Abstract: A breast x-ray imaging method and system that is particularly suited for tomosynthesis imaging but also is useful for conventional mammography. A fluid containing pillow or bag is placed between the breast and a paddle that compresses the breast against a breast platform covering an imaging device, to enhance patient comfort and provide other benefits. Alternatives include a flexible sheet compressing the breast, and a compressible foam, preferably contoured to accommodate a patient's breast.

Abstract: In at least one embodiment, the present application is directed to a method. The method includes performing at least one of a vertebroplasty procedure, a kyphoplasty procedure, an electroencephalography (EEG) procedure and intraoperative electromyography (EMG) on a patient, and using an imaging system including at least an x-ray source and detector to image at least a portion of the patient during performance of at least a portion of the at least one of a vertebroplasty procedure, a kyphoplasty procedure, an electroencephalography (EEG) procedure and intraoperative electromyography (EMG), the imaging system being arranged on a robot including at least four, preferably six axes of rotation.

Abstract: A medical upright positioning device includes a planar structure having a foot positioning device. At least one outer edge of the planar structure comprises an abutting or engaging device arranged in a predefined positional relationship to the foot positioning device, wherein the abutting or engaging device is operative to position the planar structure in at least one predefined orientation relative to a reference direction.

Abstract: A patient treatment arrangement is provided which includes a fixed beam irradiation source; and a patient positioning apparatus, the patient positioning apparatus comprising: a support member; a patient securing mechanism arranged to secure a patient to the patient support member; and a patient positioner in communication with the patient support member and operative to achieve positioning of the support member equivalent to rotation of the patient support member about a plurality of axes and translation of the patient support member along a plurality of axes, the patient positioner thereby providing substantially unrestricted variable angular access for irradiation of a target tissue of a patient secured to the patient securing mechanism from the fixed beam irradiation source.

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.

Abstract: The present invention provides new and useful features and mechanisms for the localization and transport of biopsy specimens. The invention having a specimen board, an absorbent material in operative engagement and in coplanar alignment with the specimen board, a compression sheet, radio opaque indicia located within the specimen board, and a flexible connection between the compression sheet and the specimen board, and an attachment device which provides for removable engagement of the specimen board and compression sheet. The apparatus further provides for a clear visualization window and operating instructions. The absorbent material is capable of adjustable movement between a first and second position, providing orthogonal positioning relative to the specimen board. As a result, the apparatus may be used to create three dimensional radiographic images allowing tissue analysis resulting in orthogonal views while maintaining original positional reference points.

Abstract: A multiple point source test phantom is used for calibration of detector positioning of a nuclear medical imaging apparatus. An absolute coordinate system for the detectors is aligned to an image reconstruction space coordinate system by fitting a Gaussian surface to a peak of a center point source of said test phantom, and using displacement parameters as obtained from the fitted Gaussian surface to calculate a displacement correction parameter, which is used to move a patient bed of the imaging apparatus such that the image reconstruction space is aligned with the absolute coordinate system.

Abstract: A shoulder joint is provided. The shoulder joint includes a main support, a fold-out arm, first and second carriages arranged on the main support, and a first coupling that is operable to couple the first and second carriages together. The fold-out arm is attached by a pin to the second carriage, and the first carriage is connected to the fold-out arm in such a way that when the first and second carriages are operable to move towards each other, the fold-out arm is folded out by pivoting around the pin. The first coupling is operable to couple the first and second carriages together when the fold-out arm is folded out, and the first and second carriages are operable to move jointly in at least one direction when coupled together.

Abstract: A patient barrier is described. The patient barrier includes a footstep configured to support a patient and placed on a floor, a frame attached to the footstep and configured to separate the patient from an energy receptor The patient barrier includes at least one of a first pivot configured to pivot the patient barrier with respect to the floor, and a support bar coupled to the frame, configured to support an arm of the patient, and pivot with respect to the frame.

Abstract: The present invention provides a support for a patient undergoing radiation therapy that preserves radiation build-up, such as normally spares the skin from receiving high amounts of radiation dose. The support includes at least one gas-filled bladder that displaces some tissue from the path of the radiation and/or spaces the tissue being treated from foam or the like.

Abstract: A mammographic imaging system (1) is optimizd for use with a single fixed size flat panel digital image receptor (5). It accommodates compression devices (paddles) of varying sizes, and positions them properly in the field of view of the image receptor (5). When a compression paddle (2) with size smaller than the field of view of the image receptor is used, the compression paddle (2) can be shifted laterally in the direction parallel to the chest wall, so as to facilitate different views of different size breasts, and permit the image receptor to image as much of the desired tissue as possible. An automatic X-ray collimator (40) restricts the X-ray illumination (30) of the breast (3) in accordance with compression paddle (2) size and location in the field of view. An anti-scatter grid (4), mounted inside the image receptor enclosure, just below the top cover of the enclosure, can be retracted out of the field of view of the image receptor for use in magnification imaging.

Abstract: A patient imaging support is provided having first and second areas of reduced imaging energy attenuation to avoid increased in imaging energy by automatic exposure control voids during use of a C-arm imaging device in the right anterior oblique (RAO) and/or left anterior oblique (LAO) positions and to allow reduction of the amount of X-ray energy or other imaging energy needed to produce an image of the procedure field and for observation by medical personnel.

Abstract: A patient imaging support is provided having first and second areas of reduced imaging energy attenuation to avoid increased in imaging energy by automatic exposure control voids during use of a C-arm imaging device in the right anterior oblique (RAO) and/or left anterior oblique (LAO) positions and to allow reduction of the amount of X-ray energy or other imaging energy needed to produce an image of the procedure field and for observation by medical personnel.

Abstract: A sample sealing vessel 8 includes a plurality of wall faces comprising a material for transmitting X-ray, an X-ray source 1 is arranged at a wall face 11 to irradiate primary X-ray, a face 12 different from the face irradiated with the primary X-ray is arranged to be opposed to an X-ray detector 10, and the primary X-ray from the X-ray source 1 is arranged to be able to irradiate the wall face 12 of the sample sealing vessel to which the X-ray detector 10 is opposed.

Abstract: An improved portable patient support and radiographic cassette holder includes first and second modules which include connectors for coupling the modules together without the need for tools to provide a base cassette receiver. The two modules are preferably identical in configuration, each including a base wall and a pair of sidewalls. The modules also preferably include a pair of arms which form partial end walls presenting a passage therebetween. The arms and the sidewalls include respective ledges and shelves, such that a support panel for a patient can be positioned thereon. An X-ray film cassette may be inserted through either end of base cassette receiver, and one or both of a headrest and a footrest may be mounted thereon. Patient restraints may be inserted through vertical slots in the sidewall.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for precisely reproducing the position of a vaginal cylinder in relation to a patient to ensure that a planned radiation dose can be delivered with high precision to the intended treatment target volumes. In order to properly define the treatment volume, a vaginal cylinder with proper diameter is inserted into the patient's vagina. This invention addresses two potential errors: one, the incorrect vaginal cylinder position in relation to the radiation beams, and second, the inconsistent positional correlation between the vaginal cylinder and the patient's body. These two geometric errors will cause dosimetric errors. The present invention provides a method and apparatus for minimizing the geometric error and dosimetric error associated with conventional external beam radiation therapy or radiosurgery used in treating gynecological tumors. First a treatment plan is carried out to determine the treatment target volume.

Abstract: To provide a fluorescent X-ray analysis apparatus, whereby a peak-back ratio is improved by effectively exciting a focused element and a detection limit of the focused element is improved by decreasing a scattered X-ray to be a background. A sample housing has one or more wall surfaces made of a material through which an X-ray transmits and an X-ray source is arranged so that a primary X-ray is irradiated on the wall surface. In addition, the sample housing is arranged so that a wall surface different from a wall surface on which the primary X-ray is irradiated is opposed to an X-ray detector incident window. Further, the primary X-ray from the X-ray source is arranged so as to be able to irradiate the wall surface of the sample housing to which the X-ray detector incident window is opposed. The sample housing has a shape extending in response to extension of a viewing filed that a detection element in the X-ray detector is seen from the X-ray detector incident window.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for delivering therapeutic radiation (112) to a radiotherapy target (119) in a patient (114) includes a diagnostic X-ray source (124, 125) connected to a treatment couch (116), facing a first side of the patient. An imaging device (118) is connected to the treatment couch facing a second side of the patient. The diagnostic X-ray source and the imaging device move in lockstep with movement of the treatment couch. The patient is in a fixed position relative to the treatment couch.

Abstract: A security screening system for scanning items, the system comprising: a scanner, configured to produce x-ray projection data as an object is passed through the scanner, at least a portion of the scanner being received within a structure, the structure having an input opening and an outlet opening, the input opening being configured to receive objects to be scanned and the output opening being configured to receive objects scanned by the scanner; an input conveyor for passing a plurality of bins through the input opening to the outlet opening, the input conveyor having an input end for receiving the plurality of bins to pass the plurality of bins into the input opening and an output end for delivering the plurality of bins from the outlet opening; and a return conveyor positioned to return the plurality of bins to an area proximate to the input end of the input conveyor, the return conveyor being positioned below the input conveyor, wherein the return conveyor does not pass through the scanner.

Abstract: A radiotherapy chamber is provided that comprises a substantially air-tight enclosure adapted to accept a patient; a radiation source disposed inside the enclosure; a patient support system disposed inside the enclosure and in working arrangement with the radiation source; and a screw compressor and an outlet flow modulator fluidly connected to the enclosure. A method for treatment of a subject in need thereof using the radiation chamber is also provided.

Abstract: A therapy system using an ion beam, which can shorten the time required for positioning a couch (patient). The therapy system using the ion beam comprises a rotating gantry provided with an ion beam delivery unit including an X-ray tube. An X-ray detecting device having a plurality of X-ray detectors can be moved in the direction of a rotation axis of the rotating gantry. A couch on which a patient is lying is moved until a tumor substantially reaches an extension of an ion beam path in the irradiating unit. The X-ray tube is positioned on the ion beam path and the X-ray detecting device is positioned on the extension of the ion beam path. With rotation of the rotating gantry, both the X-ray tube emitting an X-ray and the X-ray detecting device revolve around the patient. The X-ray is emitted to the patient and detected by the X-ray detectors after penetrating the patient. Tomographic information of the patient is formed based on signals outputted from the X-ray detectors.

Abstract: With a view to attaining both easiness of position adjustment and sureness of position holding, a patient supporting apparatus comprises an arm for supporting a patient, the arm comprising a horizontal arm portion and a vertical arm portion, a rail for supporting the arm movably in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal arm portion and the vertical arm portion, and a brake for preventing movement of the arm along the rail by utilizing a moment of rotation with the vertical arm portion of the arm being as an axis.

Abstract: It is intended to implement imaging in an efficient way. In a first period in which a cradle unit is driven under acceleration from a stationary state, the cradle unit is driven with a constant first torque value. In a second period which comes after the lapse of the first period and in which the cradle unit is driven under acceleration, the cradle unit is driven with a constant second torque value which is smaller than the first torque value.

Abstract: A CT scanning system provides the ability to scan a patient's lower extremities while the patent is upright, i.e. either standing on the foot, or at least putting some load on the foot, or with the ankle at a given angle. The CT scanning system provides a generally horizontal upper support surface on which the patient's foot is supported. A gantry supporting an x-ray source and x-ray detector are rotated about a z-axis through the support surface. With the CT scanning system, the patient's lower extremities can be scanned while under load.

Abstract: This invention provides a subject support device with a highly maneuverable top plate and an X-ray imaging apparatus with such subject support device. A subject support device comprises a top plate for a subject to lie on, and a pedestal base which cantilevers the top plate in a horizontally extendable manner, and a levelness maintaining unit which adjusts the posture of the pedestal base to maintain the levelness of a part for supporting the top plate. The levelness maintaining unit includes a detector which detects the levelness of the part for supporting the top plate, a control circuit which outputs a control signal according to a detection signal from the detector, and an actuator which changes the posture of the pedestal base according to a control signal from the control circuit.

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.

Abstract: A radiographic imaging apparatus which has an imaging system having a radiation source to irradiate a subject with radiation and a radiation detector to detect the radiation irradiated from the radiation source, and a radiographic imaging table to arrange the subject within the imaging system includes an arm holder which supports upward arms of the subject arranged on the radiographic imaging table, and a holder supporting member which supports the arm holder.

Abstract: A radiation garment holder for mounting on a wall or other suitable surface. The holder has a central section with first and second clearance sections, first and second arms, and first and second shoulder support regions. The cantilevered clearance sections prevent radiation protection garments from contacting a support surface. The non-contact design reduces disease transmission between the radiation garment and a support surface, and reduces mechanical damage to the garment. The convex shoulder supports help extend the useful life of a radiation garment. The holder is nonporous and may readily be disinfected without degrading the material. The nonporous holder reduces the absorption of infectious agents, reduces the ability of the holder to support the growth of microorganisms or other antigenic materials, and reduces the risk of transferring unhealthful agents.

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.

Abstract: A multifunctional hard x-ray nanoprobe instrument for characterization of nanoscale materials and devices includes a scanning probe mode with a full field transmission mode. The scanning probe mode provides fluorescence spectroscopy and diffraction contrast imaging. The full field transmission mode allows two-dimensional (2-D) imaging and tomography. The nanoprobe instrument includes zone plate optics for focusing and imaging. The nanoprobe instrument includes a stage group for positioning the zone plate optics. The nanoprobe instrument includes a specimen stage group for positioning the specimen. An enhanced laser Doppler displacement meter (LDDM) system provides two-dimensional differential displacement measurement in a range of nanometer resolution between the zone-plate optics and the sample holder. A digital signal processor (DSP) implements a real-time closed-loop feedback technique for providing differential vibration control between the zone-plate optics and the sample holder.

Abstract: A frame for positioning and labeling an appendage relative to an x-ray cassette during x-radiography. In one embodiment, the frame includes an x-ray transparent plate having a first surface and a second surface; and a protrusion positioned on the first surface. The protrusion aids in the positioning of the appendage and preventing the first surface of the plate from being in contact with the x-ray cassette. In still yet another embodiment, the plate includes indicia for positioning the appendage. Another aspect of the invention is a method for positioning an appendage on x-ray cassette including the steps of: providing a frame having an x-ray transparent plate having a first surface and a second surface; and a protrusion positioned on the first surface; placing the plate on the x-ray cassette such that the second surface is in contact with the x-ray cassette; and placing the appendage on the plate.

Abstract: The invention relates to a frame for positioning a hand for medical imaging. In one embodiment, the frame includes a plate having a first surface and a second surface, and at least one indicium of handedness on one of the first and second surface. In the embodiment, at least one indicium of the frame is positioned asymmetrically on one of the first and second surfaces. In another embodiment, while, at least one of the first and second surfaces is flat, the other surface is shaped to raise the fingers of the hand, and has a raised platform to support the wrist of said hand. The indicium is visible under medical imaging illumination. Medical imaging is selected from a group consisting of: X-Ray, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), computed tomography (CT), and PET (position emission tomography).

Abstract: In a biopsy system having a biopsy needle guide secured to a needle guide support bracket, a biopsy needle guide is provided that includes a body having a periphery that defines an edge of the needle guide, the periphery defining a top surface, a bottom surface and a pair of side surfaces. A cradling aperture is positioned in the body and sized to engage the needle guide support bracket. A channel is provided in communication with the cradling aperture. The channel extends inwardly from one of the side surfaces of the body toward the cradling aperture. The needle guide of the present invention inhibits movement of the needle guide relative to the support bracket during a biopsy procedure.

Abstract: A mammographic imaging system is optimized for use with a single fixed size flat panel digital image receptor. It accommodates compression devices (paddles) of varying sizes, and positions them properly in the field of view of the image receptor. When a compression paddle with size smaller than the field of view of the image receptor is used, the compression paddle can be shifted laterally in the direction parallel to the chest wall, so as to facilitate different views of different size breasts, and permit the image receptor to image as much of the desired tissue as possible. An automatic x-ray collimator restricts the x-ray illumination of the breast in accordance with compression paddle size and location in the field of view. An anti-scatter grid, mounted inside the image receptor enclosure, just below the top cover of the enclosure, can be retracted out of the field of view of the image receptor for use in magnification imaging.

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 tapered 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.

Abstract: An X-ray thin film inspection apparatus including a sample table on which an inspection target such as a product wafer or the like is mounted, a positioning mechanism for moving the sample table, a goniometer having first and second swing arms, at least one X-ray irradiation unit that are mounted on the first swing arm and containing an X-ray tube and an X-ray optical element in a shield tube, an X-ray detector mounted on a second swing arm, and an optical camera for subjecting the inspection target disposed on the sample table to pattern recognition.

Abstract: A calibration system is disclosed for a stereoradiographic device having an X-ray source and a vertical X-ray receiver, the calibration system includes a horizontal table which rotates between two reference positions that are separated by 90 degrees in a horizontal plane of the table. A vertical frame is fastened to the horizontal table and is symmetrical with an axis of rotation of the table, the frame accommodates a patient that remains stationary relative to the frame as the table is rotated between its two reference positions wherein corresponding X-ray photographs are taken. At least three markers made of radio-opaque material are firmly attached to the frame, one of the markers represents the origin of orthogonal X,Y and Z axes, a second of the markers is located at a predetermined point along the X-Y axes, the third marker located at a known distance along the Z axis, the markers defining respective distances Lx, Ly or H relative to the origin.

Abstract: In an apparatus without a helical movement, a reconstruction error considerably increases as a radiation angle increases. In a prior art embodiment, for example, a one-side value of the radiation angle is 9.5 degrees, and it is predicted that the reconstruction error at its periphery considerably increases. In a radiation imaging apparatus including a radiation generating source for radiating radiation to a subject, a rotating unit for rotating the subject exposed to the radiation from the radiation generating source, and a two-dimensional detector for detecting radiation, a distance between the radiation generating source and the two-dimensional detector is approximately set to a value equal to or more than 240 cm.

Abstract: A therapy system using an ion beam, which can shorten the time required for positioning a couch (patient). The therapy system using the ion beam comprises a rotating gantry provided with an ion beam delivery unit including an X-ray tube. An X-ray detecting device having a plurality of X-ray detectors can be moved in the direction of a rotation axis of the rotating gantry. A couch on which a patient is lying is moved until a tumor substantially reaches an extension of an ion beam path in the irradiating unit. The X-ray tube is positioned on the ion beam path and the X-ray detecting device is positioned on the extension of the ion beam path. With rotation of the rotating gantry, both the X-ray tube emitting an X-ray and the X-ray detecting device revolve around the patient. The X-ray is emitted to the patient and detected by the X-ray detectors after penetrating the patient. Tomographic information of the patient is formed based on signals outputted from the X-ray detectors.

Abstract: The invention described herein provides systems and methods for multi-modal imaging with light and a second form of imaging. Light imaging involves the capture of low intensity light from a light-emitting object. A camera obtains a two-dimensional spatial distribution of the light emitted from the surface of the subject. Software operated by a computer in communication with the camera may then convert two-dimensional spatial distribution data from one or more images into a three-dimensional spatial representation. The second imaging mode may include any imaging technique that compliments light imaging. Examples include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computer topography (CT). An object handling system moves the object to be imaged between the light imaging system and the second imaging system, and is configured to interface with each system.

Abstract: In a method and a device for positioning a patient in a medical diagnosis device or therapy device having a position calculating device and a patient bed adjustable in at least one plane, at least one optical target marking is brought into conformity with a body region of the patient. At least one image recording device is used for obtaining an exterior image of the patient that is displayed on a screen. The target marking that is spatially coupled with the coordinate system of the diagnosis device or therapy device, is superimposed on the image of the patient on the screen such that a predetermined body region of the patient can be brought into a desired spatial correlation with the target marking by remote control movement of the patient bed.

Abstract: A multi-use examination table provides x-ray imaging thereby conserving examination room space and to speed patient examination while retaining standard examination table features such as table extensions, foot end drawers, trays and stirrups, and a step for access to the high examination table surface. A repositionable imaging boom allows the table to remain unobstructed when x-ray imaging is not required.

Abstract: There is described an X-ray system having at least one component (12, 2, 31, 32) that is shiftable (moveable) or pivotable along at least one traverse path to at least one predeterminable locking position (Bx). Components of this kind are in particular the moving parts of a stand such as the moving parts of a ceiling stand (1), floor stand or wall stand for an X-ray generator (2, 21), and the X-ray generator (2, 21) that is fastened to the stand in such a way as to be capable of being pivoted and extended or retracted. Such components also include the shiftable (moveable) or pivotable top of a patient table and a film cassette that is displaceably or pivotably mounted in the table or on a wall stand.

Abstract: A method and robot-based automation system are provided for cryogenic crystal sample mounting, for example, for use for cryogenic crystal sample mounting in the x-ray crystallography station at an x-ray source. The system includes a robot arm carrying a handset. The handset includes a pair of elongated fingers for sample mounting, and each finger carrying a set of strain gauge arrays for providing force sensing. A slim finger design allows a sample mounting process with no interference with the beam stop, cryostreem and x-ray detectors. The handset can detect the contact force intensity and direction; provide a precise gripping action; and feel the results of the gripping. The finger design incorporates a mechanism to maintain the sample temperature well below the cryogenic safety margin for the crystal viability. A Dewar container is provided with an ice control system and liquid nitrogen flow control. A triangular sample magazine maximizes the Dewar space usage.

Abstract: A patient positioning assembly for therapeutic radiation treatment includes a support device for supporting the patient during treatment, and a controller for controlling the motion of the support device so that the treatment target within the patient is properly aligned with respect to a radiosurgical treatment apparatus throughout the treatment. The controller generates motion command signals for implementing corrective motions of the support device. The corrective motions align the target so that the position and orientation of the target, as shown in near real time image data, substantially match the position and orientation of the target, as shown in pre-treatment scans. One or more user interface modules, for example a handheld remote control module and a user interface screen, allows the user to interactively control the motion of the support device, by implementing one or more user selectable functions.

Abstract: Arrangements of X-ray inspection systems are described. An X-ray inspection system may include a shielded housing with a tunnel passageway and entrance and exit ports. The system may include an X-ray inspection station defining a rectilinear coordinate system, an X-ray source, and a detection system for generating images of articles that are located in the inspection station. A conveyor assembly may be included. A plurality of flexible X-ray attenuating, spaced-apart, hanging strips may be distributed within the shielded housing between the ports and across the entire tunnel passageway. The X-ray inspection system may include at least one curtain of flexible X-ray attenuating hanging strips. Each curtain may include a plurality of sets of contiguous strips, the strips of each set being of equal length and distributed across the tunnel passageway. The strips of at least one set are shorter than the strips of at least one other set.

Abstract: An imaging tomography apparatus, such as an x-ray computed tomography apparatus or a magnetic resonance tomography apparatus, has a patient bed that can be driven into a tunnel-shaped or annular data acquisition device. To increase comfort for the patient and accessibility by medical personnel, the patient bed has a pivotable backrest connected to a seat.

Abstract: A dual energy x-ray densitometer is incorporated into a standard patient examination table to provide improved access to this screening tool during regular examinations. A repositionable scanning head allows the table to remain unobstructed when scanning is not occurring and a limited scanning area allows the examination table to retain standard examination table features such as table extensions, foot end drawers, trays and stirrups, and a step for access to the high examination table surface.

Abstract: A projection-based x-ray imaging system combines projection magnification and optical magnification in order to ease constraints on source spot size, while improving imaging system footprint and efficiency. The system enables tomographic imaging of the sample especially in a proximity mode where the same is held in close proximity to the scintillator. In this case, a sample holder is provided that can rotate the sample. Further, a z-axis motion stage is also provided that is used to control distance between the sample and the scintillator.

Abstract: A method for inspection of a sample includes directing a beam of X-rays toward a sample and configuring an array of detector elements to capture the X-rays scattered from the sample. The sample is shifted in a direction parallel to the axis of the array between at least first and second positions, which positions are separated one from another by an increment that is not an integer multiple of the pitch of the array. At least first and second signals are generated by the detector elements responsively to the X-rays captured thereby while the sample is in at least the first and second positions, respectively. The first and second signals are combined so as to determine an X-ray scattering profile of the sample as a function of position along the axis.