Abstract: The present application relates to an x-ray marker device comprising an arrangement of x-ray markers, wherein the arrangement defines straight lines which are referred to as device straight lines, wherein at least some of the device straight lines, which are referred to as pyramid straight lines, comprise portions which define edges of at least one pyramid.

Abstract: A radiographic image capturing device includes a subject table including a pressed surface against which a breast of a subject is pressed; and a compression paddle support portion including a first member and a second member, and to which a compression paddle is attached by sandwiching the compression paddle between the first member and the second member, and including multiple pressure sensors for detecting pressures applied to multiple sites of the attached compression paddle. At least one of the subject table or the compression paddle support portion is movable in a first direction that is toward and away from one another.

Abstract: The present invention related to an interstitial marker for localizing an organ, tumor or tumor bed within a mammalian body wherein said marker has a proximal end, a distal end, and a continuous intervening length, at least a portion of the intervening length of said marker being visible under at least one imaging modality and having a flexibility such that said marker follows movements and changes of shape of said organ, tumor or tumor bed.

Abstract: A method of initiating a scan in a medical imaging device includes detecting a patient-ready signal from a magnetically and radiographically inert communication device and automatically initiating the scan upon detecting the patient-ready signal.

Abstract: A radiation detector attaching and detaching device, for a radiation detecting apparatus having a plurality of radiation detectors for detecting radiation and a radiation detector stand for respectively maintaining the radiation detectors in trenches arranged with a predetermined interval. The radiation detector attaching and detaching device has a pair of rotational jigs abutting against projections provided at both sides of each of the radiation detectors maintained in the radiation detector stand; and a pair of rotational members configured to be freely rotatable, the rotational members comprising the rotational jigs.

Abstract: In a medical X-ray CT apparatus, a rotary portion is rotated, and a wind is produced inside the apparatus by the rotation of the rotary portion. An expanded cover portion is forced to vibrate by the wind, and noise is produced. The expanded cover portion is provided with at least one curved member including both ends. The curved member is arranged to extend along a virtual projection line obtained by geometrically projecting a virtual straight line connecting, to each other, the two ends fixed to an outer peripheral edge of an opening of the expanded cover portion onto a surface of the expanded cover portion, and the vibration of the expanded cover portion is reduced.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for guiding the placement of an object to a desired location based on an image generated by an image intensifier where the apparatus includes a first coupling mechanism that is configured to be releasably attachable to one of the transmitter and receiver of the image intensifier and a second coupling mechanism that is coupled to the first coupling mechanism and includes an object holding mechanism, the object holding mechanism is configured to releasably hold the object and where at least a portion of the second coupling mechanism is visible in the image generated by the image intensifier when the apparatus is attached to the image intensifier.

Abstract: An x-ray system is provided. The x-ray system includes an x-ray emitter which can be adjusted by at least one arm as a first x-ray component and a recording system which can be adjusted independently of the at least one arm. The recording system may be adjusted by at least one additional arm as the further x-ray component. The two arms can be pivotably mounted about a common axis of rotation.

Abstract: A dental product for the evaluation, according to scale, of X-ray recordings of areas which are to be diagnosed, in particular areas of the tooth and/or jawbone, within the oral cavity of a patient, has a main body 10?, the shape of which is such that it is able to be received by the patient and is able to be fixed in the immediate vicinity of the area which is to be diagnosed by X-raying. The main body 10? consists of a material which is penetrable by X-ray beams, wherein in the interior of the main body at least one reference object 12? is held, which consists of material which absorbs X-ray beams. For the diagnosis, the dental product is placed into the patient's mouth and is fixed in that the patient bits onto the dental product.

Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus for illuminating a mobile imaging system by use of a light source operable to emit light for status indication, pathway illumination, and/or creation of favorable lighting environment. A triggering signal originating from a photosensor arranged to receive light at the mobile imaging system, a signal indicative of movement of the mobile imaging system, or user or system command is used to adjust the lighting source. The light source can be a light emitting diode (LED), collimator lamp, halogen lamp, fluorescent lamp, organic display, or any other light-emitting technology. The light source is adjustable as to color and intensity and can indicate the mobile imaging system's condition, status, or event.

Abstract: Embodiment of the invention describes a system and a method for positioning an object from a first pose to a second pose. The method displays concurrently a first image and a second image on a display device, wherein the first image and the second image represent respectively the first pose and the second pose of the object. The method updates, in response to a change in a pose of the display device, the second image such that an alignment of the first image and the second image on the display device depends on the change in the pose of the display device, and positions the object from the first pose to the second pose based on the change in the pose of the display device.

Abstract: The invention relates to a computed tomography method. The airgap associated with a projection direction is determined by determining, in the projection images, edge pixels which map object edges on a detector. By back-projecting the edge pixels in an object image space it is possible to determine an envelope polygon for an outline contour of the examination object. The width of the airgap associated with a specific projection direction can then be determined on the basis of the envelope polygon. Exact knowledge of the current airgap serves to improve the scattered radiation correction.

Abstract: A low-density sensor panel assembly system is provided for use with remote marker assemblies that generates a marker signal and for use with a radiation therapy source that generates a radiation beam during radiation therapy. The system includes a sensor array having a layer of sensor coils arranged in a selected pattern and configured to receive the marker signal from the remote marker. A support panel is connected to the sensor array and retains each of the sensor coils in a substantially fixed and unmoving position relative to the other sensor coils. The sensor panel and sensor array define a low-density panel structure configured to dwell in the radiation beam during the radiation therapy.

Abstract: A computed tomography apparatus has a gantry for mounting components of an acquisition system that are arranged such that they can rotate around a system axis, and a stationary part in which the gantry is supported such that it can tilt. A device for cooling the components by airflow is arranged on the gantry. The cooling device has at least one feed channel and at least one air discharge channel that are arranged between the stationary part and the gantry so that the air current introduced into the gantry via the stationary part is conducted out from the gantry into the stationary part in a directed manner after cooling the components. The direction of the air current directed from the computed tomography apparatus thus does not depend on the tilt of the gantry. Moreover, the computed tomography apparatus is designed such that cooling is achieved with low noise emission since the direct sound propagation path between the exit opening and the gantry is interrupted.

Abstract: A cassette accommodating device accommodates casings of a plurality of sizes. Each casing is detachably inserted with a cassette installed with a rechargeable battery and a radiation detection unit that is supplied with power from the rechargeable battery and generates a radiographic image according to an amount of received radiation. Each casing is provided on at least one of two connected side faces with a power receiving unit that receives power for charging the rechargeable battery. The device comprises a groove portion, formed with a sloping face that faces one of the two side faces of an accommodated casing, and a bottom face that faces the other of the two side faces of the accommodated casing. The bottom face is inclined such that the casing moves toward the sloping face when the casing is accommodated. A power supply unit is formed to the sloping face and/or the bottom face so as to supply power to the power receiving unit when the casing has been accommodated.

Abstract: The invention can be summarized as follows: A collision protection device for a patient examination table of a medical X-ray device is provided for the purpose of assuring simple and reliable avoidance of collisions between very fast moving device parts of a medical X-ray device and a patient, which collision protection device has a protective element made of an X-ray transparent material, wherein the collision protection device can be arranged relative to the patient examination table and brought into a position such that in said position the protective element mechanically shields at least a part of the lying surface of the patient examination table.

Abstract: An x-ray target pedestal assembly and a method of protecting the x-ray target from breaking down as a result of the extreme heat that is produced when an electron beam is aimed at the target to produce x-rays. The target is submerged in cooling fluid and is rotated by a constant flow of the cooling fluid over and around the target in order to dissipate heat. The fluid is guided by integrated flow diverters in the target cover. The target may also be protectively coated either in its entirety or along the electron beam path in order to further protect it from the heat of the electron beam impact or from breakdown as a result of attack of free radicals or other chemically reactive components of the cooling fluid which are produced in the extreme target environment.

Abstract: A digital detector of a digital imaging system is provided. In one embodiment, a digital detector includes a detector array disposed in a housing and configured to generate image data based on received radiation. The digital detector may also include a battery configured to be disposed within a receptacle of the housing and to supply operating power to the detector array. In one embodiment, the battery or the detector may provide for wireless data communication. In certain embodiments, a tethered plug configured to be disposed within the receptacle may be provided. In one such embodiment, the tether may be rotatable relative to the plug. Additional systems, methods, and devices are also disclosed.

Abstract: A bite device for the correct positioning of a patient when a panoramic X-ray is taken, comprising a holder part which can be placed in a fixed direction in relation to the X-ray device, a plate which can pivot against the holder and which is provided with a bite part into which a patient bites, and means for detecting the pivoting angle A between the plate and the holder part.

Abstract: A cassette accommodating device accommodates cassettes with various sizes. Each cassette houses a rechargeable battery and a radiation detection unit that generates a radiographic image according to an amount of received radiation and each cassette is provided with a power receiving unit for recharging the rechargeable battery on at least one of two connected side faces of each cassette. The device includes a groove portion formed with a sloping face that faces one of the two connected side faces of an accommodated cassette and a bottom face that faces another of the two connected side faces of the accommodated cassette. The bottom face is inclined such that the cassette moves toward the sloping face when the cassette is loaded. A power supply unit is formed to the sloping face and/or the bottom face so as to supply power to the power receiving unit when the cassette has been accommodated.

Abstract: An x-ray target pedestal assembly and a method of protecting the x-ray target from breaking down as a result of the extreme heat that is produced when an electron beam is aimed at the target to produce x-rays. The target is submerged in cooling fluid and is rotated by a constant flow of the cooling fluid over and around the target in order to dissipate heat. The fluid is guided by integrated flow diverters in the target cover. The target may also be protectively coated either in its entirety or along the electron beam path in order to further protect it from the heat of the electron beam impact or from breakdown as a result of attack of free radicals or other chemically reactive components of the cooling fluid which are produced in the extreme target environment.

Abstract: An apparatus for prompting a patient includes a structure configured to be mounted to a patient support, a screen coupled to the structure, and a projector located at a distance away from the screen. A method of prompting a patient that is being supported on a patient support includes adjusting a position of a screen relative to a projector, the screen having a surface, placing the screen in front of the patient such that the patient can see the surface, and providing an image on the screen using the projector.

Abstract: An adjustable phantom (36) includes a base (202), an actuator (204) and a phantom (210). The phantom includes first (210a) and second portions (210b), each having a different value of a physical characteristic measured by a scanner (10). The phantom (210) is movable with respect to the base (202). In one embodiment, the phantom is well suited to simulating the arrival of contrast agent in a contrast enhanced imaging examination.

Abstract: A detector holder for a flat panel x-ray detector has a mechanical plug interface that allows flat panel x-ray detectors of respectively different types to be connected to and held by the detector holder. An x-ray system equipped with such a detector holder can be used flexibly for different applications respectively requiring different types of flat panel x-ray detectors. The type of the flat panel x-ray detector currently retained by the detector holder can be automatically detected and used by the data processor that processed output signals from the currently-employed flat panel x-ray detector.

Abstract: An X-ray detector system includes a detector and a mounting means for mounting the detector, the detector comprising a cable comprising a first end and a second end, the first end connected to the detector and said second end coupled to the mounting means, the cable configured to transmit a signal detected by the detector to the imaging processing means located in the mounting means, the first end of the cable comprises a plug, the mounting means comprises a socket matching with the plug on the cable such that the plug is configured to be removed from the socket, the X-ray detector system further comprising a jumper wire comprising two ends that are respectively provided with plugs that configured to be selectively matched with or detached from the plug on the cable and the socket on the mounting means.

Abstract: A sample cell for an analysis instrument, having an outer body forming a sample reservoir therein; a directional fill valve disposed in an upper end of the outer body and forming an upper end of the sample reservoir, the fill valve for accepting a sample during filling, and preventing sample leakage while providing venting after filling; and a film covering a lower end of the outer body, and forming a bottom end of the sample reservoir, the film for presenting the sample to an analysis focal spot of the analysis instrument. The disclosed sample cell is especially suited for an x-ray analysis engine having a focal spot requiring alignment with the sample in the sample cell. At least one x-ray optic may be disposed in an excitation and/or detection path, requiring alignment to the focal spot, in e.g., a WDXRF or EDXRF system.

Abstract: A radiation image capturing apparatus that includes a radiation conversion panel comprises an input device for inputting a first distance from the position of the panel to a position serving as a reference position for a subject, a distance measuring unit for measuring a second distance from the radiation source to the panel, a first radiation field calculating unit for determining a radiation field at the position of the panel based on setting information of the radiation source and the second distance, a second radiation field calculating unit for determining a hypothetical radiation field at the reference position of the subject based on the setting information of the radiation source, the first distance, and the second distance, and a life-size correcting unit for correcting the radiation image information from the panel based on the information of the calculated radiation field and the information of the calculated hypothetical radiation field.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for reducing damage to a phosphor imaging plate caused by physical interaction between the phosphor imaging plate and a surface by affixing a protective material to the surface to reduce the physical interaction between the phosphor imaging plate and the surface. Exemplary surfaces include without limitation the surfaces of a computed radiography scanner and a plate protector.

Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a system for an electromagnetic shield assembly for use with C-arms. In an embodiment, the system may include a ring shield configured to encompass an x-ray detector. The ring shield may have a first window opening to receive x-rays. The system may also include a window shield configured to shield the first window opening of the ring shield. Certain embodiments of the present invention may provide a system for a universal navigation target. In an embodiment, the system may include a radiolucent calibration target and an electromagnetic shield. The electromagnetic shield may include a ring shield having a first window opening to receive x-rays and a window shield configured to shield the first window opening of the ring shield.

Abstract: A method of increasing consistency between separate parametric measurement readings that are taken with an electron beam imaging tool at different times within a period of time, by correcting drift in the imaging tool at a time frequency that is less than a time period during which the drift is anticipated to be undesirably large.

Abstract: An X-ray examination apparatus (100) is described, comprising a mobile carriage (10) carrying a human-operable control input device (21) and a display device (22), the carriage (10) having a front side (11) and a back side (12); wherein said human-operable control input device is located closer to the front side (11) of the carriage while said display device is located closer to the back side (12) of the carriage; wherein the carriage has a control position where the said display device has its image screen (23) directed substantially towards the front side (11) of the carriage, and a surgeon position where the said display device has its image screen (23) directed substantially towards the back side (12) of the carriage; and wherein said display device is mounted to the mobile carriage such as to be displaceable between the control position and the surgeon position.

Abstract: A apparatus particularly well suited for use in medical imaging includes radiation sensitive detectors (40, 50) which detect gamma radiation indicative of radionuclide decays in an examination region (30). The detectors (40, 50) are supported by generally c-shaped support (70) for rotation about a detector rotation axis (35). The support (70) is farther attached to a pivot joint (77) which allows adjustment of the detector rotation axis (35). The support (70) may also be translated in two degrees of freedom to so that the detectors (40, 50) orbit the examination region (20) in a non-circular orbit.

Abstract: A padded X-ray film cassette cover is disclosed for use during an X-ray procedure. The padded cassette cover has a base member and a padded pocket member forming a cassette cavity there between. An X-ray film cassette is inserted within the cassette cavity prior to positioning the film cassette with respect to a patient. The padded cassette cover has a top handle and a side handle formed therewith to facilitate positioning of the cover and cassette assembly. The padded cassette cover is preferably fabricated from materials that facilitate cleaning and sanitization to prevent the transfer of germs, bacteria and infectious materials.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for guiding the placement of an object to a desired location based on an image generated by an image intensifier where the apparatus includes a first coupling mechanism that is configured to be releaseably attachable to one of the transmitter and receiver of the image intensifier and a second coupling mechanism that is coupled to the first coupling mechanism and includes an object holding mechanism, the object holding mechanism is configured to releaseably hold the object and where at least a portion of the second coupling mechanism is visible in the image generated by the image intensifier when the apparatus is attached to the image intensifier.

Abstract: In order to prevent a storage film from being damaged when taking an X-ray image, when reading the latent X-ray image and when handling the storage film, the invention proposes providing spaced-apart guide parts on the rear face of the storage film, these guide parts not having an adverse effect on the ability of the film to bend. The said guide parts interact with guide rails which are provide in a cassette which accommodates the storage film or on a film-clamping slide of a reader.

Abstract: A multidimensional alignment apparatus is provided for multidimensional aligning of two linear multilayer Laue lenses (MLLs) for two-dimensional hard X-ray focusing. The multidimensional alignment apparatus precisely aligns and ensures stability of two linear MLLs performing hard x-ray focusing. The multidimensional alignment apparatus includes a base, a lower stages group controlling a first upstream MLL, an upper stages group positioned over the lower stages group controlling a second downstream MLL and an upper stage support attached to the base. The lower stages group provides five degrees of freedom precision positioning adjustment for the first upstream MLL. The second downstream MLL is mounted on the upper stages group with three degrees of freedom adjustment capability.

Abstract: A radiation attenuation system for use with Computed Tomography procedures and a Computed Tomography having a radiation attenuation system are disclosed. The radiation disclosed attenuation system includes a shield made of a flexible radiation attenuation material and an interface supporting the shield at the Computed Tomography machine. The interface allows the shield to be selectively added to and removed from the Computed Tomography machine. The disclosed Computed Tomography machine includes a gantry defining an opening through which a patient table is at least partially inserted during a Computed Tomography procedure and a housing enclosing the gantry without substantially covering the opening and remaining fixed relative thereto. The housing is at least partially defined by a front panel that is formed of a substrate and a radiation attenuation material. The radiation attenuation material is in the form of a flexible sheet and is fixed relative to the substrate.

Abstract: A device is shown for measuring the angle of inclination of a radiographic imaging cassette. The device has a digital inclinometer, such as a MEMS accelerometer, configured to measure the angle of inclination of the cassette with respect to gravity. The device may be portable, including a display coupled to the inclinometer for indicating the angle of inclination of the cassette. The display may be a digital readout, or an analog meter having radio-opaque gradations such that the angle of inclination is recorded on an image processed from the imaging cassette. Alternatively, the digital inclinometer may be integrated into the imaging cassette, and be configured such that readings from the digital inclinometer may be uploaded to a digitizer via an RF transmitter or other transmission means.

Abstract: A method and system of aligning an x-ray detector and x-ray tube for data acquisition are presented. The x-ray detector and x-ray tube are equipped with transmitters and receivers designed to provide feedback relating to the orientation, spacing, and general position thereof. In this regard, a user can effectively and efficiently position the x-ray tube and x-ray detector relative to one another for data acquisition.

Abstract: Provided are an X-ray analysis apparatus and an X-ray analysis method, in which a measurer can judge an area incapable of being analyzed in a sample with a concave-convex portion.

Abstract: A dimensional reference system for tomography, including X-ray computed tomography and MRI tomography. The system includes a dimensional reference apparatus that comprises plurality of spheres composed of a material having an X-ray absorption property between approximately +500 Hounsfield units and +1200 Hounsfield units. The spheres are spaced apart at a known distance by support structure/spacer unit that has an X-ray absorption property between approximately ?100 Hounsfield units and +400 Hounsfield units. After an image that incorporates the dimensional reference apparatus and a measurement subject has been reconstructed, the dimensional reference apparatus provides for measurement of the resultant image voxels in three dimensions. Because solid structural elements such as plastic or glass spheres may not be visible in an MRI, an MRI implementation of the apparatus may be disposed in a fluid-tight enclosure along with water, a contrast-enhancing agent and ethanol.

Abstract: A target positioner including a radiation source disposed in a source housing, the radiation source adapted to emit a radiation beam, a target holder adapted to be attached to and generally immobilize a target organ, the target holder being rotatingly attached to a bearing assembly, a patient support table for supporting a patient thereon, a rotator for turning the patient support table about a rotation axis, and a source arm fixedly attached at one portion thereof to the source housing and at another portion thereof to the bearing assembly, such that when the target holder is attached to a target organ and the rotator turns the patient support table about the rotation axis, the target holder constrains the target organ from translating with respect to the radiation source and the source housing, and wherein the target holder permits the target organ to rotate by means of the bearing assembly relative to the source housing while experiencing slight translations with respect to the patient support table, so th

Abstract: A radiographic system (100) is provided wherein a single X-ray detector can be handled freely using a cable and which can prevent an operator or a patient from being troubled by the cable. The radiographic system (100) comprises a radiographic panel (5) configured to radiograph in two dimensions a radiation exposed to a subject and output radiation image data, a cable (6) for the supply of electric power to the radiographic panel and transfer of the radiation image data, a conveyance unit (8) for conveying the cable in a predetermined direction, a cable length adjusting unit (7) provided in the conveyance unit to adjust the length of the cable, and a movement control unit (72) configured to move the conveyance unit in accordance with a tilting direction of the cable from the cable length adjusting unit to the radiographic panel.

Abstract: A phantom assembly includes a plurality of cylindrical shaped phantoms connectable to each other and/or a plurality of column-shaped phantoms connectable to each other with fitting portions. An x-ray radiation measuring device for measuring an x-ray radiation from an x-ray CT device is inserted in a through-hole of the phantom.

Abstract: The invention relates to a medical diagnostic apparatus (1) and to a hose (21) suitable for guiding connections in a medical diagnostic apparatus. The medical diagnostic apparatus (1) comprises a frame (5), a rotatable support (3), at least one connection extending between the frame and the rotatable support, and a hose (21) for guiding this connection. The hose (21) is provided with a chain (29) of reinforcement elements (31). The chain (29) extends mainly in the longitudinal direction of the hose (21). In the chain (29) the reinforcement elements (31) are connected to each other. These reinforcement elements (31) can also be rotated with respect to each other about an axis which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the hose (21), while they are substantially rigidly connected in a direction along their rotation axis.

Abstract: A device and method for evaluating the performance of X-ray machines used to produce radiographic images is described. An analyzer including an X-ray dosimeter and an imaging device is sent to the facility having the X-ray machine to be evaluated. The analyzer may be used with a film pack or a digital image detector. The analyzer is exposed in accordance with testing instructions and returned to an evaluation agency. The radiation dose and HVL is determined from the dosimeter, and the image quality is determined from analysis of a radiograph of a target having differing X-ray absorption portions. A data base of results may be used to provide comparative analysis.

Abstract: A bite device for the correct positioning of a patient when a panoramic x-ray is taken, comprising a holder part (42) which can be placed in a fixed direction in relation to the x-ray device, a plate (46) which can pivot against the holder and which is provided with a bite part (50) into which a patient bites, and means (58, 60) for detecting the pivoting angle A between the plate (46) and the holder part (42).

Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus for illuminating a mobile imaging system by use of a light source operable to emit light for status indication, pathway illumination, and/or creation of favorable lighting environment. A triggering signal originating from a photosensor arranged to receive light at the mobile imaging system, a signal indicative of movement of the mobile imaging system, or user or system command is used to adjust the lighting source. The light source can be a light emitting diode (LED), collimator lamp, halogen lamp, fluorescent lamp, organic display, or any other light-emitting technology. The light source is adjustable as to color and intensity and can indicate the mobile imaging system's condition, status, or event.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a collision detecting device for a radiation treatment apparatus, comprising a radiation unit having an internal space, for directing radiation beams towards a radiological focus in the internal space for treatment of a target in a patient's body therein. The collision detecting device comprises a collision detecting unit being electrically conductive at least on its outer surface and having a size slightly smaller than the internal space of the radiation unit, so as to be insertable into the internal space and held in an electrically insulating manner in respect of the radiation unit by spacer elements. The outer electrically conductive surface is connectible to an electrical voltage supply in order to detect if the outer surface of the collision detecting unit abuts against the inside surface of the radiation unit. The invention also relates to a method for performing such collision detection.

Abstract: A radiography apparatus having an x-ray source, an x-ray imaging detector, and a support structure. The support structure is coupled to the x-ray source and to the x-ray detector and rotatable about two orthogonal axes and linearly moveable. The x-ray source and the x-ray imaging detector are each independently rotatable about third and fourth axes, respectively. The apparatus provides an operator with a number of degrees of freedom of motion of the x-ray source and the x-ray imaging detector to move them to different positions relative to a subject.