With Light Projection Patents (Class 378/206)
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Patent number: 5517546Abstract: A method of, and a device for positioning an X-ray cassette (5 or 10) in relation to a source (1) of X-rays that emits radiation in a specific preferred direction (A). Another beam of radiation is emitted parallel to that direction at a specific distance (d) therefrom. The other beam is intercepted by a positioning device (20) secured to the cassette. The device produces a signal as long as the angle of incidence of the other beam does not exceed a specific threshold angle (.theta.) with respect to the normal to the cassette.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 1995Date of Patent: May 14, 1996Assignee: Agfa-Gevaert Aktiengesellschaft, AGInventor: Manfred Schmidt
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Patent number: 5450467Abstract: A laser target selector incorporating a flexible tension coil spring removeably mountable on an X-ray tube's projection portal for illuminating a target spot to allow adjusted aiming of the X-ray beam.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 1994Date of Patent: September 12, 1995Assignee: Lorad CorporationInventors: Anthony J. Pellegrino, Earl C. Mayes, Donald E. Sharpe, George H. Bantz
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Patent number: 5434901Abstract: In a soft X-ray microscope including a soft X-ray source for emitting soft X-rays, a condenser lens for focusing the soft X-rays onto a specimen under inspection, an objective lens for focusing soft X-rays emanating from the specimen, a soft X-ray detector for receiving the soft X-rays focused by the objective lens, and a visually observing optical system for forming a visible image of the specimen by converting an optical property of the specimen other than contrast and color into a contrast in brightness or color. The visually observing optical system may be formed as phase contrast microscope, dark field microscope, polarizing microscope, differential interference microscope, or fluorescent microscope. Then, alignment and focus adjustment can be performed by observing the visible image of the specimen without irradiating the specimen with the soft X-rays even if the specimen has substantially no contrast and color.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 1993Date of Patent: July 18, 1995Assignee: Olympus Optical Co., Ltd.Inventors: Komei Nagai, Yoshiaki Horikawa, Yoshinori Iketaki, Shoichiro Mochimaru
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Patent number: 5431162Abstract: A method and apparatus accurately positions a selected cranial implant site for x-ray tomography. The method and apparatus comprise making a stent of the mandible and maxilla of a patient and making a mark on the stent at a position which corresponds to the selected cranial implant site. The stent is then positioned with regard to a tomographic x-ray imaging apparatus so that, (a) the mark on the stent is aligned with a light beam, preferably generated by a laser source, projected downwardly to intersect the central axis of the tomographic apparatus and, (b) the selected plane through the mark is perpendicular to the x-ray beam of the tomographic apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 1994Date of Patent: July 11, 1995Assignee: Axialtome Australia Pty. Ltd.Inventor: Phillip C. McArdle
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Patent number: 5426687Abstract: A laser targeting device for use during surgical procedures provides means for the precise co-axial alignment of a narrow laser beam with an x-ray beam. The device has a case which contains a reflecting mirror mounted at 45.degree. on a low mass assembly. The mirror lies directly in front of a radio-opaque cruciform target. The case is adjustably mounted so that the image of the crosshair target may be accurately centered on the target head. A calibration aid is used to pinpoint the emanation point of the x-ray beam from the source cone of the image intensifier. The angle at which the laser beam strikes the mirror may be varied in two planes. When the crosshair image is centered and the laser beam is directed onto the emanation point the two beams are rendered precisely co-axial. Accurate drilling along the laser beam path without further recourse to x-ray screening is more accurate and eliminates direct exposure of the surgeon to irradiation during orthopedic procedures.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 1993Date of Patent: June 20, 1995Assignee: Innovative Care Ltd.Inventors: John D. Goodall, David E. Young
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Patent number: 5390227Abstract: An exposure apparatus for exposing a semiconductor wafer to a semiconductor device pattern formed in a mask. The exposure energy is, for example, X-rays contains in synchrotron orbit radiation. A blade for limiting the area irradiated with the exposure energy on a mask or wafer is integrally movable in an alignment detecting unit for detecting the alignment mark. Four of such blades are provided to provide a square exposure area. The blades are movable independently by the associated alignment detecting units. Each of the blades is finely movable relative to the associated alignment detecting unit. The shape or size or the like of the blade is determined in consideration of the position of the blade in the direction of the exposure energy irradiation, and the maximum and minimum exposure view angle. The blade is cooled. The exposure area can be changed highly accurately and efficiently with a simple structure.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 1993Date of Patent: February 14, 1995Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Nobutoshi Mizusawa, Ryuichi Ebinuma, Takao Kariya, Isamu Shimoda, Shunichi Uzawa
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Patent number: 5388143Abstract: An alignment method and system for aligning an anti-scatter grid with an x-ray source of a radiographic apparatus, to facilitate accurate alignment of the central x-ray beam of the x-ray source of the radiographic apparatus with a focused grid. The present invention uses a first light projector that is substantially fixed relative to the x-ray source, which produces a first alignment image that is substantially fixed relative to the grid. Also included is a second light projector that is substantially fixed relative to the grid, and that produces a second alignment image that is substantially fixed relative to the x-ray source. The first light projector is preferably the collimator light included within the collimator housing of the x-ray apparatus, and the second light projector is preferably a laser light source, that is attachable to a grid cassette holding the grid.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 1993Date of Patent: February 7, 1995Assignee: Arch Development CorporationInventor: Heber MacMahon
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Patent number: 5359640Abstract: An X-ray diffractometer having a simple yet accurate means for locating the surface of the sample to be examined with respect to the zero point of the X-ray (RS) is disclosed. Briefly stated, a laser (LA) and camera (KA) are positioned at preferably 90.degree. with respect to each other such that the intersection of the optical axis of the camera and the laser passes through the zero point of the diffractometer. In this fashion, the camera will see at its center, the zero point of the X-ray despite the fact that the X-ray is of course invisible to the naked eye. Accordingly, by movement of the sample (P) with respect to this camera image, the true and correct zero point of the X-ray with respect to the surface of the sample to be examined may be determined without the need for experimental and unnecessary X-ray or examination runs being taken.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 1993Date of Patent: October 25, 1994Assignee: Siemens Industrial Automation, Inc.Inventors: Juergen Fink, Rolf Schipper, Kingsley Smith, Richard Ortega
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Patent number: 5354314Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining, in three dimensions, the location, size, depth and width of tumors, lesions, abnormalities, structures, and the like, particularly useful for stereotactic surgery. The invention utilizes several energy beams which, when they intersect, allow for such measurements and calculations. In one embodiment, the energy sources attach to a stereotactic frame. In an alternative embodiment, the energy sources are incorporated within a stereotactic microscope. Either embodiment may be mounted on an articulated robotic type arm.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 1992Date of Patent: October 11, 1994Assignee: Medical Instrumentation and Diagnostics CorporationInventors: Tyrone L. Hardy, Laura D. Brynildson
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Patent number: 5351279Abstract: A direct conversion X-ray photo-electron cathode has specially designed secondary electron emission layers which provides high efficiency, low noise, high speed and broad band X-ray photon detection. The X-ray photocathode is integrated with a micro channel plate and an output phosphor display screen to form a panel type X-ray intensifier. The X-ray intensifier is combined with a micro-focus X-ray source to provide projection type X-ray microscope for use in X-ray microscopic diagnostic applications.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 1993Date of Patent: September 27, 1994Assignee: CSL Opto-Electronics CorporationInventors: Yongzheng She, Shizheng Chen, Weilou Cao, Yanhua Shih
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Patent number: 5325414Abstract: X-ray alignment method and apparatus therefor characterized by separately irradiating alignment light to alignment patterns of an X-ray mask and detecting reflected light therefrom, and directly irradiating alignment light to alignment patterns of a wafer and detecting the reflected light therefrom, and aligning the X-ray mask and the wafer in accordance with the detecting data of the reflected light. The apparatus includes a position alignment mechanism for the mask stage and the wafer stage, which moves the X-ray mask and/or the wafer and provides the alignment therebetween. The apparatus includes independent light sources for irradiating the alignment patterns of the X-ray mask side and the wafer side, independent detectors for detecting the reflected light of the alignment patterns of the X-ray mask and the wafer, and a controller for analyzing the respective positions of the X-ray mask and the wafer in accordance with the detection data and issuing control signals to the position alignment mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 1993Date of Patent: June 28, 1994Assignee: Sortec CorporationInventors: Toshihiko Tanaka, Koichi Okada
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Patent number: 5320111Abstract: Method and apparatus for locating and guiding a biopsy needle with respect to an X-rayed specimen having a tumor to be engaged by the needle. Intersecting laser beams are utilized to mark the location of the tumor and to guide the biopsy needle in a vertical path. The laser beam source is movable in orthogonal paths while compensating means redirect the beams to maintain them within a target area or eliminate any parallax. That is, the angular position of the laser light beam is adjusted to different angles at different coordinate positions to have the needle follow along a portion of a straight line path from the X-ray point source through the lesion and to the X-ray film. Thus, the needle tip should not be displaced to one side of a small lesion.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 1992Date of Patent: June 14, 1994Assignee: Livingston Products, Inc.Inventor: Troy W. Livingston
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Patent number: 5311568Abstract: An imaging system comprised of a source of penetrative radiation 14, an image intensifier tube 18 and a video camera 38 is provided. The intensifier tube is comprised of a input screen 22 and an output screen 24. The intensifier tube converts radiation 20 impinging on the input screen into a visible light image 36 on the output screen 24. The video camera is operatively positioned to view the output screen of the intensifier. A light sampler 50 is operatively disposed in the visible light path between the image intensifier output screen 24 and the video camera input 38. The light sampler is comprised of a mirror 52, a focusing lens 54, a beam splitter 56, an aperture 58, a light source 78, a photo receptor 60 and an optical aligner 64.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 1993Date of Patent: May 10, 1994Assignee: Picker International, Inc.Inventors: William J. McKee, Jr., John R. Haire
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Patent number: 5309495Abstract: In x-ray fluorescence systems, the screening prevents the bringing of the measurement spot into the correct position in relation to the x-ray beam using the naked eye. The use of a television camera with a screen as well as illuminating devices makes the measuring system expensive and complicates the use of the system. According to the invention, this is avoided in that use is made of an illuminated device, which operates using an optical system and which reproduces, by convergent light beams at their intersection, the correct height position, lateral position and forward/rearward position of the measurement object when the tray carrying the measurement object has been moved to a forward position away from the x-ray beam.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 1992Date of Patent: May 3, 1994Inventor: Helmut Fischer
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Patent number: 5299251Abstract: An exposure apparatus for a semiconductor wafer, a liquid crystal display panel and so on. The exposure apparatus comprises a light source, a holding means for a mask and a target, a moving means for moving the holding means and optical alignment systems. The optical alignment system has a moving base on which a detecting means is installed. The moving bases are arranged in the same plane and have narrow portions in their front.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 1993Date of Patent: March 29, 1994Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Nobutaka Kikuiri, Yoriyuki Ishibashi, Takahiro Murata
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Patent number: 5283808Abstract: An improved x-ray laser aiming system providing coaxial laser aiming in a configuration opposed to the x-ray emitter is disclosed. The present invention comprises two basic components: 1) a laser sight coupled to an x-ray emitter, and 2) a laser housing coupled to an x-ray collector. The laser sight provides a means for aligning the x-ray emitter with a laser beam during surgical or diagnostic procedures. The laser housing is removably coupled to the image intensifier or x-ray collector. The laser housing contains a point laser source and a fixed reflective surface or mirror for directing a laser beam coaxially with the center ray of the x-rays emitted by the x-ray emitter, but in the opposite direction. The laser source is, therefore, in a configuration opposed or opposite to the x-ray emitter.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 1992Date of Patent: February 1, 1994Assignee: Diasonics, Inc.Inventors: Steven L. Cramer, Li Yuan
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Patent number: 5276726Abstract: The invention set forth methods and apparatus for correcting the effect on image quality of a film processor having the steps of shielding a first portion along one edge of a film from x-ray energy and impressing, on the first portion, a first calibrated test pattern having a first calibrated graded stepwise density pattern made from visible light. A first plurality of symbols located adjacent the first pattern to indicate the magnitude of one of the density positions. Impressed along one edge of a control film, a second calibrated test pattern, which includes a second calibrated graded stepwise density pattern made from visible light. A second plurality of symbols are provided adjacent the second pattern to indicate the magnitude of one of the density positions. The performance of the film processor used to develop both films is measured and affected by comparing and noting the symbols associated with those density positions between the first and second test patterns.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 1991Date of Patent: January 4, 1994Assignee: Thomas Jefferson UniversityInventor: Benjamin M. Galkin
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Patent number: 5241578Abstract: An optical alignment system for aligning a film cassette carrying grid cassette with an x-ray source of a portable x-ray apparatus. To facilitate accurate alignment of the central x-ray beam of the x-ray source of a portable x-ray apparatus with a focused grid in a clinical setting, the present invention uses a light projector and a reflector device. The light projector is substantially fixed relative to the x-ray source and projects a spot or line of light on the surface of the grid cassette. The reflector device, which can be temporarily or permanently fixed to the grid cassette, includes a reflector surface and an image surface. Images of the incident light spot or line and of the reflected light spot or line are formed on the image surface, and the distance between the images indicates the magnitude of angulation alignment error between the grid cassette and the x-ray source.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 1991Date of Patent: August 31, 1993Assignee: ARCH Development CorporationInventor: Heber MacMahon
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Patent number: 5220169Abstract: A first beam of light having a wavelength ranging from a soft X-ray to a vacuum ultraviolet region is focused into a thin beam of light and irradiated upon a surface of a specimen, and physical information obtained as a result of such irradiation is detected to obtain information of the surface of the specimen. A second beam of light is focused into a thin beam of light and irradiated at the irradiation spot of the first beam of light upon the surface of the specimen, and the position of the irradiation spot of the second beam of light on the surface of the specimen is visually observed to located the position of the irradiation point of the first beam of light on the surface of the specimen.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 1990Date of Patent: June 15, 1993Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Ken Ninomiya, Keizo Suzuki, Shigeru Nishimatsu
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Patent number: 5212720Abstract: Subsurface regions of an X-ray transparent but optically opaque object are targeted along a visible line of sight obtained by the use of two radiation sources (an X-ray and light beam source, preferably a laser). The central ray from the X-ray source and the light beam are aligned using a calibration fixture, one to the other and both with respect to structures internal to the object being imaged to provide the visible line of sight. The system (method and apparatus) may be used in surgical applications for selective illumination and sighting to reach specific subsurface members of a patients anatomy by guiding an incision.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 1992Date of Patent: May 18, 1993Assignee: Research Foundation-State University of N.Y.Inventors: Michael K. Landi, Robert M. Lifeso
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Patent number: 5206893Abstract: An object of the present invention is to realize a radiotherapeutic system whereby the process from the stage of making a diagnosis of a body to be examined for obtaining information of position, size, shape etc. of the diseased part and making up a therapeutic plan of such items as the area to be irradiated by a radiation to the stage of positioning of the area to be irradiated on the body being examined and applying the radiation to the body can be reasonably executed with little trouble.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 1991Date of Patent: April 27, 1993Assignee: Yokogawa Medical Systems, LimitedInventor: Yukihiro Hara
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Patent number: 5188110Abstract: A method and an apparatus of setting multi-slice imaging conditions in computed tomographic imaging systems capable of taking a desired multi-slice imaging in a desired imaging region without scanning imaging. In the method and apparatus, an object to be imaged is illuminated along at least one projection plane and within at least one projection area corresponding to an imaging region; the projection area is changed and detected; one of the multi-slice imaging conditions including an imaging time interval, a slice thickness, and a number of slices is specified; and a remaining part of the multi-slice imaging conditions is determined in accordance with the part of the multi-slice imaging conditions specified by the specifying means and the detected projection area.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 1991Date of Patent: February 23, 1993Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventor: Hiroshi Sugimoto
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Patent number: 5176689Abstract: The disclosure is directed to a method and apparatus for determining, in three dimensions, the location, size, depth and width of tumors, lesions, abnormalities, structures, and the like, particularly useful for stereotactic surgery. The invention utilizes several beams which, when they intersect, allow for such measurements and calculations. The beam sources attach to a stereotactic frame.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 1990Date of Patent: January 5, 1993Assignee: Medical Instrumentation and Diagnostics CorporationInventors: Tyrone L. Hardy, Laura R. D. Brynildson
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Patent number: 5177779Abstract: Apparatus for inspecting a part by means of X or gamma radiation comprises an arm carrying an X or gamma ray emitter, and a remote light ray emitter for emitting a ray of light parallel to the arm. An oblique mirror which is transparent to the radiation is mounted on the arm in the path of the radiation beam to reflect the ray of light in a direction parallel to the radiation beam and towards the part to be inspected. In this manner identification of the part to be inspected can be achieved by means of a camera carried obliquely on the arm, without having to mount the bulky light emitter close to the components which are essential for carrying out the inspection. The apparatus is particularly useful for checking weldings in narrow bores.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 1991Date of Patent: January 5, 1993Assignee: Societe Nationale d'Etude et de Construction de Moteurs d'Aviation "S.N.E.C.M.A."Inventors: Michael L. P. Cornu, Claude J. Krempel
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Patent number: 5170423Abstract: An improved intra oral dental x-ray packet structured to both prevent x-ray radiation from passing completely through the packet into the patient's mouth and to prevent x-ray exposure of a small transverse strip at one end of the unexposed x-ray film within the packet. The unexposed portion of the x-ray film is sized so as not to significantly reduce the useful area for tooth exposure, yet providing an area for imprinting as by light exposure patient identification indicia thereonto after x-ray radiation exposure, but prior to developing the exposed x-ray film.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 1992Date of Patent: December 8, 1992Inventor: John J. Yurosko
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Patent number: 5165410Abstract: A multidiagnostic rectilinear scanner for conducting non-invasive diagnostic procedures of bodily tissue. Both transmission and emission studies are performed on a single scanner utilizing software modules for each kind of study. Dual energy x-ray and radioactive sources are used to perform radiographic and absorptiometry transmission measurements. A system and method of identifying regions of interest within tissue being scanned and recording the location of those regions provides an additional diagnostic capability.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 1989Date of Patent: November 24, 1992Assignee: Medical & Scientific Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: James R. Warne, Alvin Karloff, Edward J. Botz, Michael D. Dabrowski
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Patent number: 5142559Abstract: An assembly is provided which is capable of the multiple functions that are necessary for the quality control of teleradiotherapy machines such a high energy medical accelerators, cobalt 60 machines, and low energy x-ray machines. The assembly includes a detector which is isocentrically rotatable about a pair of horizontal axes. Photodetectors or a luminescent screen are provided within the detector for detecting light and/or radiation. Tests which may be performed with the assembly include determining the position and size of a light field, the mechanical isocentricity of the gantry and of the collimator, positioning of the lasers in the treatment room, the optical distance indicator, and coincidence, symmetry, flatness and uniformity of the radiation and light fields. The multifunctionality of the assembly is based upon the isocentricity of the detector, this invariant point in space being positioned to coincide with that of the treatment machine.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 1990Date of Patent: August 25, 1992Assignee: The Research Foundation of State University of New YorkInventors: Lucian Wielopolski, Israel Waldman
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Patent number: 5136627Abstract: At least one primary diaphragm comprises two elements displaceable so as to form a linear fan-shaped beam which is incident on an object to be examined. The elements form the slit-shaped aperture forming the fan beam in their normal X-ray beam forming position and are moveable to a respective, selectable limit position perpendicularly to the fan shaped beam in order to define and mark an examination zone greater in cross-section area than the fan beam with a light beam. Light incident on the examination zone is restricted by the diaphragm elements in their limit positions, thus marking the examination zone with the light beam. X-ray exposure of the object to be examined takes place only when the elements are between the two positions defining the examination zone of the primary diaphragm where its diaphragm elements occupy in their respective limit positions.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 1990Date of Patent: August 4, 1992Assignee: U.S. Philips CorporationInventors: Norbert Conrads, Walter Hillen
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Patent number: 5127033Abstract: An improved shape of a small rectangular dental x-ray, including a jacket for containing each unexposed dental x-ray and a mount for viewably retaining a complete set of expoded such dental x-rays. The improved dental x-ray shape includes three conventional, rounded corners and a notched or diagonally cut fourth corner which provides viewable indicia of orientation. The jacket includes orienting lines extending along two adjacent margins from the corner corresponding to the notched corner of the unexposed dental x-ray contained therein. The mount, formed of thin, pliable transparent sheet plastic material, includes a plurality of transparent pouches or pockets arranged thereon, each of which is similarly notched, shaped and structured to viewably receive and retain one such exposed improved dental x-ray. These pockets are divided into left, right and center regions corresponding to the regions of patients' teeth.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 1990Date of Patent: June 30, 1992Inventor: John J. Yurosko
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Patent number: 5119411Abstract: An X-ray optical apparatus comprises an X-ray optical system which is capable of projecting an enlarged sample image by soft X-rays and a visible optical system to observe the sample with a visible radiation. To enable simultaneous observation using both optical systems, the systems utilize a common objective zone plate. The objective zone plate includes a base plate having an opening at the center thereof to pass the soft X-rays which have passed through the sample and also having a visible radiation passing section to the outside of the opening. A zone plate is supported centrally on the base plate for converging soft X-rays which have passed through the sample and forming the sample image at a predetermined position. An eyepiece is provided in a position displaced from the X-ray optical axis to enable visual observation of the sample with the light passed through the visible radiation transmitting section of the objective zone plate.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 1990Date of Patent: June 2, 1992Assignee: Nikon CorporationInventor: Hajime Nakamura
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Patent number: 5103471Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the thickness of a coating on an elongate strip of material which moves along a predetermined path from a first location to a second location. The apparatus includes a measuring device, at least a portion thereof being mounted on a shuttle for movement parallel with the elongate strip. The shuttle is mounted on a support frame for movement back and forth along the frame. The shuttle is further provided with a target-spotting device. A drive extends between the shuttle and the support frame for reciprocating the shuttle along the frame.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 1991Date of Patent: April 7, 1992Inventors: Jerry J. Spongr, Masood Fakharzadeh
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Patent number: 5068887Abstract: A dental x-ray alignment device is described for attachment to the extension tube of the x-ray unit. The device has a cylindrical conical frustum exterior shape with a central opening adapted to frictionally reside on the extension tube. An annularly shaped conical cavity is formed in the sidewalls of the cylindrical conical frustum, the cavity being open on one end joining the front face of the frustum. A plurality of light emitting sources are situated in the base or bottom of the frustum to emit light from the open end of the cavity. The light is projected onto the patient's face to circumscribe the x-ray beam pattern for certainty of x-ray beam placement during procedures. In an alternate embodiment, the invention is incorporated into the coupler and extension tube normally attached to the x-ray unit head.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 1990Date of Patent: November 26, 1991Inventor: John R. Hughes
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Patent number: 5031203Abstract: In an x-ray machine having an x-ray gun portion for emitting x-ray radiation along a longitudinal axis and an x-ray collector portion spaced from the gun portion along the longitudinal axis for receiving the x-ray radiation, the present invention provides a laser light emitting member disposed on the x-ray gun portion for emitting a beam of visible laser light. A target grid member is disposed on the x-ray collector portion for targeting the visible laser light in coaxial relationship with the longitudinal axis of the x-ray radiation between the gun portion and the collector portion. One or more radiolucent laser light redirecting members are provided for adjustably redirecting the visible laser light from the laser light emitting member into coaxial alignment with the longitudinal axis of the x-ray radiation to give a visual indication of the central longitudinal axis of the x-ray radiation.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 1990Date of Patent: July 9, 1991Inventor: Randal R. Trecha
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Patent number: 4979203Abstract: A microscope consisting of an x-ray contact microscope and an optical microscope. The optical, phase contrast, microscope is used to align a target with respect to a source of soft x-rays. The source of soft x-rays preferably comprises an x-ray laser but could comprise a synchrotron or other pulse source of x-rays. Transparent resist material is used to support the target. The optical microscope is located on the opposite side of the transparent resist material from the target and is employed to align the target with respect to the anticipated soft x-ray laser beam. After alignment with the use of the optical microscope, the target is exposed to the soft x-ray laser beam. The x-ray sensitive transparent resist material whose chemical bonds are altered by the x-ray beam passing through the target materGOVERNMENT LICENSE RIGHTSThis invention was made with government support under Contract No. De-FG02-86ER13609 awarded by the Department of Energy. The Government has certain rights in this invention.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 1989Date of Patent: December 18, 1990Assignee: Princeton X-Ray LaserInventors: Szymon Suckewer, Darrell S. DiCicco, Joseph G. Hirschberg, Lewis D. Meixler, Robert Sathre, Charles H. Skinner
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Patent number: 4969177Abstract: According to the present invention, a laser and X-rays are adapted to be coaxial to each other by the combination of a mirror and a focusing lens, whereby an X-ray irradiation position and a range thereof on an object to be subjected to the application of X-rays can be surely monitored even though the X-ray irradiation range is small.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 1989Date of Patent: November 6, 1990Assignee: Horiba, Ltd.Inventors: Kunio Otsuki, Yoshihiko Usui
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Patent number: 4964146Abstract: Alignment in X-ray lithography is generally effected in such a manner that the surface of a target mark for alignment formed on a wafer is illuminated with light for alignment through an X-ray mask, and the position of the wafer is detected from the reflected light. On the basis of the finding that the reflected light from the mask, particularly from an absorber formed thereon, greatly degrades the precision and reliability in measurement, the present invention provides a pattern transfer mask provided with a thin film which lowers the reflection factor of the mask the thin film having a thickness set a .lambda./4n (.lambda.:the wavelength of the light for alignment; n: an integer) or an odd-number multiple thereof. Thus, it is advantageously possible to overcome the above-described lowering of precision and reliablity.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 1989Date of Patent: October 16, 1990Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Shinji Kuniyoshi, Takeshi Kumura
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Patent number: 4907252Abstract: A medical examination system includes components for generating an internal image of a patient, such as an x-ray image, and components for generating an image of the external surface of at least a portion of the patient. The signals obtained from the surface scan of the patient are used to control the positioning of other components, such as the patient support and/or the primary radiation diaphragm. The internal and surface images can be compared to achieve precise positioning of the patient and/or a setting of the primary radiation diaphragm to avoid blooming.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 1989Date of Patent: March 6, 1990Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Horst Aichinger, Hans-Juergen Gerlach
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Patent number: 4887286Abstract: An apparatus for assisting in the positioning of a dental X-ray generating unit for the creation of an X-ray image of an internal target portion of the mouth separated from the X-ray generating unit by a soft-tissue facial portion is composed of a substantially X-ray-transparent body adapted to be mounted in the path of the X-rays between the X-ray generating unti and the film element and an illumination source mounted to the body. The body has an outwardly-directed face positioned essentially perpendicular to the X-ray path and facing the soft-tissue facial portion between the X-ray source and target. The illumination source is positioned to direct at least one beam of light perpendicular to and outwardly from the body face towards the facial feature along the path of the X-rays generated by the generating unit to produce at least one light spot on the facial feature to serve as an orientation means for said X-ray unit.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 1988Date of Patent: December 12, 1989Inventor: Jack W. Seidenberg
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Patent number: 4882741Abstract: A collimating arrangement for use in radiotherapy apparatus has a set of mutually contiguous members (8) for substantially attenuating radiation. The positions of the members (8) are adjustable so that edges (8a) thereof form an adjustable aperture (9) for defining the cross-sectional shape of the beam. A lamp (12) illuminates an area including the beam-defining edges (8a). Each of the members (8) is provided with a respective retroreflector (19) for reflecting illumination from the lamp (12) into the camera (13) substantially independently of the position of the beam-defining edges (8a). A detecting arrangement, including a video camera (13), more responsive to the higher intensity of illumination reflected from the retroreflectors (19) than from respectively adjacent regions in the illuminated area, is used to detect the positions of the retroreflectors (19) which are respectively representative of the positions of the edges of the members.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 1988Date of Patent: November 21, 1989Assignee: U.S. Philips CorporationInventor: Kevin J. Brown
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Patent number: 4852133Abstract: An X-ray lithography apparatus for transferring a pattern formed in a mask onto a wafer by using a soft X-ray.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 1987Date of Patent: July 25, 1989Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Minoru Ikeda, Ryuichi Funatsu, Yukio Kembo, Motoya Taniguchi
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Patent number: 4836671Abstract: A device determines the location of a point, line, or plane in space with respect to an object along an axis of projection from the object. The device includes a beam generator coupled to the object and generating a plane of light containing the axis of projection of the object. Additionally, the beam generator generates a ray of light oriented at an angle to the axis of the projection so as to intercept the axis at the point in space to be located. The position of the axis of projection in the plane is marked, preferably, by a second beam generator generating a plane of light containing the axis of projection of the object and oriented at an angle to the first plane. The coincidence of the ray and marking of the axis of projection in the plane indicates that the point in space has been located with respect to the object. The second beam generator may also provide a ray of light intersecting the axis of projection at a point different than the first ray.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 1988Date of Patent: June 6, 1989Assignee: Charles LescrenierInventor: Val Bautista
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Patent number: 4799246Abstract: A deflecting mirror is in the optical path between a monocular microscope for viewing the region of a layer on which an X-ray beam falls, and the region of a layer, the thickness of which is measured according to the X-ray fluroescence principle. The mirror is in an apparatus that has an X-ray beam generator which emits an X-ray beam along a longitudinal geometrical axis, a table device arranged to support the layer, a diaphragm device of a material which absorbs X-rays, having an aperture which is in the longitudinal geometrical axis, and a light source which can be directed onto the region for the layer. The mirror is composed of glass and has a hole at 45.degree. to the plane of the mirror. The longitudinal geometrical axis of the X-ray beam passes through the hole.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 1986Date of Patent: January 17, 1989Inventor: Helmut Fischer
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Patent number: 4670896Abstract: Installation allowing the adjustment of compensating filters without exposure to permanent irradiation. According to one possible embodiment, a radiological image is taken (source, brightness or luminance amplifier) and memorized in an image memory prior to being projected by the video projector onto the patient by through-crossing the filter, this filter having brightness absorption and X-ray absorption properties which are similar.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 1985Date of Patent: June 2, 1987Assignee: Thomson-CGRInventor: Remy Klausz
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Patent number: 4639838Abstract: A shadowless lighting equipment for medical use includes an illuminating device for emitting a wave beam such as an infrared ray beam subjected to frequency modulation on a patient on an operating table so as to form an irradiation area thereon, an image forming device which forms an image of the irradiation area in accordance with a wave beam reflected from the irradiated portion of the patient, and a sensor for comparing information regarding an image forming position by the image forming device with information regarding a light concentration position of a lighting device. In this comparison, when the image forming position is spaced apart from the light concentration position, an output containing information regarding the positional difference between the positions is provided, and, in response to such an output, the lighting device is driven in the X axis, Y axis, and perpendicular directions of a coordinate surface so that the light concentration position becomes the same as the image forming position.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 1985Date of Patent: January 27, 1987Assignee: Yamada Iryo Shomei Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yasuhiro Kato, Mitsuhiro Koyama
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Patent number: 4618980Abstract: An indicator for indicating a dimension of an X-ray beam defined by a collimator has a base member positioned on the other side of the patient from the X-ray beam source. A pair of light sources are mounted on the base member for linear movement and for angular movement so that the beams of light may be positioned into congruency with the edges of the X-ray field defined by the collimator and converge at the source of the X-ray beam. The light sources may be moved by a cable having selectively movable segments to which the light sources are attached or by lead screws.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 1984Date of Patent: October 21, 1986Assignee: Charles LescrenierInventors: Charles Lescrenier, Val Bautista
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Patent number: 4602377Abstract: An adjustable X-ray collimation system for a diamond-anvil high-pressure cell of the type including a cooperable piston and cylinder and a pair of opposing diamonds located between the head of the piston and the head of the cylinder. The X-ray collimation system includes a tubular insert which contains an X-ray collimator. The insert is engageable in the bore of the piston. The collimator is mounted within the insert by means of an elastomeric O-ring at the end closest the opposed diamonds, and by means of a set of adjustable set screws at the opposite end. By adjustment of the set screws the collimator can be pivoted about the O-ring and brought into alignment with the opposed diamonds and the sample contained therein. In the preferred embodiment there is further provided a set of plugs which are insertable in the bore of the collimator. The plugs have bores of different diameters.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 1984Date of Patent: July 22, 1986Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of EnergyInventors: David Schiferl, Barton W. Olinger, Robert W. Livingston
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Patent number: 4597093Abstract: The apparatus measures the thickness of thin layers according to the X-ray fluorescence principle. It has an X-ray beam generator which emits an X-ray beam along a longitudinal geometrical axis, a table device arranged to support a layer which is to be measured, a diaphragm device of a material which absorbs X-rays completely, having a through-aperture which is moveable into the longitudinal geometrical axis, a light source for visible light which can be directed onto the region for the layer, a monocular microscope arrangement for viewing the region of the layer on which the X-ray beam falls, and a deflecting mirror in the optical path between the monocular microscope arrangement and the region of the layer. The diaphragm device is composed of a glass which is transparent to visible light, and has several through-bores therein of different cross-sectional geometry.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 1983Date of Patent: June 24, 1986Inventor: Helmut Fischer
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Patent number: 4589126Abstract: A radiotherapy treatment table is formed as a mobile table having a vertically movable patient supporting plane freely suspended at one end, all the wheels of said table being individually or jointly driven by a motor and turnable relative to the wheeled frame, a positioning and steering device being adapted to sense the position of the treatment table relative to a radiotherapy station and to drive and steer the table to a desired position in response to a measured actual position. The positioning and steering device may comprise sensors for inductively, optically or ultrasonically sensing the actual position of the table in an inductively, optically or ultrasonically marked coordinate system, and may also comprise a computer for controlling the positioning of the table and any preprogrammed movements relative to a treatment isocenter that may be necessary during the treatment.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 1985Date of Patent: May 13, 1986Inventors: Nils E. Augustsson, Kjell O. T. Lindstrom, Lars J. S. Mattsson
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Patent number: 4558458Abstract: A positioning unit for a radiation tomography apparatus comprises light beam detector and a light beam generator which are disposed opposite to each other on a horizontal line passing through the center of a photographing region irradiated by X-rays, a table top on which a patient is laid, driving device for driving the table top in the vertical direction, position detector for outputting a signal whose magnitude corresponds to the position of the table top; and controller which obtains data corresponding to the distance from an upper surface of a part of body to be photographed of the patient to the horizontal line of the photographing region, based on an output signal of the light beam detector and an output signal of the position detector.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 1983Date of Patent: December 10, 1985Assignee: Tokyo Shibaura Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kenichiro Katsumata, Yasuo Nobuta
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Patent number: 4538289Abstract: The conventional cylindrical lens of a laser alignment device is replaced with a non-planar reflective device for spreading the collimated laser beam into a fan-shaped linear pattern for patient alignment use. In one form, a mirror-coated cylindrical rod is used to generate axial alignment lines, and in another form, a mirror-coated cone is used to generate the coronal alignment lines.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 1981Date of Patent: August 27, 1985Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: Karl J. Scheibengraber