Object Holder Or Support Patents (Class 378/208)
Table or couch (Class 378/209)
  • Bonding silicon silicon carbide to glass ceramics
    Patent number: 7678458
    Abstract: A wafer chuck for use in a lithographic apparatus, which includes a low-thermal expansion glass ceramic substrate, a silicon silicon carbide layer, and a bonding layer comprising silicate having a strength of at least about 5 megapascals, the bonding layer attaching the silicon silicon carbide layer to the substrate is described. Also, a method of forming a wafer chuck for use in a lithographic apparatus, which includes coating a portion of one or both of a low-thermal expansion glass ceramic substrate and a silicon silicon carbide layer with a bonding solution, and contacting the substrate and the silicon silicon carbide layer to bond the substrate and the silicon silicon carbide layer together is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: ASML Holding N.V.
    Inventors: Matthew Lipson, Robert D. Harned, Geoffrey O'Connor, Timothy O'Neil
  • X-ray imaging stand and X-ray imaging apparatus
    Patent number: 7677797
    Abstract: An X-ray imaging stand that supports an upright X-ray imaging panel by a column standing vertically through a carriage, includes a bar-like member having a longitudinal bar section that extends from the carriage in the upward direction over the upper end of the X-ray imaging panel and a horizontal bar section that extends from the leading end of the longitudinal bar section in the horizontal direction over the surface of the X-ray imaging panel receiving the X-ray, and a support mechanism that supports the longitudinal bar section of the bar-like member above the carriage such that the angle thereof is variable in plural stages in a plane parallel to the surface of the X-ray imaging panel receiving the X-ray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLC
    Inventors: Lin Jiang, Xinyu Yan
  • Shoulder press
    Patent number: 7669602
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a shoulder press for holding the shoulders of a subject out of the way of an X-ray view by exerting a downward pressure upon the shoulders by means of the device so that all the vertebrae are visible in the X-ray, the shoulder press comprising a horizontal member and two vertical members, the vertical members having attachments for placing on the shoulders of the subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventors: William J. McGinnis, Jill C. Pickett, Jonathan S. Citow
  • FLUOROSCOPY INSTALLATION
    Publication number: 20100046699
    Abstract: A system for moving a test object for a fluoroscopy unit includes a test carriage configured to be fixable to the test object and a guide element rotatable about a rotational axis, wherein the test carriage is configured to move along the guide element in a direction extending radially from the rotational axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2008
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Applicant: YXLON International X-Ray GmbH
    Inventor: Martin Muenker
  • Method and apparatus for providing radiation shielding for non-invasive inspection systems
    Patent number: 7667215
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method and apparatus for providing radiation shielding for non-invasive inspection systems. An embodiment of the apparatus may include a radiation shield having a plurality of slats, where each of the plurality of slats comprises a radiation attenuating material. The radiation shield may further include a support structure configured to hold the slats in a non-planar shape. An embodiment of the method may include gathering a plurality of slats, each slat comprising a radiation attenuating material. The method may further include disposing the slats to form a shielding curtain having a non-planar shape. The method may also include positioning the shielding curtain to cover an opening of a scanner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Morpho Detection, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Oliver Hargrove, Jr.
  • Sample alignment mechanism for X-ray diffraction instrumentation
    Patent number: 7660389
    Abstract: In an X-ray diffraction apparatus, a sample holder has a sample mounted on a pin extending a known distance from a cap that mates with a magnetized base on a goniometer. The sample is mechanically positioned in the center of an X-ray beam by a first movable arm which is located in a precise position relative to the goniometer base by a positioning mechanism and a mechanism that forces the pin into engagement with the first arm. The sample has a known height on the pin with respect to the cap and therefore, the sample can repeatedly be located in the center of the X-ray beam without the use of complex centering arrangements. In order to allow the sample holder to be removed from the goniometer base, a linkage is provided that releases the pin from the first arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Bruker AXS, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce L. Becker
  • Tray for assessing the threat status of an article at a security check point
    Publication number: 20100027741
    Abstract: A tray for holding a material while the material is being subjected to penetrating radiation. The tray has a surface on which the material rests while subjected to penetrating radiation. The surface has at least two areas, namely a first area and a second area, the first and second areas characterized by first and second signatures, respectively when exposed to penetrating radiation, wherein the first signature is different from the second signature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2007
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventors: Aidan Doyle, Dan Gudmundson
  • Compression device and method for adjustment of a compression pressure
    Patent number: 7656993
    Abstract: A compression device has a compression plate that applies a pressure to a subject on a support plate. The compression plate has a number of elastically-deformable compression plate elements that are substantially transparent for an examination field used with the compression device. In a method for compressing a subject, at least one pressure sensor measures the pressure applied by a compression device to a subject, and wirelessly supplies a signal representing the detected pressure to a control unit, wherein the detected pressure is compared to a stored compression pressure value. The control device adjusts the pressure applied to the subject by the compression device so that the pressure detected by the sensor is equal to the stored compression pressure value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Mathias Hoernig
  • Support structure for mammography
    Publication number: 20100014634
    Abstract: The invention relates to a support structure 1 for mammography, comprising a stand 2 and an arm structure 3 attached thereto. The support structure 1 further comprises a scanner head cover 6 attached to the arm structure 3. The scanner head cover 6 comprises a vertical side portion 6a, and is designed so that a cavity 12 is formed between the vertical surface portion 6a and a vertical part 3b of the arm structure 3, whereby the cavity 12 provides space for an arm of a patient during imaging. A more comfortable posture is provided for a patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventors: Christer Ullberg, Tomas Kristoffersson
  • Mammographic apparatus, breast compression plate, and breast fixing method
    Patent number: 7639778
    Abstract: A mammographic apparatus is set to take a medio-lateral oblique view (MLO) of a breast with an arm being tilted. After having positioned the breast on an image capturing base, the radiological technician moves a breast compression plate, which is tilted with respect to the image capturing base, toward the image capturing base. When the breast compression plate abuts against the breast and the breast is braced from below by the image capturing base, the radiological technician removes a hand from between the image capturing base and the breast compression plate, and then further moves the breast compression plate toward the image capturing base. A compression plate support mechanism turns the breast compression plate to make it substantial parallel to the image capturing base, thereby positioning the breast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventor: Nobuhiko Kashiwagi
  • Non-invasive scanning device
    Patent number: 7635847
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for radioactive imaging of a test subject. At least one detector is operative to detect a radiation type associated with the subject. A test bed supports the test subject. A collimator assembly is positioned between the test bed and the at least one detector. The collimator assembly is not mechanically coupled to the at least one detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2009
    Assignee: The Cleveland Clinic Foundation
    Inventor: Frank P. DiFilippo
  • POSITIONING DEVICE FOR A MAMMOGRAPHY UNIT
    Publication number: 20090304159
    Abstract: The present embodiments relate to a mammography unit may be improved, by provision of a positioning device for a mammography unit, comprising a device support section for accommodating the radiation source and an object support device for accommodating the object holder for the relative positioning of a radiation source and an object holder. The object support section may be and/or is connected to the mammography unit by means of a connector element, wherein the device support section is mounted such as to be able to rotate relative to the connector element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2007
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventors: Oliver Meer, Martin Ramsauer
  • SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PATIENT POSITIONING IN CONE-BEAM TOMOGRAPHY
    Publication number: 20090285356
    Abstract: A device for positioning a patient within an image volume of a cone-beam tomography system. The device includes a volume indicator adapted to indicate at least a front boundary of the image volume and having a horizontal indicator for horizontal alignment. The device also includes a head clamp adapted to position at least a portion of the head of the patient within the front boundary of the image volume indicated by the volume indicator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Applicant: Sirona Dental Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Dieter Thoma, Christian Beckhaus
  • Apparatus and method for providing a shielding means for an x-ray detection system
    Patent number: 7614788
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing an x-ray shield means in an x-ray detection system. An x-ray inhibiting container for use in a computed tomography system is provided, the container comprising: a peripheral wall; and a bottom, wherein the peripheral wall and bottom define a receiving area, and a forward portion and a rearward portion of the peripheral wall comprise an x-ray inhibiting material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: GE Security, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald A. Gatten
  • Device for cushioning of compression surfaces
    Patent number: 7616732
    Abstract: A compression device for a mammography unit includes a compression plate positionable in an x-ray field of the mammography unit, and a radiolucent foam pad removably attached to the compression plate that includes an impermeable exposed surface for contacting tissue disposed on the pad within the x-ray field. The pad includes an adhesive layer on the first surface, or a hook and eye fastener for removably attaching the pad to the compression plate. The pad is attached to the compression plate in the x-ray field of the mammography unit, a breast is compressed using the compression plate, a mammogram of the compressed breast is obtained, the pad producing no significant visual artifact on the mammogram, and thereafter the pad is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Biolucent, LLC
    Inventors: Gail Lebovic, George D. Hermann, David Willis, Thomas A. Howell
  • Method for operating a medical image apparatus to correct for deflection of the patient support board
    Patent number: 7607833
    Abstract: In a method for operation of an imaging medical apparatus, a recumbent board supporting an examination subject is positioned in the scan region of the medical-technical apparatus, an exposure of both a section of the recumbent board and of a part of the tissue of the examination subject to be examined in the scan region is generated, the acquired real position of the section of the recumbent board is compared with an expected position of the recumbent board by image evaluation of the exposure generated with the medical-technical apparatus, and the exposure generated with the medical-technical apparatus of the examined tissue is corrected using the expected-real comparison of the position of the recumbent board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Walter Märzendorfer
  • Apparatus for supporting a patient in a prone position during diagnostic imaging
    Patent number: 7603730
    Abstract: A patient positioning apparatus to support a patient in a prone position on a patient table during a diagnostic imaging scan comprises a head support and an arm support. The head support is configured to extend above the patient table and supports a patient's head above a table top of the patient table while the patient lies on the patient table in a prone position. The arm support is joined to the head support and is configured to extend below the patient table to support a patient's forearms below the patient table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Deborah Ruth Zelnik
  • Microchip and analyzing method and device employing it
    Patent number: 7604406
    Abstract: A plurality of elements can be analyzed simultaneously with high sensitivity using a microchip. The microchip (1) comprises a substrate (30), a channel (23) formed in the substrate (30), and an analyzing part (10) consisting of a part of flat surface of the substrate (30), where the outlet of the channel (23) is formed as an opening (9c) and measurement object liquid overflowed from the opening (9c) stays on the flat surface of the substrate (30) to become a sample of analysis. The measurement object liquid is made to overflow as a sample of analysis to the analyzing part (10) using the microchip (1) and then the sample of analysis is preferably dried before a primary X-ray is made to enter under conditions of total reflection and fluorescent X-rays are detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: Japan Science and Technology Agency
    Inventors: Kouichi Tsuji, Takehiko Kitamori, Manabu Tokeshi, Keita Tanaka, Kazuhiko Nakano
  • Handlebars for computerized tomography scanner
    Patent number: 7597477
    Abstract: The handlebars for a computed tomography (CT) scanner are handlebars disposed on the face of the gantry of a CT scanner. The handlebars are to be utilized by patients who might have difficulty adjusting their arms to an optimum position for a CT scan. The handlebars are arranged in different patterns on the face of the gantry to accommodate patients of different arm lengths and/or various degrees of impairment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Inventors: Farahnaz B. Hosseinian, Donya Hosseinian, Marva Hosseinian
  • Specimen alignment and head holding system for imaging machines government rights
    Publication number: 20090245474
    Abstract: A laboratory specimen, such as a mouse or rat, can be accurately and repeatedly imaged in an imaging machine, such as an MRI machine, when securely positioned on a specimen support bed. The support bed includes contours and accessories for centering a specimen on the support bed. One or more bite bars coact with a head clamp to accurately fix a specimen's head in the same position time after time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventor: Chris D. Chiodo
  • RADIATION IMAGE INFORMATION CAPTURING APPARATUS
    Publication number: 20090220055
    Abstract: A mammography apparatus is equipped with a radiation source housing unit for housing a radiation source, which irradiates an examinee with radiation, a radiographic image capturing base that detects radiation having passed through the examinee to acquire radiation image information, and a compression plate, which compresses and retains a region to be imaged of the examinee with respect to the image capturing base. Pad members are adhered detachably onto at least a front surface portion of an image capturing base, a front surface portion of a compression plate, and a face guard surface. The pad members have a buffering property for absorbing shocks to the examinee, and a radiation shielding property for suppressing irradiation of X-rays with respect to the examinee.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Applicant: FUJIFILM CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hajime NAKATA, Yoshiyuki Monma
  • Medical cushion
    Publication number: 20090213997
    Abstract: A medical cushion is provided. The medical cushion has at least one x-ray positive and at least one electromagnetic marker and a soft filler material that yields to the force exerted by the weight of a patient and molds itself at least to some extent to the surface of the body of the patient is provided. The soft filler material is arranged in the cushion in such a manner that it lies between the surface of the body of the patient and at least one x-ray positive and at least one electromagnetic marker when the cushion is in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Maschke
  • SAMPLE MODULE WITH SAMPLE STREAM SPACED FROM WINDOW, FOR X-RAY ANALYSIS SYSTEM
    Publication number: 20090213988
    Abstract: An x-ray analysis system with an x-ray source for producing an x-ray excitation beam directed toward an x-ray analysis focal area; and a sample chamber for presenting a fluid sample to the x-ray analysis focal area. The x-ray excitation beam is generated by an x-ray engine and passes through an x-ray transparent barrier on a wall of the chamber, to define an analysis focal area within space defined by the chamber. The fluid sample is presented as a stream suspended in the space and streaming through the focal area, using a laminar air flow and/or pressure to define the stream. The chamber's barrier is therefore separated from both the focal area and the sample, resulting in lower corruption of the barrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Applicant: X-RAY OPTICAL SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Zewu CHEN, Rory DELANEY, Kai XIN
  • COMPRESSION DEVICE FOR A MAMMOGRAPHY X-RAY APPARATUS
    Publication number: 20090213986
    Abstract: A compression device for a mammography x-ray apparatus comprises the breast in a manner that is as comfortable as possible for the patient. For this purpose, a compression device has a frame that two-dimensionally stretches an elastic membrane and is designed so that the breast of a patient that is to be compressed by the compression device is compressed solely by the elastic membrane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Phillip Thaler
  • VERTICAL/HORIZONTAL SMALL ANGLE X-RAY SCATTERING APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MEASURING SMALL ANGLE X-RAY SCATTERING
    Publication number: 20090213992
    Abstract: A vertical/horizontal small angle X-ray scattering apparatus, for enabling plural numbers of X-ray diffraction measurements, such as, transmission small angle X-ray diffraction, reflection small angle X-ray diffraction, and in-plane X-ray diffraction, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 4, 2006
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Yoshio Iwasaki
  • X-ray imaging apparatus
    Patent number: 7577237
    Abstract: When a tabletop is rolling, an aperture specifying unit calculates an aperture of diaphragm blades such that a radiation field is to be R? based on a rolling angle, where R? is a radiation field having the same radiation area of X-rays after tabletop rolling as a radiation area before the tabletop rolling. The aperture specifying unit instructs a beam-limit control unit to take the calculated aperture of the diaphragm blades in an X-ray beam limiting device. Then, the beam-limit control unit controls the aperture of the diaphragm blades such that the radiation field is to be R?.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Ryuji Zaiki
  • Portable control station for the inspection of people and luggage
    Patent number: 7577234
    Abstract: A portable control station for the inspection of people and luggage includes a portable, container-like room module, which on two opposite walls has at least one door each. Between the doors, a passage zone for people is formed inside the room module. In the area of the passage zone, a people inspection device is arranged, and alongside the passage zone an inspection device for luggage with a control area is located.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Smiths Heimann GmbH
    Inventors: Kristofer Roe, Walter Knoespel, Erwin Kirsten, Fred Hemp, Stefan Aust
  • Patient positioning device of a panoramic dental X-ray apparatus
    Patent number: 7572058
    Abstract: A positioning device for positioning a patient when being radiographed with a panorama X-ray machine 10 includes a retainer 18 disposed in a fixed direction relative to the X-ray apparatus 10 and a variable positioner connected thereto, for example a bite block 19 or a support, the retainer including a longitudinal guide 20 for guiding the positioner 19 such that the positioner 19 is guided in the retainer 18 for vertical adjustment in a longitudinal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Sirona Dental Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Malte Pruss, Michael Döbert
  • COMPRESSION PAD AND MAMMOGRAPHY APPARATUS COMPRISING SUCH A PAD
    Publication number: 20090196394
    Abstract: Compression pad for a mammography apparatus comprising a compression plate made of a material transparent to X-rays, and a support by which said pad is configured to be mounted onto a mammography apparatus. The support has an arch shape configured to go over the edge of a compression plate, and said compression plate and said support comprise complementary mechanical means capable of enabling manual locking/unlocking of the support on said plate, in particular for cleaning said plate and said support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventors: Fanny PATOUREAUX, Jean-Claude LEDAN, Alain RAUBY
  • USER CONTROL DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING A MEDICAL SYSTEM
    Publication number: 20090190715
    Abstract: An operating device with an operating piece, which may be positioned near the floor, includes at least one operating element for controlling a medical instrument. Operation of the medical instrument is possible by actuation of the at least one operating element by foot, such that the operator has hands free to use for further manipulation. A flexible positioning of the operating piece in a defined movement range is possible by arrangement of the operating device such as to be pivotable and/or extendable/retractable relative to the medical instrument which is good for operational manipulation. The operational device may be used during operation of a mammography device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Inventors: Oliver Meer, Martin Ramsauer
  • Increased throughput inspection station
    Patent number: 7561664
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for inspecting items for the presence of contraband. Trays may be used to hold items as they move through an inspection station. After use, the trays may be mechanically conveyed back to an entry region of the inspection station so that the trays may be used to move other items. Mechanically conveying the trays may enable increased throughput for inspection stations. A tray return may be constructed from multiple modules positioned to the side of an inspection machine. In use at an airport or other similar facility, the tray return may face a passenger use area at an inspection station. Passengers exiting the inspection station may place trays in the tray return. Passengers entering the inspection station may remove a tray from an end of the tray return at an entrance of the inspection station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: L-3 Communications Security and Detection Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Arkady Mikhail Teslyar, Joseph Parisi, John J. Reilly
  • X-ray positioning device
    Patent number: 7559690
    Abstract: An apparatus for positioning a patient during an X-ray comprising a base, a turntable, wherein the turntable is rotatably attached to the base, with a foot guide and level. The side foot guide is attached to the turntable, while the foot plate is adjustable. A patient places his or her feet against the side foot guide with the heel against the foot plate during the exposure of the X-ray. The X-ray is taken with a level reference strip apparatus that allows the X-rays to be evaluated precisely and correctly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Inventor: Jared Holthe
  • DENTAL X-RAY APPARATUS COMPRISING A PATIENT-POSITIONING SYSTEM ARRANGED ON A SUPPORT AND PROVIDED WITH A FOREHEAD REST
    Publication number: 20090175409
    Abstract: The invention proposes a dental X-ray apparatus comprising a patient-positioning system arranged on a support and having a forehead rest. A horizontally pivotable bearing arm is arranged on the support, and the forehead rest is in turn arranged thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Applicant: SIRONA DENTAL SYSTEMS GMBH
    Inventor: Klaus Stöckl
  • COMPRESSION PADDLE AND METHODS FOR USING THE SAME IN VARIOUS MEDICAL PROCEDURES
    Publication number: 20090175408
    Abstract: A compression paddle includes a frame defining a hollow cavity. The cavity has two opposed ends. A plurality of filaments is attached to at least one of the two opposed ends of the cavity such that the plurality of filaments extends across the cavity in a predetermined manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Inventors: Mitchell M. Goodsitt, Daniel J. March, Jonathon T. Ong, Jeffrey Grimm, James Pavlik, Nancy J. Thorson
  • Bite device used with a panorama x-ray device
    Publication number: 20090154656
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2009
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventor: Klaus STOECKL
  • X-ray CT examination installation and CT method of examining objects
    Patent number: 7545905
    Abstract: An X-ray CT examination installation, having an X-ray tube including a focus, that creates a fan beam or a conical beam which X-rays the whole of a detector at a fixed distance from the focus, and an examination carriage, for supporting an object to be examined, the carriage having an axis of rotation perpendicular to the fan beam, wherein the examination carriage can be fixed inside the fan beam close to an edge axis which meets the detector at the edge, and can be moved on a measuring line that centrally runs at an angle to a central axis which meets the detector. The invention also relates to a CT method of examining objects, in particular of various sizes, by means of an X-ray CT examination installation generally identified above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Yxlon International X-Ray GmbH
    Inventors: Martin Münker, Oliver Rokitta, Faissal Laakel
  • PRE-FILMED PRECISION SAMPLE CELL FOR X-RAY ANALYZER
    Publication number: 20090141867
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Applicant: X-RAY OPTICAL SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: John H. BURDETT, JR., Daniel L. DUNHAM, James B. QUINN
  • SHIELDED SAMPLE CELL INSERTION AND REMOVAL APPARATUS FOR X-RAY ANALYZER
    Publication number: 20090141865
    Abstract: A shielded sample cell insertion and removal apparatus for an x-ray analysis instrument, including a sample cell setting to hold a sample cell, an outer surface of which exposes the sample to an x-ray engine; and a shielded area positioned over the sample cell, to shield an area beyond the sample cell from x-rays transmitted from the x-ray engine. Upon moving the apparatus into and out of the instrument, the sample cell is moved into and out of an analysis position, while retaining shielding of areas beyond the sample cell from x-rays transmitted from the x-ray engine of the instrument.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Applicant: X-RAY OPTICAL SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Rory D. DELANEY, Brian W. GALLAGHER
  • SLIDING SAMPLE CELL INSERTION AND REMOVAL APPARATUS FOR X-RAY ANALYZER
    Publication number: 20090141862
    Abstract: A sample cell insertion and removal apparatus for an analysis instrument, including a horizontally sliding frame; a sample cell carriage movably mounted to the sliding frame, the sample cell carriage including an area to hold a sample cell; wherein upon sliding into and out of the instrument, the sample cell carriage is moved horizontally and vertically into and out of an analysis position. This instrument may include a radiation shielded enclosure into and out of which the apparatus slides, and an x-ray analysis engine which transmits x-rays upwards towards the sample cell which projects from a bottom of the apparatus. 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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Applicant: X-RAY OPTICAL SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Daniel L. DUNHAM, James B. QUINN, Brian W. GALLAGHER
  • Sample mounts for microcrystal crystallography
    Patent number: 7542546
    Abstract: Sample mounts (10) for mounting microcrystals of biological macromolecules for X-ray crystallography are prepared by using patterned thin polyimide films (12) that have curvature imparted thereto, for example, by being attached to a curved outer surface of a small metal rod (16). The patterned film (12) preferably includes a tip end (24) for holding a crystal. Preferably, a small sample aperture is disposed in the film for reception of the crystal. A second, larger aperture can also be provided that is connected to the sample aperture by a drainage channel, allowing removal of excess liquid and easier manipulation in viscous solutions. The curvature imparted to the film (12) increases the film's rigidity and allows a convenient scoop-like action for retrieving crystals. The polyimide contributes minimally to background and absorption, and can be treated to obtain desired hydrophobicity or hydrophilicity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: Cornell Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert E. Thorne, Zachary Stum, Kevin O'Neill, Jan Kmetko
  • MAMMOGRAPHY APPARATUS COMPRESSION TRAY, AND MOUNTING AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREFOR
    Publication number: 20090136005
    Abstract: In a method for production of a compression tray 1 for mammography apparatuses, a thermoplastic synthetic granulate is heated and introduced into an injection mold under pressure in an injection molding procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Inventor: Robert Standar
  • PATIENT POSITIONING SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR DIAGNOSTIC RADIOLOGY AND RADIOTHERAPY
    Publication number: 20090129556
    Abstract: The system provides new ways to ensure that a patient is positioned correctly, e.g. identically with an original planning scan if the patient is to undergo radiotherapy. The system also detects if there is patient movement during a scan. It is an aspect of the present method to immobilize the patient based on a specific site of interest by using positioning sensors that record patient physical orientation based on measurements of patient weight distribution and pressure distribution among other features.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2008
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Applicant: PYRONIA MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIES, INCORPORATED
    Inventor: PETER H. AHN
  • Platform for radiological examination of the foot and ankle
    Patent number: 7527428
    Abstract: A two step platform elevates a standing patient upon a horizontally located chamber for examination of the foot and ankle by radiological methods. The chamber receives a slide that carries an x-ray film beneath a foot of a standing patient. Additionally, the patient stands upon a visually and radiologicaly transparent deck. The deck has one slot for upright positioning and a chamber for horizontal positioning of a radiological film cartridge. The platform of the present invention allows a radiologist to take a radiological image of a patient's foot and ankle from both the side and above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas J. Riley
  • Method and apparatus for inspecting circuit boards
    Patent number: 7529338
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for inspecting a sample is described. The apparatus can have an X-ray source and detector, a housing, an access aperture in the housing, an access door covering the access aperture, and a stage positionable to extend through the access aperture to a load/unload point outside the housing. The method can include opening the first access door, moving at least a portion of a stage through the first access aperture to a position outside of the housing to receive the sample, moving the stage into the housing, closing the first access door, moving the stage to a position for inspection of the sample, applying X-rays to the sample, receiving X-rays passing through the sample with the X-ray detector, generating one or more signals based on the received X-rays, and displaying an image of the sample for analysis based on the one or more signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: FocalSpot, Inc.
    Inventors: Leon Fung, Glenn Olaes, Frank Silva, Fred Schlieper
  • PROCESS AND APPARATUS FOR IMAGING
    Publication number: 20090080600
    Abstract: Processes for producing a microCT image for virtual histology using x-ray microscopic computed tomography are described along with processes for rapid and inexpensive high-throughput methods of high resolution imaging for screening an ex vivo embryo for phenotype using computed tomography imaging. Staining of particular components of specimens with one or more staining agents is described which contributes to high quality image generation and identification of anatomical structures as well as localization of molecular targets. Inventive animal and specimen holders are detailed which allow for reduced post-imaging processing of generated images. In particular, animal and specimen holders are provided which include a highly transparent bed or liner which separates the animal or specimen from a less transparent structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Inventors: Charles Keller, Ali N. Bahadur
  • PATIENT ALIGNMENT SYSTEM WITH EXTERNAL MEASUREMENT AND OBJECT COORDINATION FOR RADIATION THERAPY SYSTEM
    Publication number: 20090067577
    Abstract: A patient alignment system for a radiation therapy system. The alignment system includes multiple external measurement devices which obtain position measurements of components of the radiation therapy system which are movable and/or are subject to flex or other positional variations. The alignment system employs the external measurements to provide corrective positioning feedback to more precisely register the patient and align them with a radiation beam. The alignment system can be provided as an integral part of a radiation therapy system or can be added as an upgrade to existing radiation therapy systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2008
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventors: Nickolas S. Rigney, Daniel C. Anderson, David A. Lesyna, Daniel W. Miller, Michael F. Moyers, Chieh C. Cheng, Michael A. Baumann
  • Device for cushioning compression surfaces
    Patent number: 7502441
    Abstract: According to the present invention, improved methods and apparatus are provided for providing cushioning and other ergonomic surfaces on devices requiring the patient or tissue to be compressed, such as radiography machines, fluoroscopy units, mammography units and the like. In particular a radiolucent pad element is provided for releasable attachment to at least one surface of a compression device to be used under x-ray, for example, during mammography. The pad element of the present invention can be disposable or constructed to be reusable and in some cases may be applied directly to the patient's breast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignee: Biolucent, LLC
    Inventors: Gail Lebovic, George D. Hermann, David Willis, Thomas A. Howell
  • Bite device used with a panorama X-ray device
    Patent number: 7497619
    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).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Sirona Dental Systems GmbH
    Inventor: Klaus Stoeckl
  • X-ray manipulator
    Patent number: 7497617
    Abstract: A frame (10) for an x-ray inspection device comprises a structural member (16) to which is pivoted an arcuate frame (21). An x-ray source (12) is in use mounted directly to the member (16), and an x-ray detector (13) is movable around the frame (21). A three axis sample support for items to be imaged is arranged between the source (12) and detector (13). The frame (10) of the invention is particularly rigid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventor: Benjamin Kingsley Stuart Peecock
  • Spatially correlated x-ray and ultrasound mammographic imaging systems and method
    Patent number: 7496398
    Abstract: The present invention provides for x-ray imaging and ultrasound imaging of a body region of interest in a spatially correlatable manner. The resultant x-ray and ultrasound images may be combinatively employed to provide three-dimensional information regarding a location of interest within the body, and is particularly apt for use in the analysis/biopsy of potential lesions and suspicious masses in a female breast. The invention provides for direct body contact by an ultrasound imaging head, as well as targeted ultrasound imaging of a selected portion of the region from which x-ray images are obtained. A user interface system facilitates various procedures including ultrasound guided needle biopsy procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: Hologic Inc.
    Inventors: Morgan W. Nields, John Connor, Curtis Daly