For Movable Film Or Plate Patents (Class 378/181)
-
Patent number: 6022143Abstract: An X-ray system, in particular for radiological and angiographic methods, has a patient table arranged on a stand under a radiation source. The system further has a detector, which is mounted displaceably under a table plate. A carriage supporting the detector is mounted beneath the table plate such that it can be displaced in a sliding fashion in a longitudinal direction of the table by means of a positioning motor.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 1997Date of Patent: February 8, 2000Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Gerhard Helmreich
-
Patent number: 5870450Abstract: A universal radiographic/fluoroscopic room includes a digital imaging platform adapted to occupy operating and non-operating positions. A park function automatically moves the digital imaging platform between the operating and non-operating positions without requiring operator effort. The digital imaging platform has local and remote control panels having substantially duplicate functions. The remote control panel allows the operator to control operation of the digital imaging platform from a location shielded from X-ray exposure. Methods and apparatus are provided to ensure safe, predictable, and consistent operation from all control panels. The operator selects any available operating mode, including auto-bucky, auto-wall, auto-table, auto-table/wall, servo-tomo, conventional stepping, stepped-digital, auto-step, and auto-step-center modes, using a control panel.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 1997Date of Patent: February 9, 1999Assignee: Continental X-Ray CorporationInventors: Oscar Khutoryansky, Dennis Bleser, Allan Kojro, Thomas Simak, Thomas Rosevear
-
Patent number: 5815549Abstract: Catapult raster drawer for an X-ray system has an insertion carriage on which two clamp jaws are arranged opposite one another, and which are biased so as to be resiliently displaceable relative to one another to hold the insertion side and the opposite side of a cassette in clamping fashion. Stop faces for two neighboring cassette sides are inclined at an angle relative to the insertion direction at at least one clamp side.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 1997Date of Patent: September 29, 1998Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Thomas Schmitt
-
Patent number: 5703925Abstract: A support for an x-ray cassette which enables an x-ray cassette to be located and moved beneath a patient support surface. The support includes a spade on which an x-ray cassette can be located such as to be positioned beneath the patient support surface. The spade is located on a sliding surface. A handle permits manipulation of the cassette spade over the sliding surface. A raising and lowering mechanism controlled by an operating handle enables the cassette to be raised upwardly to locate closely beneath the patient support surface. An indicator enables the position of the spade to be determined. The indicator is mounted by a post which is engageable with frame to limit the extent by which the spade can be moved transversely in one direction with respect to the patient support surface.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 1996Date of Patent: December 30, 1997Assignee: Howard Wright LimitedInventor: Howard Stanley Wright
-
Patent number: 5530734Abstract: An x-ray target device for holding and positioning an x-ray film cassette in a radiological examination apparatus has a first assembly for the introduction or removal of a cassette into or out of a transfer region and a second assembly for holding for positioning the cassette sideways. A single drive is provided for operating both assemblies, with the driving connection between the single drive and the second assembly being disengaged when the second assembly is in the transfer region, but the driving connection is engaged otherwise. The second assembly carries a pair of gripping elements which are movable toward each other to grip the cassette therebetween. The second assembly is movable between the transfer region and an exposure region in the device. Another single drive is provided for moving the gripper elements and for moving the second assembly between the transfer and exposure regions.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 1995Date of Patent: June 25, 1996Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Wolfgang Jaeger
-
Patent number: 5515137Abstract: The present invention relates to an electronic assembly, apparatus and process for scanning input information from patient information cards, processing the information and imaging the processed information on films and, in particular, on X-ray films in automatic daylight film handling systems.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 1995Date of Patent: May 7, 1996Assignee: E. I. Du Pont de Nemours and CompanyInventors: Carl B. Arnold, William S. Page
-
Patent number: 5428660Abstract: A portable, lightweight medical radiographic device having an articulated support is described. The device includes a base, an elongated supporting structure having multiple sections interconnected by adjustable joints, a mount for a radiological camera, and a support for a film cartridge. The camera mount includes a concave, motorized track; the film cartridge support is also concave and may also provide motorized film advancement. A selected human body part to be imaged may be placed between the camera mount and the film track. When the camera, motorized track, and film support are energized, coordinated movement of the camera relative to the film results in a panoramic image of the body part on the exposed film.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 1993Date of Patent: June 27, 1995Assignee: Medical University of South CarolinaInventor: Charles R. Daniel, Jr.
-
Patent number: 5349628Abstract: An X-ray photographic holder adapted to use a cassette includes a carriage having the cassette placed thereon, which is reciprocally movable between a cassette loading position and a radiographic position. On the carriage a pair of grippers are provided movable in the direction perpendicular to the carriage movement. An endless belt is driven by a motor, guided by pulleys provided on the carriage and engaged with the grippers. The carriage is stopped from moving by a stopper means so long as in the cassette loading position. In this state the cassette can be gripped by the grippers so to be set in a fixed position. After this positioning, the stopper means is released to move the carriage so that the center of the cassette can be brought to a radiographic position.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 1993Date of Patent: September 20, 1994Assignee: Shimadzu CorporationInventors: Ryuji Taniguruma, Katsuhiro Masuo
-
Patent number: 5326983Abstract: An autoloader for positioning cassettes relative to a storage phosphor reader (i.e. stimulable phosphor). A capacitive sensor located at one or more cassette retaining sites of the autoloader senses the presence of a cassette at the site.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1993Date of Patent: July 5, 1994Assignee: Eastman Kodak CompanyInventor: Shahram Hejazi
-
Patent number: 5325413Abstract: In an x-ray examination apparatus, a film holder is mounted on a frame, which itself is connected to the carrier, notably a C-arm, for the x-ray source and the image intensifier. When not in use, the film holder can be placed in a park position against the inner circumference of the C-arm, such that the film holder neither obscures, nor impedes access to the patient (region). The frame with the film holder can be rotated to a standby position next to the image intensifier, such that the film holder can be conveniently reached for preparation for exposure. Finally, the film holder can be rotated with respect to the frame into an exposure position in front of the image intensifier. The C-arm remains balanced for all three positions of the film holder; this is achieved by two counterweights that move along the outer circumference of the C-arm, just under its outer enclosure. Consequently, the C-arm can be moved manually without considerable effort.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 1992Date of Patent: June 28, 1994Assignee: U.S. Philips CorporationInventors: Wilhelmus J. P. Habraken, Johannes G. Van Endschot
-
Patent number: 5317619Abstract: Disclosed is a film feeding mechanism for use during medical x-ray techniques, particularly angiography. Sheets of film are fed sequentially at high speed from a film magazine into a film exposure device, and then into a film receiving cassette, in a manner so as to reduce damage to the films, including the build-up and discharge of static charge on the films. In the film exposure device, a free-floating lower clamping assembly clamps each film against an upper clamping assembly from the center of the film progressively outward towards its leading and trailing ends, to eliminate wrinkling of the film. The upper clamping assembly is of thin construction so as to enable the locating of an object being x-rayed closely adjacent the x-ray film, to produce x-rays of exceptionally high resolution.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 1993Date of Patent: May 31, 1994Assignee: Medrad, Inc.Inventors: Mark Hellmick, Leif A. Johansson, Otto Weber
-
Patent number: 5315632Abstract: An apparatus for clamping a cassette containing a photosensitive element. The apparatus includes a frame and a stop bar movably mounted to the frame for movement between an operative position and a non operative position. The stop bar has a registration surface for registering the forward end of cassette. A first jaw member is secured to the frame and has a second registration surface for engagement with a first side of the cassette. A second movable jaw member is provided movable between a clamping position and a non clamping position. The second jaw member having a clamping surface for engaging a second side of the cassette opposite the first side of the cassette so as to clamp the cassette between the first and second jaw members when the second jaw member is in the clamping position. A mechanism is provided for moving the second jaw member between the clamping and non clamping positions.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 1992Date of Patent: May 24, 1994Assignee: Eastman Kodak CompanyInventors: Michael R. Flynn, Wayne J. Arseneault, John C. Boutet, Jeffrey J. Yaskow, Thomas D. Baker
-
Patent number: 5301221Abstract: Apparatus made of stainless steel which can be attached to the side rail of an operating table to hold and position an x-ray grid and x-ray cassette, and can be readily disassembled for sterilization in an autoclave.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 1993Date of Patent: April 5, 1994Inventor: Stephen Yakubisin
-
Patent number: 5255304Abstract: In a cassette loading and unloading apparatus, a device is provided for centering X-ray film cassettes of various sizes, which can be transported on rollers (19), by means of two parallel bars (16, 17) movable towards and away from each other, respectively. The bars (16, 17) have U-shaped recesses (16a, 17a) for passage of rollers (19). Of the lugs of bars (16, 17) formed by the recesses and projecting through the rollers, one lug (16b, 17b) of each bar (16, 17) is slidably guided on a guide rail (14) extending below rollers (19). Moreover, a second lug (16f, 17f) of each bar (16, 17) is in engagement with a driving mechanism (30, 34, 38, 45). The rollers (19), the guide rail (14) and the bars (16, 17) are arranged on the upper side of support plate (10), and the driving mechanism (30, 34, 38, 45) is provided on the lower side of that plate. They jointly form a prefinished assembly unit. FIGS. 1 and 2 are to be published.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1991Date of Patent: October 19, 1993Assignee: Eastman Kodak CompanyInventors: Friedrich Uffinger, Hermann Dieterle
-
Patent number: 5224148Abstract: A cassette holder and positioning assembly device for a portable x-ray mane, comprising: a mounting plate; oppositely adjustable vertical arms disposed in parallel relationship on the mounting plate attached in proximity to an outer periphery along vertical axes of the plate and opposite horizontal arms mounted fixedly on the plate and disposed in perpendicular relationship to the vertical arms; a selection handle disposed pivotally between alignment guides on a handle gear that meshes with a circumferential gear pivotally attached to linkage arms in perpendicular relationship to portions of the mounting plate beneath the alignment guides and pivotally attached to a backstop linkage arm in perpendicular relationship to the alignment guides, the backstop linkage arm is pivotally attached to a platform fixed to the mounting plate; a semi-circular indexing plate containing a plurality of notches in its inner arc and fixed in raised relation on the mounting plate above the selection handle; the selection handle hType: GrantFiled: April 28, 1992Date of Patent: June 29, 1993Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventors: David D. Baker, Jr., Louie D. Martin, Mark W. Brown
-
Patent number: 5222115Abstract: X-ray apparatus for supporting a patient is provided which comprises a housing having a top panel for supporting the patient and a bottom panel which rests on a table. The top and bottom panels are supported to be substantially parallel and spaced from one another. A frame is mounted in the housing to receive a conventional X-ray film cassette. Drive means is further provided to slidably transporting the frame longitudinally in X-ray apparatus housing. Further means is provided to accurately indicate the position of the frame.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 1991Date of Patent: June 22, 1993Inventor: Carl L. Highgenboten
-
Patent number: 5216701Abstract: The invention relates to a cassette holder intended for a mammography apparatus, the holder being suitable for cassettes of different sizes and having means by which the holder can be widened or narrowed to a suitable size by the moving of a detachable cassette retainer (4, 4").Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 1991Date of Patent: June 1, 1993Assignee: Orion-Yhtyma OyInventors: Terho Turkumaki, Voitto Saarinen, Jorma Kuronen
-
Patent number: 5189689Abstract: The present invention provides an X ray film cassette with a permanent marking means for identifying the side of the radiographic film that faced the X ray tube during exposure. Such identification is achieved irrespective of whether the film is exposed through the cover or base of the cassette and does not require any separate action by the X ray technologist, eliminating the element of human error. In a preferred embodiment, the working means is comprised of chirally asymmetric X ray opaque and/or light-opaque letters or markings permanently mounted in the film cassette. A user friendly apparatus is described, for installing the light-opaque markers on the intensifying screens of the X ray film cassette.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 1991Date of Patent: February 23, 1993Inventor: Carl E. Fabian
-
Patent number: 5185777Abstract: An X-ray radiographing system is provided with a table having a spot-film device which moves synchronously with an X-ray generator along a longitudinal axis (a patient's body axis) of the table. The spot-film device comprises a fluoroscopic area and a radiographic area arranged along a transverse axis at a front portion of the table. A film holder holding an X-ray sheet film (unexposed or exposed) shuttles along a transverse rail between the fluoroscopic area and a radiographic area. A feed magazine and a take-up magazine are provided under the fluoroscopic area. Unexposed X-ray sheet film is removed by suction cups from an opening in the feed magazine, and fed to the film holder. Exposed X-ray film is returned to the take-up magazine. Both the magazines can be loaded and unloaded from the front portion of the device.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 1991Date of Patent: February 9, 1993Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventor: Kiyoshi Hasegawa
-
Patent number: 5170419Abstract: An x-ray diagnostics apparatus for mammography examinations has an x-ray tube which is rotatable, via a horizontal shaft, around a bearing mounted in a stand, and having at least two cassette holders which can selectively individually be brought to an exposure position. The cassette holders are pivotable around the horizontal shaft so that when one cassette holder is situated in the exposure position, the other cassette holder is in a standby position. In order to make the apparatus relatively small and easily manipulable, the rotational axis of the horizontal shaft is disposed in approximate axial alignment with the middle of the examination subject, and the cassette holders are secured in a mount which is rotatably attached to the horizontal shaft, so that the standby position for each cassette holder is behind the x-ray tube, as seen by the examination subject.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 1992Date of Patent: December 8, 1992Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Per Johansson, Stefan Thunberg
-
Patent number: 5157707Abstract: In connection with X-ray or like examination there is used a cassette holder arrangement which is carried by a frame structure (7) by means of pivotal arms (4) which are capable of being swung in the horizontal plane, such as to adjust the position of the cassette in the vertical direction. The arrangement enables pictures to be taken of a sitting patient in mutually perpendicular directions, with the aid of a radiation source (2). The cassette holder (3) can be swung between the exposure positions in a circuit path around the sitting patient, by activation of one of the arms (4). To this end there can be used a parallel linkage (11) which is operative to guide the cassette holder during this pivotal movement. the cassette holder is fixated relative to one of the arms (4), by means of a locking device (8), which is released when wishing to pivot the cassette holder. The invention also relates to a cassette holder arrangement of the aforedescribed kind.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 1991Date of Patent: October 20, 1992Assignee: AO Medical Products ABInventor: Carl-Eric Ohlson
-
Patent number: 5148466Abstract: An X-ray apparatus includes a moving carriage having two levers hinged and designed to move equally and in opposite directions by a gear system. The movements of the levers are guided by at least one groove formed in a supporting plate, with a peg fixed to the lever co-operating with the groove. The groove includes at least two spaced-apart rectilinear portions, each corresponding to a different size of cartridge, thereby enabling the cartridge to be moved on the supporting plate.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 1991Date of Patent: September 15, 1992Assignee: General Electric CGR S.A.Inventor: Claude Fajac
-
Patent number: 5138646Abstract: An x-ray diagnostics apparatus for obtaining an x-ray exposure of a bedridden patient permits the exposure to be obtained without moving the patient from the bed. The patient bed has two patient bearing surfaces. The patient lies on the upper surface, and a lower surface is vertically adjustable beneath the upper surface. When the lower surface is lowered to permit the introduction of an x-ray cassette between the upper and lower surfaces, the upper surface is supported, such as by a fabric tentered to the bed frame. An optical system is provided for accurately positioning the x-ray film cassette, and a wireless transmission path for an automatic exposure unit may also be provided.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 1990Date of Patent: August 11, 1992Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Guenter Hubert, Gerhard Seyler, Gerd Wessels
-
Patent number: 5133000Abstract: Arrangement for supporting and positioning X-ray cassettes (13) in the required position in radiography of patients confined to bed. The arrangement comprises at least one holder (10) and a lifting means (30). The holder (10) may be of different design, and in one preferred embodiment it comprises a base member (11) and a cassette support (12) extending upwardly therefrom, the base member (11) being supported by the bedstead bottom (15), and the X-ray cassette (13) being fixable standing on edge between the base member (11) and the cassette support (12). The lifting means (30) is adapted to be inserted between the bedstead bottom (15) and the mattress (14) in order to raise the latter, so that the X-ray cassette (13) is insertable in the space thus formed.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 1991Date of Patent: July 21, 1992Inventor: Anders Moller
-
Patent number: 5111496Abstract: A film holder is pivotably connected to a table frame of a patient table. By positioning the film holder so that an image plane thereof extends parallel to the table top, X-ray images can be recorded on film. In the folded-up condition, the image plane of the film holder extends parallel to the table frame so that the film holder does not form an obstruction for the formation of X-ray images by means of an X-ray image intensifier tube. The position of the film holder enables a fast change-over from exposures using an X-ray image intensifier tube to recording on film.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 1990Date of Patent: May 5, 1992Assignee: U.S. Philips CorporationInventors: Ludovicus P. C. Van Es, Robert Van Der Ploeg
-
Patent number: 5073916Abstract: Method and apparatus for use in X-ray cassette unloading and loading apparatus, including novel detection of presence or absence of film in the cassette and the position thereof in the upper or lower cassette part, utilizing radiation, such as infra-red, to which the film is not sensitive. Radiation is directed into each cassette part after opening and the radiation reflected from the respective parts is compared. The radiation means, as well as means for holding the cassette parts in open position and air jet means for releasing film from the upper cassette portion, are all mounted on parallelly moving guide members which engage the lateral edges of the cassette to position it.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 1989Date of Patent: December 17, 1991Assignee: Eastman Kodak CompanyInventors: Bernd Mirlieb, Kurt Baumann, Heinz Killguss
-
Patent number: 5062130Abstract: A trayless film cassette transport apparatus is disclosed which includes an improved cassette gripping system which allows an x-ray film cassette to be loaded through a window; then gripped and withdrawn inwardly to a properly centered exposure position; then ejected to project partially from the window by a distance switch is automatically determined in accordance with the size of the cassette. This ensures that small cassettes project far enough from the window to be readily grasped by an operator while avoiding ejecting large cassettes so far that they are precariously balanced in the window. The novel gripper holds the cassette securely under a self-locking condition, such that the gripping force on the cassette increases in response to and at a greater rate than an improperly imposed cassette withdrawing force.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 1990Date of Patent: October 29, 1991Assignee: Liebel-Flarsheim CompanyInventor: Frank M. Fago
-
Patent number: 5050203Abstract: Cassette centering device for an X-ray cassette loading and unloading device using two parallelly movable guides engageable with the side edges of the cassette, the guides being movable by a lever arrangement driven by a motor, the lever arrangement including a link having two telescoping parts and biasing means constituting force absorbing means for cushioning the engagement of the guides with the cassette and compensating for motor overdrive.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 1989Date of Patent: September 17, 1991Assignee: Eastman Kodak CompanyInventors: Bernd Mirlieb, Heinz Killguss
-
Patent number: 5044621Abstract: A device for moving film from a supply magazine to a cassette loading station, the film removing device being in a unit with a film holding channel formed by parallel groups of rollers which engage opposed edges of the film.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 1989Date of Patent: September 3, 1991Assignee: Eastman Kodak CompanyInventors: Guenter Sachs, Hans-Peter Wuerschum
-
Patent number: 5044009Abstract: The set of X-ray film holders for taking X-ray exposures of an entire tooth consists of a holder for the side teeth and a holder for the front teeth, each of the holders comprising a resilient clip for the X-ray film, a formed bite portion and a cranked indicator rod extending perpendicularly to the film plane for adjusting the central X-ray beam orthogonally to the film plane. The film clip is attached to the bite portion in such a manner that it is pivotable by 360.degree. and may be locked in the plane which is formed by the indicator rod with its cranked portion. Except for special X-ray tubes, it is useful to have a centering aid for the central X-ray beam. To this end, an index having pointer means is movably disposed on the indicator rod, guiding means being provided on the indicator rod and on the tube of the index in order to bring the pointer means into the correct position according to whether the X-ray film is in its upward or downward position.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 1990Date of Patent: August 27, 1991Inventor: Rolf M. Klauser
-
Patent number: 5042060Abstract: In an X-ray equipment, a photographing program including a plurality of photographic formats is stored in advance. Program photographing is performed in accordance with the photographic formats read out in a predetermined order. When an interrupt signal is input during program photographing, a read operation of the photographic formats is temporarily interrupted, and photographing is performed in accordance with a newly input photographic format. In addition, when a skip signal is input during program photographing, the read out photographic format is cancelled, and program photographing is performed in accordance with the next photographic format.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1989Date of Patent: August 20, 1991Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventor: Hisashi Sakakihara
-
Patent number: 5028518Abstract: Photothermographic emulsions sensitive to ultraviolet radiation can be coated on both sides of polymeric film which is inherently absorptive of the ultraviolet radiation, preventing crossover effects in cassette loading of the film.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 1990Date of Patent: July 2, 1991Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Thomas D. Lyons, Sergio Pesce, John M. Winslow
-
Patent number: 5025465Abstract: An X-ray cassette for foils provided with a stimulatable phosphorous layer comprises two cassette parts turnable relative to one another between open and closed positions, one of the cassette parts being permeable for X-rays, elements for turnably connecting the cassette parts with one another, and elements for holding a foil on the X-ray permeable cassette part, the holding elements including an X-ray permeable elastic pad arranged on the X-ray permeable cassette part and having a surface facing toward a phosphorous layer of a foil inserted into the cassette, and a thin elastic foil applied on the surface of the pad and having a smooth, wear-resistant outer surface.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 1989Date of Patent: June 18, 1991Assignee: Agfa-Gevaert AGInventors: Walter Bauer, Roland Muller
-
Patent number: 5023899Abstract: For taking X-ray photographs there is provided a moveable tower structure for ceiling-mounted frame which carries a beam source arranged for movement in X-Y-Z directions and which is rotatable about a horizontal axis. A receptor unit is mounted beneath a patient support table for movement in the X direction and Y direction. Activation of a holder associated with the receptor unit and intended to receive a vertically extending secondary receptor for horizontal beam path causes the beam source to move automatically to a basic setting.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 1989Date of Patent: June 11, 1991Inventor: Carl-Eric Ohlson
-
Patent number: 5010564Abstract: A mechanism for selective translation of an object along first and second axes comprises a frame, a carriage mounted on the frame for sliding movement with respect to the frame along the first axis, a holder for said object and an intermediate mounting means coupled to the holder and the carriage for mounting the holder on the carriage for sliding movement with respect to the carriage along the second axis. A motor is provided for selectively driving a first shaft and a drive/brake assembly provides a second shaft. In a drive mode of the assembly the second shaft is allowed to be driven synchronously with the first shaft and, in a brake mode of the assembly, is held non-driven while the first shaft is being driven. First and second endless belts are coupled to the first and second shafts, respectively, for receiving selective rotational movement therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 1989Date of Patent: April 23, 1991Assignee: Eureka X-Ray Tube, Inc.Inventor: Howard C. Thomas
-
Patent number: 5008919Abstract: An X-ray examination apparatus includes a device for positioning an X-ray film changer with respect to an image intensifier away from a position in front of the image intensifier for producing X-ray images to a position on a side of the image intensifier when not in use. The device combines a rotational and shifting movement so that the film changer can be positioned on the side of the image intensifier very close to the same without impeding access to a patient.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 1990Date of Patent: April 16, 1991Inventors: Aldona A. Siczek, Bernard W. Siczek
-
Patent number: 5007075Abstract: In a device for holding down the lower cassette portion (19a) of an X-ray film cassette which is located in a cassette unloading and reloading apparatus, a hold-down lever (20, 21) is mounted to each of two parallely guided bars (10, 12) movable towards and away from each other respectively, said hold-down lever being pivotable into, and out of the transport path of the X-ray film cassette to accurately position said cassette. Each hold-down lever (20, 21) comprises a control arm (20a, 21a) resting against each of the two side walls (19d, 19e) of the upper cassette portion (19c). Since the control arms (20a, 21a) are upwardly inclined such that they form control surfaces facing the side walls (19d, 19e) of the upper cassette portion (19c), the hold-down levers (20, 21) are held in engagement with the lower cassette portion (19a) when the upper cassette portion (19c) is in its open position and are disengaged from the lower cassette portion (19a) when the upper cassette portion (19c) is in its closed position.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 1989Date of Patent: April 9, 1991Assignee: Eastman Kodak CompanyInventors: Bernd Mirlieb, Heinrich Killguss
-
Patent number: 4989227Abstract: The invention relates to mammographs, and more particularly to a device enabling the mammograph to adapt to different sizes of a cassette, and to displace cassettes. The device essentially comprises a sliding member which, when moved, changes the distance between holding pegs to match new lateral dimensions of a the cassette while still pressing the cassette against a reference edge of the table. In addition, the sliding member is carried on a plate member which moves in such a manner that one or other of the side edges of the cassette can be brought into alignment with the corresponding side of the table.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 1990Date of Patent: January 29, 1991Assignee: General Electric CGR S.A.Inventors: Marco Tirelli, Didier Rouchy, Jean-Claude Rapeau
-
Patent number: 4984260Abstract: A radiation diagnostic device wherein different kinds of picture image record media can be used and the performance is improved. The radiation diagnostic device which includes a photographing station in which radiograph information of an object for inspection is irradiated upon a picture image record medium to make radiation photographing of the object for inspection comprises a first storing station for storing therein first and second different picture image record media, a first transporting system for alternatively taking out one of first and second picture image record media from the first storing station and transporting the same to the photographing station, a second storing station for storing therein first and second picture image record media after photographing, and a second transporting system for transporting a first or second picture image record medium after photographing from the photographing station to the second storing station.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 1988Date of Patent: January 8, 1991Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventor: Katsuhide Koyama
-
Patent number: 4979198Abstract: Method and apparatus for the production of fluoroscopic and radiographic x-ray images utilizing a portable hand-held and battery operated x-ray system. The system incorporates a unique high voltage power supply of diminutive size and weight which may be disposed totally within the hand-held system. By utilizing the system in conjunction with a currently available hand operated instant Polaroid film developer, the system provides total portability and field operability in both fluoroscopic and radiographic mode.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 1989Date of Patent: December 18, 1990Inventors: David H. Malcolm, George P. T. Wilenius
-
Patent number: 4964149Abstract: A fluid controlled counterbalance and power-assist system for use in a diagnostic x-ray imaging system includes a first member and a second member movably mounted to said first member. A slave actuator including a reciprocal piston is selectively coupled between the first and second members. Fluid coupling ports are located on each end of the cylinder for coupling working fluid to either side of the piston. First and second master actuators each including a cylinder are located remote from the imaging system. Each master actuator has fluid coupling ports selectively located on each end of its cylinder for coupling working fluid to one side of the cylinder and control fluid to the other side. Working fluid connection lines connect one end of the slave actuator to one end of the first master actuator and connect the opposite end of the slave actuator to the second master actuator for providing working fluid flow between said actuators.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 1988Date of Patent: October 16, 1990Assignee: Picker International, Inc.Inventor: Glenn A. Little
-
Patent number: 4961213Abstract: An X-ray apparatus includes a film cassette which is displaceable in a carriage in the loading direction, a device for fixing the cassette position perpendicularly to the loading direction, two pairs of guide rollers which are offset with respect to one another in the loading direction and which are mounted on the carriage and on the apparatus, respectively, and independently controlled motor drives which act on the film cassette by way of a traction means guided via the rollers, the traction means sections between the rollers on the carriage and the rollers on the apparatus extending parallel to one another.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 1989Date of Patent: October 2, 1990Assignee: U. S. Philips CorporationInventor: Claud H. Linhart
-
Patent number: 4957691Abstract: An apparatus for inspecting the quality of both ends of nuclear fuel rods includes a housing with longitudinally separated slots for receiving X-rays downwardly therethrough to define first and second operating positions so that the forward ends of nuclear fuel rods can be aligned below the first operating position and the rear ends of nuclear fuel rods can be aligned below the second operating position. An endless conveyor belt system, having at least three longitudinally spaced apart cleats mounted thereon to define first and second film cartridge receptacles, is adapted to advance X-ray film cartridges longitudinally through the housing. A table is included for selectively lifting the film cartridges from the belt system to maintain the film cartridges stationary while the conveyor belt system is advanced.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 1989Date of Patent: September 18, 1990Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.Inventors: Raymond W. Brashier, Edward D. Pfau
-
Patent number: 4939764Abstract: Spot film apparatus which includes a menu-driven microprocessor for producing control signals to position a film cassette as required to carry out operations in a manner shown on a display. The spot film apparatus includes an improved carriage assembly which comprises a pair of opposing holding arms which conform with the film cassette. The opposing holding arms are biased towards each other with a helical spring. Loading of a cassette into the arms is accomplished by moving one arm with a continuous chain drive which supports a pawl-like member projecting therefrom, while maintaining the position of the second arm.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 1987Date of Patent: July 3, 1990Assignee: Fischer Imaging CorporationInventor: Mark A. Markos
-
Patent number: 4937849Abstract: A gating and target device for an x-ray examination apparatus has a secondary radiation diaphragm and an x-ray film cassette, the secondary radiation diaphragm having two diaphragm plates disposed in parallel planes, and moveable relative to each other so that the diaphragm plates can be adjusted to at least partially overlap. Each of the diaphragm plates has a diaphragm opening therein, with the remainder of the plate being impermeable to x-radiation, so that by adjusting the relative positions of the plates, an opening of selected size may be formed by either one of said diaphragm plates at least partially covering the opening of the other diaphragm plate. To minimize the thickness of the device, and thus to minimize the distance between the target x-ray film and an examination subject, one of the diaphragm plates has a scattered ray grid structurally integrated within the opening of that plate.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 1988Date of Patent: June 26, 1990Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Guenter Hubert, Johann Finkenzeller
-
Patent number: 4930147Abstract: Automatic filmer capable of centering the cassette with respect to an x-ray window and measuring the width and length thereof. Oppositely disposed channels are used to center the cassette about a first center line and measure the width thereof. A gripper assembly is used to draw the cassette into the housing and determine the length of the cassette. A carriage assembly moves the cassette within the housing so as to expose the cassette to x-rays within the x-ray window.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 1989Date of Patent: May 29, 1990Assignee: Liebel-Flarsheim CompanyInventors: Paul E. Dieterlen, Lewis B. Mustain
-
Patent number: 4916725Abstract: The present invention relates to a patient support apparatus useful during x-raying. The apparatus includes a frame having a graduated scale along the length of at least one side thereof. The frame has means for supporting an x-ray film cartridge shuttle thereon and permitting movement of the x-ray film cartridge shuttle along the length of the frame. The apparatus also includes a rod for positioning the x-ray film cartridge shuttle along the length of the frame. The rod has a graduated scale along the length thereof. The units of the graduated scale of the rod correspond to the units of the graduated scale of the frame.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 1988Date of Patent: April 10, 1990Assignee: Midmark CorporationInventors: Rudolph F. Quinter, Michael L. Berger, Jay L. Kuck
-
Patent number: 4894854Abstract: A size sensing X-ray cassette tray having a pair of longitudinally spaced opposing front and back cassette clamps linked together by a center pivoted arm and link members for unison movement. A side sensing arm is connected by an elongatable link member to a pivoted leg which is actuated by a probe of an X-ray system. Arcuate potentiometers are coupled to the pivoted arm and the side sensing arm so as to provide electric signals corresponding to the x and y dimensions of a mounted cassette. The potentiometers are nonlinear so as to provide respective cosine and sine correction and thereby make the output signals substantially linear with the dimensions of sensed cassettes.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 1988Date of Patent: January 16, 1990Assignee: Varian Associates, Inc.Inventors: Robert F. Guba, Karl Leschanz
-
Patent number: 4879736Abstract: An x-ray examination apparatus has an x-ray image intensifier and an x-ray film changer mounted so that the x-ray film changer can be moved to an exposure position, in front of the x-ray image intensifier, for producing x-ray pictures of an examination subject. The x-ray image intensifier has a holder on which the x-ray film changer is movably mounted so that, when in the exposure position, the film changer has the same image axis as that of the x-ray image intensifier. The film changer is pivotable out of the exposure position by approximately 90.degree. to a standby position. To avoid having the x-ray film changer in the standby position prevent access to a patient on an examination table, and to permit the x-ray image intensifier to be adjusted to any arbitrary position without being impeded by the film changer in the standby position, the examination apparatus has a holder for the film changer in the form of a bearing which at least partially surrounds the x-ray image intensifier.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 1988Date of Patent: November 7, 1989Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Ulf Bergman, Jurgen Sommer, Arne Borggren
-
Patent number: 4872192Abstract: An x-ray examination installation permits a transillumination image, or an x-ray exposure of an examination subject to be optionally undertaken. The installation includes a C-bend adjustable in position relative to an examination subject, with an x-radiator and a x-ray image intensifier being respectively melted at opposite free ends of the C-bend. The x-ray image intensifier is used for transillumination of the subject, and an exposure device such a sheet film changer, is positionable opposite the x-ray source for producing an exposure. The exposure device is held spatially freely adjustable relative to the C-bend by a carrying device. The exposure device is connectable to the C-bend with a releasable coupling mechanism so that the exposure device follows movements of the C-bend without changing its position relative to the x-radiator.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 1988Date of Patent: October 3, 1989Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Alfred Hahn, Jens-Peter Raup