Abstract: For the purpose of reducing a deviation in the rotational center of scan and a deviation in scan position in the direction of length of a rail, a gantry system including a pair of runway rails and a gantry in an X-ray CT system that can move along the runway rails, is characterized by comprising a linear guide rail arranged in the direction along the runway rails and linear guide blocks mounted on the gantry and slidably fitted on the linear guide rail.

Abstract: In a method and x-ray apparatus to produce a surface image of an examination subject, wherein the x-ray apparatus that comprises a carrier support for an x-ray system including an x-ray source and a radiation detector, the carrier support is moved relative to the examination subject during the acquisition of a series of 2D projections of the examination subject. A 3D sensor is mounted on the carrier support that acquires an image dataset of the examination subject during movement of the carrier support relative to the examination subject. The image dataset represents an image of at least one part of the surface of the examination subject. The invention also concerns an x-ray apparatus (1) with which the inventive method can be implemented.

Abstract: An anti-collision method and apparatus for use with a C-arm x-ray imaging machine to prevent damage to the imaging apparatus and injury to patients and health care workers includes a load cell, a differential buffer and integrator, an analog to digital converter, and a microcontroller controlling the motor drive. The present invention also provides a method for controlling the apparatus via a microcontroller and includes the steps of determining whether an up/down switch is actuated, reading and comparing a value with a tabulated value, halting the C-arm if the difference between the tabulated value and the recorded value exceeds a threshold value and reversing the apparatus.

Abstract: A medical image radiographing system has: a radiographic-room-use radiographing apparatus for performing medical radiography in a radiographic room; a portable radiographing apparatus for performing medical radiography at a bedside of the patient; and a controller for displaying an input screen and for inputting information through the input screen, wherein, when radiographing order information is inputted, the controller displays a selection input screen for inputting selection of whether the radiographing order information is for one by the radiographic-room-use radiographing apparatus or one by the portable radiographing apparatus, and displays a radiographing order information input screen different according to the selection, and at input completion of the radiographing order information, the controller displays a confirmation input screen for inputting confirmation of the input completion regardless of the one by the radiographic-room-use radiographing apparatus or the one by the portable radiographing

Abstract: A device for moving an X-ray apparatus embodied in the form of a C-bow (9) in a controlled manner, the C-bow (9) being mounted on a pedestal (31) provided with motor-driven rollers (3) controllable in their direction of travel in such a way that it is displaceable in parallel in relation to at least two axes (18;19) and rotatable relative to three axes (18; 19, 21), each movement of the C-bow (9) with respect to a coordinate system (29) which is stationary relative to the room being carried out via controllable drive devices (6;7;37;38). These drive devices (6; 7; 37; 38) are controlled either by means of a control device (39;48) or via a computer (23), said control device being operated either via a sterile control console or by voice control. Any positions and projections of the C-bow (9) that have once been adjusted may be stored in the computer (23), so that a desired position and projection may be reproduced again.

Abstract: A mechanically adjustable brake for use with a C-arm x-ray apparatus is generally comprised of a brake handle and an eccentric shaft support which, when rotated using the handle, actuates a cam and presses a brake pad into the C-arm. Movement of the C-arm is thus restricted when the brake is applied. The brake mechanism specifically includes a brake handle, a brake shaft, a cam mounted on the brake shaft, a plunger having a first end engaged with the cam and a second end having a brake. The brake handle is used to rotate the brake shaft and the cam, the cam pushes down on the plunger and the brake engages the C-arm. The brake mechanism further comprises a plunger support, a spring that is compressed when the brake is actuated and is decompressed when the brake is released thus permitting movement of the C-arm. The brake shaft is connected to the brake handle using an eccentric shaft support.

Abstract: A system including a user input device for controlling a position of medical equipment is described. In an example embodiment, the user input device is configured to be coupled to the medical equipment and is responsive to an operator input representation of a desired movement of the equipment. A processor determines a direction in which the operator desires the equipment to move based on a device output.

Abstract: An X-ray diagnostic apparatus includes an arm supporting an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector, and a tilting bed. A joining mechanism detachably joins the arm to the bed. An arm support mechanism freely supports the arm. While the arm is joined to the bed, the arm follows a tilting of the bed.

Abstract: A torsion- and bending resistant boom formed of beams running the length of the structure, a set of pierced, transverse flanges arrayed along, and substantially perpendicular to, the length of the structure, a continuous longitudinal member running the length of the structure, piercing the flanges, and several further longitudinal members, outward of the first member. The longitudinal members are welded to the flanges. An elevatable mast assembly raises and lowers the boom, and has a mast and guides formed of hollow tubes, and rollers between the guides and the mast, the rollers transferring torque loading to the guides.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for in-field digital x-ray analysis of a target body. An x-ray emitter, an x-ray receiver and a portable computer system provide a portable system for in-field digital x-ray inspection and analysis. An x-ray emitter is maneuvered to a location proximate a first side of a target body. An x-ray receiver is also maneuvered to a location proximate a second side of the target body independently of the emitter. X-ray emissions received from the x-ray emitter at the x-ray receiver are sent as data to a portable processor unit coupled to the receiver. A digital image is created based on the data. The digital image is then stored at the portable processor unit.

Abstract: A variable friction disc brake for use with a C-arm x-ray imaging apparatus interposed between the support arm and yoke of the imaging apparatus. The variable friction disc is generally comprised of ring having a gap, width both sides of said gap having apertures therethrough such that a bolt may be inserted into said apertures and used to adjust the width of the gap, and the tension on the ring.

Abstract: A support arm for use with a C-arm x-ray imaging machine is interposed between the yoke and the cross member of a C-arm x-ray imaging machine. The support arm is a generally rectangular structure having a first end, a second end and a central area between the first end and the second end, a generally circular pin attached to or integrally molded with the first end of the rectangular structure, said pin being set at an obtuse angle relative to the vertical, and a generally circular aperture defined within the second end of the rectangular structure. The support arm also includes a plurality of weight reducing apertures, or pockets, are defined within the support arm and the weight reducing pockets are covered with a plate to prevent contamination. The support arm reduces the overall length of the x-ray apparatus, brings the axis of rotation of the C-arm closer to the center of gravity and saves weight.

Abstract: A mechanically adjustable brake for use with a C-arm x-ray apparatus is generally comprised of a brake handle and an eccentric shaft support which, when rotated using the handle, actuates a cam and presses a brake pad into the C-arm. Movement of the C-arm is thus restricted when the brake is applied. The brake mechanism specifically includes a brake handle, a brake shaft, a cam mounted on the brake shaft, a plunger having a first end engaged with the cam and a second end having a brake. The brake handle is used to rotate the brake shaft and the cam, the cam pushes down on the plunger and the brake engages the C-arm. The brake mechanism further comprises a plunger support, a spring that is compressed when the brake is actuated and is decompressed when the brake is released thus permitting movement of the C-arm. The brake shaft is connected to the brake handle using an eccentric shaft support.

Abstract: A mobile X-ray apparatus has a carriage provided with at least one pair of independently driven driving wheels and a motor. The carriage includes a driving handle, which comprises sidebars, attached to a rotation axis solidly fixed to the carriage, and a crossbar, which is connected to the sidebars in an articulated manner to allow the turning movement of the sidebars about the said axis independently of each other. The apparatus also controls the operation of the motor by movements of the handle. The sidebars are provided with a toothed rim that moves along with the movement of the respective sidebar. The movements are measured by a potentiometer, which converts the movement into an electric signal by which the motor of the driving wheels is controlled.

Abstract: Disclosed is a mobile radiographic unit with improved x-ray scatter control. Improved x-ray scatter control is provided through the alignment of the system with the focal line of an anti-scatter grid. In a preferred embodiment, the system comprises an x-ray source assembly, a tube housing mounting, an automatic measuring means, a motion control means and a processing means in communication with the automatic measuring system and the motion control system. The alignment of the system occurs with minimal input by the operator.

Abstract: An anti-collision method and apparatus for use with a C-arm x-ray imaging machine to prevent damage to the imaging apparatus and injury to patients and health care workers includes a load cell, a differential buffer and integrator, an analog to digital converter, and a microcontroller controlling the motor drive. The present invention also provides a method for controlling the apparatus via a microcontroller and includes the steps of determining whether an up/down switch is actuated, reading and comparing a value with a tabulated value, halting the C-arm if the difference between the tabulated value and the recorded value exceeds a threshold value and reversing the apparatus.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a portable apparatus adapted to be battery powered is used to scan an object in situ with x-rays and measure the intensity of the diffracted x-rays. The apparatus includes a scanning head having an x-ray source that is battery powered and an x-ray detector. The x-ray source and the x-ray detector are aligned in one of a plurality of predetermined alignments such that x-rays from the x-ray source are incident upon an object at a specific angle and the x-ray detector is aligned to detect x-rays that are diffracted at a specific angle, wherein the specific angle is a Bragg angle for a particular plane of atoms in the object.

Abstract: The inspection methods and systems of the present invention are mobile, rapidly deployable, and capable of scanning a wide variety of receptacles cost-effectively and accurately on uneven surfaces. In a first embodiment, a self-contained inspection system comprises an inspection module that, in a preferred embodiment, is in the form of a mobile trailer capable of being towed and transported to its intended operating site with the help of a tug-vehicle. The tug-vehicle includes at least one source of electromagnetic radiation, a hydraulic lift system to load and unload the radiation source, and at least one radiation shield plate positioned on the back of the driver cabin of the tug-vehicle. The inspection module is a mobile trailer that provides support for a plurality of detector arrays and a boom to deploy power cable to at least one source of radiation during operation. The detectors are preferably in a formation that, when folded or stored, permit the trailer to safely travel on public roadways.

Abstract: This invention provides an X-ray CT apparatus which can be mounted in a motor vehicle, trailer, or container, including locking mechanisms for locking at least some of the movable portions of the X-ray CT apparatus, detectors for detecting the locking/unlocking states of the locking mechanisms, and a notifying unit for representing the states of the locking mechanisms on the basis of outputs from the detectors. Collision of an unlocked movable portion with its periphery during traveling can be avoided.

Abstract: A mobile medical image scanner and teleradiology system are incorporated into an ambulance or other vehicle to permit a patient to be diagnosed while en route to a treatment facility such as a trauma center. The system obtains medical image data while the patient is being transported in the vehicle and transmits the medical image data to a receiver at a location which is remote from the vehicle. At the remote location, the transmitted medical image data is displayed in a humanly discernable manner and interpreted by a qualified physician, who then communicates diagnostic information to the technicians in the vehicle and/or to the treating physicians at the treatment facility. By providing diagnostic information back to the treating physicians prior to the patient's arrival at the treatment facility, the patient can be routed directly to the operating room, or the intensive care unit as necessary, thereby saving valuable time.

Abstract: A mobile type radiography apparatus having a truck movable on a floor, an X-ray control unit mounted on the truck, a first supporting arm having two branches supporting an X-ray generator and an X-ray image reception device at mutually opposite positions to sandwich a subject between the X-ray generator and the X-ray image reception device, an arm supporting mechanism having a second arm extending toward an outside of the branches of the first supporting arm and supporting the first supporting arm so as to be movable. A supporting pole mechanism is mounted on the truck so as to extend upwardly therefrom and an arm motion mechanism is located between the arm supporting mechanism and the supporting pole mechanism for linearly supporting the arm supporting mechanism so as to enable movement of the first supporting arm in horizontal directions perpendicular to longitudinal directions of the second arm.

Abstract: A system and method of x-ray imaging is provided that includes a support base, a bearing assembly supported by the support base, and a non-circular positioning arm rotating in a semi-elliptical path relative to the support base through the bearing assembly. The non-circular positioning arm has first and second distal ends. The shape of the non-circular positioning arm conforms to a shape of a portion of a linear spiral. The system and method also includes an x-ray source located at the first distal end of the positioning arm, an x-ray detector located at the second distal end of the positioning arm. The x-ray source emits a conical beam having a theoretical central beam. The central beam passes through an origin of the linear spiral. The system also includes an imaging isocentric area located between the x-ray source and the x-ray detector. The imaging isocentric area remains substantially constant when the noncircular positioning arm rotates relative to the support base.

Abstract: An X-ray apparatus, having a C-arm X-ray device with at least one electrically operable component that is arranged at a C-arm that is adjustable relative to a holding mechanism, has an arrangement disposed in or at the C-bend or the component and are connected to the component for the transmission of data and/or energy, and another arrangement for the transmission of energy that are disposed in or at a housing connected to the holding mechanism. The exchange of data and/or the transmission of energy between these arrangements ensues in contactless fashion, and the transmission of the data and/or of the energy ensues continuously.

Abstract: A medical imaging system comprises a C-arm unit having an x-ray source for generating x-rays and a receptor for obtaining image exposures from received x-rays. The C-arm unit moves the x-ray source and receptor along an image acquisition path between at least first and second exposure positions. The C-arm unit rotates about a central axis. Source and receptor brackets mount the x-ray source and receptor, respectively, to the C-arm unit. The source and receptor brackets move at least one of the x-ray source and receptor in a radial direction toward and away from the central axis of the C-arm unit to maintain a desired distance between the patient and the x-ray source and receptor. An image processor collects a series of image exposures from the receptor and constructs a three dimensional volumetric data set which is displayed on a display.

Abstract: For the purpose of reducing a deviation in the rotational center of scan and a deviation in scan position in the direction of length of a rail, a gantry system including a pair of runway rails and a gantry in an X-ray CT system that can move along the runway rails, is characterized by comprising a linear guide rail arranged in the direction along the runway rails and linear guide blocks mounted on the gantry and slidably fitted on the linear guide rail.

Abstract: A system and method of density detection in a target object involve irradiating the target object, detecting a first and second discrete number of photons penetrating the target object through respective first and second prescribed volumes and entering respective first and second radiation detectors. First and second numbers of photons detected by the first and second radiation detectors are counted, and a display output signal is generated in response to the first and second numbers. A graphical representation of the densities within the first and second volumes of the target object is displayed.

Abstract: An X-ray diagnostic apparatus includes an arm supporting an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector, and a tilting bed. A joining mechanism detachably joins the arm to the bed. An arm support mechanism freely supports the arm.

Abstract: A system for detecting and graphically displaying a contents of a fast-moving target object comprises: a radiation source, having a position such that at least a portion of radiation emitted from the radiation source passes through the fast-moving target object, the fast-moving target object having a variable velocity and acceleration while maintaining a substantially constant distance from the radiation source and being selected from the group consisting of: a vehicle, a cargo container and a railroad car; a velocity measuring device configured to measure the variable velocity of the fast-moving target object; a detector array comprising a plurality of photon detectors, having a position such that at least some of the at least a portion of the radiation passing through the target object is received thereby, the detector array having a variable count time according to the variable velocity and a grid unit size; a counter circuit coupled to the detector array for discretely counting a number of photons enterin

Abstract: A medical device which has a data generating unit and a data processing unit that can be displaced relative to each other, as well as an arrangement for transferring the data from the data generating unit to the data processing unit. The arrangement for transferring the data includes a hollow conductor and an antenna that works in conjunction with the hollow conductor, which are displaced relative to each other in a defined manner in the displacement of the data generating unit and the data processing unit relative to each other, and via which the data transfer is accomplished.

Abstract: The method concerns automatic guiding a C-arm X-ray device equipped with a motorized exact positioning unit and essentially comprises the steps of: A) determining the position of the plane of projection (2); E) measuring the position and orientation of the reference element (3) at the bone (4) or bone joint; F) referencing the position of the plane of projection (2) to the position of the reference element (3); H) measuring the actual position and orientation of the displaced bone (4); I) determining the deviation between the actual position of the reference element (3) and the position of the reference element (3) as referenced under step F); K) determining the new position of the C-arm X-ray device (1) in order to reset the plane of projection (2) as referenced under step F); and L) guiding the C-arm X-ray device (1) in the new position as determined under step K) by means of automatic controlling means.

Abstract: In a mobile X-ray apparatus and a method for determining projection geometries therein, an X-ray system, including an X-ray source and a planar X-ray detector, is provided which is displaceable relative to an examination subject by a displacement arrangement for obtaining a series of 2D projections which are used to construct a 3D image of the subject. Each 2D projection has a projection geometry associated therewith. The X-ray system and the displacement arrangement exhibit mechanical instabilities, due to the light weight construction necessary for mobility of the apparatus, which would preclude accurate identification of the 2D projection geometries. The displacement arrangement therefore includes components for assuring a reproducible displacement movement of the X-ray system, so that projection geometries for respective positions of the X-ray system can be identified in advance, in a calibration procedure, allowing offline determination of the projection geometries.

Abstract: An electronic video camera apparatus is provided for focusing light rays from object plane proximate image intensifier of a medical x-ray imaging system onto an image plane proximate a light sensor. The electronic video camera includes a lens system located between the object and image planes to focus light rays from the object plane onto the image plane. The light rays at the object plane are representative of a patient image. An optical filter is located between the object and image planes and partially blocks light rays passing there through. The optical filter includes at least first and second filter regions having different opacity. The first and second filter regions are alignable with the lens system at different times to block differing first and second amounts of light rays, respectively, associated with differing first and second x-ray amounts transmitted at different times.

Abstract: A mobile medical image scanner and teleradiology system are incorporated into an ambulance or other vehicle to permit a patient to be diagnosed while en route to a treatment facility such as a trauma center. The system obtains medical image data while the patient is being transported in the vehicle and transmits the medical image data to a receiver at a location which is remote from the vehicle. At the remote location, the transmitted medical image data is displayed in a humanly discernable manner and interpreted by a qualified physician, who then communicates diagnostic information to the technicians in the vehicle and/or to the treating physicians at the treatment facility. By providing diagnostic information back to the treating physicians prior to the patient's arrival at the treatment facility, the patient can be routed directly to the operating room, or the intensive care unit as necessary, thereby saving valuable time.

Abstract: In a movable type X-ray photographing apparatus, when a lever handle is operated, a force F for pushing the lever handle is inputted into a CPU from right and left pressure sensors provided in the handle. The CPU receives signals of rotational numbers V of motors from right and left encoders, and calculates a pulse width W=&agr;×f (V)×F. In accordance with the calculated pulse width W, a PWM control circuit carries out an ON-OFF duty control of a switching element in a bridge circuit of a motor driving circuit. An output torque T of the motor driving circuit is subjected to a PWM control so as to maintain a relationship (T=&agr;×f). Accordingly, the torque T truly proportional to the pushing force F is outputted from the motor, and a natural operation can be achieved.

Abstract: An X-ray apparatus, having a C-arm X-ray device with at least one electrically operable component that is arranged at a C-arm that is adjustable relative to a holding mechanism, has an arrangement disposed in or at the C-bend or the component and are connected to the component for the transmission of data and/or energy, and another arrangement for the transmission of energy that are disposed in or at a housing connected to the holding mechanism. The exchange of data and/or the transmission of energy between these arrangements ensues in contactless fashion, and the transmission of the data and/or of the energy ensues continuously.

Abstract: A mobile X-ray apparatus for a circuit examination, which includes an X-ray tube with a collimator, a mobile base having a pair of driven wheels, a holder attached and movable to the base, the holder holds the X-ray tube. A motor driver is disposed in the base which drives the wheels. An operation handle bar is disposed in the base providing a signal for driving the motor driver. An input means, separated from the handle bar, provides a signal for driving the motor driver slightly. A controller controls the motor driver according to the signal from the handle bar or the input means.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a mobile X-ray apparatus having an X-ray system comprising an X-ray source and an X-ray detector that is arranged at a carrier device. For registering a series of 2D projections of a subject, the carrier device is pivotable under motor drive around an axis that proceeds at least essentially horizontally through the carrier device. The X-ray apparatus comprises means for generating a 3D image dataset from the registered 2D projections. The invention is also directed to a method for determining the projection geometries required for producing a 3D image dataset from registered 2D projections.

Abstract: An X-ray device includes a C-shaped arm, a first end of which supports an X-ray source and a second end of which supports an X-ray image pick-up device. The C-shaped arm is pivotable about a pivot axis relative to a carriage. The carriage is tiltable about a tilting axis relative to a guide. The guide is rotatable about a propeller axis. The tilting axis extends at an angle relative to the propeller axis. A leverage point on the propeller axis is situated near the tilting axis. The mass center of the C-shaped arm is situated on the pivot axis. The mass centers of the C-shaped arm and of the carriage are situated on a leverage line which extends at least substantially through the leverage point. The mass centers of the C-shaped arm and of the carriage are situated to both sides of the leverage point.

Abstract: Motorized chassis, base, cart and/or carriage apparatus and methods for supporting mobile medical imaging systems. Such apparatus having precision propulsion mechanism to mechanically guide, advance and retract medical imaging equipment about a body of a patient. The invention further including methods of manufacture and use thereof.

Abstract: A frame (A) of a diagnostic imaging device such as a CT scanner or an MRI device has a bore defining a patient examination region (12). A first x-ray source (B) is mounted to a frame (C) for rotation around the examination region (12). An arc of first radiation detectors (14) detects x-rays which have traversed the examination region. A first image reconstruction processor (18) reconstructs a tomographic image representation from signals generated by the first radiation detectors. A fluoroscopy device (D) is mechanically coupled to the diagnostic scanner for generating and displaying at least substantially real-time fluoroscopic projection image representations on a display monitor (60). A second x-ray source (32) transmits x-rays to an amorphous silicon flat panel radiation detector (36). A second image reconstruction processor (58) reconstructs the fluoroscopic projection image representations from signals generated by the flat panel radiation detector (36).

Abstract: This invention provides an X-ray CT apparatus which can be mounted in a motor vehicle, trailer, or container, including locking mechanisms for locking at least some of the movable portions of the X-ray CT apparatus, detectors for detecting the locking/unlocking states of the locking mechanisms, and a notifying unit for representing the states of the locking mechanisms on the basis of outputs from the detectors. Collision of an unlocked movable portion with its periphery during traveling can be avoided.

Abstract: A support system for a radiation treatment system includes a rotatable extension arm extending from a vertical shaft and a rotatable counterbalance extending diametrically opposed to the extension arm from the vertical shaft. The vertical shaft is rotatably supported by a support base. The support base may include a damping mechanism to damp the rotational motion of the vertical shaft relative to the support base, wherein the damping force is preferably proportional to the velocity of the vertical shaft. The radiation treatment system is suspended from a cable extending from a distal end of the extension arm. The extension arm can be formed from a first arm extending from the vertical shaft and a second arm rotatably coupled to the first arm in order to permit the radiation treatment system to be moved in horizontal direction. The cable supporting the radiation treatment system can be coupled to a vertical counterbalance weight to allow the vertical position of the radiation treatment system to be adjusted.

Abstract: In a movable type X-ray photographing apparatus, when a lever handle is operated, a force F for pushing the lever handle is inputted into a CPU from right and left pressure sensors provided in the handle. The CPU receives signals of rotational numbers V of motors from right and left encoders, and calculates a pulse width W=&agr;×f(V)×F. In accordance with the calculated pulse width W, a PWM control circuit carries out an ON-OFF duty control of a switching element in a bridge circuit of a motor driving circuit. An output torque T of the motor driving circuit is subjected to a PWM control so as to maintain a relationship (T=&agr;×f). Accordingly, the torque T truly proportional to the pushing force F is outputted from the motor, and a natural operation can be achieved.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a mobile X-ray apparatus having an X-ray system comprising an X-ray source and an X-ray detector that is arranged at a carrier device. For registering a series of 2D projections of a subject, the carrier device is pivotable under motor drive around an axis that proceeds at least essentially horizontally through the carrier device. The X-ray apparatus comprises means for generating a 3D image dataset from the registered 2D projections. The invention is also directed to a method for determining the projection geometries required for producing a 3D image dataset from registered 2D projections.

Abstract: A device for inspecting a cargo container such as a motor vehicle or freight pallet, with penetrating radiation. A source of penetrating radiation is mounted on a moveable bed, thereby allowing a beam of penetrating radiation to sweep the large container. At least one detector is also mounted on the bed, either on the side of the source or on a boom, so that, as the beam is scanned across the container, the container and any contents of the container are characterized by transmitted or scattered radiation, or both.

Abstract: A device for inspecting a cargo container such as a motor vehicle or freight pallet, with penetrating radiation. A source of penetrating radiation is mounted on a moveable bed, thereby allowing a beam of penetrating radiation to sweep the large container. At least one detector is also mounted on the bed, either on the side of the source or on a boom, so that, as the beam is scanned across the container, the container and any contents of the container are characterized by transmitted or scattered radiation, or both.

Abstract: A unit has a bearing part and a carrying arrangement which is mounted by a mounting side on the bearing part so that it can be adjusted relative to the bearing part. The carrying arrangement is provided with a handle for the manual adjustment of the carrying arrangement relative to the bearing part. The handle is arranged on the mounting side of the carrying arrangement.

Abstract: An x-ray fluoroscopic imaging system including a portable cabinet, a monitor having two video displays, a support arm, an articulated arm assembly connecting the support arm to the cabinet, a C-arm carried by the support arm assembly, an x-ray source and detector located at opposing locations on the C-arm, and a control panel mounted on the source or the detector, wherein the two displays are SVGA multiscan CRTs, mounted in a single rotating enclosure, which provide certain functions of the imaging system. A single driver interface is provided for the two displays for 100% synchronous operation of both displays to display images required by the fluoroscopic imaging system.

Abstract: A system and method of density detection in a target object involve irradiating the target object, detecting a first and second discrete number of photons penetrating the target object through respective first and second prescribed volumes and entering respective first and second radiation detectors. First and second numbers of photons detected by the first and second radiation detectors are counted, and a display output signal is generated in response to the first and second numbers. A graphical representation of the densities within the first and second volumes of the target object is displayed.

Abstract: A motion controlling system for providing a motion control signal to a motor driving a wheel of a medical equipment carriage is described. The system includes a handle having an end movably supported by the carriage so as to permit movement of the handle end relative to the carriage in a direction in which movement of the apparatus is desired, The system is also provided with an optical position encoding means, coupled between the handle end and the carriage, for providing a position signal indicating the position of the handle end relative to the carriage. A motion control means, responsive to the position signal from the optical position encoding means, provides a motion control signal to the motor. Several embodiments of the optical position encoding means, which include photodiode arrays and solar cells, are described.