Abstract: A device (D) is dedicated to the processing of data constituting initial tensor images, each tensor being a real symmetric and positive definite matrix representing an elementary part of a received tensor image. This device (D) comprises, on the one hand, a first calculating module (MC1) capable of performing a first selected, bijective and defined function of R*+ in R, and being associated with a selected metric definition, this first function allowing a second reciprocal function, and on the other, comprises a first processing module (MT1) provided for: i) constituting a first representation of a received tensor image; ii) calling the first calculating module (MC1) for applying the first function to a selected part of the first representation whereby obtaining a transformed part, and; iii) constituting, from the transformed part, a second representation of the tensor images ready to be processed.

Abstract: A device (D) is dedicated to the processing of data constituting initial tensor images, each tensor being a real symmetric and positive definite matrix representing an elementary part of a received tensor image. This device (D) comprises, on the one hand, a first calculating module (MCI) capable of performing a first selected, bijective and defined function of R*+ in R, and being associated with a selected metric definition, this first function allowing a second reciprocal function, and on the other, comprises a first processing module (MT1) provided for: i) constituting a first representation of a received tensor image; ii) calling the first calculating module (MC1) for applying the first function to a selected part of the first representation whereby obtaining a transformed part, and; iii) constituting, from the transformed part, a second representation of the tensor images ready to be processed.

Abstract: The disclosed optical device includes a probe which is integrally supported on a cantilever which defines an optical path extending to an external device which may carry an optical processor.In a preferred embodiment the device has an optical path which is capable of guiding an evanescent wave to the external device. The device overcomes a problem with prior art Scanning Tunnelling Microscopes in that, by utilizing evanescent waves, it enables access to the so called mesoscopic range between approximately 1.times.10.sup.-10 m.rarw.50.times.10.sup.-10 m (1.ANG.-50.ANG.). In an alternative embodiment the invention permits manipulation of microscopic particles by utilising the probe. The probe may also act as a sensor.

Abstract: Disclosed are a method and apparatus for producing a real-time electronic signal which represents a radiation image. The apparatus includes a source of radiation which bombards a human or other body being examined and produces a radiation image. The radiation image strikes a luminescent phosphor screen thereby ionizing the phosphor and storing information therein which indicates the intensity or total quantity of the ionizing radiation. A scanning laser beam having a high intensity beam is used to very rapidly stimulate the phosphor screen. An emission detector measures the intensity or total quantity of emission from the phosphor screen and creates an electronic signal. The electronic signal is synchronized with information about the position of the scanning laser beam and the delay associated with the phosphor stimulation. An electronic video signal is thereby produced which can be displayed on a conventional video display, recorded or digitized for storage, analysis and enhancement with computers.