Beam Detection System Patents (Class 378/19)
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Publication number: 20140056402Abstract: There is provided an image processing apparatus including a processing unit configured to processes projection data in which X-ray detection data representing a detection result of parallel beam X-rays output from an X-ray source has been converted by projection, and form an X-ray image based on the X-ray detection data.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 16, 2013Publication date: February 27, 2014Applicant: Sony CorporationInventors: Daisuke Kikuchi, Hiromi Yoshinari, Hisakazu Shiraki
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Patent number: 8660236Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting low and high x-ray densities is provided for use in CT imaging. Two photodetectors, one having a relatively low dynamic range and the other having a relatively high dynamic range, are coupled to the same transducer. The first photodetector may be, for example, a SiPM which is passively quenched.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2009Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.Inventors: Raz Carmi, Amir Livne
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Publication number: 20140050296Abstract: A Data Measurement and Acquisition System (DMAS) for multi-slice X-ray CT systems and multi-slice X-ray CT systems using the DMAS are disclosed; wherein the DMAS comprises a plurality of X-ray scintillators, a plurality of photodiode modules, a plurality of digitizing cards, one or more motherboards, and an arced support structure for mounting and securing the photodiode modules, the digitizing cards, and the motherboard(s); wherein the multi-slice X-ray CT systems comprises one or more X-ray sources, and one or more DMAS.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2012Publication date: February 20, 2014Inventor: ZHENGRONG YING
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Publication number: 20140050297Abstract: An imaging system includes a radiation source, a positioner configured to rotate the radiation source along an arc path at a rate less than 0.5 degree/sec, an imager in operative position relative to the radiation source, wherein the radiation source and the imager are configured to obtain a plurality of images while the radiation source is at different positions along the arc path, and a processor configured to determine a digital tomosynthesis image using a subset of the plurality of images. An imaging method includes generating a control signal to control a positioner to rotate a radiation source through an arc path at a rate less than 0.5 degree/sec, obtaining a plurality of images that are generated using radiation from the radiation source while the radiation source is at different positions along the arc path, and determining a digital tomosynthesis image using a subset of the plurality of images.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2012Publication date: February 20, 2014Inventor: Hassan MOSTAFAVI
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Publication number: 20140037047Abstract: An X-ray CT apparatus includes an X-ray tube, an X-ray detector, and a control unit. The X-ray detector includes at least two divided ranges. One range includes a small detection range in which X-ray detection elements of a small size for detecting the X-rays radiated from the X-ray tube are arrayed. The other range includes a large detection range in which the X-ray detection elements of a large size for detecting the X-rays radiated from the X-ray tube are arrayed. The control unit is configured to select the small detection range or the large detection range. The X-ray CT apparatus can efficiently achieve high resolution upon imaging and, further, is capable of fully utilizing X-ray detection elements of a small detector size.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2013Publication date: February 6, 2014Applicants: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, TOSHIBA MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORPORATIONInventors: Shinsuke Tsukagoshi, Tatsuro Suzuki
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Publication number: 20140037048Abstract: A prone CT breast x-ray imaging system is described that can image a full breast to create a conventional two-dimensional digital image in very high resolution (e.g., ?25 micron pixels). The system is capable of imaging the entire breast in three-dimensional based on multiple projection views from a one-dimensional or two-dimensional detector. Data can be acquired and reconstructed with a limited number of views from limited angles or with conventional cone beam CT algorithms. The resulting three-dimensional image enables the detection and diagnosis of fine micro calcifications and small masses as may be distributed throughout the breast, thus allowing radiologists to make an improved determination of malignancy as opposed to conventional two-dimensional digital mammography. In addition, the injection of intravenous contrast in conjunction with or without pre and post contrast subtraction imaging provides a radiologist with morphologic information on the existing tumor burden in the breast.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2013Publication date: February 6, 2014Applicant: Fischer Medical Technologies, LLCInventors: Ronald B. Shores, Morgan Nields, David E. Gustafson, Michael Tesic
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Publication number: 20140018671Abstract: A computed tomography (CT) or ultra sound imaging system and method are configured to construct images of an object. The imaging system includes: a radiation or ultrasound source including a collimating or a blocking device configured to generate both a narrow beam and a wide beam; a detector configured to detect radiation or ultrasound wave from the radiation or ultrasound wave from the radiation or ultrasound source; and at least one processing circuit configured to: determine a scatter-to-primary ratio (SPR) of the wide beam based on the narrow beam; determine a primary component of the wide beam based on the SPR to thereby separate the primary component from a scattered component of the wide beam; and construct an image of an object inside a patient using the primary component to thereby improve a contrast of the object.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 18, 2013Publication date: January 16, 2014Inventors: Yongwang LI, Li MA, Feng MA
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Publication number: 20140016739Abstract: A computed tomography detector module can include a detector element, a frame, and a converter element. The detector element can be configured to detect electromagnetic radiation at a detection plane and output one or more analog detection signals. The frame can connect to the detector element and include a shield portion, parallel to the detection plane, configured to at least partially block X-rays. The converter element can include a substrate having connector and component substrate portions, the connector substrate portion thicker in a direction perpendicular to the detection plane than the component substrate portion and configured to extend through an aperture of the frame, the component substrate portion having at least one substrate surface parallel to the detection plane with one or more electrical components attached thereto.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2013Publication date: January 16, 2014Applicant: ANALOG DEVICES, INC.Inventors: Alain Valentin GUERY, Camille HUIN, Dipak SENGUPTA
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Publication number: 20140016738Abstract: A radiation tomography system is provided. The radiation tomography system includes a radiation source configured to rotate around a subject and apply radiation to the subject, a plurality of radiation detecting elements disposed opposite the radiation source, a plurality of collimator plates partitioning the radiation detecting elements in a channel direction, the collimator plates erected such that plate surfaces of each of the plurality of collimator plates extend along a direction of radiation from the radiation source, and an aperture-width changing unit configured to change a width of each aperture formed by the plurality of collimator plates by moving a plurality of radiation absorbing members along respective end sides of the collimator plates close to the radiation source, the plurality of radiation absorbing members moveable between a first position at which the end sides are covered and a second position at which the end sides are exposed.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2012Publication date: January 16, 2014Applicant: GE MEDICAL SYSTEMS GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY COMPANY, LLCInventor: GE MEDICAL SYSTEMS GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY COMPANY, LLC
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Publication number: 20140010426Abstract: A computer-implemented method for correcting artifacts in measured image data due to differential scatter rejection in a computed tomography system is provided. A system for correcting artifacts in measured image data due to differential scatter rejection in a computed tomography system is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2012Publication date: January 9, 2014Inventor: Samit Kumar Basu
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Publication number: 20140010343Abstract: An imaging system is provided. The imaging system includes a rotating gantry. An x-ray source is mounted to the gantry. The system also includes a plurality of interchangeable x-ray detector modules is mounted to the gantry, opposite the x-ray source. The plurality of interchangeable detector modules includes a first detector module mounted at a first distance from the x-ray source and a second detector module mounted at a second distance from the x-ray source. The first distance is different from the second distance.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2012Publication date: January 9, 2014Inventors: Samit Kumar Basu, Pedro Andres Garzon
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Patent number: 8625736Abstract: An X-ray CT apparatus has: a plurality of X-ray detection elements arranged in a matrix form; a QV amplifier unit having a plurality of QV amplifiers; a first connection unit connecting the plurality of X-ray detection elements and the QV amplifier unit; an AD converter unit having a plurality of AD converters; and a second connection unit connecting the QV amplifier unit and the AD converter unit. The plurality of X-ray detection elements and the QV amplifier unit are connected and the QV amplifier unit and the AD converter unit are connected so as to make different at least one of a signal processing characteristic of the QV amplifier unit and signal a processing characteristic of the AD converter unit for each X-ray detection element of the plurality of X-ray detection elements or for each of an adjacent plurality of X-ray detection elements.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2010Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems CorporationInventors: Yoji Kudo, Hiroaki Miyazaki
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Patent number: 8619943Abstract: A method and a computed tomography system are disclosed for generating tomographic image datasets of a measurement object with multiple simultaneously operable sets of detector elements. In at least one embodiment, at least one first set measures incident radiation over the entire energy spectrum of the incident radiation in an integrating manner and at least one second set measures incident radiation in at least two energy ranges in a resolving manner, wherein furthermore by way of the integrating measurements, the energy-resolving measurements relating in each case to rays traversing a measurement object in a spatially identical manner are corrected and a tomographic image dataset of the measurement object is reconstructed at least from the corrected energy-resolving measurements.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2012Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Thomas Flohr, Gabriel Haras, Daniel Niederlöhner, Stefan Pflaum
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Publication number: 20130343517Abstract: A Computed Tomography (CT) method, apparatus, and detector, which includes a plurality of energy-discriminating detector elements configured to capture incident X-ray photons emitted from an X-ray source. Each of the plurality of energy-discriminating detector elements of the detector is configured to have a respective bias voltage individually switched ON or OFF, based on a signal received from a controller.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2012Publication date: December 26, 2013Inventors: Daniel GAGNON, Xiaolan Wang
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Publication number: 20130343515Abstract: Among other things, one or more techniques and/or systems are described for dynamically adjusting one or more X-ray acquisition parameters of an X-ray imaging modality. During a first portion of an examination of an object, the object is examined using a first set of X-ray acquisition parameters and a first image is generated. A region-of-interest is identified in the first image and one or more X-ray acquisition parameters are adjusted as a function of the identified region-of-interest to establish a second set of X-ray acquisition parameters. During a second portion of the examination of the object, the object is examined using the second set of X-ray acquisition parameters to generate a second image. In this way, X-ray acquisition parameters can be adjusted in real-time or ‘on the fly’ to obtain a (more) desired image.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2012Publication date: December 26, 2013Applicant: Analogic CorporationInventor: Guy M. Besson
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Publication number: 20130343518Abstract: A collimator for a computed tomography imaging device can include first and second leaves positioned on and bounding opposing sides of a radiation delivery window. The first and second leaves can be movable to adjust at least one of a size or a location of the primary radiation delivery window relative a the radiation source in a direction non-parallel to an axis of rotation of the radiation source.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2012Publication date: December 26, 2013Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF UTAH RESEARCH FOUNDATIONInventors: Frederic Noo, Dominic Heuscher
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Publication number: 20130336443Abstract: A computed-tomography apparatus that includes a CT scanner including an X-ray source and a detector covering respective angle ranges in the axial and transaxial planes of the CT scanner. The CT detector includes first detector elements disposed on a first surface to capture incident X-ray photons emitted from the X-ray source, and second detector elements sparsely disposed on a second surface different from the first surface, the second surface being farther away from the scanner than the first surface, the second detector elements being smaller in number than the first detector elements. Each of the second detector elements is reachable only by X-ray photons originating in a small angle range around a line connecting the X-ray source and a center of the surface of the detector element, the small angle range being determined by the predetermined distance separating the first and second surfaces and a size of the detector element.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2012Publication date: December 19, 2013Inventors: Daniel GAGNON, Yu Zou, Xiaolan Wang
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Publication number: 20130329853Abstract: A detector circuit can include an integrator having an amplifier, a first feedback capacitor connected between an input and output of the amplifier, one or more additional feedback capacitors connected by at least one switch between the input and output of the amplifier, and a shunt capacitor connected to the output of the amplifier. The shunt capacitor can be selected to have a capacitance value greater than that of a minimum but less than that of a maximum feedback capacitance. The detector circuit can further include a sampling circuit having a sampling capacitor connected to the output of the integrator amplifier through at least one switch, wherein the sampling capacitor is separate from the shunt capacitor. A computed tomography imaging apparatus can include the detector circuit.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2012Publication date: December 12, 2013Applicant: ANALOG DEVICES, INC.Inventors: Michael COLN, Paraic BRANNICK, Colin G. LYDEN, Cathal MURPHY
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Patent number: 8606033Abstract: X-ray beam detectors in one model can individually differ from one another. This can lead to differences in the amount of noise in an image recorded with the aid of the respective X-ray beam detector. In the present case, a variable is derived using an empty image, which variable reproduces the amount of noise, and this variable then determines the type and extent of a filtering process. Hence the image processing is adapted to the respective individual noise behavior of the respective X-ray beam detector. This is particularly suitable if the X-ray beam detector is a flat-panel detector (100) with a scintillator (22) and photodetector elements (12).Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2011Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Boris Stowasser
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Publication number: 20130315453Abstract: A tomographic system includes a gantry having an opening for receiving an object to be scanned, a radiation source, a detector positioned to receive radiation from the source that passes through the object, and a computer programmed to acquire a plurality of helical projection datasets of the object, reconstruct a first image using the acquired plurality of helical projection datasets and using a first reconstruction algorithm, reconstruct a second image using the acquired plurality of helical projection datasets and using a second reconstruction algorithm that is different from the first reconstruction algorithm, extract frequency components from each of the first and second images, sum the frequency components from each of the first and second images, and inverse transform the sum of the frequency components to generate a final image.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2012Publication date: November 28, 2013Inventors: Guangzhi Cao, Jiang Hsieh, Brian Edward Nett
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Publication number: 20130315367Abstract: An apparatus has a patient support, a rotatable gantry supporting a source of imaging radiation, and a radiation detector that operates in a cyclical pattern of an exposure phase followed by a readout phase. For a first detector cycle in which the gantry has a first angle of rotation, the source of radiation is controlled to emit a first radiation beam pulse during the exposure phase, and respective first imaging data is read out during the readout phase. For a second, subsequent detector cycle, it is determined if the gantry has rotated through at least a threshold angular displacement relative to said first angle of rotation, and if so, the source of radiation is controlled to emit a second radiation beam pulse during the exposure phase, and respective second imaging data is read out during the readout phase.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2013Publication date: November 28, 2013Applicant: Elekta AB (publ)Inventors: Christopher Knox, Colin Winfield, Kevin Brown
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Patent number: 8594480Abstract: A rotating data transmission device for computer tomographs, for transmission from a rotating part to a stationary part that is rotatably supported relative to the rotating part, comprises at least one dielectric waveguide assigned to the rotating part, at least one first line coupler for coupling electrical signals into the at least one dielectric waveguide, and at least one coupler assigned to the stationary part for tapping electrical signals from the at least one dielectric waveguide. The dielectric waveguide is divided into at least two segments of approximately the same length, signals are coupled into the segments of the dielectric waveguides through a first line coupler to propagate in opposite directions, and ends of the segments distant from the line coupler are provided with terminations.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2006Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: Schleifring und Apparatebau GmbHInventors: Nils Krumme, Georg Lohr
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Patent number: 8592774Abstract: A radiographic apparatus includes an x-ray detection sensor having a two-dimensional detector plane for detecting an intensity distribution of x-rays, a body internally containing the x-ray detection sensor, a supporting member having a supporting surface for supporting the x-ray detection sensor across the detector plane and which fixes the x-ray detection sensor to an inner bottom surface of the body, and a circuit board on which is mounted a circuit for reading out a detection signal from the x-ray detection sensor. Furthermore, in the radiographic apparatus, the supporting member forms a space between the supporting member and the inner bottom surface of the body in a peripheral portion of the supporting member. At least a part of the circuit board is arranged in the space.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2010Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Hidetomo Suwa, Akio Saigusa, Tetsuo Watanabe
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Publication number: 20130308749Abstract: A system of performing a volumetric scan. The system comprises a surface of positioning a patient in a space parallel thereto, a plurality of extendable detector arms each the detector arm having a detection unit having at least one radiation detector, and an actuator which moves the detection unit along a linear path, and a gantry which supports the plurality of extendable detector arms around the surface so that each the linear path of each respective the extendable detector arm being directed toward the space.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 22, 2013Publication date: November 21, 2013Applicant: Biosensors International Group, Ltd.Inventors: Yoel Zilberstein, Nathaniel Roth, Benny Rousso, Shlomo Ben-Haim
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Publication number: 20130308748Abstract: A source-side radiation detector (SSRD) includes a detector module assembly, and a monitoring lens coupled to the detector module assembly, the detector module assembly and the monitoring lens being positioned proximate to an x-ray source, the monitoring lens including a plurality of slits configured to receive x-rays therethrough from the x-ray source, the detector module assembly being configured detect the x-rays transmitted through the slits and to generate information to track a position of a focal spot of the x-ray source.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 2012Publication date: November 21, 2013Applicant: General Electric CompanyInventors: ABDELAZIZ IKHLEF, JOSEPH JAMES LACEY
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Patent number: 8587461Abstract: A data acquisition system includes an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) having a MUX control outputs, a controller coupled to the ADC, a multiplexer coupled to the MUX control outputs of the ADC, and an operational amplifier coupling an analog data output of the multiplexer to an input of the ADC. An ADC having integrated multiplexer control includes control logic circuitry, ADC circuitry, MUX logic and an oscillator coupled to the control logic circuitry, the ADC circuitry, and the MUX logic.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2011Date of Patent: November 19, 2013Assignee: Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.Inventor: Jamaal Mitchell
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Publication number: 20130287165Abstract: An imaging system (100) includes a stationary gantry (102), a rotating gantry (104), a radiation source (110), and a detector array (112). The detector array detects radiation for a plurality of integration periods during a rotating gantry revolution, the plurality of integration periods corresponds to different angular position ranges, and the detector array generates a signal indicative of the detected radiation respectively for the plurality of integration periods. The system further includes an integration period controller (118) that generates an integration period timing signal that includes timing for a start of each of the integration periods for a revolution of the rotating gantry based at least on a time duration of a previous revolution of the rotating gantry around the examination region, wherein the integration timing signal is used trigger the plurality of integration periods.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 6, 2012Publication date: October 31, 2013Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.Inventor: Ronald B. Sharpless
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Publication number: 20130279647Abstract: Among other things, one or more data-links for transferring information between a stationary unit and a movable (e.g., rotating) unit, or between two movable units without contact between the units is provided. A transmitting antenna of a data-link comprises at least two capacitive conducting portions, a first portion configured to conduct signals having a first frequency range (e.g., a higher frequency range) and a second portion configured to conduct signals having a second frequency range (e.g., a lower frequency range). The second portion is comprised of a plurality of members (e.g., conductive plates) arranged to create a substantially continuous electrically conductive structure (e.g., although respective members may not be in physical contact with adjacent members). In this way, a loss of capacitance in a transition between two adjacent members is reduced to provide for transferring information at lower frequencies where a higher capacitance is desirable, for example.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2012Publication date: October 24, 2013Applicant: Analogic CorporationInventors: Libor Krupica, Wei Ye
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Publication number: 20130279645Abstract: Methods and systems for use in generating a volumetric reconstruction of an object using scattered X-ray radiography. An X-ray beam is directed towards a point within a target object. Scattered X-rays are measured by detectors and measurement data is stored. The X-ray beam is directed towards different points. Measurement data associated with each point is analyzed using a ray tracing methodology to assign contrast values to each point. A volumetric image is generated therefrom.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 18, 2012Publication date: October 24, 2013Inventors: Michael Liesenfelt, Dan Shedlock, William Talion Edwards
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Publication number: 20130279649Abstract: The present invention relates to a solid-state imaging device, etc. having a structure for capturing a high-resolution image even when any row selecting wiring is disconnected. The solid-state imaging device (1) comprises a photodetecting section (10), a signal reading-out section (20), a row selecting section (30), a column selecting section (40), an overflow preventing section (50), and a controlling section (60). The photodetecting section (10) has M×N pixel portions P1,1 to PM,N two-dimensionally arranged in a matrix of M rows and N columns, and each of the pixel portions P1,1 to PM,N includes a photodiode that generates charge of an amount according to an incident light intensity and a reading-out switch connected to the photodiode. Each of the N pixel portions Pm,1 to Pm,N belonging to an m-th row is connected to the row selecting section (30) and the overflow preventing section (50) by an m-th row selecting wiring LV,m.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 17, 2013Publication date: October 24, 2013Inventors: Kazuki FUJITA, Harumichi MORI, Ryuji KYUSHIMA, Masahiko HONDA
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Publication number: 20130279650Abstract: The present invention relates to a solid-state imaging device and the like having a structure for capturing a high-resolution image even when any of the reading-out wiring and row selecting wiring is disconnected. The solid-state imaging device (1) comprises a photodetecting section (10) having M×N pixel portions P1,1 to PM,N two-dimensionally arranged in a matrix of M rows and N columns. A pixel portion Pm,n of the photodetecting section (10) includes a photodiode PD generating charge of an amount according to an incident light intensity and a reading-out switch SW1 connected to the photodiode PD. The pixel portion Pm,n occupies a substantially square region, and most of the region is a region of the photodiode PD. A field-effect transistor serving as the reading-out switch SW1 is formed in one corner of the region. A channel stopper CS is continuously formed in a region sandwiched by pixel portions.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2013Publication date: October 24, 2013Inventors: Kazuki FUJITA, Harumichi MORI, Ryuji KYUSHIMA, Masahiko HONDA
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Publication number: 20130279648Abstract: A liquid cooled thermal control system for a computed tomography (CT) detector includes a plurality of temperature sensors and a control mode selector module coupled to the plurality of temperature sensors. The control mode selector module is programmed to receive an input from the plurality of temperature sensors, identify the inputs as either valid inputs or invalid inputs, and determine an operational mode of the liquid cooled thermal control system based on the identified inputs. A CT imaging system and a method of operating a cooling system are also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 24, 2012Publication date: October 24, 2013Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Ashutosh Joshi, Joseph James Lacey, Medy Satria
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Patent number: 8559592Abstract: The present application is directed toward the generation of three dimensional images in a tomography system having X-ray sources offset from detectors, in particular in a system where the sources are located on a plane, while detectors are located on multiple parallel planes, parallel to the plane of sources and all the planes of detectors lie on one side of the plane of sources. A controller operates to rebin detected X-rays onto a non-flat surface, perform two dimensional reconstruction on the surface, and generate the three dimensional image from reconstructed images on the plurality of surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2012Date of Patent: October 15, 2013Assignee: Rapiscan Systems, Inc.Inventors: Marta Betcke, William Robert Breckon Lionheart, Edward James Morton
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Patent number: 8553835Abstract: A computed tomography scanner may include a component mounting assembly, an x-ray tube, a filter assembly, and a detector assembly. The filter assembly filters an x-ray fan or cone beam generated by the x-ray tube such that the x-ray beam comprises a high dose portion and one or more low dose portions. The filter assembly reduces the photon count of the low dose portions. The x-ray tube may be coupled to the component mounting assembly at a first end and the detector assembly coupled at a second end that is opposite from the first end. The component mounting assembly is rotatable about a rotation axis. The detector assembly includes an array of individual detector elements capable of detecting x-ray photons of the x-ray beam. The high dose portion strikes a high resolution region of the detector assembly and the low dose portion strikes a low resolution region of the detector assembly.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2009Date of Patent: October 8, 2013Assignee: Wright State UniversityInventors: Thomas N. Hangartner, Sangeetha Alladi
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Patent number: 8553834Abstract: A computed tomography detector module can include a detector element, a frame, and a converter element. The detector element can be configured to detect electromagnetic radiation at a detection plane and output one or more analog detection signals. The frame can connect to the detector element and include a shield portion, parallel to the detection plane, configured to at least partially block X-rays. The converter element can include a substrate having connector and component substrate portions, the connector substrate portion thicker in a direction perpendicular to the detection plane than the component substrate portion and configured to extend through an aperture of the frame, the component substrate portion having at least one substrate surface parallel to the detection plane with one or more electrical components attached thereto.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2010Date of Patent: October 8, 2013Assignee: Analog Devices, Inc.Inventors: Alain Valentin Guery, Camille Huin, Dipak Sengupta
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Publication number: 20130259191Abstract: An imaging system includes a radiation source (310) configured to rotate around an examination region about a z-axis and having a focal spot that emits a radiation beam that traverses the examination region. The system further includes a radiation sensitive detector array (314) with a plurality of detector pixels that detects radiation traversing the examination region and generates projection data indicative of the detected radiation. The system further includes a dynamic post-patient filter (316) including one or more filter segments (402, 802, 902, 1004, 1102). The filter is configured to selectively and dynamically move in front of the detector array between the detector array and the examination region and into and out of a path of the radiation beam illuminating the detector pixels during scanning an object or subject based on a shape of the object or subject, thereby filtering unattenuated radiation and radiation traversing a periphery of the object or subject.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2011Publication date: October 3, 2013Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.Inventors: Thomas Koehler, Holger Schmidt, Roland Proksa
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Patent number: 8548119Abstract: A CT system is disclosed that includes detector modules positioned on a rotatable gantry configured to receive x-rays attenuated by an object. Each detector module includes a module frame, a plurality of tileable sub-modules on the module frame aligned along a Z-axis thereof to receive the x-rays attenuated by the object and convert the x-rays to digital signals, and an electronics board connected to the plurality of sub-modules to receive the digital signals. Each sub-module further includes an array of detector elements to receive x-rays attenuated through the object and convert the x-rays into analog electrical signals, an ASIC electronics package coupled to the array of detector elements to receive the analog electrical signals and convert the analog electrical signals to digital signals, and a flex circuit connected to the ASIC electronics package to receive the digital signals and transfer the digital signals to the electronics board.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2011Date of Patent: October 1, 2013Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Abdelaziz Ikhlef, Brian Joseph Graves, Gregory S. Zeman, Joseph James Lacey, Mayank Gupta, Baiju Zacharia Babu, Ross Hoggatt
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Publication number: 20130251097Abstract: Photon counting detectors are sparsely placed at predetermined positions in the fourth-generation geometry around an object to be scanned in spectral Computer Tomography (CT). Optionally, integrating detectors are placed between the two adjacent ones of the sparsely placed photon counting detectors in the fourth-generation geometry. Furthermore, the integrating detectors are placed in the third-generation in combination to the sparsely placed photon counting detectors at predetermined positions in the fourth-generation geometry.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2012Publication date: September 26, 2013Applicants: TOSHIBA MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORPORATION, KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBAInventor: Yu ZOU
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Publication number: 20130251099Abstract: In a method of verifying patient identity, an image of an individual who is to receive radiotherapy is obtained and compared with a reference image of a patient to whom the radiotherapy is intended. Confirmation or negation of the individual to be the patient intended can be made based on the comparison of the image of the individual with the reference image of the patient.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 20, 2012Publication date: September 26, 2013Applicant: Varian Medical Systems International AGInventors: Patrik Kunz, Jonas Honegger, Michael Huber
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Publication number: 20130243152Abstract: An image generating method is provided. The method includes performing a rearrangement process and an interpolation process on fan beam projection data, the fan beam projection data acquired by a scan that includes rotating a radiation source and a detector having a plurality of detecting elements arranged in a channel direction, wherein the interpolation process generates equally-spaced parallel beam projection data in which channel-direction intervals are equal therebetween, and wherein the interpolation process is performed with respect to a plurality of view directions. The method further includes performing a back-projection process on the equally-spaced parallel beam projection data to thereby reconstruct an image, wherein the channel-direction intervals between the equally-spaced parallel beam projection data are smaller than a reference interval obtained by dividing an interval between the detecting elements in the channel direction by a projection enlargement rate.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2013Publication date: September 19, 2013Applicant: GE MEDICAL SYSTEMS GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY COMPANY, LLCInventor: GE MEDICAL SYSTEMS GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY COMPANY, LLC
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Patent number: 8536552Abstract: A collimator is disclosed for a radiation detector including at least three spacing elements arranged on a radiation exit face of the collimator. In at least one embodiment, they are embodied so as to mount the collimator in a stable manner with respect to a radiation converter of the radiation detector. The at least three spacing elements enable a very precise and stable alignment of the collimator in respect of the radiation converter despite manufacturing-related curves or unevennesses in the radiation exit face and/or the mounting surface on the part of the radiation converter. At least one embodiment of the invention also relates to a manufacturing method for such a collimator, as well as a method for manufacturing a radiation detector.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2011Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Andreas Freund, Claus Pohan, Gottfried Tschöpa, Stefan Wirth, Jan Wrege
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Publication number: 20130235972Abstract: According to one embodiment, a method is disclosed for manufacturing a collimator. The method can include forming a first plate-like part having a plurality of first slits. The method can include forming a second plate-like part having a plurality of second slits. The method can include causing the first slits and the second slits to face each other and assembling a plurality of the first plate-like parts and a plurality of the second plate-like parts so as to intersect each other. Portions of the second plate-like parts where the second slits are not provided are held on an opening side of the first slits. The second plate-like parts are inclined so as to follow an inclination of the first slits. The inclined second plate-like parts are moved toward a bottom of the first slits.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2012Publication date: September 12, 2013Applicants: Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation, Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Nobuyoshi Kuroiwa, Hideshi Nakano, Shuya Nambu, Yoshiaki Yaoi
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Publication number: 20130235971Abstract: A system and method for imaging objects with a sparse detector array that includes fewer detectors than conventional x-ray scanning systems. The sparse detector array is positioned to receive x-ray radiation from the at least one x-ray source after passing through an inspection area. The sparse detector array includes a plurality of rows of detector elements, wherein at least some of the plurality of rows are separated by gaps such that the at least some of the plurality of rows are non-contiguous. An iterative reconstruction process is used to determine a volumetric image of the object from the radiation measurements recorded by the detectors in the sparse detector array.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2012Publication date: September 12, 2013Applicant: L-3 Communications Security and Detection Systems Corp.Inventors: Boris Oreper, Andrew D. Foland
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Patent number: 8532250Abstract: An X-ray CT apparatus has an X-ray source, an X-ray detector, a temperature sensor, a data acquisition unit and a controller. The X-ray source generates an X-ray. The X-ray detector detects the X-ray. The temperature sensor detects a temperature of the X-ray detector. The data acquisition unit acquires data from the X-ray detector. The controller controls a temperature of the X-ray detector through adjustment of a workload of the data acquisition unit during a non-scanning time.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2011Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems CorporationInventors: Atsushi Hashimoto, Takayuki Yamazaki, Michito Nakayama, Tomoe Sagoh, Takeshi Miyagi
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Patent number: 8532251Abstract: An imaging system (100) includes a radiation source (108) that emits radiation that traverses an examination region (106) and a detection system (114) that detects radiation that traverses the examination region (106) and generates a signal indicative thereof. The detection system (114) includes a first detector array (1141-114N) and a second detector array (1141-114N). The first and second detector arrays (1141-114N) are separately distinct detector arrays and at least one of the detector arrays (1141-114N) is moveable with respect to the radiation beam. A reconstructor (116) reconstructs the signal and generates volumetric image data indicative thereof.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2010Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.Inventors: Randall P. Luhta, Marc A. Chappo, Brian E. Harwood, Rodney A. Mattson, Chris John Vrettos
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Publication number: 20130223588Abstract: A radiation imaging apparatus is provided. The radiation imaging apparatus includes a radiation source configured to emit radiation from a first focal point, a plurality of radiation detecting elements disposed opposite to the radiation source and arranged in a channel direction, a plurality of collimator plates provided along the channel direction so as to separate the radiation detecting elements, the collimator plates including radiation absorption members at surfaces of at least one first collimator plate located on a first end side and at least one second collimator plate located on a second end side such that radiation shielding effects of the first and second collimator plates become substantially equivalent when the surfaces of the first and second collimator plates are located along a radial direction from a second focal point, and a data acquisition unit configured to acquire radiation projection data from the radiation detecting elements.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 24, 2012Publication date: August 29, 2013Inventors: Haruo KUROCHI, Abdelaziz IKHLEF, Joseph James LACEY, Mark ADAMAK
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Publication number: 20130223589Abstract: Provided is a medical image processing apparatus allowing the generation of image data by changing the reconstruction conditions in correspondence with the positional relation of an observation target based on the projected data chronologically acquired by an X-ray CT scanner. The medical image processing apparatus includes a photographing unit, a reconfiguration processing unit, an extracting unit, and an analyzing unit. The photographing unit scans the flexible site of the living body configured from multiple parts in order to acquire projected data. The reconfiguration processing unit carries out reconfiguration processing on the projected data and generates image data of the flexible site regarding the plurality of timing points. The extracting unit extracts the plurality of components configuring the flexible site from the respective image data. The analyzing unit obtains the positional relation of the plurality of components.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2013Publication date: August 29, 2013Applicants: Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation, Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
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Publication number: 20130216019Abstract: The collecting part of the X-ray CT apparatus according to the embodiment scans a subject using X-rays and collects data. The memory prerecords a basic image including the designated area of the subject. The controller instructs the collector to repeatedly perform the first scan, using the conditions for the first scan, of the designated area of the subject to who contrast agent has been administered. The controller then receives the specified trigger input, and instructs the second scan of the subject using the conditions for the second scan. The image generator repeatedly produces the first medical image based on the data collected when the first scan is being performed, and produces a subtraction image from the first medical image and the basic image. The image generator then produces the second medical image based on the data collected when the second scan is being performed.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 21, 2013Publication date: August 22, 2013Applicants: Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation, Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
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Publication number: 20130208855Abstract: Provided is a medical image diagnostic apparatus, including: an internal image acquiring unit for acquiring a plurality of internal images different in time phase by irradiating a body part of a subject with X-rays; an outer appearance image acquiring unit for acquiring an outer appearance image by photographing the body part of the subject; an analysis unit for analyzing the outer appearance image to acquire first shape information indicating a shape of the body part of the subject and analyzing each of the plurality of internal images to acquire second shape information indicating a shape of the body part of the subject; and a display control unit for displaying the outer appearance image and the each of the plurality of internal images by superimposing one on another so that the body part of the subject included in the outer appearance image and the body part of the subject included in the each of the plurality of internal images are located in the same position based on the first shape information and theType: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2013Publication date: August 15, 2013Applicants: Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation, Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
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Publication number: 20130208853Abstract: An X-ray diagnostic system according to an embodiment includes: an X-ray tube for radiating an X-ray to the subject on the basis of a tube current for taking a scanogram of a subject; an X-ray detector for detecting the X-ray radiated by the X-ray tube and transmitted through the subject; a data collector for collecting X-ray dose distribution data, which shows the dose distribution of the X-ray; an image processor for creating the scanogram from the X-ray dose distribution data; a genuine data generator for generating genuine data showing the dose distribution of the X-ray, from the scanogram; a threshold value setting section for setting a threshold value for the genuine data; and a tube current adjustor for adjusting a tube current for taking a tomographic image of the subject in accordance with a comparison between the X-ray dose in the genuine data and the threshold value.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2013Publication date: August 15, 2013Applicants: Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation, Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation