Abstract: An image data registration system and method of storing a first data set of three-dimensional image data associated with a predetermined portion of an object with reference to a first coordinate frame; obtaining and storing a second data set of three-dimensional image data associated with a surface of the predetermined portion of the object with reference to a second coordinate frame; obtaining and storing a third data set of three-dimensional image data associated with a probe in the vicinity of the predetermined portion of the object with reference to a third coordinate frame; and registering the first, second and third data sets to generate a matched image data set in which the first, second and third coordinate frames are relatively aligned with one another.

Abstract: A statistical method for correcting for intensity inhomogeneities in the images produced by magnetic resonance imaging equipment. The method uses knowledge of tissue properties and gain inhomogeneities to correct the gain artifact, thereby improving intensity-based segmentation of the volume spanned by the imagery into the various tissue types that are present. The method utilizes the Expectation-Maximization algorithm to simultaneously estimate tissue class and the radiofrequency gain field. The algorithm iterates two components to convergence: tissue classification and gain field estimation. The method combines them in an iterative scheme that yields a powerful technique for estimating tissue class and radiofrequency gain.

Abstract: The present invention provides an image data registration system and method of storing a first data set of three-dimensional image data associated with a predetermined portion of an object with reference to a first coordinate frame; obtaining and storing a second data set of three-dimensional image data associated with a surface of the predetermined portion of the object with reference to a second coordinate frame; and registering the first data set and the second data set to generate a matched image data set in which the first coordinate frame is aligned with the second coordinate frame.

Abstract: This invention relates to computers, and particularly to the accommodation of accessory cards of varying types through the provision of modular backplane assemblies. By way of example, the invention contemplates, in a computer apparatus having a main chassis for mounting a motherboard and defining a backplane portion for enclosing and shielding components mounted for electrical connection with the motherboard and an opening in the backplane portion for providing access for connections to peripheral devices, an improvement which facilitates adaptation of the apparatus to mounting accessory boards having at least two differing predetermined types of electrical interconnection hardware and mechanical mountings. The improvement comprises at least two interchangeable modular backplane assemblies, each assembly having the capability of removably fitting into the main chassis and receiving and electrically connecting with and mechanically securing accessory cards of a corresponding type.

Abstract: The improved Absolute Distance Sensor has achieved presently a resolution of about 0.03 .mu.m (RMS) for measurements over long distances. A two-color, synthetic Michelson interferometer employing a CO.sub.2 source is designed to sequentially switch between four sets of R and P line pairs and thereby provide a basis for forming simultaneous equations which are employed to greatly reduce the half wavelength ambiguity typical of single wavelength interferometers.