Absorption Patents (Class 378/51)
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Patent number: 8615120Abstract: A system includes an image estimator (128) that generates estimated native image data from data acquired when a K-edge material is present in a scanned region during data acquisition, wherein the estimated native image data is indicative of native image data generated from data acquired when the K-edge material is not present in the scanned region during the data acquisition.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2009Date of Patent: December 24, 2013Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.Inventor: Roland Proksa
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Publication number: 20130329855Abstract: The present application is directed toward an X-ray scanning system having a plurality of detectors and a controller, where a) the controller is configured to receive and identify a minimum X-ray transmission level detected by at least one detector, b) the controller compares the minimum X-ray transmission level to at least one predetermined threshold transmission level, and c) based on said comparison, the controller generates an adjustment signal. The present application further comprises an X-ray source, where the X-ray source receives an adjustment signal and is configured to adjust an X-ray pulse duration based on the adjustment signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 10, 2013Publication date: December 12, 2013Applicant: Rapiscan Systems, Inc.Inventor: Rapiscan Systems, Inc.
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Publication number: 20130319132Abstract: An apparatus (1) for measuring at least one characteristic value of a multiphase fluid mixture (13) comprises: a pipe section (20) having a main flow path through which the multiphase fluid mixture (13) flows, the main flow path comprising a throat (22) between an upstream part (21) and a downstream part (23) of the main flow path such as to generate a pressure drop between the upstream part (21) and the downstream part (23); a first sensing arrangement (28, 33, 29, 34, 35, 36) to measure a first characteristic value of the multiphase fluid mixture (13) flowing into the main flow path; -a channel (25) being positioned within the wall of the pipe section (20) such as to maintain similar operating conditions as in the main flow path, the channel (25) being coupled to the main flow path by an inlet (24) at the up-stream part (21), or the throat (22), and by an outlet (26) at the downstream part (23), or the throat (22), such that the pressure drop generates an aspiration effect diverting a sample of the multiphaType: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2011Publication date: December 5, 2013Inventors: Alexandre Lupeau, Andrew Charles Baker
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Publication number: 20130308753Abstract: The disclosure includes an arrangement of X-ray generator(s) (210), X-ray detector(s) (214), and/or X-ray calibration device(s) for performing X-ray measurements, such as attenuation and/or photo electric factor measurements, on formation core samples (204) in a downhole environment under conditions including limited space and operations at high pressure and temperature.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 28, 2011Publication date: November 21, 2013Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Joel L. Groves, Christian Stoller
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Publication number: 20130308752Abstract: A system for detecting lymphedema comprising a dual energy x-ray absorptiometry system and one or more spacer pads disposed within a field of view of the dual energy x-ray absorptiometry system. The dual energy x-ray absorptiometry system comprising an x-ray source and a patient support platform, wherein the patient support platform is configured to receive a patient in a supine position with the x-ray source disposed above the patient support platform. The one or more spacer pads configured to be positioned between body parts of the patient.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2013Publication date: November 21, 2013Applicant: Hologic, Inc.Inventors: Kevin Wilson, Thomas L. Kelly
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Publication number: 20130301797Abstract: A radiation control system and method are provided in which radiation delivered to a patient and/or the operator of the equipment is minimized. The radiation control system may be used in a large variety of applications including applications in which radiation source is used to inspect an object, such as, for example, medical imaging, diagnosis and therapy, in manufacturing operation using radiation, in airports scanning systems, in different security setups, and in nuclear reactors automation and process control. The radiation control system and method may also be used with 3D imaging.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 3, 2013Publication date: November 14, 2013Inventor: Allon Guez
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Publication number: 20130266114Abstract: A radiation detector includes a semiconductor substrate having opposing front and rear surfaces, a cathode electrode located on the front surface of the semiconductor substrate configured so as to receive radiation, and a plurality of anode electrodes formed on the rear surface of said semiconductor substrate. A work function of the cathode electrode material contacting the front surface of the semiconductor substrate is lower than a work function of the anode electrode material contacting the rear surface of the semiconductor substrate.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2013Publication date: October 10, 2013Inventors: Henry CHEN, Salah AWADALLA, Pinghe LU, Pramodha MARTHANDAM
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Patent number: 8538102Abstract: A statistical framework for identifying regions of discrimination between two groups of imaged objects involves determining a weight map defining the regions of discrimination by minimizing the sample size required to discriminate the two groups in a numerical optimization scheme.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2009Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: Synarc IncInventors: Erik B. Dam, Mads Nielsen, Arish Qazi, Martin Lillholm, Dan Richter Jørgenson
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Publication number: 20130208859Abstract: A method of sample analysis comprises irradiating a sample with electromagnetic radiation such as X-rays; collecting absorption data and scattering data; and combining the absorption and scattering data. The irradiation can be in the form of a tubular beam, a detector may be placed in a plane where Debye cones diffracted from the sample overlap at a central point for the collection of the scattering data.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 20, 2011Publication date: August 15, 2013Inventor: Paul Evans
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Publication number: 20130208850Abstract: Radiation is directed at an object, and radiation scattered by the object is sensed. An angular distribution of scatter in the sensed scattered radiation relative to a path of the radiation directed at the object is determined, and the angular distribution is evaluated. One or more atomic numbers, or effective atomic numbers, of materials composing the object is determined based on evaluating the angular distribution.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 13, 2013Publication date: August 15, 2013Applicant: L-3 Communications Security and Detection Systems, Inc.Inventor: L-3 Communications Security and Detection Systems, Inc.
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Patent number: 8509382Abstract: The invention is aimed to provide an X-ray imaging apparatus and the like ensuring a sufficient range of detecting the amount of X-ray movement with respect to the pixel size of a detector in comparison with the method disclosed in International Publication No. WO2008/029107. The X-ray imaging apparatus of the present invention has a splitting element which spatially linearly splits an X-ray; and a shielding unit which shields a part of the X-ray which is split by the splitting element and whose position is changed by a test object. The shielding unit has a region transmitting an X-ray and a region having a shielding element shielding an X-ray. A dividing line between the X-ray transmitting region and the region having the shielding element is configured to be arranged obliquely so as to cross the linearly split X-ray.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2010Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Taihei Mukaide, Kazuhiro Takada, Kazunori Fukuda, Masatoshi Watanabe
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Publication number: 20130188772Abstract: A device includes a radiation tunnel in which an X-ray source and a detector unit are disposed, the detectors of which are aligned with the X-ray source so as to detect transmitted radiation for detecting suspicious objects. Disposed in the radiation tunnel is a frame which can be moved over an examination region and has two supports which extend at a spacing parallel to each other and are rigidly connected to each other, the radiation source being secured on one vertical support and the detector unit being secured on the other vertical support.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 11, 2013Publication date: July 25, 2013Applicant: SMITHS HEIMANN GMBHInventor: SMITHS HEIMANN GMBH
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Patent number: 8472582Abstract: A method, apparatus and computer program product for measuring a composition of a multiphase fluid, including radiating a photon beam through the multiphase fluid and measuring radiation absorption by the multiphase fluid for at least three energy levels to obtain measured radiation absorption data, and providing the measured radiation absorption data to processing unit configured to calculate the composition of the multiphase fluid using the measured radiation absorption data, whereby an effect of an injected fluid on the absorption of the photon beam is taken into account during calculation of the composition of the multiphase fluid.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2008Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Gilles Roux, Roman Korkin, Lev Zakharov
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Publication number: 20130142304Abstract: According to one embodiment, an X-ray diagnostic apparatus includes an X-ray generation unit, X-ray detection unit, X-ray beam limiting unit, and X-ray beam limiting control unit. The X-ray generation unit generates X-rays. The X-ray detection unit detects the X-rays generated by the X-ray generation unit and transmitted through an object placed on a tabletop. The X-ray beam limiting unit includes a plurality of filters to harden radiation quality of the generated X-rays. The X-ray beam limiting control unit controls the X-ray beam limiting unit to place a filter between the X-ray generation unit and the object, which filter is specified from the plurality of filters based on the thickness of the object and the distance between the X-ray generation unit and the X-ray detection unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 27, 2012Publication date: June 6, 2013Inventors: Kunio SHIRAISHI, Masanori Matsumoto, Shumpei Oohashi
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Publication number: 20130108019Abstract: Detector modules for an imaging system and methods of manufacturing are provided. One detector module includes a substrate, a direct conversion sensor material coupled to the substrate and a flexible interconnect electrically coupled to the direct conversion sensor material and configured to provide readout of electrical signals generated by the direct conversion sensor material. The detector module also includes at least one illumination source for illuminating the direct conversion sensor material.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 27, 2011Publication date: May 2, 2013Applicant: General Electric CompanyInventors: John Eric Tkaczyk, Kevin Matthew Durocher, James Rose, Haochuan Jiang, Abdelaziz Ikhlef, Vladimir Lobastov, Daniel David Harrison
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Patent number: 8422629Abstract: A method and apparatus for counting seedlings. A seedling moves through a seedling counter, which comprises a spectral energy emitter and a spectral energy detector. When the spectral energy detector detects a sufficient attenuation of the spectral energy for a sufficient amount of time, the spectral energy detector indicates the presence of a seedling. The spectral energy detector detects irregularities in the received spectral energy to indicate faults in the apparatus. In one embodiment, the seedling counter is adapted to use X-ray energy.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2010Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: Weyerhaeuser NR CompanyInventors: Jimmy Lee Stokes, Edward Joseph Kelleher, Jr.
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Patent number: 8401270Abstract: A first image including a projection of a portion is generated based on data representing attenuation of higher-energy radiation having a peak energy of at least 1 MeV that passes through a portion of an inspection volume. A second image including a projection of the portion is generated based on data representing attenuation of lower-energy radiation passing through the portion of the inspection volume. A dual-pixel image is created from the first image and the second image. A region of interest is selected from the dual-pixel image. A first basis function that is derived from an attenuation characteristic associated with the region of interest is selected. The region of interest is represented in terms of an amplitude associated with the first basis function and an amplitude associated with the second basis function.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2009Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: L-3 Communications Security and Detection Systems, Inc.Inventors: Richard F. Eilbert, David Perticone, Shuanghe Shi, Jeff Stillson
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Publication number: 20130034206Abstract: A method is presented for determining at least one piece of information representative of a phase fraction of a fluid in a pipe. The method comprises the estimation of a number of counts received in each measuring interval based on each piece of representative information determined at a preceding iteration, then calculating a residual comprising a first criterion calculated from probabilities using a given statistical law to measure, for each energy, the number of counts measured in each interval, the given statistical law being parameterized based on the number of estimated counts.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 28, 2011Publication date: February 7, 2013Inventor: Sebastien Cadalen
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Publication number: 20130016808Abstract: Described is an apparatus for use in HVL measurement as well as methods of making measurements. One version of the apparatus is a cage structure having a central axis and a central opening defined by a filter encircling the central axis, with the filter having a thickness that varies peripherally around said central axis. The filter can be formed from multiple spaced-apart plates having varying thicknesses or can be formed from a cylinder having a continuously increasing thickness.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 16, 2012Publication date: January 17, 2013Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIAInventors: John M. Boone, George W. Burkett, JR., Sarah E. McKenney
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Patent number: 8346521Abstract: A method of determining the feasibility of a proposed structure analysis process is disclosed. The process involved the electron beam excitation of x-rays from a multi-layered structure. The method comprises generating predicted x-ray data represents the x-ray excitation response of the multi-layered structure according to one or more sets of process conditions. The x-ray data are generated using structure data defining the structure and composition of the layers. The effects upon the x-ray data of changes to the structure data are then analyzed in accordance with one or more predetermined feasibility criteria, so as to determine the feasibility of performing the proposed structure analysis process upon the multi-layered structure.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2007Date of Patent: January 1, 2013Assignee: Oxford Instruments Nanotechnology Tools LimitedInventors: Peter John Statham, Charles Penman
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Publication number: 20120269319Abstract: Apparatus for interrupting and/or scanning a beam of penetrating radiation, such as for purposes of inspecting contents of a container. A source, such as an x-ray tube, generates a fan beam of radiation effectively emanating from a source axis, with the width of the fan beam collimated by a width collimator, such as a clamshell collimator. An angular collimator, stationary during the course of scanning, limits the extent of the scan, and a multi-aperture unit, such as a hoop, or a nested pair of hoops, is rotated about a central axis, and structured in such a manner that the total beam fluence incident on a target is conserved for different fields of view of the beam on the target. The central axis of hoop rotation need not coincide with the source axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2012Publication date: October 25, 2012Applicant: AMERICAN SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING, INC.Inventors: Lee Grodzins, Jeffrey R. Schubert, Omar Al-Kofahi, Peter J. Rothschild
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Patent number: 8290230Abstract: A method for substance identification and an apparatus thereof are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2008Date of Patent: October 16, 2012Assignees: Nuctech Company Limited, Tsinghua UniversityInventors: Zhiqiang Chen, Li Zhang, Kejun Kang, Xuewu Wang, Qingping Huang, Yuanjing Li, Yinong Liu, Ziran Zhao, Yongshun Xiao
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Publication number: 20120134467Abstract: Man-portable radiation generation sources and systems that may be carried by hand to a site of interest by one or two people, are disclosed. Methods of use of such sources and systems are also disclosed. Battery operated radiation generation sources, air cooled radiation generation sources, and charged particle accelerators, are also disclosed. A radiation generation source, a radiation scanning system, and a target assembly comprising target material having a thickness of less than 0.20 mm are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2012Publication date: May 31, 2012Inventors: David Whittum, James E. Clayton, George Merdinian
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Publication number: 20120121065Abstract: An x-ray tube includes a casing having a cathode and an anode enclosed therein, and a separator attached to an inner wall of the casing and having a conductance limiter therein, the separator positioned to separate the anode from the cathode.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 26, 2012Publication date: May 17, 2012Inventors: Carey Shawn Rogers, Richard Michael Roffers
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Publication number: 20120114097Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for measuring flow velocity of a multi-phase fluid mixture. The proposed apparatus includes a radiation device, a detection device, and an analysis device. The radiation device generates a beam of photons to irradiate the mixture spatially over a section of flow of the mixture. The detection device is spatially configured to receive photons emanating from the section of flow of the mixture at different intervals of time. The detection device provides an image of a spatial distribution of the received photons for each the interval of time. The analysis device determines flow velocity of one or more phases of the mixture based on a temporal sequence of the images of the spatial distributions of the received photons.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2009Publication date: May 10, 2012Inventor: Stepan Polikhov
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Patent number: 8126109Abstract: An index-value detecting unit detects an index value that indicates a contrast medium density in a Region Of Interest (ROI) set on an image reconstructed during a scan. A switch-timing detecting unit detects an inflection point appearing on a curve that indicates temporal variations in the contrast medium density in the ROI, based on an index value detected by the index-value detecting unit. An imaging control unit then performs control so as to skip the rest of a scanning plan in execution and to start the next scanning plan when the switch-timing detecting unit detects an inflection point.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2009Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems CorporationInventor: Shinsuke Tsukagoshi
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Patent number: 8116849Abstract: A method is disclosed for achieving improved quality of monitoring and diagnosis for heart functions. Specifically, a method is disclosed for continuous temperature measurement and thermal characterization of patient heart tissue based on non-invasive thermal mapping technology. The method includes multi-dimensional cardiac tissue temperature scanning and tissue thermal pattern analysis with high precision, which can greatly improve the efficiency and lower the medical procedure risk for identifying myocardial ischemia (MI) disorders, predicting the MI occurrence, and mapping MI characteristics and impacting MI medical treatment, such as drug delivery and long term cardiac care. A system is also disclosed for use with the method.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2007Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc.Inventors: Hongxuan Zhang, Myrtis Randolph
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Patent number: 8101047Abstract: Ash composition measurements of calcium carbonate and gypsum in paper is accomplished with a dual X-ray sensor system with one X-ray source that is powered at about 5.9 KV and a second X-ray source that is powered at about 4.2 KV. Corresponding detectors measure radiation from the respective X-ray sources that is emitted from the paper. Data derived from the measurements yields the gypsum and crystal water content in the paper. The dual X-ray sensor system can be employed in conjunction with infrared total moisture measurements of paper products being manufactured on a papermaking making machine, which contain gypsum and calcium carbonate, in order to correct for the gypsum crystal water effect.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2009Date of Patent: January 24, 2012Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Unto Kulma, Jaakko Olavi Uusalo, Antti Paavola, Johanna Hansen, Gertjan Hofman
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Patent number: 8041409Abstract: A method and apparatus for imaging a subject animal. The method comprises the steps of treating the animal with an x-ray contrast agent and an imaging agent; supporting the animal in an immobilized state on a support member; acquiring an x-ray anatomical image of the animal; acquiring an optical, dark-field image of the animal; and registering the x-ray anatomical image and the optical image, whereby features of the optical image can be observed in relation to features of the anatomical image.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2009Date of Patent: October 18, 2011Assignee: Carestream Health, Inc.Inventors: Warren M. Leevy, Gilbert Feke, Douglas L. Vizard
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Patent number: 8019041Abstract: An X-ray tube generates X-rays. A detector detects X-rays generated by the X-ray tube and transmitted through a subject. A C-arm is equipped with the X-ray tube and the detector. An arm support mechanism rotatably supports the C-arm. A top is on which the subject is placed. A bed supports the top so as to change a relative positional relationship along a horizontal direction between the C-arm and the top. The bed supports the top so as to change a relative positional relationship along a vertical direction between the C-arm and the top. A mechanism control unit controls the arm support mechanism and the bed so as to a perpendicular extending from a focus of the X-ray tube intersects the top at a predetermined position thereon, and a distance interval between the X-ray tube and the predetermined position is fixed during rotation of the C-arm.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 2009Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems CorporationInventor: Takayuki Tomisaki
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Patent number: 7991110Abstract: A weight inspection apparatus includes a weight obtaining unit, an irradiation unit, a detection unit and an estimated weight calculation unit. The weight obtaining unit is configured to obtain an actual weight of an inspection target object. The irradiation unit is configured to irradiate the inspection target object with energy waves. The detection unit is configured to detect the energy waves irradiated at the inspection target object. The estimated weight calculation unit is configured to calculate an estimated weight of the inspection target object based on a result of detection by the detection unit. The deviation amount calculation unit is configured to calculate a difference between the actual weight obtained by the weight obtaining unit and the estimated weight obtained by the estimated weight calculation unit.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2008Date of Patent: August 2, 2011Assignee: Ishida Co., Ltd.Inventor: Osamu Hirose
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Publication number: 20110170660Abstract: An X-ray detector is provided. The X-ray detector is a grid wall device, having a radiation detector that is movable vertically by way of a displacement mechanism. The displacement mechanism is a scissor-type arm or an articulated arm having at least two arms hinged to one another. At least one drive device is provided for the purpose of moving the scissor-type arm or an articulated arm.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2008Publication date: July 14, 2011Inventors: Michael Atzinger, Ingo Hollenborg
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Publication number: 20110122993Abstract: An X-ray measurement apparatus includes an X-ray source configured to emit an X-ray to irradiate a specimen with the X-ray, a collimator configured to shape a beam of the X-ray emitted from the X-ray source into a sliced fan-shaped beam x-ray, a flux shield configured to block a part of a flux of the fan-shaped beam X-ray so as to suppress beam hardening while adjusting an energy intensity distribution of the flux, the flux shield being placed between the collimator and the specimen, and an X-ray detector configured to detect a dose transmitted through the specimen.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 26, 2010Publication date: May 26, 2011Applicant: YOKOGAWA ELECTRIC CORPORATIONInventor: Yasushi ICHIZAWA
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Publication number: 20110096900Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for inspecting the electrodes of a battery, which inspects the arrangement state of anodes and cathodes in the battery in a non-destructive manner (using X-rays). The apparatus radiates X-ray beams onto a battery in which a plurality of plate-shaped anodes and a plurality of plate-shaped cathodes are alternately stacked and inspects an arrangement state of the anodes and the cathodes. The apparatus includes a first X-ray source part for radiating a first X-ray beam onto the battery. A first detector detects the first X-ray beam having transmitted through the battery. A control unit receives an image of the battery output from the first detector, calculates a step difference between each anode and each cathode, and then inspects an arrangement state of the anode and the cathode.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2010Publication date: April 28, 2011Applicant: SK ENERGY CO., LTD.Inventors: Hee Chan Park, Jin Gyu Kim, Ik Sung Yoon, Sang Bum Kim
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Patent number: 7916827Abstract: The invention relates to a method for evaluating projection datasets of an object undergoing examination. Each projection dataset is assigned a swiveling angle and a recording instant. Each data element of each projection dataset defines a projection line along which an X-ray beam has traveled from an X-ray source to an X-ray detector. The projection datasets form recording groups each of which corresponds with the projection datasets that were recorded during a single swiveling action. A computer determines reconstruction datasets using the projection datasets. Each reconstruction dataset contains at least one reconstruction data value assigned to a reconstruction line. Using a temporal interpolation, the computer determines the reconstruction datasets in such a way that they refer to a uniform reconstruction time. The computer determines a reconstruction of the object undergoing examination using the reconstruction datasets.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2007Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Jan Boese, Günter Lauritsch, Thomas Redel
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Patent number: 7912175Abstract: The present invention is directed to realize an X-ray CT apparatus for properly performing contrast imaging. An X-ray CT apparatus includes an imaging unit and a control unit for controlling the imaging unit.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2007Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLCInventors: Shinichi Iisaku, Junko Sekiguchi
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Publication number: 20110058646Abstract: In exemplary embodiments of the present invention, containers, such as, for example, those used in transportation and shipping, can be inspected by using a CT X-ray scanning system with a large area detector plate. In exemplary embodiments of the present invention the detector plate can directly convert X-rays transmitted through the container into visible light, thus forming light patterns on the outer surface of the plates. The plates can then be analyzed using, for example, CCD or ICCD cameras and a data processor so as to form real-time 2D and/or 3D images of objects in the container. In exemplary embodiments of the present invention each such plate can comprise a coating of X-ray converting material such as, for example, a phosphor on a metallic plate. In exemplary embodiments of the present invention an exemplary scanning system can, for example, rotate a rotor having an X-ray source on one side of an axis of rotation, and a detector including such detector plates on the other side of the axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2010Publication date: March 10, 2011Inventors: Michel Herranz, Luis Roso Franco, Francisco Martin Labajos, Belen Curto
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Patent number: 7903781Abstract: A distribution of heavy particle stopping power is be determined. A distribution of effective atomic number of a three-dimensional space is accessed, and a distribution of an x-ray stopping power of the three-dimensional space is accessed. A conversion is applied to the distribution of the effective atomic number and the distribution of x-ray stopping power. A distribution of the heavy particle stopping power of the three-dimensional space is generated based on the conversion, the heavy particle stopping power being an indication of a depth of penetration for a heavy particle incident on the three-dimensional space.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2009Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: L-3 Communications Security and Detection Systems, Inc.Inventors: Andrew Dean Foland, Boris Oreper
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Patent number: 7894880Abstract: Renal extraction fraction (EF) is determined through use of computed tomography (CT) measurements of arterial blood before and after injection of a radiographic contrast agent into the blood and CT measurements of renal vein blood after injection of the radiographic contrast agent.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2003Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior UniversityInventor: Graham Sommer
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Patent number: 7872746Abstract: A continuous high resolution fluid level monitoring system is provided by embodiments of the present invention. This continuous high resolution fluid level monitoring system includes a unique fluid level sensor having a point light source, parabolic reflector, sensor array, and detection, processing and control system. The point light source illumines a parabolic reflector wherein the point light source is located at the focus of the parabolic reflector. The parabolic reflector reflects light from the point light source to produce a parallel light curtain. This parallel light curtain is parallel to an axis of symmetry of the parabolic reflector. The parallel light curtain illumines a chamber such as a chamber in an ophthalmic surgical device used to contain surgical fluid. The sensor array coupled to the chamber detects the parallel light curtain illuminating the chamber. The sensor array provides an output to a detection/processing/control system in order to determine the fluid level within the chamber.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2007Date of Patent: January 18, 2011Assignee: Alcon, Inc.Inventors: Shawn X. Gao, David Lloyd Williams, T. Scott Rowe, Daryush Agahi
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Patent number: 7860212Abstract: A weight inspection apparatus includes a weight obtaining unit, an irradiation unit, a detection unit and an estimated weight calculation unit. The weight obtaining unit is configured to obtain an actual weight of an inspection target object. The irradiation unit is configured to irradiate the inspection target object with energy waves. The detection unit is configured to detect the energy waves irradiated at the inspection target object. The estimated weight calculation unit is configured to calculate an estimated weight of the inspection target object based on a result of detection by the detection unit. The deviation amount calculation unit is configured to calculate a difference between the actual weight obtained by the weight obtaining unit and the estimated weight obtained by the estimated weight calculation unit.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2008Date of Patent: December 28, 2010Assignee: Ishida Co., Ltd.Inventor: Osamu Hirose
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Patent number: 7848893Abstract: The invention is a method for estimating a skeletal maturity value of a human from a radiograph of one or more bones in the hand. The borders of the bones are represented by shape points, which are subjected to principal component analysis (PCA). Image intensities are sampled at points located relative to the shape point, and also compressed with PCA. From the features a skeletal maturity value is determined.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2006Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Inventor: Hans Henrik Thodberg
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Patent number: 7834325Abstract: Amplifiers are mounted on flexible boards connected to a solid-state detector. A first temperature adjustment member is disposed near one of the surfaces of the amplifiers and the flexible boards, and a second temperature adjustment member is disposed near the other surface of the flexible boards. The first temperature adjustment member adjusts the temperature of the amplifiers themselves, and prevents heat from being transferred from the one of the surfaces of the flexible boards to the solid-state detector. The second temperature adjustment member prevents heat from being transferred from the other surface of the flexible boards to the solid-state detector.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2007Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: FUJIFILM CorporationInventor: Hajime Nakata
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Patent number: 7796722Abstract: A quantum detector module for the quantitative and energy-resolved determination of quantum absorption events, a quantum detector, a method for determining quantum absorption events, a computer program product and a radiation detection device are disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the quantum detector module includes a multiplicity of detector pixels. In order to determine the quantum absorption events particularly precisely, in at least one embodiment it is provided that the detector pixels have at least two mutually different pixel apertures.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2008Date of Patent: September 14, 2010Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Silke Janssen, Daniel Niederlöhner
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Publication number: 20100166146Abstract: An X-ray tube generates X-rays. A detector detects X-rays generated by the X-ray tube and transmitted through a subject. A C-arm is equipped with the X-ray tube and the detector. An arm support mechanism rotatably supports the C-arm. A top is on which the subject is placed. A bed supports the top so as to change a relative positional relationship along a horizontal direction between the C-arm and the top. The bed supports the top so as to change a relative positional relationship along a vertical direction between the C-arm and the top. A mechanism control unit controls the arm support mechanism and the bed so as to a perpendicular extending from a focus of the X-ray tube intersects the top at a predetermined position thereon, and a distance interval between the X-ray tube and the predetermined position is fixed during rotation of the C-arm.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 24, 2009Publication date: July 1, 2010Inventor: Takayuki TOMISAKI
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Patent number: 7738729Abstract: A method for reducing an artifact within an image of a substance is described. The method includes generating the image of the substance, and constraining a measured linear attenuation coefficient of a pixel of the image based on at least one of a measured diffraction profile, a measured effective atomic number, and a measured packing fraction of the substance.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2006Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Assignee: Morpho Detection, Inc.Inventor: Geoffrey Harding
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Patent number: 7734325Abstract: An imaging system for imaging an object. The imaging system includes a support member adapted to receive the object in an immobilized state. The system also includes first means for imaging the immobilized object in a first imaging mode to capture a first image, and second means for imaging the immobilized object in a second imaging mode, different from the first imaging mode, to capture a second image. The first imaging mode is selected from the group: x-ray mode and radio isotopic mode. The second imaging mode is selected from the group: bright-field mode and dark-field mode. A removable phosphor screen is employed when the first image is captured and not employed when the second image is captured. The phosphor screen is adapted to transduce ionizing radiation to visible light. The phosphor screen is adapted to be removable without moving the immobilized object. The system can further include means for generating a third image comprised of the first and second image.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2005Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Carestream Health, Inc.Inventors: Douglas L. Vizard, Joel N. Helfer, George Brocksieper, William E. Mclaughlin
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Patent number: 7706501Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for measuring long bone density of small animals. A phosphor screen or plate is provided of a type that transduces incident ionizing radiation to emitted light. A small animal is positioned before the phosphor screen or plate and exposed to soft X-radiation having an energy level in the range of 11 to 16 Kev. Light emitted by the phosphor screen or plate is captured using a digital camera and a digital X-ray image is prepared of a long bone of the animal. The X-ray image is transformed into an X-ray density image and a region of interest is defined on the long bone in the X-ray density image. At least one row of pixels is scanned within the region of interest of the X-ray density image. A nonlinear least squares analysis of data obtained from the scanning step is conducted using a cylindrical model for the long bone within the region of interest.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2008Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: Carestream Health, Inc.Inventors: Douglas L. Vizard, Douglas O. Wood, William E. McLaughlin, Gilbert Feke, Rao Papineni
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Patent number: 7684540Abstract: An apparatus and method for determining the phase fraction of a fluid collected downhole is shown comprising an x-ray generator, a filter, a sample cell, and a radiation detector. The filter produces a radiation spectrum with a high energy portion and a low energy portion. Filtered radiation is passed through a sample fluid and the resulting attenuated radiation signal is used in calculating the phase fractions of oil, water, and gas in the sample fluid. In one embodiment, a second reference radiation detector measures the radiation directly from the x-ray generator and this measurement is used in normalizing the fraction result. The ratio of the high energy signal to low energy signal of the reference detector is used in controlling the input voltage of the x-ray generator thus ensuring a stable spectrum.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2006Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Joel Groves, Etienne Vallee, Peter Wraight
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Publication number: 20100067649Abstract: Current C-arm examination devices are not capable of performing 360 degrees rotations. The reason for this is that the cabling which connects the external cabinets to the detector, collimator and x-ray tube does not allow for such a rotation. According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an examination apparatus is provided which has a connection device connecting the external cabinets to the C-arm which is adapted for enabling a rotation of the C-arm of more than 360 degrees. Such a connection device may comprise a storing device for winding up the cable.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2007Publication date: March 18, 2010Applicant: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventor: Nicolaas Jan Noordhoek