Abstract: We present an algorithm for local surface smoothing in a defined Volume of Interest (“VOI”) cropped from three-dimensional (“3D”) volume data, such as lung computer tomography (“CT”) data. Because the VOI is generally a smooth and piecewise linear surface, the inclusion of one or more bumps may suggest an abnormality. In lung CT data, for example, such bumps can be nodules that are grown from the chest wall. The nodules may represent a possibility of lung cancer. Through surface smoothing, potential pathologies are separated from the surrounding anatomical structures. For example, nodules may be segmented from the chest wall. The separated pathologies can be analyzed as diagnostic evidence.

Abstract: A hand welding device for short-time arc welding of elements, such as metal studs, onto parts, such as metal sheets, having a handlable housing, a holding means mounted on the housing to hold an element to be welded onto a part, a reciprocating means mounted on the housing to advance and restore the holding means relative to the housing, and positioning means mounted on the housing to maintain a predetermined distance from the part, is proposed. Further, a corresponding welding apparatus having such a hand welding device and a welding gauge fastened to the part, is proposed. Here the positioning means are offset to the rear relative to the anterior end of the holding means, so that the positioning means are suitable for being supported on the welding gauge to maintain the predetermined distance. For this purpose, a vertically adjustable stop is provided on a welding gauge according to the invention.

Abstract: A stud welding device (1) with a stud holder (3) having a pointed region (2) for holding a weld stud (4) and a device (5) designed as an insulating spacing means with a rim (7). The pointed region (2) of the stud holder (3) always remains behind the rim (7) of the spacing means, thereby preventing electrical contact between the pointed region (2) and a component (6). The stud welding device (1) is reduced in size because it is formed without a support foot.

Abstract: A stud welding device (1) with a stud holder (3) having a pointed region (2) for holding a weld stud (4) and a device (5) designed as an insulating spacing means with a rim (7). The pointed region (2) of the stud holder (3) always remains behind the rim (7) of the spacing means, thereby preventing electrical contact between the pointed region (2) and a component (6). The stud welding device (1) is reduced in size because it is formed without a support foot.