With Object Support Or Positioning Patents (Class 378/177)
  • Patent number: 11820651
    Abstract: Mass transfer tools and methods for high density transfer of arrays of micro devices are described. In an embodiment, a mass transfer tool includes a plurality of articulating transfer head assemblies coupled with a main translation track, where each articulating transfer head assembly is translatable along the main translation track between a donor substrate stage and a receiving substrate stage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2023
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: Antoine Manens
  • Patent number: 11744533
    Abstract: An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment includes an X-ray generator configured to generate X-rays, a grid configured to remove scattered rays from the X-rays emitted from the X-ray generator, an X-ray detector configured to detect the X-rays that have passed through the grid, a first support configured to support the grid, and a second support configured to support the grid. The number of directions in which the first support restricts movement of the grid is different from the number of directions in which the second support restricts movement of the grid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Assignee: CANON MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yosuke Kayukawa, Mitsunobu Sugeno
  • Patent number: 11741642
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for constructing a tomographic image of a sample are disclosed. The apparatus comprises at least one source configured to emit electromagnetic radiation at a first wavelength, at least one angularly-selective detector configured to detect the electromagnetic radiation at a second wavelength after the electromagnetic radiation has interacted with the sample, and a controller configured to construct a tomographic image of the sample based on information gathered using the at least one detector. The controller obtains information indicative of an intensity of the electromagnetic radiation detected at a second position by the at least one detector while the source is in a first position. Then, the source and detector positions are interchanged, and the controller obtains information indicative of an intensity of the electromagnetic radiation detected at the first position by the at least one detector while the electromagnetic radiation is emitted from the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2023
    Assignee: University of Surrey
    Inventors: Lucia Florescu, Vadim Markel, John C Schotland
  • Patent number: 11604152
    Abstract: A system for computed tomography inspection can include a stage, a stationary radiation source, a stationary radiation detector, and a controller. The stage can secure a target thereon and rotate about a rotation axis. The radiation source can emit a beam of penetrating radiation from a focal point that is directed upon a portion of the target. The radiation detector can include a sensing face configured to acquire measurements of radiation beam intensity incident thereon as a function of position. The controller can command the stage to translate from a first position to a second position in a direction transverse to a central axis of the radiation beam. A magnification of the target at the first and second positions can be approximately equal. The stage does not translate transverse to the central axis of the radiation beam during measurement of the radiation beam intensity by the detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2023
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Oilfield Operations LLC
    Inventors: Nils Rothe, Andreas Fischer
  • Patent number: 11206997
    Abstract: A handbrake of a medical imaging apparatus that has a movable patient table with a top face on which a patient lies, fastens and releases the patient table when actuated. The handbrake with a mounting face and a first face has a main body and has a brake actuation button, operable in an actuation direction. The mounting face is attachable to the patient table. The front face is directly opposite to at least some parts of the mounting face in the actuation direction. The brake actuation button is disposed on the front face of the main body, and is actuated by pushing the brake actuation button in the actuation direction, in order to fasten or to release the brake of the patient table. The actuation direction is essentially perpendicular to the top face of the patient table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2021
    Assignee: Siemens Healthcare S.A.E.
    Inventors: Amr Emara, Hossam Mekky
  • Patent number: 11160515
    Abstract: An X-ray CT scanner generates CT imaging information on an imaging region, and has a revolution arm positioning an X-ray generator and an X-ray detector to face one another with a subject therebetween, directing the revolution arm to move so X-ray beam radiation is offset from the center of the imaging region. An axial direction changing mechanism changes an imaging target from a first imaging region to a second imaging region in an axial direction of the imaging central axis, and a controller controls offset CT imaging, and an X-ray imaging information generator to generate first and second CT imaging information based on projection data of the first and second imaging region and to generate a stitch imaging information comprising the first and second CT imaging information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2021
    Assignee: J. Morita Mfg. Corp.
    Inventors: Takahiro Yoshimura, Tomoyuki Sadakane
  • Patent number: 11116472
    Abstract: An X-ray image capturing apparatus includes a target determiner that determines a target position of an imager and a target angle of the imager based on imaging content information for generating a tomographic image, and a drive controller that controls a drive to be driven such that a relative position of the imager corresponds to the target position and a relative angle of the imager corresponds to the target angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2021
    Assignee: Shimadzu Corporation
    Inventor: Ken Shirota
  • Patent number: 10863952
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling medical equipment is provided. The apparatus includes patient positioning equipment, and a control system coupled to the patient positioning equipment. The control system is configured to control a function of the medical equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Laurence Vancamberg, Jérôme Sutty, Razvan Iordache, Remy Klausz
  • Patent number: 10716521
    Abstract: The current invention relates to a patient support table, comprising a frame that is mounted to the floor, an upright column with a table top support system and mounted to the frame and supporting a table top that is movable longitudinally with respect to the column and to accommodate a person. The patient table further comprises a tilt actuator and a control device to control the at least one tilt actuator, and comprising an inclinometer, a data storage and a processing unit that in use compares data from the inclinometer with data from the data storage. The control device comprises a force sensor to determine a load supported by the table top and/or a position sensor to determine the longitudinal position of the table top with respect to a reference, wherein the control device in use calculates a set point for the at least one tilt actuator and actuates the tilt actuator to move or maintain the table top to the set tilted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2020
    Assignee: Frencken Europe B.V.
    Inventors: Johannes Hubertus Antonius Van De Rijdt, Mark Antonius Adriana Van Den Akker, Peter Van Der Krieken, Ton Antonius Cornelis Henricus Kluijtmans, Lucas Hendricus Johannes Donker
  • Patent number: 10709004
    Abstract: An x-ray system mounted on a surface includes a movable x-ray source and a mechanism for moving the x-ray source in at least two transverse directions. The two transverse directions are marked by visually distinguishable indicators. A control panel controls movement of the x-ray source along the transverse directions and includes corresponding markings on control buttons matching the visually distinguishable indicators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Assignee: Carestream Health, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony J. Blasio
  • Patent number: 10610189
    Abstract: Disclosed are an X-ray irradiating device having a function of selecting an automatic radiographic mode and an X-ray imaging method using the same. The X-ray irradiating device includes an X-ray source, a motion sensor configured to detect an X-ray source pointing direction, and a controller configured to select any one of a plurality of radiographic modes according to a pointing angle signal received from the motion sensor. The X-ray imaging method, which uses the above described X-ray imaging apparatus, includes setting a reference plane as a reference value for a pointing angle in which an X-ray source is directed, detecting the pointing angle relative to the reference plane by using a motion sensor and selecting a radiographic mode corresponding to the detected pointing angle, and performing a radiography by controlling the X-ray source with a set value corresponding to the selected radiographic mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2020
    Assignees: VATECH Co., Ltd., VATECH EWOO Holdings Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hyungkeun Lim, Jinpyo Chun
  • Patent number: 10563857
    Abstract: Lighting for use with in conjunction with a surgical apparatus is disclosed. The light sources can be used in a sterile environment without compromising the sterile nature of that environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2020
    Inventor: Mark Crawford
  • Patent number: 10517552
    Abstract: A detector support device is described comprising a bracket, slide and detector trays, a connector and a cable. The connector comprises detector and cable interfaces, wherein the detector interface is installed on the detector tray to connect to the detector, and an accommodation cavity, in which the cable interface is located, is opened from an upper surface of the slide tray. A first fixing portion fixed to a bottom wall of the accommodation cavity and a first bending portion extending from the first fixing portion to a first end of the cable are also provided between the first end and a second end of the cable, the first end of the cable extends out of the slide tray so as to be connected to an external connector, and the second end of the cable is connected to the cable interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Yunfa Wang, Fusheng Li, Yuqing Li, Peng Qi, Huimin He
  • Patent number: 10517553
    Abstract: An X-ray imaging system is provided. The X-ray imaging system includes an X-ray radiation source, an X-ray detector, and a C-arm. The C-arm has the X-ray radiation source disposed on a first end and the X-ray detector disposed on a second end opposite the first end. The X-ray imaging system also includes a motorized system configured to rotate the C-arm about three different rotational axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: David Ellis Barker, John Matthew Simmons
  • Patent number: 10517558
    Abstract: An ankle imaging accessory is provided by the present invention, particularly an ankle positioning device to facilitate the taking of X-ray views of a patient who had sustained an ankle fracture. The ankle imaging accessory is made from an X-ray translucent material and includes heel supports on which heels of a patient can locate. A pair of spaced apart stops defines the limits of an arc on which a foot pivoting on the heel support can move.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: Stellenbosch University
    Inventor: De la Rey Hertzog Scheepers Badenhorst
  • Patent number: 10448859
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a mounting assembly for attaching medical equipment to a patient table. In one particular embodiment, the present disclosure provides a mounting assembly for attaching a magnetic field generator to a patient table. The mounting assembly allows for the secure attachment of the magnetic field generator to the patient table while also allowing for easy adjustment of the positioning and location of the magnetic field generator, even after the patient is on the table. In many embodiments the mounting assembly is comprised of a mounting apparatus that attaches directly to the patient table and first and second side rails that attach to the magnetic field generator and are configured to slidably attach to the mounting apparatus. In some embodiments, the mounting apparatus and side rails are constructed of a material that provides little or no interference with the magnetic field generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2019
    Assignee: St. Jude Medical, Cardiology Division, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Wehner, Lawrence Swanson, Adam Fischbach
  • Patent number: 10365233
    Abstract: An equipment mount for an x-ray apparatus is disclosed. The mount comprises a main shield element, a peripheral shield element and a secondary shield element arranged to permit a mounting element to pass through the main shield element in a shielded manner. A support apparatus for an x-ray apparatus is also disclosed. The support apparatus comprises a separable bearing for translating a support part between a first position and a second position and an elevator mechanism for translating the support part from the second position to a third position, thereby separating the bearing. A manipulator stage for an x-ray apparatus is also disclosed. The stage comprises a first support structure arranged to support a sample stage and supported at first and second positions either side of the sample stage by second and third support structures, the second and third support structures being configured to allow the first support structure to raise and lower while remaining supported at both ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2019
    Assignee: NIKON METROLOGY NV
    Inventors: Ben Price, Michael Beechey, James Smith
  • Patent number: 10322013
    Abstract: Provided is a measuring instrument for use in artificial knee joint replacement surgery that can perform knee joint alignment measurement more accurately. A measuring instrument for use in artificial knee joint replacement surgery includes a guide section. The guide section is used to indicate, from the outside of a patient, the position of a femoral head center of a hip joint of the patient. The guide section indicates the position of the femoral head center while being arranged based on preliminarily measured relative positions of an anterior superior iliac spine and the femoral head center of the patient. The anterior superior iliac spine is viewable from the outside of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2019
    Assignee: KYOCERA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hironori Zaima, Masahiko Hashida
  • Patent number: 10219760
    Abstract: A gantry of a tomography apparatus has a rotary member that is rotatable around an axis. The rotary member carries at least one component attached to the outside thereto. The component is attached by primary and secondary attachment mechanisms, with only the primary attachment mechanism engaged during normal operation. The secondary attachment mechanism, a T-slot interface in one embodiment, engages for safety and other reasons when the primary attachment mechanism is not functioning properly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Brandon Smith, Chad Smith
  • Patent number: 10166000
    Abstract: Disclosed is a radiographic apparatus including a detachable manipulation panel which includes a capturing device to generate X-rays and to irradiate the X-rays to a subject so as to capture the subject, a controller connected to the capturing device to control the capturing device, and a manipulation device mounted to the capturing device to allow an inspector to input commands to control the capturing device, wherein the manipulation device is detachably mounted to the capturing device and, in a state in which the manipulation device is separated from the capturing device, is connected to the controller using a wireless interface to control the capturing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2019
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sung Nam Kim, Seung Woo Shin, Hyun Sun Kim
  • Patent number: 10039679
    Abstract: This disclosure provides operating units for a medical apparatus having a driven movable element comprising a fixing device for being fixed to the movable element, an actuating element, a signal processing device, at least one actuation sensor for detecting an actuation of the actuating element in at least one predetermined actuation axis (B1??B1+, B2??B2+), wherein the actuation sensor is adapted to supply an actuation signal depending on a direction of actuation (B1?, B1+, B2?, B2+) in the actuation axis (B1??B1+, B2??B2+) to the signal processing device and at least one direction sensor for outputting a direction signal. The signal processing device is adapted to align an actuation coordinate system according to the direction signal such that the direction of movement is equal to the direction of actuation (B1??B1+, B2??B2+), and to supply a control signal according to the actuation signal in the aligned actuation coordinate system to a control device of the medical apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: TRUMPF MEDIZIN SYSTEME GMBH + CO. KG
    Inventors: Andre Griesel, Falk Georgi, Christopher Schmotz, Thomas Deutscher, Joerg Meissner
  • Patent number: 9955928
    Abstract: The invention relates to a medical computed tomography imaging apparatus which is especially designed to enable cranial imaging. The structure of the apparatus includes a gantry (2) comprising imaging means (21, 22) and a positioning support (8) which positioning support (8) is arranged to position the patient's cranium for exposure such that, when exposed, the cranium is scanned by a radiation beam substantially parallel with a plane formed by the facial area of the cranium and substantially only in an area on the facial side of the cranium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: PLANMED OY
    Inventors: Tapio Laukkanen, Sami Tohka, Lauri Seppala
  • Patent number: 9895132
    Abstract: A mammography apparatus includes: an imaging table housing a radiation detector that detects radiation that has passed through a breast of a subject; a first press member that presses the breast downward from above in a case in which radiation is being detected by the radiation detector; and a second press member that is provided facing the first press member and that presses the breast upward from below, wherein an end portion of the second press member at a chest wall side of the subject is supported by the imaging table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Assignee: FUJIFILM CORPORATION
    Inventor: Masayoshi Matsuura
  • Patent number: 9795347
    Abstract: A scanning system for three-dimensional imaging comprises a bench, a gantry frame, a light source, a sensor and a control unit. The bench is to support a subject to be scanned. The gantry frame is movably mounted at a lateral side of the bench. The light source is movably mounted on the gantry frame so as to emit a light for a radiographic purpose. The sensor is movably mounted at a side of the bench, by opposing to the subject with respect to the bench, so as to receive the light emitted from the light source. The control unit is electrically coupled with the gantry frame, the light source and the sensor so as thereby to perform motion controls upon the gantry frame, the light source and the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Assignee: INSTITUTE OF NUCLEAR ENERGY RESEARCH ATOMIC ENERGY COUNCIL, EXECUTIVE YUAN
    Inventors: Meei-Ling Jan, Sheng-Pin Tseng
  • Patent number: 9687205
    Abstract: A radiographic apparatus includes an X-ray source unit, a measurement unit configured to measure either one or both of a force and a torque applied to the X-ray source unit, at least one motor configured to move the X-ray source unit, and a system control unit configured to control the at least one motor to move the X-ray source unit according to a direction and a magnitude of the either one or both of the force and the torque measured by the measurement unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Dong Jae Lee, Soo Sang Yang, Hyeon Min Lee, Jeong Pil Lee, Woo Sup Han, Hyun Woong Hwang
  • Patent number: 9675312
    Abstract: An apparatus for carrying out an examination on the breast of a patient, includes an analysis head including at least one radiation detection device, configured to receive and detect radiation on a detection plane and at least one X-ray source to emit a corresponding beam of X-rays towards the detection plane. A first frame is provided with a floor support; a second frame supports the analysis head; and a third frame is connected to the first frame so that it can be moved from a horizontal position to a vertical position, and which supports the second frame. A movement mechanism moves the third frame from the horizontal position to the vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: I.M.S. Internazionale Medico Scientifica S.r.l.
    Inventors: Bruno Toniolo, Achille Albanese, Paolo Vignoli
  • Patent number: 9675308
    Abstract: A radiography system is provided. The radiography system includes a radiographic device arranged in a movable manner, a measuring device to measure at least one of external force and torque applied to the radiographic device, and a drive device to move the radiographic device based on a direction and magnitude of the at least one of the force and torque measured by the measuring device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Soo Sang Yang, Woo Sup Han, Hyun Woong Hwang
  • Patent number: 9101762
    Abstract: An apparatus for irradiating patients with x-ray radiation is provided. The apparatus includes a lowerable patient support and an x-ray apparatus that may be positioned below the lowerable patient support. The apparatus is configured such that part of the x-ray apparatus is moved into the lowerable patient support when the patient support is lowered. The lowerable patient support may be lowered further, thereby facilitating access for the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Jörg Lukas, Dieter Wöhrl
  • Patent number: 9050235
    Abstract: The presence or absence of objects (e.g., medical implements, medical supplies) tagged with transponders may be determined in an environment in which medical procedures (e.g., surgery) are performed via an interrogation and detection system which includes a controller and a plurality of antennas positioned along a patient support structure. The antennas may, for example, be positioned along an operating table, bed, a mattress or pad or a sheet and may be radiolucent. Respective antennas may successively be activated to transmit interrogation signals. Multiple antennas may be monitored for responses from transponders to the interrogation signals. For example, all antennas other than the antenna that transmitted the most recent interrogation signal may be monitored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2015
    Assignee: RF Surgical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William A. Blair, Bruce E. Barnes, David A. Poirier
  • Patent number: 9016940
    Abstract: A mobile patient positioning stand has a vertical rail allowing a shield structure to be moved up and down to different heights based on the height of anatomy of the patient desired to be imaged. The structure may be moved to position a shield of the structure at a height so that anatomy of a patient to be imaged is located within multiple image areas identified by markers on the shield. Then, an image detector holder and detector may be moved up and down to different heights behind the shield, based on the height of the markers. A source of radiation provides images at the multiple image areas. The multiple image areas may be connected by aligning stitching markers that may be on the shield, and are in the images. The aligning may be done by an automated computer software process that recognized patient anatomy and/or the stitching markers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Fujifilm Medical Systems U.S.A., Inc.
    Inventor: Robert A. Fabrizio
  • Patent number: 8981309
    Abstract: A cassette includes: an image capturing unit including: an image receiving unit having a flat panel shape on which a plurality of pixels are arranged on a substrate converting radiation into electric charges and accumulating the converted electric charges; and a support to which the image receiving unit is attached; and a case in which the image capturing unit is accommodated in an unfixed state, in which the support supports the image receiving unit, and an outer edge of the support is disposed on an outer side of an outer edge of the substrate of the image receiving unit in a direction parallel to an image receiving surface of the image receiving unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Fujifilm Corporation
    Inventors: Shinsuke Noguchi, Takeyasu Kobayashi, Makoto Sugizaki
  • Patent number: 8876377
    Abstract: A proximity sensor array for a medical imaging system includes a flexible substrate configured to be mounted to a detector, and a plurality of sensors disposed on the substrate, the flexible substrate being deformable to contact a sensing surface of the detector. A method of fabricating a proximity sensor array and a medical imaging system are also described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Alex Silberklang, Alex Fishler, Yaron Hefetz
  • Patent number: 8616767
    Abstract: An imaging platform assembly is used to support a hoofed animal, especially horses, during a foot imaging process. The platform assembly includes a platform and flush mounted turntables that allow the animal's feet to rotate under the animal's power, thereby allowing the animal to assume a more natural stance. By allowing this rotation, the animal less likely to cause trouble during the imaging process. One or more of the turntables include a slot that is configured to support an image capturing device, such as an x-ray cartridge. One to all of the animal's feet may be on turntables, depending on the platform configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Inventor: Martin D. Kenny
  • Publication number: 20130163728
    Abstract: A proximity sensor array for a medical imaging system includes a flexible substrate configured to be mounted to a detector, and a plurality of sensors disposed on the substrate, the flexible substrate being deformable to contact a sensing surface of the detector. A method of fabricating a proximity sensor array and a medical imaging system are also described herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2011
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Alex Silberklang, Alex Fishler, Yaron Hefetz
  • Publication number: 20130070906
    Abstract: An X-ray imaging apparatus includes a storage unit configured to store a portable X-ray imaging apparatus including an X-ray plane detection unit and a carrying handle unit, and a positioning member configured to position a photographing center of the storage unit and a photographing center of the portable X-ray imaging apparatus by deviating a position of the portable X-ray imaging apparatus stored in the storage unit by an offset of the handle unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Hidetomo Suwa, Tetsuo Watanabe
  • Patent number: 8341886
    Abstract: A gate assembly is provided including frame means for positioning in an opening through which selective entry is required. Barrier means are mountable on the frame means via hinge means and the barrier means are movable relative to the frame means between a closed position, wherein the opening is closed, to an open position, wherein the opening is open. An automatic closure mechanism is provided for moving the barrier means from the open position to the closed position without user intervention. The automatic closure mechanism is associated with the hinge means and includes at least one ramp or inclined surface on which at least part of the gate travels when moving between the open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Munchkin, Inc.
    Inventor: Adam Yates
  • Patent number: 8193762
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided through which in some implementations a portable wireless digital X-ray detector includes a battery electrically coupled to at least one external electrical conductor. In some implementations, the external electrical conductor is mounted flush to an outside of a housing of the portable wireless digital X-ray detector. In some implementations, the external electrical conductor plate includes only hypoallergenic materials. In some implementations, the battery is fixed mounted in the portable wireless digital X-ray detector. In some implementations docking detector receptacle at least one external electrical conductor in a pocket of the docking detector receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: James Zhengshe Liu, Gilbert Wu, Meghan Fox
  • Patent number: 8128285
    Abstract: A fixture for use in taking X-ray images of children comprising; a base including cylinder having a height adjustable piston, and at least one mounting arm. The mounting arm including a first end connected to the front wheel of a bike and a second end connected to a rear wheel of the bike. The bike including a first seat; a second seat portion supported by the mounting arm, the second seat including a back portion that is transparent to X-rays. An x-ray cassette is mounted on a swivel arm and can be positioned to take typical x-ray images of a child's torso including anterior, posterior, left lateral and right lateral. The fixture can work with any x-ray source and can work with wall mounted x-ray cassettes as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventor: Leslie Burton
  • Patent number: 8089030
    Abstract: A portable device is provided that is used to warm a mammography machine and which comprises a warmer and a holder for the warmer, the holder having a charging mechanism for charging the warmer. The warmer includes an enclosed heating element and power source. The heating element is precisely regulated to ensure that the sensitive imaging elements are not damaged by an over-temperature condition, while at the same time permitting a rapid heating of the warmer for high cycle use. The warmer warms surfaces of the mammography machine that contacts human skin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Marvel Concepts, LLC
    Inventors: Ann Wallin Harrington, Paul A. Pilosi, Nathanial R. Hallee, Ted Klein
  • Patent number: 7972059
    Abstract: An X-ray cover for enveloping an X-ray cassette. The cover comprises a first sheet of non-plastic material and a second sheet of non-plastic material. The cover further comprises a cushion element integrally distributed throughout the first sheet and the second sheet wherein the first sheet and second sheet are sized and shaped to accept the X-ray cassette and wherein the cushion element is sized and shaped to cushion the patient's body part during an X-ray procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Sherry Behle
  • Publication number: 20110069817
    Abstract: An X-ray cover for enveloping an X-ray cassette. The cover comprises a first sheet, a second sheet and band. The first sheet and second sheet are sized and shaped to accept the X-ray cassette and the band is sized and shaped to isolate the X-ray cassette during a radiographic procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Inventor: Sherry Behle
  • Patent number: 7845851
    Abstract: Iso-centering a volume of interest (VOI) (170) within a patient (168) to undergo examination on a rotational X-ray apparatus (100) is achieved by taking two differently-angled pictures (S210) and updating positional settings (172) for the patient's table (112) responsive to respectively displayed centering of the VOI (152). Alternatively, the operator identifies respective VOI centers (S410, S450) for each of the two displayed pictures, and corresponding table movement is automatically calculated (S420).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventor: Volker Rasche
  • Patent number: 7740016
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an ankle and foot immobilizer has a base, a spine perpendicular to the base, and a shoulder perpendicular to both the base and spine. A foot cover is rotatably attached to the shoulder and engageable to the foot so that the sole is either resting upon the base to obtain a top view of the foot or so that the sole is resting against the spine to obtain a side-view of the foot. A vertical leg support that is releasably attached to the spine is provided to secure the leg in a vertical fashion. A horizontal leg support that is releasably attached to the spine is provided to secure the leg in a horizontal fashion. The base can have a cassette holder to so that a separate cassette holder is not required. The immobilizer has an anchor that can be releasably secured to a standard x-ray table such as a suction cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Modern Way Immobilizers, Inc.
    Inventor: Jimmy Pigg
  • Patent number: 7731423
    Abstract: A protective cover for a cushion or mattress is disclosed. The protective cover has an upper part, an internal pocket to contain a radiography cassette, and an inflatable support element between the internal pocket and the upper part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Industries S.A.
    Inventors: Jean-Luc Caminade, Thierry Flocard
  • Patent number: 7543989
    Abstract: A medical lifting device is provided. The medical lifting device comprises a lifting unit that is operable in a linear motion. A spindle drive is operable to adjust the lifting unit. A first ball joint is disposed in the lifting unit and a second ball joint is disposed where the spindle drive is respectively supported.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Tobias Hoth, Paul Weidner
  • Patent number: 7527428
    Abstract: A two step platform elevates a standing patient upon a horizontally located chamber for examination of the foot and ankle by radiological methods. The chamber receives a slide that carries an x-ray film beneath a foot of a standing patient. Additionally, the patient stands upon a visually and radiologicaly transparent deck. The deck has one slot for upright positioning and a chamber for horizontal positioning of a radiological film cartridge. The platform of the present invention allows a radiologist to take a radiological image of a patient's foot and ankle from both the side and above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas J. Riley
  • Patent number: 7478947
    Abstract: A radiation imaging apparatus including a tabletop onto which a patient lays down, a radiation imaging unit positioned below the tabletop and configured to detect radiation that transmits through the patient, a widthwise moving member supporting the tabletop and configured to move the tabletop in a widthwise direction, a moving mechanism unit including a lengthwise moving mechanism configured to move the tabletop in a lengthwise direction, the moving mechanism unit supporting the widthwise moving member and supporting the radiation imaging unit so as to be movable in the lengthwise direction, and a base unit supporting the moving mechanism unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Masaaki Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 7452129
    Abstract: An X-ray detector drawer, into which an X-ray detector is insertable in two alternate orientations, has guide elements by which an inserted X-ray detector is fixedly positioned and oriented. The X-ray detector drawer has a securing device, by which an asymmetrical insertion of an X-ray detector with respect to either one of the two alternate orientations is hindered. The securing device includes a blocking element, whose position is altered as a function of the removal of the X-ray detector drawer. A receptacle for the X-ray detector drawer is configured to facilitate a removal the X-ray detector drawer from either of two opposite directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Thomas Dippl, Klaus Hruschka, Jochen Miguel Löseken, Peter Rauh, Josef Rupprecht
  • Patent number: 7434993
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for supporting a radiographic cassette during the taking of an x-ray. The device as shown in FIG. 1 is especially useful to support a radiographic cassette for an x-ray of the patellofemoral joint utilizing an inferosuperior projection. The device consists of a counter balancing base unit and two straps each with attachment means to attach to the top of the radiographic cassette. When attached the device holds the cassette in position by counter balancing force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Inventor: Richard Calvin Rice
  • Patent number: 7431498
    Abstract: An improved portable patient support and radiographic cassette holder includes first and second modules which include connectors for coupling the modules together without the need for tools to provide a base cassette receiver. The two modules are preferably identical in configuration, each including a base wall and a pair of sidewalls. The modules also preferably include a pair of arms which form partial end walls presenting a passage therebetween. The arms and the sidewalls include respective ledges and shelves, such that a support panel for a patient can be positioned thereon. An X-ray film cassette may be inserted through either end of base cassette receiver, and one or both of a headrest and a footrest may be mounted thereon. Patient restraints may be inserted through vertical slots in the sidewall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Inventor: Jacquin Youngblood-Johnson