Abstract: A method for minimizing motion artifacts in Dual Energy Subtraction digital radiographic imaging applications by minimizing the time lapse between the two x-ray exposure frames. This is accomplished by acquiring the two x-ray exposure frames relatively consecutively without a corresponding offset frame reading in-between the two x-ray frame exposures. Preferably, the offset frames are acquired following the x-ray exposure frames with a corresponding timing sequence which is correlated to the x-ray frame exposure and reading sequence.

Abstract: A radiographic imaging system includes an X-ray emitter, an X-ray detector, and a network. The X-ray emitter is actuatable to emit an X-ray beam centered about an X-ray beam axis. The X-ray detector has a generally planar configuration and is situated within the path of the X-ray beam to thereby generate an image when the X-ray detector receives the X-ray beam. The network couples at least one of the X-ray emitter and X-ray detector to a remote facility. The network provides the X-ray emitter and the X-ray detector with remote services from the remote facility. A corresponding method is also provided.

Abstract: A digital radiographic imaging system is described which includes an automatic X-ray exposure sequence during which two consecutive images of a target are obtained from two views separated by a translation of the X-ray emitter, wherein such translation is oriented generally parallel to the plane of the X-ray detector. The two images acquired by the digital X-ray detector may then be combined using stereo reconstruction to generate a three-dimensional image of the interior of the target. The three-dimensional combination of images allows for better radiographic definition of clinical objects of interest, thereby increasing a radiologist's ability to detect and distinguish between normal and pathological structures.

Abstract: Modular interchangeable phantoms for multiple x-ray systems are provided. A variety of x-ray phantoms may be interchangeably inserted into a modular phantom carrier. Once a phantom has been inserted into the carrier, the phantom is locked to the carrier by either at least one rotating fastener or a plastic ring with at least one fastening pin. The carrier is then inserted into an x-ray system and x-rays are transmitted through the phantom. The phantom carrier also includes an interior mesh allowing measurement of the resolution non-uniformity of the x-ray system. Three phantoms for use with the modular phantom carrier are presented. Each phantom includes a number of sub-phantoms useful in the determination of various parameters of the x-ray system.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for calibrating the size and alignment of a collimator. The method includes the step of acquiring a digital image showing collimator blades in front of a region of interest. The method then determines the position of one or more of the collimator blades or collimator assembly shown in the digital image. The method subsequently adjusts the position of one or more collimator blades toward a predetermined position with respect to the region of interest. Calibration may iterate until the collimator exposes a region of interest to within a predetermined tolerance.

Abstract: A discrete pixel image is enhanced to bring out particular features of interest such as edges. The enhancement includes decomposition of the original processed image data, enhancement by application of gain images to the decomposed images, and reconstruction of the enhanced image. The decomposition proceeds through a series of low-pass filters to arrive at decomposed images of progressively lower spatial frequencies. These decomposed images are then multiplied by gain images during the enhancement phase. Gain images for at least the higher spatial frequency level images are derived from lower spatial frequency level images. These spatial frequency-based gain images may be based upon operator inputs, including a spatial sensitivity function and an edge enhancement value. Lower spatial frequency level images may be processed by application of predetermined gain values.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a radiographic imaging system which performs system performance monitoring by (1) using automatic exposure control (AEC) components to predict the average image gray level; (2) obtaining measured average image gray levels from the portions of the X-ray detector situated in the X-ray shadow of the AEC components; and then (3) comparing the predicted and measured values. The predicted values are determined by use of a prediction model which is modified by a learning system over successive exposures to provide more accurate predictions. After the learning system has sufficiently developed the prediction model, the error between the predicted and measured gray level values may be monitored in later exposures and an error routine can be activated if the error exceeds a predetermined threshold. In this case, the error may indicate that system components in the imaging chain (e.g., the detector or AEC components) require maintenance.

Abstract: An apparatus for properly centering and/or collimating an X-ray beam with respect to a target to be radiographically imaged. A field definer is situated between an X-ray source and an X-ray detector at the location where the target is to be situated. The field definer includes a pair of stops between which the target may be located, and the stops may be horizontally relocated relative to each other to be placed in abutment with the target. A sensor in communication with the stops produces a signal dependent on the distance between the stops, and a controller utilizes this signal to adjust the X-ray source to emit radiation in a desired area with respect to the field between the stops. As an example, a target may be situated between the stops, the stops may be adjusted in abutment with the target, and the X-ray source will then be collimated to emit a radiation beam which is incident only on the target between the stops.

Abstract: An image quality test phantom tool is provided for use in the calibration and standardization of digital x-ray fluoroscopy and radiography systems. A composite phantom has a base for providing mechanical stability, a mesh with a central cut-out overlaid on the base, inserts positioned in the cut-out, and a carrier for housing the composite phantom. A digital image of the phantom is processed to compute x-ray system image quality measurements.