Abstract: A method for detecting ionizing radiation, a detector (64) for detection of ionizing radiation, and an apparatus for use in planar beam radiography, including the detector. The detector includes: a chamber filled with an ionizable gas; first and second electrode arrangements (2, 1, 18, 19) provided in the chamber with a space between them, the space including a conversion volume (13); an electron avalanche amplification unit (17) arranged in the chamber; and, at least one arrangement of read-out elements (15) for detection of electron avalanches. Radiation enters the conversion volume between the first and second electrode arrangements via a radiation entrance. The distance between the first and second electrode arrangements is selected to achieve discrimination of fluorescent photons and/or long-range electrons, in order to achieve improved position resolution.

Abstract: A coincidence transmission source serves to detect coincident activity from a radiation source. The coincidence transmission source includes a detector dedicated to collecting attenuation data. A collimated radiation source and a detector are positioned with respect to a tomography device such that only a selected strip of the imaging detector of the tomograph is illuminated such that events unrelated to the attenuation are eliminated. The coincidence transmission source includes a collimator in which is disposed a radiation source. An opening is defined by the collimator for exposing a selected portion of the imaging detectors of the tomograph device. Positioned behind the radiation source, relative to the imaging detectors, is the dedicated attenuation detector. The attenuation detector and collimator are designed to illuminate only a strip of the imaging detector, thereby eliminating events not of interest in the attenuation measurement.

Abstract: Evaluating electrical properties of a semiconductor device by measuring and analyzing a junction capacitance of a semiconductor provided in the semiconductor device and a transient change of the junction capacitance while applying an X-ray beam to the semiconductor device intermittently, and evaluating a structure and electron states of the semiconductor by measuring and analyzing an energy spectrum of an X-ray beam absorbed into an element present in the semiconductor while applying an X-ray beam to the semiconductor device continuously.

Abstract: In a solid-state radiation detector and a medical examination and/or treatment device having such a solid-state radiation detector, the detector has a pixel matrix, with each pixel supplying an output signal dependent on the incident radiation. The pixel matrix has a conversion layer that converts the incident radiation into charge, a storage capacitor for storing the charge and a transistor for reading out the charge. The capacitance of the storage capacitor is set to be so small that because of the voltage drop across the storage capacitor, the output signal of the pixel exhibits, starting from a specific value of the incident radiation dose, a sublinear response with reference to the radiation dose.

Abstract: A method of identifying radiation detected in a wall-less proportional gas counter providing a stable pulse height spectrum. The method comprises i) transforming the detected pulse height spectrum (dn/dx) in accordance with the transform u=x1/2 where x represents the energy of the detected pulses in the original pulse height spectrum; ii) generating a normalized spectrum in u-space comprising a representation of dn/du as a function of u, where n is the detected pulse count as a function of x; iii) deconvoluting the normalized spectrum in u-space to enhance the spectrum; and iv) determining from the enhanced spectrum the energy (or energies) and/or the intensity (or intensities) of the detected radiation.

Abstract: The present invention involves imaging systems for the detection of extravasation. A pixellated detector is preferably used to detect and control the injection of contrast agents or medications used in a variety of diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determination of properties of a medium of food or feed, such as the fat content of meat, by use of dual X-ray absorptiometry, the medium being a raw material of food or feed, a product or intermediary product of food or feed, or a batch, sample or section of the same, specifically for online use in a slaughter house. The method comprises—scanning substantially all of the medium by X-ray beams (16, 18) having at least two energy levels, including a low level and a high level,—detecting the X-ray beams having passed through the medium for a plurality of areas (pixels) of the medium,—for each area calculating a value, Alow, representing the absorption in the area of the medium at the low energy level,—for each area calculating a value, Ahigh representing the absorption in the area of the medium at the high energy level.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for operating an X-ray diagnosis device for producing X-ray images using an X-ray appliance (1 to 5), for processing the X-ray images with a computation unit (7), and for displaying the X-ray images using a reproduction apparatus (8). According to the invention, the method has the following steps: preprocessing the X-ray images with parameters for full resolution; converting the X-ray images into images with low resolution; processing the images with low resolution with images and/or parameters matched to the reduced resolution; immediately reproducing the images with low resolution; subsequently processing the X-ray images with parameters for full resolution; and reproducing the X-ray images with full resolution.

Abstract: A tomographic apparatus for constructing a two-dimensional image of a cut (35) through an object comprises a source (3) for providing a planar beam of radiation so that the beam passes through said object, and thus defines said cut; a detector (9) positioned opposite said source and aligned therewith for detecting the radiation not absorbed or scattered by said object; an arrangement for causing relative movement, between said object and said source and detector combination about an axis of rotation (44) that is perpendicular to said cut through said object; a reconstruction device (39) coupled to said detector for performing a reconstruction process based upon non-absorbed and non-scattered radiation detected by said detector at a plurality of different relative positions between said object and said source and detector combination as reached by said movement causing arrangement, wherein said reconstruction device converts values of non-absorbed and non-scattered radiation into values of absorbed radiation i

Abstract: Ana analyzer that includes a first multilayer structure, a spacer material deposited on the first multilayer structure and a second multilayer structure deposited on the spacer material.

Abstract: This invention concerns an apparatus to transilluminate objects. In known apparatus (1) there are two radiation sources (10, 20) in a transport path of a transport device (3), below to the right and left, as well as a third radiation source (30) arranged horizontal to the transport path (3), with the two radiation sources (10, 20) lying close together, one behind the other. Three detector apparatus (11, 14, 31) are arranged opposite these radiation sources (10, 20, 30). Thus, a so called multi-view from three beam directions is created, with beam paths (FX1.1, FX2.2, FX3) extending perpendicular to a transport direction. Contrary thereto, in the solution described herein, various radiation beam paths (FX1.1, FX1.2, FX2.1, FX2.2, FX3) cross so that not every beam radiation path extends perpendicular to the transport direction. This has the advantage that the apparatus can be structured in a space saving manner.

Abstract: In known apparatus (1) there are two radiation sources (10, 20) in a transport path of a transport device (3), below to the right and left, as well as a third radiation source (30) arranged horizontal to the transport path (3), with the two radiation sources (10, 20) lying close together, one behind the other. Three detector apparatus (11, 14, 31) are arranged opposite these radiation sources (10, 20, 30). Thus, a so called multi-view from three beam directions is created, with beam paths (FX1.1, FX2.2, FX3) extending perpendicular to a transport direction.

Abstract: A detector for detection of ionizing radiation, and an apparatus for use in planar beam radiography, including such a detector. The detector includes a chamber filled with an ionizable gas. First and second electrode arrangements are provided in the chamber with a space therebetween. The space includes a conversion volume, an electron avalanche amplification unit arranged in the chamber, and at least one arrangement of read-out elements for detection of electron avalanches. To reduce the effect of possible spark discharges in the chamber, at least one of the first and second electrode arrangements includes a resistive material having a surface facing the other electrode arrangement.

Abstract: Apparatus and assembly for and associated method of monitoring a physical property of a material, such as the specific gravity of a processed meat product of the density, and hence weight, of tobacco in a cigarette rod, comprising: means (19) arranged to direct radiation (30) into a material having a physical property to be monitored; first sensing means (23) arranged to sense levels of residual measurement radiation passing from the irradiated material and to provide respective measurement signals representative of the sensed levels of residual measurement radiation; reference means (18) which is arranged to be located in the path of the radiation (30), optionally adjacent or within the material whose physical property is to be monitored, and which has radiation absorption characteristics corresponding to predetermined low and/or high radiation absorption characteristics of the material whose physical property is to be monitored; second sensing means (22) arranged to sense levels of residual reference radiat

Abstract: A DEXA bone densitometer produces estimates of future fracture risk from a current fracture data derived from a lateral image of a patient's thoracic and lumbar spine taken in a single scan, typically with the patient on her or his side, and from numerical bone mineral density measurements.

Abstract: A method and system for on-line measurements of mineral additives in or on a paper web utilizing shaped spectrum x-rays and solid-state PIN detectors. Each of three detectors are cover by a filter used to shape the spectrums of x-rays received by the detectors. The filters are selected to maximize sensitivity differences between detectors for the desired detectable mineral additives. A computer processes signals from the detectors and from basis weight and moisture measuring instruments to determine total mineral content, and the individual amounts of mineral additives in or on (e.g. coating) the paper web.

Abstract: A method and system for detecting an image of an object, particularly a soft tissue material. A generated x-ray beam is transmitted through the soft tissue material. A transmitted beam is directed at an angle of incidence upon a crystal analyzer. An image of the object is detected from a beam diffracted from the crystal analyzer either at or near a peak of a rocking curve of the crystal analyzer. The method and system of this invention is particularly useful for analyzing images of cartilage.

Abstract: There is described a method and apparatus for measuring the volume of an object by means of penetrating radiation. The object is placed in an irradiation zone and measurements of amounts of radiation passing through respective areas of the object are made. From each measurement, a value representative of the “thickness” of the object at that area is derived, and by adding the representative values, a “volume” is calculated. The object is preferably moved through the irradiation zone, while radiation is measured by means of a linear array of sensors extending perpendicularly to the movement direction.

Abstract: An apparatus comprises a source of penetrating radiation, a detector for that radiation, a sample container, and a stage between the source and the detector for supporting the sample container, wherein the sample container includes a data storage element and the apparatus includes a reader for that data storage element, the reader being connected to a control means adapted to control the apparatus on the basis of the content of the data storage element. Thus, by including information in the data storage element relating to the nature of the sample, the apparatus can be tuned to that type or class of sample and more reliable results obtained. A suitable data storage element is a bar code, and a suitable sample container is a tray.

Abstract: A detector for detection of ionizing radiation comprises a cathode; an anode; an ionizable gas arranged between these electrodes; a radiation entrance arranged such that ionizing radiation can enter and ionize the ionizable gas; and a readout arrangement. A voltage across the electrodes causes electrons created during ionization of the gas to drift towards the anode, where the readout arrangement detects them. To reduce the risk of occurrence of sparks, and/or to reduce the energy in occurring sparks, one of the cathode and anode has at least the surface layer facing the other electrode made of a material having a resistivity of at least 5×10−8 &OHgr;m.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a phantom for calibrating dual energy x-ray equipment for body fat measurements. In particular, the present invention provides a limited number of calibrated plates of materials simulating different body fat percentages. By combining the plates, a range of simulated body fat compositions may be precisely obtained. The plates may be of arbitrary size to provide a simulation over a broad area and may include a high density end cap for triggering an automatic region of interest detection for certain scanner systems.

Abstract: A detection system for detecting sheets of material includes a device for moving along a path a container which can harbor a sheet of material sought to be detected; an X-ray scanner having a beam for scanning across the path of the container through a predetermined angle and a device for moving the scanner to shift the origin of the scanning beam to align during at least a portion of the scan the scanning beam with the sheet for producing a high projected density contrasted with its surroundings.

Abstract: System and method for radiographic imaging of tissue using a non-radioactive, radio-opaque imaging agent that accumulates intracellularly in tissue in proportion to its functional, or physiological, activity. In one embodiment, the imaging agent is a cell-membrane permeable, radio-opaque, high affinity ligand for the intracellular enzyme hexokinase. The imaging agent is administered to a patient, and after an accumulation interval, radiographic images are acquired. The imaging agent preferentially accumulates in malignant tissue and increases its radio-opacity because of its elevated glucose metabolic rate relative to benign and normal tissue. The tissue being examined is transilluminated by X-ray beams with preselected different mean energy spectra, and a separate radiographic image is acquired during transillumination by each beam. An image processing system performs a weighted combination of the acquired images to produce a single displayed image.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for measuring the area density of a low density material sample. The system includes an x-ray emitter which emits x-rays in the range of 3 kilovolts to 20 kilovolts and the x-rays pass through the sample. An imaging device converts the x-rays which pass through the sample to visible light to produce a visible image corresponding to the sample and in which the visible image has an intensity which varies as a function of the area density across the sample. A camera produces an output signal representative of the intensity of the visible image across the sample while a computer processor processes the signal from the camera after digitization to produce an analysis of the area density of the sample.

Abstract: This invention relates to a system for the removal and reattachment of a ball grid array (BGA) package component to a printed circuit board, that is adapted for the real time X-ray inspection of BGA package removal and reattachment. The system comprises heating means comprising upper and lower heating platens juxtaposed to each other for the reception, support and application of heat to the workpiece comprising the BGA package and the printed circuit board, wherein the heating means is prepared from materials that are transmissive to X-ray radiation. Suitable x-ray transmissive materials are selected from high melting point polymers, aluminum, glasses and ceramics, and include materials having an atomic number less than 14.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for analyzing a material, such as coal and iron ore, particularly with a view to identifying contaminants, is disclosed. The method and apparatus are based on the use of multiple (particularly dual) energy x-ray analysis with x-rays at different photon energies. X-rays are transmitted through a material and the detected x-rays are processed to produce an image of the material that combines together the separated images produced by the different photon energy x-rays. The combined image has enhanced contrast which minimizes the affects of non-compositional factors that otherwise would affect identifying constituents of the material.

Abstract: A multiview X-ray based inspection system detects contraband such as explosives, weapons, drugs and money in packages such as baggage. Each bag moves through at least three stationary, fan-shaped beams of x-rays that are in parallel planes spaced from each other in the direction of bag travel, to produce three projection views of the bag taken from different angles. These projection views are processed to extract two-dimensional outlines of likely individual objects in the bag, and the two-dimensional outlines are matched between different projection views to extract three-dimensional outlines of likely objects in the bag. The system uses these three-dimensional outlines to estimate effective atomic numbers and mass densities of material in these objects, and then to determine the presence of likely contraband in the baggage by testing these estimates against windows in a multi-dimensional space in which one dimension is effective atomic number and another is mass density.

Abstract: An x-ray examination device for checking the contents of closed cargo carriers having two steerable single-track carriages disposed parallel to each other, wherein the carriages each support a vertical column. The free ends of the columns are connected to each other by means of a yoke spanning the space between the carriages, which corresponds to the maximal possible width of the cargo containers. The yoke can be raised and lowered on the two columns. Cantilevers are aligned horizontally, and parallel relative to each other, and are arranged on the yoke. The free ends of the cantilevers support a cross bar. Connected to one end of the cross bar are supports for supporting the x-ray equipment. The x-ray equipment includes an x-ray emitter and an x-ray receiver. Moreover, one or more screen vehicles having leaded mesh screens for surrounding the cargo containers are provided to shield against harmful x-rays outside the cargo container area.

Abstract: A surgical suture fabricated from a copolymer containing dioxanone, trimethylene carbonate and glycolide is treated with gamma radiation to enhance bioabsorbability without adversely effecting handling properties.

Abstract: The composition of a multiphase fluid with varying salinity is measured by radiating a photon beam through the fluid and measuring the level of radiation absorption by the fluid at at least radiation energy levels and feeding the thus obtained radiation absorption data to a data processor which generates data concerning the fluid composition, including its salt content, if any, on the basis of a phase fraction calculation scheme in which radiation absorption by salt is taken into account.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for analyzing fluid flow in a pipe. The apparatus includes at least one radiation source to direct radiation through the flow and at least one radiation detector positioned to receive from the source or sources radiation which has passed through the flow. The radiation is emitted at least two different energies. Each detector provides a signal to a processing means. The processing means is arranged to process the signal to provide a series of chronological values. The chronological values are grouped by magnitude. The grouped chronological values are then analyzed by the analysis means.

Abstract: A system and process are provided for determining the concentration of a first component of a mixture wherein the first component includes at least 3 materials. The process includes directing 2 beams of x-rays into the mixture and receiving portions of the beams which are transmitted through the mixture. The concentration of the first component is determined based upon the beams transmitted through the mixture.

Abstract: An X-ray inspection apparatus and method in which an object to be inspected is irradiated with characteristic X-rays containing at least one wavelength which affords a high X-ray absorbance in the object to be inspected. A transmitted X-ray image which has passed through the object to be inspected is detected, and the object to be inspected is inspected on the basis of the transmitted X-ray image. The method and apparatus are utilized to fabricate a multi-layer printed circuit board.

Abstract: An x-ray generator provides a continuous bremsstrahlung photon spectrum for determining the water to liquid ratio in a mixture of oil/water/gas flowing through a pipe located a distance from the generator. A plurality of detectors measure photons passing along a beam path from the generator through the fluid. A detector is also provided to monitor the energy distribution of the generator. A time interval for measuring the output of each detector is established such that small changes in the gas to liquid ratio occur during this interval. An energy bin width is selected to provide a linear approximation of the water to liquid ratio. After binning the counts for each detector, a multi-phase flow characteristic such as the water to liquid fraction, liquid density, or liquid fraction along the beam path is determined.

Abstract: A method of measuring mass flow rates of liquid phases in a multiphase slug flow containing at least two liquid phases includes (i) passing a flow through a tube; (ii) detecting commencement of passage of a slug in the flow past a first location in the tube; (iii) measuring mass or volume fractions of the liquid phases by transmission of energy through the flow at the first location; (iv) detecting ending of the passage of the slug at the first location; and (v) determining mass flow rate of the liquid phases through the tube from (a) measuring the total mass or volume of liquid flowing through the tube and (b) measuring mass or flow fractions, only between detection of the commencement and the ending of passage of respective slugs in the flow, i.e., only while a slug is present at the measuring point.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method for the determination of the concentration level of a particulate analyte in a moving liquid, said apparatus comprising:valve means for diverting a quantifiable portion of the liquid through an analysis chamber, wherein the chamber itself comprises:valve inlet means for introducing the liquid to the analysis chamber,concentrating means for accumulating the particulate analyte present in the liquid,valve outlet means for the removing liquid having a reduced concentration of analyte;valve inlet means for introducing an anhydrous gas into said analysis chamber,valve outlet means for removing the inert gas and a major portion of the liquid present in analysis chamber,electromagnetic radiation generating means positioned in non contacting proximity to said concentration means,detecting means for detecting an electromagnetic radiation parameter of the analyte located in non-contacting proximity to said concentration means; andflow sensor means for measuring

Abstract: A system is provided for inspecting components, especially plastic components such as contact lens casting cup assemblies. A process for inspecting such components is also provided. The process comprises transmitting x-rays through the object to be inspected and then onto an image sensing means.

Abstract: In a process that can readily modify a surface of a fluororesin product in a short time, the surface of the fluororesin product is irradiated with synchrotron radiation having a wavelength of not more than 100 nm. The synchrotron radiation preferably has a peak of radiant intensity in the wavelength region of about 3 nm to about 6 nm. Such irradiation with the synchrotron radiation is carried out under an atmosphere containing oxygen, a mixture of nitrogen and hydrogen, a mixture of oxygen and hydrogen, or a mixture of oxygen, nitrogen and hydrogen, whereby hydrophilic groups can be introduced into the surface. The fluororesin product of which the surface is modified is improved in wettability with respect to a paint, and adhesiveness to another material.

Abstract: A measuring device (8) comprises an emitter (9) and a linear array (10) of detector elements (11 to 14). The emitter (9) emits a radiation beam (15) which enters into a narrow face (20) of a panel-like workpiece (7) at an angle (19). The individual rays (1 to 4) of the radiation beam (15) have different length paths (21 to 24) through the workpiece (7) and thus have differently attenuated output intensities. By difference calculations on the output intensities of the rays (1 to 4) thus obtained, one can calculate density values in the narrow face (20) and finally establish a density profile through the thickness (6) of the workpiece (7).

Abstract: An x-ray detector element suitable for use in computer tomography has a semi-insulating semiconductor body composed of a compound semiconductor, and is operated with a constant voltage source so that it functions as an x-ray-sensitive photoconductor. A measurement instrument is connected across the voltage source for detecting the photocurrent, which is indicative of the x-rays incident on the semiconductor body.

Abstract: A system for scanning the interior of a cargo container includes a propagator device for producing a magnetic field at each of (I) positions adjacent a first side of a cargo container and a detector device for detecting magnetic field strength at each of (J) positions adjacent a second side. The (I) positions are spaced apart in a direction generally parallel to a Y axis of a Cartesian coordinate system and components are included for mapping information about magnetic field strength at each of the (J) positions for each of (K) positions of the cargo container as it passes between the propagator and detector devices in a direction generally parallel to an X axis. Spaced apart orthogonal propagator and detector elements may be disposed in vertical columns adjacent the cargo container, and computerized control components may be used to map and process the information and to produce and display an image.

Abstract: Biomaterial medical devices or products, e.g., absorbable sutures or joint prostheses components, are gamma irradiation sterilized in the substantial absence of oxygen (e.g., vacuum treatment to 5.times.10.sup.-6 torr) while being maintained at a temperature about that of liquid nitrogen, with improved strength loss resistance compared to gamma irradiation sterilization under ambient conditions.

Abstract: A device for the identification of an object possibly to select that object among other objects, including an insert incorporated to the object exhibiting shape parameters constituting a code for the identification of the object and detectable by a detection device such as a beam of X-rays or of ultrasound signals or a magnetic field and an emitter of the detection device after the interaction with the insert, wherein the insert exhibits a spherical shape having several concentric spherical elements made from materials having a transparency to the detection device different from one element to another one and increasing from the center to the periphery of the insert, the shape parameters consisting of the diameters of the elements, the invention being usable in the field of the mounting of automotive vehicles for example.

Abstract: An automated interrupt driven system which employs a circular buffer is used to sort materials based on differing electromagnetic radiation absorption and penetration characteristics. The system has a conveyor and a source of electromagnetic radiation which radiates materials travelling along the conveyor. A controller samples detector outputs at various times to evaluate the absorption and penetration characteristics of the materials to be sorted, based on a plurality of samples. Portions of the materials are ignored to obtain accurate readings from the detectors. Based on the detected penetration and absorption characteristics, the controller activates ejection mechanisms causing materials of different compositions to be deposited into different bins. The controller executes interrupts to cause detection, ejection, testing, and system history maintenance at required times.

Abstract: A device for continuously measuring the thickness of a foil includes a radiation source opposite a radiation detector, and a movement member which moves the radiation source and detector synchronously in a width-direction of the foil. A signal generator generates a signal indicating a position of a portion of the foil whose thickness is being measured, and a counter having a plurality of integrating channels integrates detection signals output from the detector to generate an integrated count number for each channel. A signal switching member switches each of the plurality of integrating channels of the counter according to signals generated by the signal generator, and a calculator calculates a foil thickness from the integrated counted number for each channel of the counter. This structure allows continuous and precise measurement of the foil's thickness.

Abstract: A highly reliable apparatus and method of measuring bone mineral density and bone strength simultaneously is provided. Pleochromatic X-rays emitted from an X-ray tube are incident upon an object to be measured. Transmitted X-rays and diffracted X-rays, generated during the time period when the X-rays are passed through the object, are separately detected to simultaneously measure the bone mineral density and the bone strength.

Abstract: An x-ray sedimentation particle size analyzer in which data is taken only at particular positions along the sedimentation cell, and each such position is individually calibrated. Presentation of the data in the form of a particle size distribution curve can be accomplished very accurately using interpolation techniques. The sedimentation cell design is free of the effects of undesirable density gradients, capable of detecting and removing bubbles, capable of attaining a highly uniform dispersion of sample prior to sedimentation, and including a safety interlock device for blocking x-ray projection when the cell is being accessed.

Abstract: A collimator assembly for removing selected radiation output from a specimen. The assembly includes collimator elements with each element having walls comprised of a first material covered by an inner layer of a second material which preferentially absorbs inelastic scattered radiation created in the first material.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for gauging the thickness of a moving sheet material, typically a metal, which has a variable alloy composition over its length. This is accomplished by measuring the spectral energy of a radiation beam which has not been absorbed by the material and passed perpendicularly through the material by utilizing a length absorption filter radiation detector. The length absorption filter spectrally filters the radiation into separate wavelengths and measures the intensity of these wavelengths. Electrical outputs representing these measured values is output to a processor which then determines the thickness of the material based on the transmission ratios measured for each measured energy band and the absorption coefficients of the elements in the material. This result is then used to control the rolling mill to provide real-time on-line feedback.

Abstract: An automated interrupt driven system which employs a circular buffer is used to sort materials based on differing electromagnetic radiation absorption and penetration characteristics. The system has a conveyor and a source of electromagnetic radiation which radiates materials travelling along the conveyor. A controller samples detector outputs at various times to evaluate the absorption and penetration characteristics of the materials to be sorted, based on a plurality of samples. Portions of the materials are ignored to obtain accurate readings from the detectors. Based on the detected penetration and absorption characteristics, the controller activates ejection mechanisms causing materials of different compositions to be deposited into different bins. The controller executes interrupts to cause detection, ejection, testing, and system history maintenance at required times.