With Pulse Output Patents (Class 378/106)
  • Patent number: 11558950
    Abstract: The invention relates to a control device for an X-ray tube (2), comprising a housing (29) that is designed as a shield, in which an anode current regulating unit (1) is arranged and which is connected to a cathode power supply unit (18), a plurality of cathode voltage switches (20, 21, 22, 23, 24) which are to be connected to in each case a cathode (4), and a programmable assembly (25), in which the control of the cathodes (4) is determined. The cathode power supply unit (18), the cathode voltage switches (20, 21, 22, 23, 24) and the programmable assembly (18) are also arranged in the housing (29).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2023
    Assignee: Cetteen GmbH
    Inventors: Stefan Fritz, Houman Jafari, Jörg Rehrmann
  • Patent number: 10813204
    Abstract: A system for grid control of an electromagnetic ray tube is provided. The system includes a power source, a rectifier, and a grid conductor. The power source is disposed apart from the electromagnetic ray tube and operative to generate an AC current. The rectifier is integrated into the electromagnetic ray tube and electrically coupled to a grid electrode of the electromagnetic ray tube. The grid conductor electrically couples the power source to the rectifier. The rectifier is operative to convert the AC current to a DC current that powers the grid electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Philippe Ernest, Stephane Gautrais, Etienne Clemot, Nicolas Levilly, Dominique Poincloux, Antonio Caiafa
  • Patent number: 10595808
    Abstract: An imaging system includes a computer programmed to estimate noise in computed tomography (CT) imaging data, correlate the noise estimation with neighboring CT imaging data to generate a weighting estimation based on the correlation, de-noise the CT imaging data based on the noise estimation and on the weighting, and reconstruct an image using the de-noised CT imaging data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2020
    Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Jiahua Fan, Meghan Lynn Yue, Jiang Hsieh, Roman Melnyk, Masatake Nukui, Yujiro Yazaki
  • Patent number: 10322300
    Abstract: In a method of constructing a head shield for a radiation machine, the angular distribution of radiation propagating from a source and the angular function of thickness of a material in attenuating the radiation to a certain level of its original value are determined. Based on the angular distribution of radiation from the source and the angular function of thickness of the material, the thicknesses of the material at a plurality of angular locations around the source and distances from the source can be calculated for attenuating the radiation to or less than a predetermined threshold value. A shield around the source is constructed based on the calculated thicknesses of the material through iterative steps to ensure a cost-saving, weight-efficient, optimal solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2019
    Assignee: Varian Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: HsinLu Hsu, Magdalena Constantin, Stuart Scollay
  • Patent number: 10194877
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for generating X-ray pulses during X-ray imaging. A high voltage of an X-ray tube is automatically switched off. The tube voltage decays and upon reaching a predefined threshold value of the tube voltage or a predefined waiting time after switching off the high voltage, a grating voltage of a grating arranged between an emitter and an anode of the X-ray tube is automatically switched on. No electrons reach the anode from the emitter, and the tube current drops to the value zero.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Siemens Healthcare GmbH
    Inventors: Philipp Bernhardt, Thomas Ferger, Markus Schild, Kai-Uwe Taubenreuther, Mathias Kraus
  • Patent number: 10022561
    Abstract: A radiotherapy apparatus and method, comprising a source of radiation for delivering pulses of radiation at a base frequency; and a control unit configured to generate a time-averaged power level of x by generating an nth pulse when n is equal to the rounded value of an integer multiple of 1/x, where x is a value between 0 and 1 representing a proportion of a maximum power output of the radiotherapy apparatus. The pulses may form a repeating pulse train pattern, and the control unit may comprise a processing unit configured to provide a pulse train pattern having a number of available slots, the slots being marked as a permitted pulse or a suppressed pulse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2018
    Assignee: Elekta Limited
    Inventors: Robert Davis, Peter Davis
  • Patent number: 10004465
    Abstract: A method for determining a tube current profile for the recording of at least one X-ray image of body region of a patient with an X-ray image recording device, a corresponding computer program, a machine-readable data carrier and an X-ray image recording device are disclosed. The method includes acquisition of an image recorded via an optical sensor wherein the image has a field of view including at least the body region of the patient to be depicted by way of an X-ray image; determination of at least one piece of patient-specific, body-related information for the patient from the image; determination of an X-ray attenuation distribution of the patient at least for the body region to be depicted by way of an X-ray image with reference to the at least one piece of patient-specific, body-related information; and determination of the tube current profile with reference to the X-ray attenuation distribution determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Andreas Krauss, Rainer Raupach, Bernhard Schmidt
  • Patent number: 10008359
    Abstract: An X-ray tube can include: a cathode including an electron emitter; an anode configured to receive the emitted electrons; a first magnetic quadrupole between the cathode and the anode and having a first quadrupole yoke with four first quadrupole pole projections extending from the first quadrupole yoke and oriented toward a central axis of the first quadrupole yoke and each of the four first quadrupole pole projections having a first quadrupole electromagnetic coil; a second magnetic quadrupole between the first magnetic quadruple and the anode and having a second quadrupole yoke with four second quadrupole pole projections extending from the second quadrupole yoke and oriented toward a central axis of the second quadrupole yoke and each of the four second quadrupole pole projections having a second quadrupole electromagnetic coil; and a magnetic dipole between the cathode and anode and having a dipole yoke with four dipole electromagnetic coils.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: VAREX IMAGING CORPORATION
    Inventors: Bradley D. Canfield, Colton B. Woodman
  • Patent number: 9165392
    Abstract: Provided is an image generating device for generating an image of an object including a plurality of elements connected to one another. The image generating device includes: a calculating section for iteratively calculating a motion of each element of the plurality of elements based on a physical constraint condition of the each element with respect to another connected element; a parent-child information acquiring section for acquiring parent-child information corresponding to a connection between the each element and the another element based on information indicating an element having a predetermined relationship with another object; a correcting section for correcting a position of a child element with respect to a parent element based on the parent-child information and the motion of the each element; and an image generating section for generating information on the image of the object based on the corrected position of the each element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Assignees: SONY COPORATION, SONY COMPUTER ENTERTAINMENT INC.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Matsuike, Junichi Hosono, Tomohito Ito, Hitoshi Ishikawa
  • Patent number: 9084335
    Abstract: A CT system includes an x-ray source, a high-voltage power supply (HVPS) coupled to the x-ray source, and a high-frequency power distribution unit (HFPDU) having an input bus that is coupleable to a three-phase source, and having an output bus. The HFPDU includes a three-phase rectifier coupled to the input bus and configured to output a DC current to an inverter, the inverter configured to convert the DC current to an AC current, and output the AC current to a primary winding of an isolation transformer, and the isolation transformer having a secondary output to an isolation transformer, that is coupled to a full bridge rectifier, to produce DC current to the output bus and to DC bus loads of the CT system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Ezana T. Mekonnen, Jason Stuart Katcha
  • Patent number: 9072154
    Abstract: An x-ray source for improved electron beam control, a smaller electron beam spot size, and a smaller x-ray spot size with reduced power supply size and weight. A method for improved electron beam control, a smaller electron beam spot size, and a smaller x-ray spot size with reduced power supply size and weight. Grid(s) may be used in an x-ray tube for improved electron beam control, a smaller electron beam spot size, and a smaller x-ray spot size. Control circuitry for the grid(s) can be disposed in electrically insulative potting. Light may be used to provide power and control signals to the control circuitry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: MOXTEK, INC.
    Inventor: Dongbing Wang
  • Patent number: 9014336
    Abstract: A power supply unit for an X-ray radiation source (10) comprises a high voltage generator (4) for providing a basic current for the operation of an X-ray tube (10), a waveform generator (6) and a pulse transformer (2) for providing superposable voltage peaks and a control unit (8) for generating a counterbalance at an input (12) of the pulse transformer (2) to prevent saturation effects. Providing different reference waveform patterns lead to the prevention of overshooting and ringing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventor: Peter Luerkens
  • Patent number: 8995620
    Abstract: An electrical circuit for alternating current generation comprising a direct current control box, a first inductor, a second inductor, a first capacitor, and dual load connections. The direct current control box can alternately provide positive direct current to the first inductor then negative direct current to the second inductor. A second end of each inductor can be electrically connected together and electrically connected to a first load connection. A common connection on the control box can be electrically connected to a second load connection. The first load connection and the second load connection can be configured to be electrically connected across a load. A first capacitor can be electrically connected between the first load connection and the second load connection and configured to be electrically connected in series or parallel parallel with the load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Moxtek, Inc.
    Inventor: Dongbing Wang
  • Patent number: 8964940
    Abstract: An x-ray beam control system includes a feedback control loop circuit having a modulation circuit. The feedback control loop circuit generates a control signal. A x-ray tube, has a filament response profile of tube current versus filament temperature that is non-linear. A compensation circuit receives the control signal and modifies the control signal according to a compensating function that is matched to the filament response profile. The modulation circuit receives the modified control signal and generates a drive signal. The x-ray tube receives the drive signal at a filament thereof, and outputs a tube current signal having a linear response to the control signal. The feedback control loop circuit receives the tube current signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Thermo Scientific Portable Analytical Instruments Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Caruso, Mark T. Dinsmore
  • Publication number: 20140254751
    Abstract: A radiographic examination apparatus improves response to fluoroscopy or continuous shooting by changing promptly the power-output of an X-ray tube. The apparatus and method, when an absolute value of variation C per fixed time interval between the filament electric current of current pulse-output calculated by the filament electric current variation calculation element is more than a setup value, a flash control between pulse conducts increases or decreases temporarily the filament electric current between pulses to become the filament electric current on flash control between pulses calculated by a filament electric current calculation element based on a radiation condition of a current pulse-output and the radiation condition of following pulse-output.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Inventor: KATSUHIRO YABUGAMI
  • Publication number: 20140192961
    Abstract: A method and an associated apparatus for controlling a heating current flowing through an emitter of a pulsed X-ray tube during pulse pauses are provided. The heating current is controlled by comparing a measured actual value of the heating current with a predefinable desired value of the heating current. A low-pass filtering of the actual value of the heating current is effected before the comparison. A time constant of the low-pass filtering is equal to a thermal time constant of the emitter. A correction of the actual value of the heating current is provided before the low-pass filtering by a first correction value. The first correction value is determined such that a tube current control during the pulses is not compensated for by the heating current control in the pulse pauses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2014
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Inventors: Rudolf Auernhammer, Andreas Böhme, Johannes Walk
  • Publication number: 20140185775
    Abstract: A standing wave electron linear accelerating apparatus and a method thereof are disclosed. The apparatus comprises an electron gun configured to generate electron beams; a pulse power source configured to provide a primary pulse power signal; a power divider coupled downstream from the pulse power source and configured to divide the primary pulse power signal outputted from the pulse power source into a first pulse power signal and a second pulse power signal; a first accelerating tube configured to accelerating the electron beams with the first pulse power signal; a second accelerating tube configured to accelerate the electron beams with the second pulse power signal; a phase shifter configured to continuously adjust a phase difference between the first pulse power signal and the second pulse power signal so as to generate accelerated electron beams with continuously adjustable energy at output of the second accelerating tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Inventors: Chuanxiang TANG, Zhe ZHANG, Qingxiu JIN, Jiaru SHI, Huaibi CHEN, Wenhui HUANG, Shuxin ZHENG, Yaohong LIU
  • Patent number: 8558180
    Abstract: Among other things, one or more systems and/or techniques for integrating electrical charge yielded from an indirect conversion detector array of a pulsating radiation system are provided. The integration begins during a resting period between a first and second pulse and ends before the second pulse is emitted. Electrical charge that is measured during a resting period is integrated, while electrical charge measured during a pulse is not integrated. In this way, parasitic contributions caused by the direct interaction of radiation photons with a photodiode are reduced and a quantum efficiency of the indirect conversion detector array is increased, for example. Moreover, the period of integration can be adjusted such that a voltage gain related to the indirect conversion detector array can be varied to a predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Analogic Corporation
    Inventors: Ruvin Deych, Charles Shaughnessy
  • Publication number: 20130251108
    Abstract: A power supply unit for an X-ray radiation source (10) comprises a high voltage generator (4) for providing a basic current for the operation of an X-ray tube (10), a waveform generator (6) and a pulse transformer (2) for providing superposable voltage peaks and a control unit (8) for generating a counterbalance at an input (12) of the pulse transformer (2) to prevent saturation effects. Providing different reference waveform patterns lead to the prevention of overshooting and ringing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2011
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventor: Peter Luerkens
  • Patent number: 8437448
    Abstract: The present application is directed toward an X-ray scanning system having a plurality of detectors and a controller, where a) the controller is configured to receive and identify a minimum X-ray transmission level detected by at least one detector, b) the controller compares the minimum X-ray transmission level to at least one predetermined threshold transmission level, and c) based on said comparison, the controller generates an adjustment signal. The present application further comprises an X-ray source, where the X-ray source receives an adjustment signal and is configured to adjust an X-ray pulse duration based on the adjustment signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Rapiscan Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Willem G. J. Langeveld, William A. Johnson, Roger D. Owen, Russell G. Schonberg
  • Publication number: 20130016814
    Abstract: An electromagnetic wave having a phase velocity and an amplitude is provided by an electromagnetic wave source to a traveling wave linear accelerator. The traveling wave linear accelerator generates a first output of electrons having a first energy by accelerating an electron beam using the electromagnetic wave. The first output of electrons can be contacted with a target to provide a first beam of x-rays. The electromagnetic wave can be modified by adjusting its amplitude and the phase velocity. The traveling wave linear accelerator then generates a second output of electrons having a second energy by accelerating an electron beam using the modified electromagnetic wave. The second output of electrons can be contacted with a target to provide a second beam of x-rays. A frequency controller can monitor the phase shift of the electromagnetic wave from the input to the output ends of the accelerator and can correct the phase shift of the electromagnetic wave based on the measured phase shift.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Inventors: Paul Dennis TREAS, Roger Heering MILLER, Juwen WANG
  • Patent number: 8320521
    Abstract: A method for operating an electron beam system is presented. Further, an electron beam system, an X-ray tube and a CT system that implement the presented method are also described. The method includes generating an electron beam in an X-ray tube in an imaging system. Additionally, a current configuration corresponding to a particular view of the imaging system is identified. If the identified current configuration is within a determined range, a duty cycle of the electron beam for the particular view of the imaging system is modulated using pulse width modulation. Further, the modulated electron beam is focused towards a target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Yun Zou, Carey Shawn Rogers, Christopher David Unger, Mark Alan Frontera, Sergio Lemaitre
  • Publication number: 20120294423
    Abstract: Provided herein are systems and methods for operating a traveling wave linear accelerator to generate stable electron beams at two or more different intensities by varying the number of electrons injected into the accelerator structure during each pulse by varying the width of the beam pulse, i.e., pulse width. The electron beams may be used to generate x-rays having selected doses and energies, which may be used for cargo scanning or radiotherapy applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: Stephen Wah-Kwan Cheung, Roger Heering Miller, Juwen Wang
  • Patent number: 8238514
    Abstract: Technologies are generally described for employing ultra-short pulsed X-rays in X-ray computer tomography. Timing parameters of binary modulation applied to the X-rays at the source may be adjusted based on detector characteristics, industry standards, and/or user input. The timing for minimum X-ray intensity during each pulse may be selected to minimize afterglow effect. The timing for the maximum X-ray intensity may then be determined based on one or more of the minimum X-ray intensity timing, desired X-ray dosage, and/or other similar parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Empire Technology Development, LLC
    Inventor: Synho Do
  • Publication number: 20120148027
    Abstract: Provided is a field emission X-ray tube. The field emission X-ray tube includes a cathode electrode provided to one end of a vacuum vessel and including a field emission emitter, an anode electrode provided to the other end of the vacuum vessel in an extending direction of the vacuum vessel, and a gate electrode provided on an outer surface of the vacuum vessel adjacent to the cathode electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Applicant: ELECTRONICS AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS RESEARCH INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Jin Woo Jeong, Yoon-Ho Song, Juntae Kang, Jae-Woo Kim
  • Publication number: 20120082292
    Abstract: A method for operating an electron beam system is presented. Further, an electron beam system, an X-ray tube and a CT system that implement the presented method are also described. The method includes generating an electron beam in an X-ray tube in an imaging system. Additionally, a current configuration corresponding to a particular view of the imaging system is identified. If the identified current configuration is within a determined range, a duty cycle of the electron beam for the particular view of the imaging system is modulated using pulse width modulation. Further, the modulated electron beam is focused towards a target.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Yun Zou, Carey Shawn Rogers, Christopher David Unger, Mark Alan Frontera, Sergio Lemaitre
  • Patent number: 8054937
    Abstract: The present invention is directed toward an X-ray scanning system having a plurality of detectors and a controller, where a) the controller is configured to receive and identify a minimum X-ray transmission level detected by at least one detector, b) the controller compares the minimum X-ray transmission level to at least one predetermined threshold transmission level, and c) based on said comparison, the controller generates an adjustment signal. The present invention further comprises an X-ray source, where the X-ray source receives an adjustment signal and is configured to adjust an X-ray pulse duration based on the adjustment signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Rapiscan Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Willem G. J. Langeveld, William A. Johnson, Roger D. Owen, Russell G. Schonberg
  • Patent number: 8036340
    Abstract: An X-ray apparatus includes a converter into which there is integrated a control logic circuit configured to regulate the supply voltage of a high-voltage power supply source of the X-ray apparatus. To this end, the intelligent voltage-voltage, converter is placed between the power battery and the capacitor bank. This intelligent converter is capable of determining the optimum voltage to be delivered to the generator for the radiology examination to be undertaken in regulating the current of the power battery at the necessary level of current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Jose-Emilio Soto Santos
  • Patent number: 8023619
    Abstract: An object within a region is exposed to a first beam of penetrating radiation. The first beam of penetrating radiation is sensed on a side opposite the region from a source of the first beam. An attenuation of the first beam caused by passing the first beam through the object is determined, the attenuation is compared to a threshold attenuation. If the attenuation exceeds the threshold attenuation, a parameter of a second of beam of penetrating radiation is adjusted based on the determined attenuation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: L-3 Communications Security and Detection Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald Steven McNabb, Jr., Nicholas Danvers Penrose Gillett
  • Patent number: 8019047
    Abstract: An apparatus for Flash X-ray irradiation of material includes a Flash X-ray source comprised of an electron gun and an anode. The electron gun comprises a field emission cold cathode having an electron emitting surface, and a grid for controlling electron flow from the cathode to the anode. The anode has an electron-receiving main surface and an X-ray emitting, oppositely facing main surface. The X-ray emitting surface, emits X-radiation into an irradiation volume. The X-ray emitting surface of the anode has orthogonally oriented first and second dimensions of greater than 2 millimeters each. A high voltage pulse power supply powers the Flash X-ray source. The electron gun, anode and high voltage pulse power supply are so constructed as to create sufficient X-radiation in said irradiation volume to achieve a desired level of irradiation of material in said volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Advanced Fusion Systems LLC
    Inventor: Curtis A. Birnbach
  • Publication number: 20110150170
    Abstract: Technologies are generally described for employing ultra-short pulsed X-rays in X-ray computer tomography. Timing parameters of binary modulation applied to the X-rays at the source may be adjusted based on detector characteristics, industry standards, and/or user input. The timing for minimum X-ray intensity during each pulse may be selected to minimize afterglow effect. The timing for the maximum X-ray intensity may then be determined based on one or more of the minimum X-ray intensity timing, desired X-ray dosage, and/or other similar parameters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: Empire Technology Development, LLC
    Inventor: Synho Do
  • Patent number: 7916837
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling the radiation emissions from an x-ray tube having an anode, a cathode, and a grid is disclosed. The system and method uses a continuous high voltage across the cathode and the anode of the x-ray tube, so that a high voltage is continuously applied to the x-ray tube between the cathode and the anode. The flow of electrons between the cathode and the anode is then controlled by a pulsed high voltage to the grid, the pulsed high voltage being of substantially the same magnitude as the continuous high voltage and being switched at a frequency of about one microsecond to provide alternate the polarity of the switched high voltage to the grid, so that voltage between the cathode and the anode is switched by the voltage applied to the grid by the source of pulsed high voltage, so that soft radiation emissions from the x-ray tube are minimized or eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Core Labs LLC
    Inventors: Roman Krzystyniak, Pavel Dolgonos
  • Publication number: 20100329428
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling the radiation emissions from an x-ray tube having an anode, a cathode, and a grid is disclosed. The system and method uses a continuous high voltage across the cathode and the anode of the x-ray tube, so that a high voltage is continuously applied to the x-ray tube between the cathode and the anode. The flow of electrons between the cathode and the anode is then controlled by a pulsed high voltage to the grid, the pulsed high voltage being of substantially the same magnitude as the continuous high voltage and being switched at a frequency of about one microsecond to provide alternate the polarity of the switched high voltage to the grid, so that voltage between the cathode and the anode is switched by the voltage applied to the grid by the source of pulsed high voltage, so that soft radiation emissions from the x-ray tube are minimized or eliminated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2010
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventors: Roman Krzystyniak, Pavel Dolgonos
  • Patent number: 7742571
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling the radiation emissions from an x-ray tube having an anode, a cathode, and a grid is disclosed. The system and method uses a continuous high voltage across the cathode and the anode of the x-ray tube, so that a high voltage is continuously applied to the x-ray tube between the cathode and the anode. The flow of electrons between the cathode and the anode is then controlled by a pulsed high voltage to the grid, the pulsed high voltage being of substantially the same magnitude as the continuous high voltage and being switched at a frequency of about one microsecond to provide alternate the polarity of the switched high voltage to the grid, so that voltage between the cathode and the anode is switched by the voltage applied to the grid by the source of pulsed high voltage, so that soft radiation emissions from the x-ray tube are minimized or eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Inventors: Roman Krzystyniak, Pavel Dolgonos
  • Patent number: 7672428
    Abstract: Recent advances in treatment planning and in the apparatus able to deliver such plans has called for the dose rate, i.e. the instantaneous power output of the radiation source, to be varied with time. This presents a difficulty in that the checking systems must monitor a varying power level against a varying valid range. We therefore monitor, instead, the energy of the individual pulses that form the beam. Known checking systems average out many pulses to determine the recent average power output by checking an ionization chamber every 100 ms or so. By reducing that time to less than a few milliseconds, a single pulse can be captured. The usual manner of varying the output of a radiation source of this type is to vary the pulse repetition frequency (PRF) and therefore the measured power output will remain constant notwithstanding changes to the time-averaged power output, and can be compared to a standard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Elekta AB (PUBL)
    Inventors: Kevin John Brown, Paul Boxall
  • Publication number: 20100046710
    Abstract: An X-ray diagnostic apparatus includes an X-ray generating unit which generates X rays, an X-ray detecting unit which detects X rays transmitted through a subject, an X-ray exposure operating unit which is operated by an operator, and a system control unit which controls the X-ray generating unit in order to start the generation of the X rays from the X-ray generating unit at a time point when a heart rate phase of the subject reaches a specified phase after the X-ray exposure operating unit is operated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2009
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Inventor: Satoru OHISHI
  • Patent number: 7639784
    Abstract: A control system for an X-ray source includes a sensor interface for receiving one or more sensor signals representative of operation of the X-ray source; a programmable controller operative in response to the one or more sensor signals and a sequence of control instructions for generating one or more control signals for controlling the X-ray source; and a control interface for supplying the one or more control signals to the X-ray source, either directly or indirectly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Inventor: Francis Michael Feda
  • Patent number: 7440547
    Abstract: A CT scanner which collects X-ray projection data of a subject and which generates an image in the subject from the projection data, the CT scanner includes tubes which emit X-rays and which include grids to switch emission and stoppage of the X-rays, a unit which generates a high voltage to be supplied to the tubes, a cable which sends the high voltage to each of the tubes, circuits which change potentials of the grids arranged in the tubes, respectively, a control unit which controls the circuits to switch the emission and the stoppage of the X-rays in a pulse manner while the tubes rotate around the subject, detectors arranged to face the tubes, respectively, and a unit which validates an output signal from the detector facing the tube emitting the X-rays and which invalidates an output signal from the detector facing the tube stopping the emission of the X-rays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Fumio Ishiyama
  • Patent number: 7372944
    Abstract: The invention relates to an x-ray diagnostics device having an x-ray tube for generating x-rays operated by a high voltage generator, having an x-ray detector for converting incident x-rays into electrical signals, having an image processing system and a control device for the duration of the x-ray pulse, in which parameters of the x-ray diagnostics device can be adjusted, with a computing unit being assigned to the control device, said computing unit determining the spatial frequency-dependent signal-to-noise ratio on the basis of the parameters and calculating therefrom the duration of the x-ray pulse and/or the remaining parameters required for a recording. The invention further relates to a method of this type for controlling the x-ray diagnostics device, in which the duration of the x-ray pulse is controlled such that the recognizability of relevant, moved objects is maximal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Philipp Bernhardt, Martin Hoheisel
  • Patent number: 7317783
    Abstract: An X-ray imaging system includes an X-ray source operable to generate an X-ray beam, an X-ray receiver receiving the X-ray beam, a power generator generating power to the X-ray source to generate the X-ray beam, a grid disposed between the X-ray source and the X-ray receiver, a first pulse generator generating a first signal comprising first multiple pulses at a first pulse rate, each of the first multiple pulses having a pulse width, and a second pulse generator coupled to the grid and the power generator. The second pulse generator is configured to generate a second signal including second multiple pulses at a second pulse rate during each pulse width of the first multiple pulses, wherein the second signal is communicated to the grid to cause the X-ray beam to pulse on and off in accordance with the second signal during imaging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Inventor: Pavel Dolgonos
  • Patent number: 7110500
    Abstract: A multiple energy x-ray source capable of rapidly generating and delivering x-rays in the form of successive pulses that alternate between at least two different energy levels, as well as a multiple energy x-ray inspection apparatus for inspecting moving objects that employs such a multiple energy x-ray source, are provided. The inventive x-ray source facilitates the use of differential absorption characteristics as a means for distinguishing materials contained within objects during a moving inspection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Inventor: Paul H. Leek
  • Patent number: 7050539
    Abstract: A power supply for X-ray generators which includes at least one inverter (11, 12, 13), at least one transformer (111, 121, 131) and at least one voltage cascade (112, 122, 132) for generating a supply voltage for an X-ray tube (15). In order to increase the output power that can be achieved with a comparatively small weight and a low ripple or output capacitance, the voltage cascade is conceived in respect of its capacitances and the stray inductance of the transformers (111, 121, 131) in such a manner that it can be made to operate in the resonance mode by appropriate control of the inverter. In respect of the properties mentioned it is notably advantageous to integrate a two-phase embodiment or three-phase embodiment with an X-ray system so as to form a compact tank generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Christoph Loef, Arne Lunding, Heiko Osterholz, Heinz Van Der Broeck
  • Patent number: 7010090
    Abstract: An X-ray diagnosis apparatus and method for X-ray fluoroscopy in which the apparatus includes a generator, a detector, an integrator, a comparator, and a controller. In the apparatus and method, a first X-ray for the X-ray fluoroscopy is generated intermittently. A transmission X-ray transmitted through an object of the X-ray fluoroscopy is detected. X-ray transmission data obtained in a period of intermittent generation of the first X-ray is integrated and compared to a reference value. In response to the integrated X-ray transmission data reaching the reference value during the period of intermittent generation, intermittent generation of the first X-ray is disabled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Masahiko Ono
  • Patent number: 6882703
    Abstract: A system and method for providing pulsed power application for an x-ray tube that comprises an x-ray tube having an anode and cathode; and a power supply adapted to provide an anode-to-cathode gap accelerating potential and photons, wherein the gap voltage and photons are pulsed and received by the x-ray tube via a single cable from the power supply resulting in a pulsed x-ray radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLC
    Inventors: John Scott Price, Karl Francis Sherwin, Kasegn Dubale Tekletsadik
  • Patent number: 6816573
    Abstract: The voltage applied to a first grid electrode 71 of an X-ray tube 11 by a grid voltage control section 110 is controlled with reference to a predetermined negative voltage from a negative voltage generating section 112 when an object 5 to be inspected does not exist in an imaging area (irradiation area of an X-ray from an X-ray source 1) so that the pulse outputted from a pulse generator 105 is in its OFF state, and is controlled with reference to a reference positive voltage from a reference voltage generating section 115 when the object 5 to be inspected exists in the imaging area in the X-ray image intensifier 2 (irradiation area of the X-ray from the X-ray source 1) so that the pulse outputted from the pulse generator 105 is in its ON state, whereby both of the cutoff voltage and grid operating voltage are applied in a stable state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Assignee: Hamamatsu Photonics K.K.
    Inventors: Masayuki Hirano, Hiroki Kawakami
  • Publication number: 20030210764
    Abstract: A system and method for providing pulsed power application for an x-ray tube that comprises an x-ray tube having an anode and cathode; and a power supply adapted to provide an anode-to-cathode gap voltage, wherein the gap voltage is pulsed during x-ray exposure resulting in a pulsed x-ray radiation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Inventors: Kasegn Dubale Tekletsadik, John Scott Price
  • Patent number: 6385280
    Abstract: An x-ray CT apparatus has an x-ray source which emits an x-ray beam which is displaceable relative to an examination subject, the x-ray source emitting x-rays in the form of one or more pulses during the registration of a projection. An arrangement for modulating the x-ray power sets the duration of the pulses dependent on an angle attenuation profile of the examination subject for the individual projections, such that the mAs product applied for the individual projections correspond to the curve of the angle attenuation profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Herbert Bittl, Ernst Neumeier, Matthias Berger
  • Patent number: 6285740
    Abstract: A dual-energy x-ray system is provided which is useful in densitometry and other applications. A dual energy x-ray source, formed field emission x-ray tube driven by a Marx generator, produces a single x-ray pulse of a very short duration (e.g., 10 to 200 nanoseconds). The pulse provides x-ray energy of a first, high value early in the pulse and x-ray energy of a second, lower value later in the pulse so as to provide a dual energy level x-ray distribution comprising hard and soft x-rays. A detector system having dual x-ray energy discrimination properties, formed by soft and hard x-ray detectors and an inter-detector, receives the x-ray pulse and discriminates between the dual x-ray energy levels of the pulse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: John F. Seely, Craig N. Boyer, Glenn E. Holland
  • Patent number: 6111931
    Abstract: An x-ray system which can be operated at various energy supply sources which can respectively deliver different average electric powers per unit of time, has an x-ray source supplied by a voltage generator, an x-ray receiver and a control unit to which the average electrical power to be drawn from the respective energy supply source can be prescribed. The control unit actuates the voltage generator so that, given the prescribed available average electrical power per unit of time, x-ray pulses can be generated with a period, an x-ray energy and a pulse repetition rate so that x-ray images of moving objects can be acquired in cine mode, with the average electrical power per unit of time drawn from the respective energy supply source not being exceeded, and with at least the x-ray energy or the pulse period or the pulse repetition rate of the x-ray pulse to be generated being prescribed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Jochen Kusch
  • Patent number: 5652777
    Abstract: A diagnostic X-ray apparatus includes an X-ray tube, an image intensifier for converting an X-ray image of an object under examination to an optical image, a solid state image sensor device for detecting the optical images produced by the image intensifier and converting the optical means into a series of video signals, a CCD driver generating field shift pulses for driving the solid state image sensor device at a predetermined rate, pulse width determining means for determining a pulse width of the X-ray pulses, and X-ray control means for controlling an emission period and timing of the X-ray pulse emitted from the X-ray tube. In the case that the solid state image sensor device performs interlaced scanning in a field storage mode, commencing with the second frame when the field shift pulse is generated by the CCD driver, the X-ray pulse continues to be emitted from the X-ray tube for a half of the pulse width determined by the pulse width determining means in the first frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1997
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Seiichiro Nagai, Akira Tsukamoto, Koichiro Nabuchi, Masayuki Nishiki