged to face each other across the C-arm, and at least one of the radiation source and the two-dimensional detection device is attached to the C-arm via a sub-arm that is rotatably connected to a frame of the C-arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Osamu Tsujii, Hiroyuki Ichiyoshi
  • Patent number: 8284208
    Abstract: Systems, processes and apparatus are described through which signals are modified within a system. A signal conditioning module is configured for insertion into the system and provides capability for expansion of information exchange capabilities between system elements responsive to modification of the system. The signal conditioning module includes a first link for supplying coordinated information to multiple display elements to synchronize information displayed by each of the multiple display elements, a second link for supplying coordinating data internal to a control system for a nondestructive imaging system to synchronize the internal data with the information displayed by each of the multiple elements and a third link for supplying coordination descriptions relevant to a nondestructive imaging task performed by the system to a memory, including an image and data relevant to that image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Sabih Qamaruz Zaman, Jon Charles Omernick, Stephanie Allison Swenor
  • Publication number: 20120250826
    Abstract: A radiographic imaging apparatus includes a radiation detection unit configured to detect radiation that has passed through an object, a protection member capable of being detachably attached to the radiation detection unit to protect the radiation detection unit, a first display unit disposed on the radiation detection unit and configured to display a state of the radiation detection unit, and a second display unit disposed on the protection member and configured to display the state of the radiation detection unit in accordance with a display of the first display unit when the protection member is attached to the radiation detection unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Tetsuo Watanabe, Hidetomo Suwa, Takahiro Koyanagi
  • Publication number: 20120243663
    Abstract: An X-ray imaging system comprising an X-ray imaging apparatus which captures an X-ray image and an information processing apparatus which receives and composes the X-ray image, the X-ray imaging apparatus comprising a transmission unit configured to segment a X-ray image into images and sequentially transmit the images, and the information processing apparatus comprising a reception/composition unit configured to sequentially receive and compose the X-ray images, a determination unit configured to determine, every time the X-ray images are sequentially composed, whether a resolution of the composed X-ray image is not less than a predetermined value, and a display control unit configured to perform control to display the composed X-ray image on a display unit, when the determination unit determines that the resolution is not less than the predetermined value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Yuichi Nishii
  • Publication number: 20120224672
    Abstract: There is provided a technology that enables an operator to designate whether or not to continue imaging if divided capture has been interrupted in a radiographic apparatus. During continuation of divided capture, the state of an irradiation switch for designating irradiation of radiation is detected by an irradiation switch state detection unit. When a suspension of the designation of irradiation of radiation has been detected, information indicating continuation of imaging, performing of imaging again, or cancellation of imaging is presented to an operator, thereby preventing an unintended interruption of imaging.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Naoki Yamada
  • Patent number: 8243883
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a method for coordinating operation of X-ray detectors in a wireless X-ray system includes detecting multiple wireless X-ray detectors within an operative range of an X-ray base station, the detected X-ray detectors each having one of multiple possible statuses, including an active status corresponding to a designation of the X-ray detector as a desired recipient of radiation during a current X-ray imaging sequence, an inactive status corresponding to a designation of the X-ray detector as not the desired recipient of radiation during a current X-ray imaging sequence, and an unenabled status corresponding to the X-ray detector not being configured to operate with the X-ray base station. The method also includes determining the current status of each detected X-ray detector and displaying on a user-viewable screen a visual indication of the status of each detected X-ray detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Jon Charles Omernick, Manfred David Boehm, Gireesha C. Rao, James Zhengshe Liu, Chuande Liu, Kiran Shankaranarayana, Karla Angelica Arista
  • Patent number: 8243882
    Abstract: A method and a system are disclosed for operating an X-ray imaging subsystem with an X-ray imaging detector. Each subsystem may be one of many that could operate with one another to create X-ray images. An association is established between the imaging subsystem and the imaging detector, and a user-perceptible indication of the association is generated. The user may be prompted to confirm the association. Thereafter, the two subsystems may be used together for X-ray imaging. An X-ray source of the imaging subsystem may be disabled until the association is established or until the confirmation is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Kadri Nizar Jabri, Gopal Biligeri Avinash, John Michael Sabol, Rajeev Ramankutty Marar
  • Publication number: 20120195405
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present disclosure is directed to a mobile X-ray unit. The mobile X-ray unit may include a base accommodating a control unit for controlling an X-ray applicator and a power supply for supplying power to the X-ray applicator. The mobile X-ray unit may further include an arm associated with the base. The arm may be configured to support an X-ray applicator having an X-ray tube. The arm may be articuable. The X-ray tube may include a target element configured to generate an X-ray beam and a collimator configured to shape the X-ray beam. The target element may be disposed at a set distance from the collimator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2011
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventors: Bas WOUDSTRA, Wim de Jager
  • Patent number: 8218726
    Abstract: An imaging tomography apparatus has electronic components provided to operate the tomography apparatus, with at least one of the electronic components exhibiting a power consumption in high power operation that is significantly increased relative to power consumption in normal operation. The imaging tomography apparatus has an energy storage that, in high power operation, supplies the at least one electronic component with additional electrical energy to cover an energy demand due to the difference in power consumption between normal operation and high power operation. The provision of the additional electrical power in high power operation by means of the energy storage allows the modules that participate in the power supply of the at least one electronic component to be realized with lower cost. Such participating modules can be, for example: the mains connection, junction boxes with power switches (safeguards); a transformer, a rectifier, cables, slip ring brushes, slip ring tracks, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Wolfgang Bressel
  • Patent number: 8218727
    Abstract: A system automatically adaptively adjusts an enlarged region of interest presented as a zoomed image on a secondary live display in response to X-ray filter (e.g., collimator) adjustment. An X-ray medical image user interface system includes one or more displays for displaying medical images. At least one display concurrently presents, a first image window including an X-ray image overview of a portion of patient anatomy and a second image window including an enlarged region of interest within the X-ray image overview. A collimator position detector provides a collimator signal in response to a detected collimator position. An image data processor automatically identifies the enlarged region of interest within the X-ray image overview in response to the collimator signal. A display processor generates data representing an image comprising the enlarged region of interest of the X-ray image overview in response to the identification of the enlarged region of interest within the X-ray image overview.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc.
    Inventors: John Baumgart, Benita Devadas
  • Patent number: 8213574
    Abstract: A method for operating an x-ray image recording device having a movable x-ray detector on an-x-ray c-arm is provided. The x-ray C-arm supports an x-ray source and the x-ray detector which can be moved in the direction of the x-ray source. A variable is calculated which specifies the image quality of an x-ray image to be obtained in a position of the x-ray C-arm in a position of the x-ray detector and/or specifies the exposure dose of an operating person. A measure is taken as a function of the variable which results in a movement of the x-ray detector by the operating person and/or by an automatic movement. X-ray images are recorded in positions of the x-ray detector in which the image quality and/or the exposure dose of an operating person are optimal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Rosemarie Banckwitz, Philipp Bernhardt, Johannes Rieber
  • 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: 20120158811
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for transmitting measurement data from a transmitter system to a receiver system by way of a transmission link of a medical device. In an embodiment, the measurement data, as input data of a transformation method, is transformed to output values and, after transmission, back transformed again, the values of the input data lying between a maximum value and a minimum value and an assignment function being used for compression purposes, to allocate an output value to every value of the input data, a root function being used as the assignment function for at least some of the values.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Applicant: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Steffen Kappler, Edgar Kraft, Daniel Niederlöhner, Thomas Reichel, Karl Stierstorfer, Helmut Winkelmann
  • Publication number: 20120134468
    Abstract: A system and method for including and correcting subject orientation data in a digital radiographic image. A subject is positioned in an X-ray imaging system and an orientation of the subject is entered into the X-ray imaging system. The subject is imaged with an X-ray exposure to create an X-ray image of the subject. An operator reviews the X-ray image of the subject and subject orientation data. If the subject orientation data is not correct, the operator may correct the subject orientation data so that it matches the subject's anatomy during the X-ray exposure. The correct subject orientation data is then saved and is part of the X-ray image and Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) header when sent to a Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2010
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Daniel Pol Mabini, Karla Angelica Arista, Ellyn Mae Schulte
  • Publication number: 20120128129
    Abstract: An X-ray fluoroscopic radiographing apparatus comprises a display unit that processes a received X-ray moving image and instantaneously displays the moving image; a storing unit that stores the received moving image as a non-processed raw image; an instructing unit that instructs the raw image to be referred to from the stored raw images; a second display unit that processes the instructed raw image and displays the processed raw image; a changing unit that changes the image process in the second display unit; a second storing unit that stores image process information obtained by the changing unit in association with the instructed raw image; a second instructing unit that instructs the raw image to be transferred from the stored raw images; and a transferring unit that executes the image process associated by the second storing unit to the instructed raw image and transfers the processed raw image to a destination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2011
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: YUICHI NISHII
  • Publication number: 20120099772
    Abstract: A method and system is disclosed for acquiring image data of a subject. The image data can be collected with an imaging system with at least two different power characteristics. A volumetric model of multiple phases can be reconstructed using dynamic or enhanced reconstruction techniques.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2010
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Applicant: Medtronic Navigation, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick A. Helm, Shuanghe Shi
  • Publication number: 20120082298
    Abstract: A problem at the time of stereoscopic viewing of auxiliary lines for making a three-dimensional effect easy to figure out when displaying a stereoscopic image using a radiological image is solved. Auxiliary lines are added to two radiological images for displaying a stereoscopic image. The auxiliary lines are formed by a plurality of grids arrayed so as to be viewed in the depth direction. Lines which form the grids are disposed at positions, which are distant from positions vertically facing a focal point at the time of radiographing, on the radiological images. In addition, the lines which form the grids may be disposed at positions distant from a position, which bisects positions vertically facing a plurality of focal points at the time of radiographing when acquiring the radiological images, on each of the radiological images.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2011
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Applicant: FUJIFILM CORPORATION
    Inventor: Takashi TAJIMA
  • Publication number: 20120076273
    Abstract: An image processing apparatus capable of clipping a diagnostic region while retaining the pixel information of the original radiographic image even when the subject is imaged aslant. The image processing apparatus applies trimming processing to a radiographic image acquired by an imaging apparatus for acquiring a radiographic image of a subject and includes an image rotation unit for rotating the radiographic image so that the subject is aligned with a given direction to produce a display image, a diagnostic region designation unit for designating a first diagnostic region clipped with a diagnostic region designation frame represented by a rectangle for the display image, and a trimming processing unit for calculating a second diagnostic region in the radiographic image from a rotation amount of the display image and diagnostic region information representing the first diagnostic region and applying trimming processing to the radiographic image to clip the second diagnostic region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: Fujifilm Corporation
    Inventors: Noriaki IDA, Hirofumi SAWADA, Akiko KANAGAWA, Daiki HARADA, Satomi YAMADA, Minoru TAKAMI, Yasunori OHTA, Naoki MOCHIZUKI, Ryo ONO
  • Publication number: 20120051511
    Abstract: The X-ray imaging system includes an X-ray source, a console, an X-ray controller for controlling an operation of the X-ray source according to X-ray control parameters set by the console, and an X-ray detector for detecting X-ray radiated from the X-ray source and transmitted through a subject and thereby outputting an image signal of an X-ray image of the subject. The console includes an input unit for entering the X-ray control parameters, which are information for controlling the operations of the X-ray source and a controller for holding setting range information representing an allowable range of values of the X-ray control parameters and making a judgment as to whether values of the entered X-ray control parameters are settable values according to the setting range information and informing an user of the console of the judgment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: FUJIFILM CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kohei GEMMA, Takehisa ONO, Noriaki IDA, Takeshi KAMIYA
  • Publication number: 20120051504
    Abstract: Disclosed is a radiation image capturing apparatus including a storage unit that stores imaging site information associated with default image capturing angle information about a radiation image to be captured first among a plurality of radiation images of an object captured from different angles with a radiation ray emitted from a radiation source; a radiation source holding unit that holds the radiation source, with an angle of the radiation source being variable; a display unit that displays the default image capturing angle information associated with the imaging site information, the default image capturing angle information being displayed as initial image capturing angle information and variable information; a receiving unit that receives change information about the initial image capturing angle information; and a control unit that controls the radiation source holding unit to change the angle of the radiation source, based on the change information received by the receiving unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: FUJIFILM CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yasunori OHTA, Yusuke KITAGAWA, Tetsuro KUSUNOKI, Naoyuki NISHINO, Noriaki IDA, Takeshi KAMIYA
  • Publication number: 20120051519
    Abstract: An X-ray imaging apparatus that performs X-ray imaging while switching a plurality of wireless sensors according to an imaging condition of an object includes: an acquisition unit that acquires examination information indicating the imaging condition of the object; a management unit that manages, as sensor information, remaining battery levels of the plurality of wireless sensors that have been registered; a control unit that assigns a priority order of wireless sensor candidates usable for performing the X-ray imaging according to the imaging condition indicated in the acquired examination information to the plurality of wireless sensors, in descending order of the remaining battery levels; and an imaging unit that performs the X-ray imaging of the object using wireless sensors sequentially consisting of those in descending order of the priority order assigned by the control unit up to a wireless sensor having a preset order number, as determined according to the imaging condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Masahiro Abe
  • Patent number: 8121255
    Abstract: A diagnostic imaging system includes a generation unit which generates a fluoroscopic image of X-rays that irradiate a subject, a setting unit which, when displaying the fluoroscopic image superimposed on a field image of a head mounted display, sets the display ratio of the field image and the fluoroscopic image in accordance with a display condition, an image composition unit which generates a composite image by superimposing the fluoroscopic image on the field image on the basis of the ratio set by the setting unit, and an image display unit which displays the composite image on the display unit of the head mounted display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Shinko Sugiyama
  • Publication number: 20120027178
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for archiving x-ray fluoroscopy images are provided. One method includes receiving fluoroscopic images from a fluoroscopic imaging system and storing all of the received fluoroscopic images during an image acquisition scan by the fluoroscopic imaging system. The received fluoroscopic images are displayed during the image acquisition scan.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventors: Daniel Mabini, John Close, Rathinasabapathy Ramalingam, Base Varghese Paul, Jon Charles Omernick
  • Patent number: 8107588
    Abstract: There is provided a radiation imaging apparatus delivering an output image with a satisfactory image quality irrespective of the dosage of the X-rays incident on the detector. The radiation imaging apparatus according to the present invention includes a detection unit for detecting as an image signal an X-ray irradiated from the an X-ray generation apparatus and penetrating through an object; a read out unit for amplifying and reading out the image signal detected by the detection unit; and a control unit for controlling at least one of the X-ray generation apparatus, the detection unit and the read out unit such that the obtained SN ratio of the image signal according to the dosage of the X-rays incident on the detector can be equal to the S/N ratio required for the image signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshio Kameshima, Tadao Endo, Tomoyuki Yagi, Katsuro Takenaka, Keigo Yokoyama
  • Publication number: 20120008748
    Abstract: A mobile X-ray device 1 is provided with a main body 2 having an X-ray generating part 10 and an image reader 50 for reading X-ray image information from an imaging plate storing the X-ray image information, a running part 60 for running the main body 2, a battery 70 for storing direct current electrical energy to be supplied to the running part 60 and discharging a direct current at a rated voltage of the running part 60, and a direct current power source voltage conversion part 80 for transforming direct voltage of the battery 70 to a rated voltage of the image reader 50, wherein the rated voltage of the image reader 50 transformed by the direct current power source voltage conversion part 80 is applied to the image reader 50.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2010
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Applicants: FUJIFILM CORPORATION, HITACHI MEDICAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Miyuki Fuse, Takashi Shimohira, Satoshi Arakawa, Tatsuo Iiyama, Kenji Takata, Jun Fukazawa
  • Publication number: 20110305319
    Abstract: A method of fabricating a portable x-ray detector includes coupling a gravity sensor to the portable x-ray detector and coupling a processor to the gravity sensor. The processor is programmed to receive an input from the gravity sensor, determine a physical orientation of the portable x-ray detector based on the received input, and generate ah indication to reposition the portable x-ray detector. A portable detector and an imaging system including the portable detector are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2010
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: JAMES ZHENGSHE LIU, ROWLAND SAUNDERS, KENNETH KUMP, DONALD LANGLER, ROY SCHLEY
  • Publication number: 20110306882
    Abstract: A system and method for pairing an X-ray system with a wireless device is provided. In one embodiment, a method includes generating a unique pairing code with control circuitry that controls the operation of the X-ray system, providing the unique pairing code to the wireless device in the form of a pulse sequence and receiving a wireless signal indicative of the unique pairing code from the wireless device. The wireless device is then paired and enabled for use with the X-ray system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2010
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Jeremy Patrick Hannon, Jonathan Mark Butzine