Abstract: A method and apparatus for optimizing the drilling position of a multi-layer printed circuit board prior to drilling. A template having precisely located target holes and fixture reference marks provides initial coordinate reference information for multi-layer printed circuit boards to be inspected by x radiation. Each board is processed by insertion into a holding fixture, examination of four quadrant target areas using x-ray sources and detectors, digitization of the target area images in each quadrant, and computaton of the optimum board position in a follow-on drilling apparatus. After optimization, three reference holes are punched along one edge of the board to provide accurate fiducial positioning marks when the board is placed in the drilling apparatus.

Abstract: A high speed multiple section, computed-tomographic x-ray scanner is provided. The scanner utilizes a multiple-anode, scanning electron beam x-ray source to provide high speed scanning of sections of the body. No mechanical motion is involved.

Abstract: A set of block-like pillow components which can be assembled in various ways so to accomodate different body resting positions while sitting up, instead of laying down, the components also including one so to serve as a food tray, and in a modified design of the invention, the assembled units form a container for carrying food, the components being molded of plastic styrofoam.

Abstract: A position sensitive detector including a curved detector housing having a hollow detector chamber therein, the housing having an elongate opening in the curved side wall thereof and an x-ray transmissive material adjacent thereto to render the detector chamber air-tight, a back cathode plane comprising a plurality of spaced cathode conductors on an insulator support and at least one curved anode wire, extending at least substantially transverse to the back cathode plane, disposed within the detector chamber in the path of x-rays entering through the elongate opening. Each anode wire, which is mechanically supported only at the ends thereof, is caused, during operation of the detector, to be supported in planar arcuate form solely by electrostatic forces. During operation of the detector, the chamber is filled with an ionizable gas and voltage is applied to the curved anode wire(s), thereby enabling detection of ionizing events occuring within the detector chamber.

Abstract: The method of calibrating an axial tomographic scanner including frame means having an opening therein in which an object to be examined is to be placed, source and detector means mounted on the frame means for directing one or more beams of penetrating radiation through the object from the source to the detector means, and means to rotate the scanner including the source and detector means about the object whereby a plurality of sets of data corresponding to the transmission or absorption by the object of a plurality of beams of penetrating radiation are collected; the calibration method comprising mounting calibration means supporting an adjustable centering member onto the frame means, positioning the adjustable centering member at approximately the center of rotation of the scanner, placing position-sensitive indicator means adjacent the approximately centered member, rotating the scanner and the calibration means mounted thereon at least one time and, if necessary, adjusting the positioning of the center

Abstract: A device for use by an artist in order to trace an actual scene or three dimensional object upon a transparent film or sheet; the device consisting of a frame having a pivotable easel leg so that the frame may stand upright, a transparent stiff plastic back sheet forming a window in the frame, a transparent thin plastic sheet or film unwound from a roll supported at one end of the frame so to be pulled across the window and retained in position between the back sheet and frame, an eye opening on the easel leg for observing the painting object from a constant point, and adjustable rulers attached to the frame for guiding the drawing of straight lines upon the film or sheet extending across the window.