Beam Detection System Patents (Class 378/19)
  • Patent number: 8781068
    Abstract: An embodiment includes an X-ray detecting section including an X-ray detector having a first visual field size and a high-resolution detector and having a second visual field size, an X-ray generating section for irradiating a subject with X-rays, an image processing section for generating a first X-ray image by means of the X-ray detector and a second X-ray image, a display section, a region defining section for displaying a spot corresponding to part of the second X-ray image or a region corresponding to the second X-ray image on the first X-ray image and specifying the position of the high-resolution detector by moving the spot or the region, a positional displacement calculating section for determining the coordinate difference between the center position of the first X-ray image and the position of the spot indicating the specified position and a move control section for controlling the top plate or the holding section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Koji Noda
  • Publication number: 20140192953
    Abstract: A method for determination of a spatial distribution and concentration of contrast components in a porous sample comprises the steps of scanning a sample with X-ray and obtaining a computer tomographic image of the sample. Then an area of interest inside the obtained computer tomographic image is selected and a first cross-section of the computer tomographic image is defined. Spatial distribution and concentration of contrast components inside the area of interest are determined by analyzing histograms of grayness distribution in the cross-sections of the computer tomographic image starting with the reference cross-section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Valery Vasilievich Shako, Nikita Ilyich Ryzhikov, Dmitry Nikolaevich Mikhailov
  • Patent number: 8774354
    Abstract: A system for recording computed tomography image data of an object in an object area comprises an X-ray source and an X-ray detector arranged at either side of the object area, the X-ray source having a flying focal spot from which X-rays is emitted and the X-ray detector comprising pixels arranged in at least one row for recording images of the object. A device is provided for rotating the X-ray source and the X-ray detector with respect to the object around an axis of rotation, while the at least one row of pixels record images of the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Xcounter AB
    Inventor: Christer Ullberg
  • Patent number: 8774353
    Abstract: The invention relates to a radiation detector (100) comprising a converter element (113) with an array (120) of first electrodes (121) for sampling electrical signals generated by incident radiation (X). With a connection circuit (130), at least two first electrodes (121) can selectively be coupled to a common readout unit (141) according to a given connection pattern (CP1). The effective pixel size along the path of incident radiation (X) can thus be adapted to the distribution of electrical signals, which is usually determined by the spectral composition of the incident radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventors: Christoph Herrmann, Christian Baeumer, Roger Steadman Booker
  • Patent number: 8774350
    Abstract: Scattered X-rays scattered by an object or a structure enter in a detector (a shift detector) for detecting the positional shift of an X-ray focal point and become a noise source, thereby deteriorating the positional shift detection precision. In particular, the estimation of the dose of scattered X-rays originating from the object is difficult prior to the measurement, and correction of the scattered X-rays is important in order to precisely calculate the positional shift of the X-ray focal point. In order to address this drawback, according to the present invention, a scattered X-ray detector 6 is provided which measures the dose of scattered rays entering in a shift detector 5 for detecting the positional shift of an X-ray focal point 9, and has a function that the output by the shift detector 5 is corrected using the scattered ray dose measured by the scattered X-ray detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Hitachi Medical Corporation
    Inventors: Yushi Tsubota, Fumito Watanabe, Hironori Ueki, Yasutaka Konno, Shinichi Kojima, Atsuro Suzuki
  • Patent number: 8767910
    Abstract: A system and a method for acquiring image data of a subject with an imaging system are provided. The system can include a gantry that completely annularly encompasses at least a portion of the subject, and a source positioned within the gantry. The source can be responsive to a signal to output at least one pulse. The system can include a multi-row detector positioned within the gantry. The multi-row detector can be in alignment with the source and sets multi-row detector data based on the detected at least one signal. The system can include a flat panel detector positioned within the gantry. The flat panel detector can in alignment with the source and sets flat panel detector data based on the detected at least one signal. The system can include an image acquisition control module that determines which of the multi-row detector and the flat panel detector to use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Medtronic Navigation, Inc.
    Inventors: Shuanghe Shi, Jason R. Chandonnet, Matthew G. Mooney
  • Publication number: 20140177786
    Abstract: Various of the disclosed embodiments contemplate systems and methods that compensate for the limited dynamic range of certain X-Ray detector systems, such as CAT-Scan detector systems. In some embodiments, the system alternates between different photon emission flux values and then gives more consideration to an attenuation value associated with a more favorable detection flux. In this manner, different object densities may be accounted for and may be more properly imaged despite the particular characteristics of the X-Ray system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Uwe Wiedmann, Daniel David Harrison
  • Patent number: 8761333
    Abstract: A CT system includes a rotatable gantry having an opening to receive an object to be scanned, an x-ray source configured to project an x-ray beam toward the object, and a detector array configured to detect x-rays passing through the object. The detector array includes a first array of pixels positioned to receive x-rays that pass to the detector array outside a first field-of-view (FOV) to a second FOV, the first array of pixels providing a first resolution, and a second array of pixels positioned to receive x-rays passing through the first FOV, the second array of pixels providing a second resolution that is different from the first resolution. The system includes a data acquisition system (DAS) configured to receive outputs from the detector array, and a computer programmed to acquire projections of imaging data of the object, and generate an image of the object using the imaging data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Abdelaziz Ikhlef, David Michael Hoffman
  • Patent number: 8757878
    Abstract: A system and method for temperature drift correction capability in a CT detector module is disclosed. A scintillator array of a CT detector module has a plurality of scintillator cells configured to detect high frequency electromagnetic energy passing through an object, with a plurality of photodiodes in a photodiode array optically coupled to the scintillator array to detect light output therefrom. A computer is provided that is programmed to measure a response of the plurality of photodiodes as a function of temperature, determine a transfer function indicative of the response of the plurality of photodiodes as a function of temperature, normalize the transfer function to a virtual operating temperature, measure a temperature of the photodiode array prior to a scan, determine a correction factor from the normalized transfer function based on the measured photodiode temperature and the virtual operating temperature, and apply the correction factor to the photodiode outputs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Abdelaziz Ikhlef, Joseph James Lacey
  • Publication number: 20140169521
    Abstract: X-ray CT system is provided that reduces waiting time for shuttle scanning, comprising: top-plate moving unit; rotary moving unit; data acquisition system; and control unit. Top-plate moving unit displaces top plate to reciprocate in a direction from a starting point to an ending point and in the direction from the ending point to the starting point. Rotary moving unit drives X-ray radiator radiating X-rays to revolve around the subject. Data acquisition system detects X-rays passed through the subject and to gather projection data. Controller controls at least top-plate moving unit so that, during a scanning with X-rays, while projection data are gathered with reciprocating movement of top plate between the starting point and the ending point and with X-ray radiator being driven to make revolving movement, the duration required for reciprocation of the top plate movement being an integral multiple of revolution period of the revolving movement of X-ray radiator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2013
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicants: Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation, Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Satoru Nakanishi, Tasuro Suzuki
  • Patent number: 8754388
    Abstract: A radiation control system and method are provided in which radiation delivered to a patient and/or the operator of the equipment is minimized. The radiation control system may be used in a large variety of applications including applications in which radiation source is used to inspect an object, such as, for example, medical imaging, diagnosis and therapy, in manufacturing operation using radiation, in airports scanning systems, in different security setups, and in nuclear reactors automation and process control. The radiation control system and method may also be used with 3D imaging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: ControlRad Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Allon Guez
  • Patent number: 8755486
    Abstract: A front-lit detector includes a collimator, an X-ray to visible light converter configured to convert X-rays to visible light after the X-rays pass through the collimator to irradiate the X-ray to visible light converter, a visible light to analog signal converter configured to cover the visible light into analog signals, a substrate on which the visible light to analog signal converter is placed, and an A/D converter configured to convert the analog signals into digital signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Zhiqiang Liu, Qinglei Li, Yu Zhou
  • Publication number: 20140161222
    Abstract: An X-ray CT apparatus includes an X-ray tube, X-ray detector detecting the X-rays transmitted through an object, data acquisition unit acquiring projection data of the object based on an output from the X-ray detector, bed driving control unit moving a top to place the object along a long-axis direction of the top, image processing unit generating a reconstructed image based on the projection data, positional shift amount detection unit detecting a shift amount of a relative position between the top and the object, and positional shift processing unit performing processing based on a detection result obtained by the positional shift amount detection unit, in accordance with movement of the top by the bed driving control unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2014
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicants: Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation, Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Masaharu TSUYUKI
  • Publication number: 20140153691
    Abstract: A radiation focal position detecting method for detecting a positional displacement of a focal point of a radiation source in a radiation tomographic imaging apparatus is provided. The method includes providing a radiation absorber that covers parts of first and second detecting element regions, the parts lying on mutually adjoining sides of the first and second detecting element regions in a radiation detector including a plurality of detecting elements arranged in channel and slice directions, and specifying, based on intensities of radiation detected by the detecting elements in the first and second detecting element regions, a position of the focal point or an amount of movement of the focal point from a reference position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Haruo Kurochi, Ikhlef Abdelaziz
  • Publication number: 20140153690
    Abstract: Systems, methods and non-transitory computer readable media for imaging. The system includes one or more radiation sources and detectors configured to transmit x-ray radiation towards a subject for imaging a dynamic process in a ROI of the subject and to acquire projection data corresponding to the ROI, respectively. The system also includes a computing device operatively coupled to one or more of the radiation sources and the detectors. The computing device is configured to provide control signals for performing one or more reference scans for acquiring reference data from a plurality of angular positions around the subject and for performing one or more tomosynthesis scans using one or more tomosynthesis trajectories for acquiring tomosynthesis data following the onset of the dynamic process. Additionally, the computing device is configured to reconstruct one or more images representative of the dynamic process using the reference data and/or the tomosynthesis data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2013
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Bernhard Erich Hermann CLAUS, Jeffrey Wayne EBERHARD, David Allen LANGAN, Kedar Bhalchandra KHARE
  • Publication number: 20140146939
    Abstract: An X-ray detector, a collimator, a CT apparatus and a method thereof are provided. The X-ray detector comprises a plurality of detector modules which are arranged in an array along a slice direction and a signal channel direction being orthogonal to each other, the array at least comprising a left detection area, a central detection area and a right detection area that are contiguous in the signal channel direction, wherein, in the slice direction, coverage of the left detection area and coverage of the right detection area are complementary and sum of these two coverages is equal to coverage of the central detection area. The collimator comprises a pair of moving shield plates and a fixing shield plate, wherein shape of a window in the fixing shield plate is the same as shape of the array. The CT apparatus comprises the X-ray detector and the collimator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2013
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicant: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLC.
    Inventors: Xiaoyan Zhang, Xue li Wang, Jun Guo, Xuyong Yang, Qinglei Li
  • Publication number: 20140146938
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicant: GE MEDICAL SYSTEMS GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY COMPANY, LLC
    Inventor: GE MEDICAL SYSTEMS GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY COMPANY, LLC
  • Patent number: 8735832
    Abstract: An imaging detector includes a scintillator array (202), a photosensor array (204) optically coupled to the scintillator array (202), a current-to-frequency (I/F) converter (314), and logic (312). The I/F converter (314) includes an integrator (302) and a comparator (310), and converts, during a current integration period, charge output by the photosensor array (204) into a digital signal having a frequency indicative of the charge. The logic (312) sets a gain of the integrator (302) for a next integration period based on the digital signal for the current integration period. In one instance, the gain is increased for the next integration period, relative to the gain for the current integration period, which allows for reducing an amount of bias current injected at an input of the I/F converter (314) to generate a measurable signal in the absence of radiation, which may reduce noise such as shot noise, flicker noise, and/or other noise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventors: Marc A. Chappo, Randall P. Luhta
  • Publication number: 20140140472
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, the x-ray apparatus comprises an x-ray source adapted to emit an x-ray beam, a detector adapted to receive the x-ray beam of the x-ray source, wherein the x-ray source is adapted to be moved in relation to a first portion of the x-ray apparatus, wherein the detector is adapted to be moved in relation to a first portion of the x-ray apparatus, the x-ray apparatus further comprising a control unit for controlling the movement of the x-ray source and detector, wherein the x-ray x-ray beam is directed essentially towards the detector during the movement of the x-ray source and the detector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2012
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Magnus Hemmendorff, Torbjörn Hjärn
  • Publication number: 20140140470
    Abstract: Disclosed are a radiation imaging apparatus, a computed tomography apparatus, and a radiation imaging method using the same. The radiation imaging apparatus includes a radiation emitter configured to emit radiation to an object while moving around the object, a radiation detector configured to detect radiation emitted from the radiation emitter and to change the detected radiation into an electric signal to thereby store the electric signal, and an irradiation controller to control the radiation emitter such that radiation is emitted to the object in at least one position or zone around the object and such that the radiation emitter stops emission of radiation to the object in a position or zone corresponding to the at least one position or zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2013
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Min Kook CHO
  • Publication number: 20140140471
    Abstract: Apparatus for collimating an X-ray beam, the apparatus comprising: a multi-slit rotatable collimator comprising: a semi-tubular structure extending coaxially along a longitudinal axis, the semi-tubular structure being formed out of an X-ray impermeable material; at least one slit formed in the semi-tubular structure, wherein the at least one slit extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the semi-tubular structure; a mount for rotatably supporting the semi-tubular structure in the path of an X-ray beam; and a drive mechanism for selectively rotating the semi-tubular structure about the longitudinal axis of the semi-tubular structure, whereby to selectively (i) position the at least one slit in the path of the X-ray beam so as to tailor the X-ray beam to the width of the at least one slit, and (ii) position a solid portion of the semi-tubular structure in the path of an X-ray beam so as to block an X-ray beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2013
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Inventors: Andrew Tybinkowski, Lidia Nemirovsky, Jack Tybinkowski
  • Publication number: 20140133623
    Abstract: An X-ray tomography device for providing a 3D image of a sample comprising a X-ray source, a cell, a photon detector and a processing unit. The processing unit computes the 3D tomography image on the basis of the acquired images corresponding to a plurality of cell angles. The cell is positioned so as the photon detector senses mainly photons coming from the sample inside the cell, and the photon detector is overexposed to cancel pixels corresponding to photons not coming from the sample.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2012
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicants: UNIVERSITE DE PAU ET DES PAYS DE L'ADOUR, TOTAL SA
    Inventors: Patrice Creux, Gérald Hamon
  • Patent number: 8723925
    Abstract: A three-dimensional/four-dimensional (3D/4D) imaging apparatus and a region of interest (ROI) adjustment method and device are provided. An ROI is adjusted through an E image in a 3D/4D imaging mode, in which the E image is refreshed in real time when the ROI is adjusted and has a scan line range larger than that of the ROI.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Bin Yao
  • Publication number: 20140126686
    Abstract: An X-ray photography apparatus including: a turning arm that supports an X-ray generator and an X-ray detector while the X-ray generator and the X-ray detector are opposed to each other so that a head of a patient can be interposed therebetween; and a moving mechanism that turns the turning arm about a turning axis with respect to the head and moves the turning arm in a direction perpendicular to the turning axis with respect to the head. The X-ray photography apparatus further includes: an image processor that generates an X-ray image based on an electric signal output from the X-ray detector; and a photographic region designation receiving part that designates part of a row of teeth along a dental arch as a pseudo intraoral radiography region. The image processor generates plural tomographic images by applying convolution and filtered back projection to X-ray image data obtained by pseudo intraoral radiography.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2013
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Applicant: J. Morita Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Tomoyuki Sadakane, Hideki Yoshikawa
  • Publication number: 20140126688
    Abstract: For improved sampling, an x-ray detector system for a computed tomography scanner is provided. In an embodiment, the x-ray detector system includes at least one detector row which includes a plurality of detector modules each having a plurality of detector elements. Along the at least one detector row, a first portion of the detector elements is arranged in a grid at a first grid spacing in relation to its respective neighboring detector elements, and a second portion of the detector elements is arranged in a grid at a second grid spacing in relation to its respective neighboring detector elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2013
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Applicant: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Thomas FLOHR, Michael GRASRUCK, Karl STIERSTORFER
  • Publication number: 20140126689
    Abstract: An X-ray CT apparatus for obtaining an internal image of a test subject by using X-rays. The X-ray CT apparatus has: an X-ray generator; an X-ray detector; a first casing for enclosing the X-ray generator and the X-ray detector; a test-subject table; a first table transporting mechanism for transporting the test-subject table between a first table position and a second table position, the first table position being a position where the main portion of the test-subject table receives X-rays from the X-ray generator, and the second table position being a position where the main portion of the test-subject table is on the outside of the first casing; and a second table transporting mechanism capable of vertically transporting the test-subject table. The first table transporting mechanism and the second table transporting mechanism operate in association with each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2013
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Applicant: Rigaku Corporation
    Inventors: Yukihiro HARA, Kiyoshi AKIYAMA
  • Patent number: 8718226
    Abstract: A tiled detector assembly (1000) and a method for making a tiled radiation detector (1000) is described. The innovative feature of this method is that the xyz misalignment of the detector tiles (304, 304?), the origin of various image artifacts, can be significantly reduced by accurate sizing and alignment of the detector tiles (304, 304?). Consequently, image quality, yield and reliability of as-produced tiled radiation detectors are considerably improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Trixell
    Inventors: Jorrit Jorritsma, Tiemen Poorter, Gerardus Franciscus Cornelis Maria Lijten, Johannes H. M. Van Roosmalen, Martinus Maria Sens, Timon Rutger Grob, Michael Johan Ferdinand Marie Ter Laak
  • Patent number: 8718227
    Abstract: A CT scanner comprising: a rotor rotatable about an axis of rotation: an X-ray source mounted to the rotor having a focal spot from which an X-ray beam emanates; an X-ray detector array comprising a plurality of X-ray detectors for detecting X-rays in the X-ray beam; wherein the detector array has at least one high resolution region in which detectors have a high packing density and at least one low resolution region in which detectors have a low packing density and are separated by X-ray insensitive regions substantially larger than insensitive regions resulting from septa between detectors that function to reduce detector cross talk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Arineta Ltd.
    Inventor: Ehud Dafni
  • Publication number: 20140119501
    Abstract: An imaging method positions a heterogeneous object within a fixture having a chamber. The fixture also has a valve for receiving a gas and normally sealing the chamber. Thus, the object is within the chamber. Next the method positions the fixture within an active region of a CT machine, fluidly connects a gas line to the valve, and injects an inert gas into the chamber through the gas line and the valve. The inert gas may include one or more of the xenon, argon, and krypton. The method then increases the pressure within the sealed chamber to increase the density of the gas within the chamber, and directs x-ray energy toward the active region of the CT machine to produce a plurality of two-dimensional images of the object and the pressurized gas. Finally, the method generates a three-dimensional representation of the object from the plurality of images.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: HEXAGON METROLOGY, INC.
    Inventors: Jonathan O'Hare, Stephen Darrouzet
  • Publication number: 20140119502
    Abstract: A method for operating an X-ray computed tomography (CT) apparatus includes obtaining a first projection data set by scanning an area of interest with X-rays at a first time; obtaining a second projection data set by scanning the area of interest with X-rays at a second time; obtaining at least one item of difference data which includes a difference between a first item of projection data from among the first projection data set and a corresponding item of projection data from among the second projection data set; and determining a rescanning of the area of interest by using X-rays based on information relating to the difference data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Young-seok KANG
  • Publication number: 20140119503
    Abstract: A gantry of X-ray CT system according to an embodiment includes: a main frame; a disk-shaped base plate rotatably supported by main frame, and having an opening formed at a central portion thereof, the opening allowing a subject to enter and exit therethrough, and multiple mounting holes formed at portions outside the opening in a radial direction; and multiple rotator units inserted into the mounting holes and fixed to the base plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicants: TOSHIBA MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORPORATION, KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA
    Inventor: Yohei MATSUZAWA
  • Patent number: 8712135
    Abstract: A method for image reconstruction using projection data obtained by an asymmetric detector includes dividing the projection data into Regions 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. Region 1 is an asymmetric region having detecting channels but no detecting channels symmetrical about a central channel. Region 2 is a transition region having detecting channels and there are detecting channels symmetrical about the central channel. Region 3 is a symmetric region having detecting channels and there are detecting channels symmetrical about the central channel. Region 4 is a transition region having detecting channels and there are detecting channels symmetrical about the central channel. Region 5 is a truncated region where there is no detecting channel. The method includes performing a view angle weighting on projection data in each of the five regions, and reconstructing a tomographic image of an irradiated subject from the weighted projection data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLC
    Inventors: Zhihui Sun, Jiaqin Dong, Shuqin Dong
  • Publication number: 20140112432
    Abstract: The invention relates to an X-ray camera (100) for the high-resolution detection of X-rays (1), comprising a plurality of radiation detectors (10), each of which has a carrier substrate (11), a detector layer (12), and contact electrodes (13). The detector layer (12) contains GaN, lies on the carrier substrate (11), and has a thickness of less than 50 ?m. The contact electrodes (13) form ohmic contacts with the detector layer (12). The X-ray camera also comprises a retaining device (20) on which the radiation detectors (10) are arranged along a specified reference line or reference surface (21). The invention also relates to a method for capturing an image of an object (2, 3) being examined using X-rays (1), said X-ray camera (100) being used in the method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2012
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: Helmholtz Zentrum Muenchen Deutsches Forschungszentrum fuer Gesundheit und Umwevt(GmbH)
    Inventors: Stefan Thalhammer, Markus Hofstetter, John Howgate, Martin Stutzmann
  • Publication number: 20140105354
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicants: Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation, Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Daniel GAGNON, Yu Zou, Xiaolan Wang
  • Publication number: 20140105353
    Abstract: An X-ray tomography device for providing a 3D image of a sample comprising an X-ray source, a cell, a photon detector and a processing unit. The processing unit computes the 3D image on the basis of the images corresponding to a plurality of cell angles. The device further comprises a first and a second gratings having a grating period lower than 200 nm, and a microscope between the second grating and the detector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicants: UNIVERSITE DE PAU ET DES PAYS DE L'ADOUR, TOTAL SA
    Inventors: Franz Pfeiffer, Patrice Creux, Gérald Hamon
  • Patent number: 8699659
    Abstract: Systems and methods for focal spot motion correction are provided. One system includes a radiation source configured to project radiation from a first focal spot onto an object and a plurality of radiation detectors disposed around at least a portion of the object. The plurality of radiation detectors measure received radiation along a path projected from the first focal spot to the plurality of detectors. The imaging system further includes an imaging region from which the detectors provide image information for image reconstruction and a plurality of collimators positioned between the object and the plurality of radiation detectors. At least one collimator at a first end of the plurality of collimators and at least one collimator at second end of the plurality of collimators are aligned to a second focal spot different than the first focal spot and having a different location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Abdelaziz Ikhlef
  • Patent number: 8699660
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Ashutosh Joshi, Joseph James Lacey, Medy Satria
  • Publication number: 20140098932
    Abstract: A CT user interface includes first and second displays that selectively display distinct display zones thereon. The first display includes a zone enabling the operator to create a record for each of a plurality of patients and an exam set-up and a protocol selection zone enabling the operator to select a scan protocol for performing a CT scan on a selected patient. A task list zone on the first display displays all steps and sub-steps of a CT scan for a selected patient based on the selected scan protocol, and a settings zone and a scanning zone on the first display displays and enables operator selection of a plurality of scan parameters related to the selected scan protocol. Any general user interface elements not needed for the selected scan protocol are not displayed on the first and second displays, so as to simplify the user interface for the operator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Mark Vincent Profio, Holly Ann McDaniel, Cheryl Ruth Jones, Tabb Alan Patz, Megan Elizabeth Wimmer, Amanda Jean Fox, Jon V. Wettersten, Simon J. King, Stina Maria Jonsson
  • Publication number: 20140098933
    Abstract: A CT user interface includes first and second displays that enable an operator to perform set-up and scanning tasks associated with performing CT scans and enable the operator to perform image post-processing tasks associated with the CT scans. A plurality of distinct display zones are selectively displayed on the first and second displays, with the first display displaying a zone enabling the operator to create a record for each of a plurality of patients, a task list zone displaying all steps and sub-steps of a CT scan to be performed for a selected patient based on a selected scan protocol, a settings zone and a scanning zone displaying and enabling operator selection of scan parameters related to the selected scan protocol for the selected patient, and a dose area zone displaying a relationship between the selected scan parameters and a radiation dosage experienced by the patient based thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Mark Vincent Profio, Holly Ann McDaniel, Cheryl Ruth Jones, Tabb Alan Patz, Megan Elizabeth Wimmer, Amanda Jean Fox, Jon V. Wettersten, Simon J. King, Stina Maria Jonsson
  • Publication number: 20140098931
    Abstract: A user interface for a CT imaging system is disclosed. The user interface includes a first display configured to enable an operator to perform set-up and scanning tasks associated with performing a CT exam on one or more patients, with the set-up and scanning tasks including acquiring and verifying scan image data. The user interface also includes a second display configured to enable the operator to perform image post-processing tasks associated with the CT exams on the one or more patients, with the image post-processing tasks including performing image reconstructions and reformats. Each of the first display and the second display are operable independent from one another to provide for parallel workflows between the first display and second display and between the patient set-up and scanning tasks and the post-processing tasks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Mark Vincent Profio, Holly Ann McDaniel, Cheryl Ruth Jones, Tabb Alan Patz, Megan Elizabeth Wimmer, Amanda Jean Fox, Jon V. Wettersten, Simon J. King, Stina Maria Jonsson
  • Patent number: 8693622
    Abstract: Three-dimensional image information is generated of a body part that is larger than the visual field of an X-ray machine. An X-ray source and an X-ray detector are disposed at a first position such that the X-ray source and the X-ray detector can record a first projection image of at least a first section of a body part. Then the first projection image is recorded. The X-ray source and the X-ray detector are next disposed at a second position such that the X-ray source and the X-ray detector can record a second projection image of at least a second section of the body part. The second section partially overlaps the first section. The first and second projection images are merged to form a projected image. A three-dimensional volume of the body part is reconstructed from the plurality of projection images.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Rainer Graumann, Anna Jerebko
  • Publication number: 20140086385
    Abstract: An X-ray tomography device for providing a 3D tomography image of a sample comprising a X-ray source, a cell, a photon detector and a processing unit. The X-ray source is monochromatic and has a photon beam solid angle higher than 0.1 degree. The processing unit computes the 3D tomography image on the basis of acquired images corresponding to a plurality of cell angles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicants: UNIVERSITE DE PAU ET DES PAYS DE L'ADOUR, TOTAL SA
    Inventors: Patrice Creux, Gérald Hamon
  • Publication number: 20140079180
    Abstract: An object of this invention is to provide a tomography method and a tomography system capable of tomographic imaging targeted uniquely to the test object among subjects under test. The method involves performing a process of generating projection data about the region of interest by selecting one reference projection data set from a plurality of projection data generated in a tomography process using a plurality of X-ray energy levels and by subtracting from the reference projection data set the product of an attenuation coefficient and the transmission length of the material configuring any region other than the region of interest detected by detector elements of detectors, and performing an image reconstruction computing process to generate a tomographic or stereoscopic image of the region of interest through image reconstruction based on the projection data about the region of interest generated in the projection data generating process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: HITACHI, LTD.
    Inventors: Yasushi NAGUMO, Noriyuki SADAOKA
  • Patent number: 8675813
    Abstract: The solid-state imaging device comprises a photodetecting section 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 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 photodetecting section includes plural dummy photodiodes PD1 arranged around one pixel portion without not completely surrounding the one pixel portion, and each dummy photodiode PD1 is provided in a region surrounded by any two pixel portions adjacent to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Hamamatsu Photonics K.K.
    Inventors: Kazuki Fujita, Harumichi Mori, Ryuji Kyushima, Masahiko Honda
  • Publication number: 20140072099
    Abstract: A technique is provided that makes it possible to easily recognize the pre-defined image on the image obtained in the present. An X-ray CT apparatus creates first volume data and second volume data based on the results of scanning a subject with X-rays at different timings. The X-ray CT apparatus comprises: a setter, a storage and a display controller. The setter is configured to set a specified setup image in regard to an image based on the first volume data. The storage is configured to store the setup image and a setup position thereof. The display controller is configured to cause a display to display an image based on the second volume data, as well as causing the setup image to be displayed in the position corresponding to the setup position in the image based on the second volume data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicants: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Go Mukumoto, Manabu Hiraoka
  • Publication number: 20140072098
    Abstract: An x-ray system, such as a computed tomography system, has an x-ray source, a projection detector arrangement associated with the x-ray source for the acquisition of projection data of an examination subject, and a monitor detector that measures current dose measurement data of the x-ray radiation. The monitor detector is designed and arranged to detect a portion of the x-ray radiation that does not travel through the examination subject. The monitor detector is formed as an energy-resolving detector. Furthermore, a method for the acquisition of projection data of an examination subject a method to generate image data make use of such an x-ray system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Inventor: Steffen Kappler
  • Publication number: 20140072097
    Abstract: An X-ray CT system is provided to achieve simplification and time-saving in the work of setting the subject in scanning position. An X-ray CT system as an embodiment comprises a patient table, a gantry apparatus, a formation unit, a drive unit, a storage unit, and a drive controller. The patient table has a top plate, on which the subject is placed. The gantry apparatus executes scanning on the subject by rotating a detector unit, which includes an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector set facing each other. The formation unit forms image data of the subject based on the data acquired by the scanning. The drive unit changes the relative position between the top plate and the detector unit. The storage unit stores relative position information that indicates the relative position applied for the scanning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicants: Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation, Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Go Mukumoto
  • Publication number: 20140064443
    Abstract: A radiation detecting apparatus is provided. The radiation detecting apparatus includes a pair of rails extending in a channel direction, a plurality of collimator modules provided in the pair of rails and arranged in the channel direction, each collimator module having a plurality of collimator plates arranged in the channel direction, and a plurality of detector modules provided on a radiation outgoing side of the collimator modules and arranged in the channel direction, wherein each of the collimator modules has a pair of alignment pins extending along an irradiation direction, wherein the rails include a surface of placement for each collimator module, the surface of placement formed with one of concave holes and grooves in which first ends of the alignment pins are fitted, and wherein each of the detector modules has one of concave holes and through holes in which second ends of the alignment pins are fitted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: GE MEDICAL SYSTEMS GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY COMPANY, LLC
    Inventor: Mai Kato
  • Publication number: 20140064442
    Abstract: This invention relates to a novel device for marking location of organs on skin as per CAT scan comprising of a sheet having a plurality of vertical, horizontal and oblique lines wherein the sheet is provided in the form of a mesh. The device of the proposed application can be used for radiotherapy of head to localize point of radiotherapy, for other parts of body to localize/mark organs on skin after CAT scan and also for surgery of Brain to localize tumors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventor: Ghansham Das Agarwal
  • Publication number: 20140056402
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Daisuke Kikuchi, Hiromi Yoshinari, Hisakazu Shiraki