Stereoscopy Patents (Class 378/41)
  • Publication number: 20030081720
    Abstract: The present invention provides a means to augment or upgrade a traditional single beam 2D x-ray system to produce 3D stereoscopic output. The system utilizes the cross-sectional beam divergence of a single source x-ray unit to generate perspective information. This is achieved by scanning the object twice where the object is shifted parallel to the cross-sectional beam plane between scans. The resulting two scans can be displayed on a 3D stereoscopic viewing system to produce a 3D stereoscopic representation of the object thus revealing all three-depth dimensions. The invention includes a method of converting a 2D x-ray system to a 3D x-ray system requiring no changes to an x-ray generation portion, optics portion or sensing system portion of said 2D x-ray system. The method includes coupling a 3D stereoscopic image processor to a 2D processor and installing a mechanical shift system and coupling said shift system to said 3D stereoscopic image processor and a object carrying device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Inventors: David C. Swift, Sadeg M. Faris
  • Publication number: 20030031291
    Abstract: An X-ray apparatus comprises a radiographic system for rotating an X-ray source and an X-ray detector across an object, and a table device for turning an object horizontally on the axis of X-ray irradiation perpendicular to the floor on which the radiographic system is installed. The X-ray apparatus is used to image an object at the optional angle to the longitudinal axis of the object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Inventors: Yoshimichi Yamamoto, Tsutomu Suzuki, Hiroshi Takagi, Takashi Ishikawa, Kenzo Sawaide
  • Publication number: 20030016781
    Abstract: A quantitative radiographic method and apparatus of determining the depth of a selected feature inside a three-dimensional object from a stereoscopic pair of left and right radiographic images to be presented to the left eye and right eye, respectively, of an operator. The method includes the steps of (a) producing the pair of images on the same object at slightly different angles, (b) operating image display devices to present the two images, and (c) performing and measuring horizontal shifting motions of the two images and obtaining the coordinates (XGA,YGA,ZGA) of an internal feature A with respect to a marker G according to a specified procedure. The procedure begins with aligning the image points of the marker G with their respective reference lines. The two reference lines lie on or very close to the image plane. Preferably, the same procedure is followed again for a second marker.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Inventor: Wen C. Huang
  • Patent number: 6507635
    Abstract: A system and method for radiographic inspection of an aircraft fuselage includes a radiation source located on one side of the fuselage and a plurality of radiation detectors located on another side of the fuselage. The system includes manipulators for moving the radiation source and the radiation detectors in a coordinated fashion. Radiation detected by the radiation detectors is processed to display stereoscopic images of areas of interest of the fuselage. The radiation source and detector positions are manipulated to obtain multiple sets of images from different viewing angles. The multiple sets of images are used to produce the stereoscopic images.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Thomas William Birdwell, Andrew Joseph Galish
  • Patent number: 6490475
    Abstract: A system employs a tracker and a set of substantially non-shadowing point markers, arranged in a fixed pattern or set in a fluoroscope calibration fixture that is imaged in each shot. The fixture is preferably affixed to the image detector of the fluoroscope, and tracking elements secured with respect to the fixture and at least one of a tool and the patient, provide respective position data irrespective of movement. A marker detection module identifies markers imaged in each shot, and a processor applies the known marker positions to model the projection geometry, e.g., camera axis and focus, for the shot and, together with the tracked tool position, form a corrected tool navigation image. In one embodiment an inverting distortion correction converts the tracked or actual location of the tool and displays the tool on the fluoroscopic image to guide the surgeon in tool navigation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLC
    Inventors: Teresa Seeley, Faith Lin, Tina Kapur, Gene Gregerson
  • Publication number: 20020126796
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a three-dimensional fluoroscopy for continuous stereoscopic observation of a human blood vessel by using a contrast medium, 3-D visualization in nondestructive inspection of materials, baggage check and so on. The present invention also relates to an X-ray bulb for the three-dimensional fluoroscopy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventor: Tomoki Yamasaki
  • Patent number: 6449333
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a three-dimensional fluoroscopy for continuous stereoscopic observation of a human blood vessel by using a contrast medium, 3-D visualization in nondestructive inspection of materials, baggage check and so on. The present invention also relates to an X-ray bulb for the three-dimensional fluoroscopy. According to the three-dimensional fluoroscopy provided by the present invention, two X-ray beams are irradiated to an object from sources spaced from each other by an interpupillary distance of a human inspector, for projection of alternating X-ray images for the left eye and the right eye on a fluorescent screen for a predetermined exposure time and at a predetermined interval, and the images for the left eye and the images of the right eye are projected on a stereoscopic viewer continuously but independently from each other, thereby providing a three-dimensional fluoroscopic view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventor: Tomoki Yamasaki
  • Patent number: 6438260
    Abstract: A method of creating a 2½D solid model picture in which a stereoscopic image is identified as a series of depth slices and the resulting slice data is built up to a 2½D model using appropriate computer software. The method compares a stereoscopic pair at a relative lateral position and identifies those points of coincidence so as to create a slice through the picture at a depth corresponding to that particular relative lateral position. The pair is then moved laterally relative to each one another by an amount equal to the minimum detectable parallax and the comparison is repeated as often as is required to identify points of coincidence at all parallax depths or slices of the stereoscopic picture. The 2½D solid model image is then built by using the obtained slice data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: The Nottingham Trent University
    Inventor: Max Robinson
  • Patent number: 6393095
    Abstract: A pair of stereoscopic images of an object are produced, one image is subtracted from the other, and the resulting two dimensional image is then checked against and compared with a similar two dimensional image (the golden image) which has been produced in an identical manner using a known perfect sample (the golden sample).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: The Nottingham Trent University
    Inventor: Max Robinson
  • Patent number: 6381302
    Abstract: A method locates one or more physical pointers around the body, such as a steel ball or other distinguishable item, and captures two distinct x-ray images (410) of the body, such that the physical pointers are captured in the x-ray images. The locations of the physical pointers in the images (410) are used to estimate the horizontal and vertical distortions. The images (410) are adjusted vertically and horizontally to correct for any estimated distortions. A disparity map may then be calculated manually or using the classic epipolar stereo matching technique. The disparity map provides the location of one or more distinctive objects inside the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Alexander Berestov
  • Patent number: 6359961
    Abstract: A radiographic imaging system includes an X-ray emitter, an X-ray detector, and a network. The X-ray emitter is actuatable to emit an X-ray beam centered about an X-ray beam axis. The X-ray detector has a generally planar configuration and is situated within the path of the X-ray beam to thereby generate an image when the X-ray detector receives the X-ray beam. The network couples at least one of the X-ray emitter and X-ray detector to a remote facility. The network provides the X-ray emitter and the X-ray detector with remote services from the remote facility. A corresponding method is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Richard Aufrichtig, Jeffrey A. Kautzer
  • Patent number: 6332016
    Abstract: In order to provide a photoelectric conversion device of high S/N ratio or high resolution in which the outputs of sensor cells except any defective sensor cell can be made to have normal values, thereby to obtain data of higher precision, any switching element that does not operate normally is removed in a photoelectric conversion device wherein a plurality of sensor cells, in each of which a photoelectric element and a switching element are connected, are arrayed in two dimensions on a substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2001
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Isao Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 6317481
    Abstract: A system, method, and computer-readable medium for capturing radiographic images and processing the captured images into stereo images. The images are captured using an X-ray imaging system that rotates freely about an anchor point and captures images of the patient or other object from different angles. The images are transmitted to a graphics engine (130) that rotates and adjusts points in the images in order to place them in the same plane and may also combines the two images into a single stereo image. Additional error processing methods are provided in order to reduce resulting distortion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Alexander Berestov
  • Patent number: 6256372
    Abstract: A digital radiographic imaging system is described which includes an automatic X-ray exposure sequence during which two consecutive images of a target are obtained from two views separated by a translation of the X-ray emitter, wherein such translation is oriented generally parallel to the plane of the X-ray detector. The two images acquired by the digital X-ray detector may then be combined using stereo reconstruction to generate a three-dimensional image of the interior of the target. The three-dimensional combination of images allows for better radiographic definition of clinical objects of interest, thereby increasing a radiologist's ability to detect and distinguish between normal and pathological structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Richard Aufrichtig, Jeffrey Alan Kautzer
  • Patent number: 6223068
    Abstract: The radiology instrument contains a source emitting X-radiation, a radiological image receiver, a chassis arranged between the X-ray source and the image receiver in order to accommodate an object to be radiographed, and a positioning and guiding device which can be connected to the chassis and can intercept the X-radiation so as to position and guide probes intended to interact with the object. The positioning and guiding device has first means forming a retractable guide grid having holes whose respective axes converge towards the focal point of the source when the first means intercept the conical radiation, and a retractable positioning grid with holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: GE Medical Systems, S.A.
    Inventors: René Romeas, Eric Maurincomme
  • Patent number: 6222904
    Abstract: A stereo radiograph is produced in a radiography system including an anti-scatter grid (105) and sensor material (107). At least one x-ray beam (102) is emitted towards a body to be radiographed (103). The anti-scatter grid (105) is focused so as to transmit two distinct x-ray beams (106) to the sensor material (107). The transmitted beams (106) create two alternating images on the sensor material (107). A stereo radiograph is created from the two alternating images. System geometry of the radiography system is used to determine location of an object (606) within a radiographed body (103), and to determine distance (613) between a chosen point and an object (606) within a radiographed body (103).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Alexander Berestov
  • Patent number: 6181768
    Abstract: A radiological imaging system, for providing a viewer with multiple stereoscopic radiological views of a patient from a single pair of acquired images, comprising acquiring a first image and second image to achieve a properly matched stereoscopic pair. The stereoscopic pair is presented to the viewer by presenting the first image to the left eye and the second image to the right eye. The images are then manipulated by performing at least one of swapping the first image and second image, and flipping horizontally the first image and second image. The resulting manipulated images are presented to the viewer to provide at least one distinct stereoscopic view which provides the viewer with an additional perspective on the patient. Accordingly, at least stereoscopic anterior and posterior views can be achieved using a single matched pair of images.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Inventor: Leonard F. Berliner
  • Patent number: 6118843
    Abstract: A method for stereoscopically displaying radiographic images of the internal structure of an object and determining the spatial coordinates of a selected feature image inside the object, including the steps of (a) producing a pair of left and right radiographic images on the same object at slightly different angles, (b) using image display means to present the two images, (c) using two distinct optical paths with two reference lines to permit viewing of the left image by the left eye and the right image by the right eye of an observer independently and simultaneously, and (d) performing and measuring horizontal shifting motions of the two images and obtaining the coordinates (X.sub.GA,Y.sub.GA,Z.sub.GA) of an internal feature A with respect to a marker G according to a specified procedure. The procedure begins with aligning the image points of the marker G with their respective reference lines. Preferably, the same procedure is followed again for a second marker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: NANOTEK Instruments, Inc.
    Inventors: Bor Z. Jang, Wen-Chiang Huang
  • Patent number: 6115449
    Abstract: Apparatus for stereoscopically displaying radiographic images of the internal structure of an object and determining the spatial coordinates of a defect image inside the object, comprising: (a) two image display devices; (b) a secondary platform to support one of the two display devices with this platform being provided with horizontal movement means along with displacement sensor means; (c) a primary platform to support both image display devices; the primary platform being provided with movement means to horizontally slide both image display devices concurrently and the movement means being equipped with displacement-measuring means; (d) a sturdy base to support both platforms; (e) two reference lines being transversely aligned across and over the images; and (f) an observing assembly comprising two distinct and separate optical paths with each optical path being composed of properly arranged mirrors and lenses to direct the desired image into the respective observing eye.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Nanotek Instruments, Inc.
    Inventors: Bor Z. Jang, Wen-Chiang Huang
  • Patent number: 6061424
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for stereoscopic images using a viewing grid and not requiring a lenticular viewing screen. In one embodiment applied to roentgenography, the apparatus includes an X-ray source, a table or cradle disposed beneath the X-ray source for securing an image subject such as a patient, and a recording medium cassette disposed beneath the table or cradle. The cassette includes a film comprising a base, an emulsion on a first side of the base and a viewing grid on an opposite second side of the base, an image intensifying screen for exposing the emulsion films for recording an image, and a recording grid located between the phosphorous screen and the emulsion side of the film, and fixed in position relative to the image intensifying screen for masking a plurality of strips of predetermined width, of the emulsion film. During exposure, relative movement between the cradle and cassette is maintained so as to capture various views of the image subject on the emulsion film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Inventors: Reuben Hoppenstein, David Gifford Burder
  • Patent number: 5818064
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for picking up and displaying a stereoscopic image from an object permeated with radioactive rays. A plurality of radioactive rays which are non-parallel with each other are directed substantially simultaneously onto an object to generate a plurality of superimposed images of the object. The superimposed images of the object are divided into a plurality of discrete partial images formed on a pickup surface, so that each point of the object will be included in a plurality of the partial images, with the partial images showing the same point being spatially separated from one another on the pickup surface. A stereoscopic image of the object is then reconstructed by processing the partial images so that partial images generated by each of the sources of the radioactive rays will be respectively used to generate separate images of the object to form the stereoscopic image of the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Akihiko Kohgami, Tadaaki Hirai, Keiji Umetani
  • Patent number: 5583345
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for picking up and displaying a stereoscopic image from an object permeated with radioactive rays. In accordance with the method, a plurality of radioactive rays which are non-parallel with each other are directed substantially simultaneously onto an object to generate a plurality of superimposed images of the object. The superimposed images of the object are divided into a plurality of discrete partial images formed on a pickup surface, so that each point of the object will be included in a plurality of the partial images, with the partial images showing the same point being spatially separated from one another on the pickup surface, A stereoscopic image of the object is then reconstructed by processing the partial images so that partial images generated by each of the sources of the radioactive rays will be respectively used to generate separate images of the object to form the stereoscopic image of the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Akihiko Kohgami, Tadaaki Hirai, Keiji Umetani
  • Patent number: 5544216
    Abstract: An x-ray examination apparatus has an x-ray tube having an anode dish with a number of selectively activatable focal spots that are arranged such that all of the focal spots are intersected by a common straight line. In order to obtain an x-ray examination apparatus with a primary radiation diaphragm that can be shifted in a very simple way such that it is quickly brought into a position that is matched to the current focal spot generated on the anode dish, a mechanism is provided for shifting the primary radiation diaphragm along the straight line when switching from one focal spot to another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Assignee: Siemens Elema AB
    Inventor: Yngve Norhager
  • Patent number: 5493595
    Abstract: A stereoscopically displayed three dimensional medical imaging system derives image data from a tomographic imaging apparatus and reconstructs the image data into a three dimensional model and displays right and left stereoscopic three dimensional image components of the model on corresponding right and left video display devices of a stereoscopic viewing unit. The system includes a system computer interfaced to the imaging apparatus and a pair of image channels, each including a three dimensional display processor, and a video display device. The three dimensional display processors receive polygon image data, reconstruct it into a three dimensional form, and select image data representing a three dimensional view from a selected perspective. The system computer generates the polygon image data and controls the display processors to present mutually angularly displaced views of the same three dimensional image to form the stereoscopic image components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1996
    Assignee: Schoolman Scientific Corp.
    Inventor: Arnold Schoolman
  • Patent number: 5251635
    Abstract: During an X-ray procedure, the position and orientation of an invasive device, such as a catheter are measured with radio frequency fields and displayed stereoscopically. Instantaneous three-dimensional positions of the invasive device are displayed by superposition of a graphic symbol on static X-ray images obtained at two different view angles. The X-ray images are obtained only when deemed necessary by the operator to minimize X-ray dose. A single X-ray source and detector may be implemented since it is not necessary to obtain the X-ray images simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1993
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Charles L. Dumoulin, Robert D. Darrow
  • Patent number: 5233639
    Abstract: A stereoscopic fluoroscopy apparatus comprising an X-ray source means, a specimen to be X-rayed, an image intensifier unit means to produce images of the X-rayed specimen, recording means to record and output said images as image pairs, offset means to create an output of different images forming each image pair, and means to direct said images to a viewer to create a stereoscopic image from said paired images.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1993
    Inventor: Lloyd A. Marks
  • Patent number: 5224145
    Abstract: An X-ray beam limiting apparatus, is used for a stereoscopic X-ray tube with two focal points separated from each other by a distance of approximately 35 mm. The X-ray beam limiting apparatus includes pivotable blade means for beam-limiting inner edges of pyramid-shaped X-ray beams emitted from the first and second X-ray focal points, while pivoting around center lines of first and second pivotable shafts positionally shifted with each other; and, first slidable blade means for beam-limiting outer edges of the pyramid-shaped X-ray beams emitted from the first and second X-ray focal points, while sliding on a plane substantially perpendicular to travelling paths of the pyramid-shaped X-ray beams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1993
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Teruomi Gunji
  • Patent number: 5163076
    Abstract: According to the present invention, there is provided an X-ray image display apparatus to display an image of an object under test to which X-ray is irradiated comprising an image processor which the following functions: to form for right and left eyes a pair of stereoscopic subtraction X-ray images of the object under test that is to be given contrast medium and the object under test that has been given contrast medium, to form for either one of the right and left eyes a monoscopic subtraction X-ray image of the object under test that is to given contrast medium and the object under test that has been given insertion, to synthesize for the either one eye the stereoscopic subtraction X-ray image and the monoscopic subtraction X-ray image, and to display for the either one eye the X-ray image synthesized and for the other eye the stereoscopic subtraction X-ray image. The X-ray iamge display apparatus makes it possible to provide sterepscopic views of a desired part of the object under test.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1992
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Katsuhiko Koyama
  • Patent number: 5107528
    Abstract: An X-ray diagnosis apparatus comprises an X-ray source for obtaining images of an object by means of cine-fluorographic image pickup and TV image pickup, first and second X-ray image pickup systems comprising image intensifiers, TV cameras, cine-fluorographic movie cameras, etc., a single image processing system for subjecting TV images obtained by the first and second X-ray image pickup systems to image processing, a buffer system, disposed between one of the X-ray image pickup systems and the image processing system, for buffering the image transmitted from this one of the X-ray image pickup systems to the image processing system, and a display system for displaying the image processed by the image processing system. In this apparatus, images from the first and second X-ray image pickup systems can be sequentially delivered to the single image processing system in a time-divisional manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1992
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Hiroshi Asahina, Hitoshi Fujita
  • Patent number: 5090038
    Abstract: Pulsed X-rays are emitted to a subject under examination at regular intervals while an arm supporting an X-ray tube and a combination of an image intensifier tube and a TV camera so as to interpose the subject therebetween is rotated around the subject at a given speed, thereby obtaining a number of X-ray images of the subject at intervals of a constant angle of view. The X-ray images are converted to optical images which are taken by the TV camera to obtain image signals. Image signals are stored in respective frame memories. Two image signals with an interval of a predetermined number of frames are read from the frame memories and displayed on right and left display screens. The displayed images are viewed by an observer through a stereoscopic viewer for guiding the right and left images to the right and left eyes of the observer, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1992
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Hiroshi Asahina
  • Patent number: 5020086
    Abstract: A microfocus type X-ray system in which the electron beam current is generally operated in a milliampere range at a constant power, and the beam is subjected to electronic focusing for selected beam width and steering for directional control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1991
    Assignee: Ridge, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard S. Peugeot
  • Patent number: 4946238
    Abstract: A fiber optic coupler connecting a scintillator which receives the X-ray energy and converts the X-ray energy into visible light photons and a self-scanning photodiode array which converts the visible light photons into electrical signals, the self-scanning photodiode array being smaller in length than the scintillator means. The fiber optic coupler comprises a light receiving end wall adjacent to the scintillator, a light discharging end wall adjacent to the self-scanning photodiode array, a pair of substantially parallel sidewalls that are oriented generally perpendicular to the light discharging end wall, an array of optic fibers oriented generally perpendicularly to the light discharging end wall and extending from the light receiving end wall to the light discharging end wall. The light receiving end wall is greater in length than the light discharging end wall and at least some of the fibers in the array are different in length from other fibers in the array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 7, 1990
    Assignee: University of Pittsburgh
    Inventors: Donald Sashin, Ernest J. Sternglass
  • Patent number: 4888794
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method which enables spatial display in cases where X-ray images are formed from different perspectives which are situated far apart. To this end, from the single images a synthetic image of the examination zone is calculated for at least one position which neighbors one of the radiation source positions, which synthetic image is used for imaging the examination zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1989
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventors: Paul R. Haaker, Erhard P. A. Klotz, Reiner H. Koppe, Rolf E. Linde
  • Patent number: 4845626
    Abstract: A stereoscopic image display apparatus comprises a CT scanner, a data processing device, and a stereoscopic image display device. The data processing device processes projection data obtained from the CT scanner to remove data corresponding to portions unnecessary for stereoscopic display. Specifically, the data processing device forms a sinogram which represents the level of projection data for each portion as the locus of brightness with the ordinates denoting projection angles and the abscissas denoting detecting positions. In the projection angles from 0.degree. through 360.degree., the projection data obtained at the detecting positions from 1 to a predetermined number is removed from the locus of that detecting position so that the loci of outside portions of a circle of a predetermined radius corresponding to a predetermined detecting position are removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 4, 1989
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Akinami Ohhashi
  • Patent number: 4819255
    Abstract: A stereo X-ray fluorography apparatus includes a stereo X-ray tube having right and left focal points for irradiating a subject, in alternate fashion, with X-rays, a television camera for picking-up right and left images, resulting from the X-rays emitted from the right and left focal points, after the passage of the X-rays through the subject, a television monitor for alternately displaying the right and left images picked-up by the television camera, and a pair of glasses for allowing light to be alternately transmitted and not transmitted, repetitively and in synchronism with the switching of the displaying of the right and left images on the television monitor. For the television monitor, use is made of a double-rate (120 fields per second) type. The images are picked-up by the television camera, upon the subject being irradiated with X-rays from the stereo X-ray tube, for every two fields of the television camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 4, 1989
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Hideki Sato
  • Patent number: 4769701
    Abstract: An x-ray apparatus for generating an image of an examination subject, including an image pattern of an instrument, for the purpose of guiding the instrument, includes dual x-ray sources and a stereo viewer for generating a stereo image of the examination subject from a video signal produced by attenuation of the x-rays by the patient and the instrument, a detector which identifies the presence of the instrument in the video signal and generates an output signal upon detection thereof, a phase-locked loop circuit for generating an image pattern of the instrument from the output of the detector, a mixer which combines the image pattern with the video signal, and a switching stage connected between the output of the phase-locked loop circuit and the mixer, the switching stage having a control input supplied with the output signal from the detector such that the image pattern of the instrument is supplied to the mixer in the absence of an output signal from the detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1988
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Hartmut Sklebitz, Gerhard Hahm
  • Patent number: 4766603
    Abstract: An aperture device defines X-ray beams emitted from X-ray focal points L and R spaced apart from each other along the first direction. This defining operation is performed along the first direction and a second direction crossing the first position, thereby shaping a rectangular X-ray radiation area. Blades defining the two edges of the X-ray beam along the first direction and blades defining two edges of the X-ray beam along the second direction are supported by engaging portions into which screw portions of screw rods are screwed and engaging portions slidably fitted around round portions of the screw rods, respectively. When the screw rods are rotated by activation of corresponding stepping motors, the corresponding engaging portions are moved parallel to the screw rods. The respective blades can be variably moved along the first or second direction, thereby forming an X-ray radiation area having any shape in any position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1986
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1988
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Kanichi Okabe, Hirotsugu Suzuki, Kohsaku Nishio, Katsuhiko Koyama
  • Patent number: 4737972
    Abstract: A stereoscopic fluoroscope apparatus includes a pair of spaced x-ray tubes mounted on a support opposite a respective pair of x-ray image intensifiers having a pair of video cameras coupled thereto. The x-ray tubes and image intensifiers are positioned to form a stereoscopic pair of fluorescent images which are converted to video signals by the cameras. The cameras are connected to a head worn video stereoscopic display including miniature right and left video display devices therein for stereoscopic viewing of the images produced by irradiating a target of examination. The apparatus includes provisions for selectively routing the video signals representing the x-ray images to external signal receivers such as remote video monitors, video recorders, or computers and for routing external video signals to the stereoscopic display unit for displaying the images represented thereby.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1988
    Inventor: Arnold Schoolman
  • Patent number: 4727565
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method for localizing the three-dimensional position of a spot in an object in conjunction with X-ray exposure of the object, in which the object is fixed in a pre-determined position and is exposed by means of an exposure apparatus in two directions each on either side of a center line at a right angle to the plane of the image for obtaining a first print and a second print, the two-dimensional position of the target spot on the two prints being established in relation to an index on the prints, and the coordinates of the spot in relation to the indices being processed to obtain control signals for adjustment of a guidance instrument with means for placing in the target spot in the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1984
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1988
    Inventor: Bjorn E. Ericson
  • Patent number: 4712226
    Abstract: A stereoscopic x-ray tube has an evacuated housing with a motor-driven anode dish therein, as well as at least two cathodes. The cathodes are disposed for directing electrons onto two respective foci within at least one track of the anode dish. Each of the foci generates a beam of useful x-rays, the two beams alternating. The anode dish is divided into at least one pair of segments of identical size, each segment emitting x-rays of a different intensity, so that only one segment in each pair can emit useful x-rays. The cathodes are disposed such that their respective foci are spaced at an uneven multiple of the length of the track within a segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1987
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Heinz Horbaschek
  • Patent number: 4696022
    Abstract: Stereoscopic radiography apparatus includes a source of two beams of radiation, collimators so as to convert the beams into generally fan shaped beams, radiation detectors for converting the radiation passing through an object being examined into an electrical signal containing image information. The radiation detector may have at least one scintillator to convert radiation which has passed through an object into light, and at least one self-scanning array of photodiodes to convert the light into an electrical signal containing image information. Fiber optic coupling may be provided between the scintillator and the self-scanning array of photodiodes. The first image information resulting from the first beam and second image information resulting from a second beam are created substantially simultaneously. Apparatus for receiving the signal to store, process or display the image may be provided along with a visual display system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1984
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1987
    Assignee: University of Pittsburgh
    Inventors: Donald Sashin, Ernest J. Sternglass
  • Patent number: 4672649
    Abstract: A stereoscopic or three dimensional radiograph or a continuously rotating three dimensional radiograph of a patient is obtained using a high speed CT scanning system in which fan beams of radiation are generated by sweeping an electron beam along a target. Collimated X-rays emitted by the target are received by an array of detectors after passing through a patient area between the target and the array of detectors. Two detector positions, comprising one or more detectors, each can be employed to obtain a pair of two dimensional projection radiographs. The radiographs are alternately viewed by a viewer by selectively opening and closing shutter means associated with the eyes of the viewer as the radiographs are alternately assembled for viewing whereby one eye sees one radiograph and the other eye sees the other radiograph. Alternatively, a plurality of pairs of detector positions can be employed in measuring radiation and obtaining a continuously rotating three dimensional projection radiograph.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1984
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1987
    Assignee: Imatron, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian K. Rutt
  • Patent number: 4658410
    Abstract: A stereo X-ray subtraction apparatus has a stereo X-ray system and an X-ray image intensifier television chain in which, for each channel, the video signals of successive stereo partial images are summed in a weighted fashion in a first image memory, the output of the first image memory being supplied to a first input of a first subtraction stage, with the output of the first image memory in the other channel being supplied to a second input of the first subtraction stage, the output of the first subtraction stage being supplied to a second image memory and to a first input of a second subtraction stage, and the output of the second image memory being supplied to a second input of the second subtraction stage. The outputs of the second subtraction stages for each channel are supplied to a display unit for displaying the resulting stereo image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1984
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1987
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Jorg Haendle, Wolfgang Maass
  • Patent number: 4641335
    Abstract: A primary-beam collimator for a stereo radiographic x-ray diagnostic installation has an x-ray tube with dual focal points (F1, F2) arranged at a distance from each other. Shutter leaves (1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b) are provided, and adjustable so that two beam pyramids (I from focal point F1, and II from focal point F2) can be individually controlled. Two internal shutter leaves (4a, 4b) are provided for restricting the beam in planes perpendicular to the stereo base F1-F2. These are adjustable between two external shutter leaves--each in the direction of its corresponding external shutter leaf. The internal shutter leaves (4a, 4b) are constructed so that, when adjusted to their external positions, they permit the emission of a central beam-pyramid from a central focal point (FN) and, together with the external shutter leaves (2a, 2b), they close the external shutter openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1985
    Date of Patent: February 3, 1987
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Alfred Hahn
  • Patent number: 4627087
    Abstract: This invention describes method and apparatus for taking and displaying 3-dimensional images derived from X-ray, CAT scan or NMR data; in which pairs of images are derived from objects whose axes are arranged plus or minus the angle .alpha. to the Z axis of the device, .alpha. being a small angle, such as 5.degree. and various apparatus is shown for viewing the 3-dimensional stereo pairs thus derived to produce a spatial view of a given body volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1986
    Inventor: Alvin M. Marks
  • Patent number: 4606063
    Abstract: A shutter arrangement for intra-oral radiographic X-ray apparatus comprises a substantially punctiform X-ray source (1), a radiation-screening and radiation-directing X-ray tube (3), a holder (10) for holding an object and an X-ray film or plate, the holder being located externally of the X-ray radiation exit orifice of the X-ray tube, and being adjustable in at least two positions in a direction transversely of the direction of radiation, for producing at least two pictures of the object in two mutually different positions relative to the radiation direction. The arrangement also includes a shutter (7c) which is arranged between the X-ray source (1) and the holder (10) and which has a shutter aperture which is adapted to the size of the X-ray film or plate used. The shutter (7c) comprises an apertured metal plate arranged in the exit orifice of the X-ray tube (3) for displacement in a slide-track arrangement (6), in a direction transversely to the direction of the radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1984
    Date of Patent: August 12, 1986
    Inventor: Nils Berghagen
  • Patent number: 4596028
    Abstract: The invention provides a general purpose X-ray tube for stereography usable in the field of radiology. An X-ray tube of the invention comprises at least three independent cathodes, each allowing a source of an X-ray beam to be obtained. These sources are at different distances from each other, so as to form working pairs allowing stereographic pictures to be taken of a subject with different enlargement values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1983
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1986
    Assignee: Thomson-CSF
    Inventor: Emile Gabbay
  • Patent number: 4578802
    Abstract: An X-ray diagnostic apparatus for allowing stereoscopic visualization on X-ray images of an object under examination includes at least a stereoscopic X-ray tube, a deflection coil type X-ray image intensifier, and a single television camera. The right-viewed and left-viewed X-ray visual images are alternately output from the image intensifier with a given deviation between centers of those images. Those visual images are alternately incident upon the respective image conversion regions of the TV camera, whereby the electrical scanning is also done alternately for each of the image conversion regions so as to prevent the after-image effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 25, 1986
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Katsutoshi Itoh
  • Patent number: 4491956
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for making X-ray photographs which can be viewed in three dimensions with the use of a lenticular screen. The apparatus includes a linear tomograph having a moving X-ray source on one side of a support on which an object is to be placed so that X-rays can pass through the object to the opposite side of the support. A movable cassette on the opposite side of the support moves in a direction opposite to the direction of travel of the X-ray source as the source moves relative to the support. The cassette has an intensifying screen, a grating mask provided with uniformly spaced slots for passing X-rays, a lenticular member adjacent to the mask, and a photographic emulsion adjacent to the opposite side of the lenticular member. The cassette has a power device for moving the lenticular member and the emulsion relative to the mask a distance equal to the spacing between a pair of adjacent slots in the mask.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1982
    Date of Patent: January 1, 1985
    Inventor: Douglas F. Winnek
  • Patent number: 4413352
    Abstract: An X-ray stereoscopic cinematography apparatus including an X-ray tube having at least a pair of focal spots from which X-rays are irradiated independently at an object to produce an X-ray image of an object under study, means for converting the X-ray image to an optical image, an optical system device for distributing the optical image to first and second cinecameras. The optical system device includes a first half-mirror having a reflection rate of approximately fifty percent and a second half-mirror having a comparatively low transmission rate, the half-mirrors being separately positionable in a first position to reflect the optical image or a second position out of the light path of the optical image to distribute the optical image to the first and second cinecameras. A television camera is provided to accept the optical image delivered through the optical system device and to convert it to an electric signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1981
    Date of Patent: November 1, 1983
    Assignee: Tokyo Shibaura Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kohsaku Nishio