Thickness Or Density Analysis Patents (Class 378/54)
  • Patent number: 9153012
    Abstract: When correcting for artifacts on an attenuation map caused by an artifact source in a computed tomography image, nuclear images are reconstructed two or more times, each time using a different correction technique or uncorrected attenuation data. Corresponding voxels in the reconstructed images are compared to identify local areas that change, i.e., are fragile and therefore low-confidence, and areas that do not vary or exhibit little variance among the plurality of reconstructed images and are thus accorded a higher confidence. The reconstructed nuclear image is overlaid with color encoding indicative of the amount of confidence accorded to each voxel value obtained by attenuation-corrected tomographic reconstruction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventors: Joerg Bredno, Sven Prevrhal, Eberhard Sevastian Hansis, David Sowards-Emmerd
  • Patent number: 8989345
    Abstract: Disclosed are a method for evaluating a local density profile in a carbon/carbon material and a method for producing a standard density test block capable of quantitatively evaluating the density profile in the carbon/carbon material, wherein the method for evaluating the density profile includes a first step of preparing a standard density test block to be inserted in the carbon/carbon material, wherein the standard density test block is produced by using the same type of material as the carbon/carbon material and thereafter inserted in the carbon/carbon material, a second step of radiating X-rays onto the carbon/carbon material having the standard density test block inserted so as to obtain and correct computed tomographic image, and a third step of measuring a physical density by use of a linear attenuation coefficient of the computed tomographic image, whereby the local density profile can accurately be evaluated by use of a nondestructive testing and additionally such method can be utilized as an excelle
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Agency for Defense Development
    Inventors: Dong Ryun Kim, Nam Gyun Yun
  • Patent number: 8989346
    Abstract: From radiation images obtained by driving radiation tube with a plurality of tube voltages, including a normal tube voltage, a density gradient with respect to at least two sections of a reference substance having different radiation transmission characteristics is obtained for each of the plurality of tube voltages prior to obtaining a bone mineral density. If a radiation image captured for obtaining a bone mineral density is determined to have been captured under a tube voltage other than the normal tube voltage, an image signal representing the image and/or a bone mineral density analysis result is corrected so as to correspond to that which should have been obtained if the image had been captured under the normal tube voltage based on the relationship between the density gradient in the image and the density gradient in the radiation image captured under the normal tube voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventor: Kenji Yoshikawa
  • Publication number: 20150063528
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are an X-ray imaging apparatus and a method for controlling the same. The X-ray imaging apparatus includes an X-ray generator configured to radiate first-energy X-rays toward an object, an X-ray detector configured to detect the first-energy X-rays which propagate through the object, an image processor configured to generate a first object image which correspond to the detected first-energy X-rays and to estimate a second object image which corresponds to second-energy X-rays based on the generated first object image, and a controller configured to control the image processor to repeatedly estimate the second object image by controlling the X-ray generator to repeatedly radiate the first-energy X-rays toward the object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Applicants: SAMSUNG LIFE PUBLIC WELFARE FOUNDATION., SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Seok Min HAN, Dong Goo KANG, Sung Hoon KANG, Young Hun SUNG, Myung Jin CHUNG
  • Patent number: 8954292
    Abstract: A system for locating and tracking an object is provided. The system includes a measuring device configured to determine a property of a paving-related material, a locating device configured to determine a location of the measuring device, a tracking system configured to store tracking information associated with the measuring device and one or more properties determined by the measuring device, and a communications system configured to transfer, to a remote device, the location of the measuring device and the tracking information associated with the measuring device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Troxler Electronic Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Ernest Troxler
  • Patent number: 8934607
    Abstract: In accordance with an embodiment, a measuring apparatus includes an electromagnetic wave applying unit, a detecting unit, a data processing unit, a film structure transforming unit, and a film structure measuring unit. The electromagnetic wave applying unit generates electromagnetic waves to apply it to a periodic structure of films on a substrate. The detecting unit detects the electromagnetic waves scattered or reflected by the substrate. The data processing unit calculates a surface shape of the periodic structure. The film structure transforming unit calculates a virtual film structure regarding the internal structure of the periodic structure. The film structure measuring unit calculates the thickness of each layer constituting the periodic structure by fitting a first reflectance profile by actual measurement regarding the periodic structure to a second reflectance profile obtained by a simulation using the virtual film structure to restructure the shape of the periodic structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Yasuhiko Ishibashi
  • Patent number: 8929678
    Abstract: A method is provided for automatic contour filter positioning for medical X-ray imaging in an X-ray apparatus comprising a collimator and at least one movable contour filter actuated by a motor based positioning subsystem, wherein a digital image in a frame of rows and columns of pixels is rendered for processing and obtaining control data for applying a contour filter. The method comprises identifying exposure of subareas, preparing for filter positioning, and defining filter position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Tamás Újvári
  • Publication number: 20140355735
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are an X-ray imaging apparatus capable of reducing a dose of radiation, and a control method thereof. The X-ray imaging apparatus includes: a gantry configured to rotate around an object, the object being placed on a table that is configured to be transported into a bore; a depth camera provided on the gantry, the depth camera configured to acquire a depth image of the object; an image processor configured to acquire thickness information of the object from the depth image of the object; and a controller configured to set a dose of X-rays to be irradiated to the object according to the thickness information of the object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2014
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ji Young CHOI, Jong Ha LEE, Young Hun SUNG, Kwang Eun JANG
  • Patent number: 8880143
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for estimating the Bone Mineral Density (BMD) using image data collected in emergency situation, i.e. without following specific protocols. In particular, the invention discloses a method for assessing the risk of bone fractures using as one indicator a BMD of one or more bones. The BMD is calculated using a universal constant which provides a value of BMD having a certain error in respect to its true value. However this error does not substantially affect the assessment of the risk of fracture of one or more bones.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Sectra Imtec AB
    Inventors: Johan Kalvesten, Jakob Algulin
  • Patent number: 8873701
    Abstract: A water-soluble salt of a metal with a high atomic weight is selected as an X-ray contrast substance providing a selective ion-exchange reaction with a component. The salt has a general formula R+M?, where R+ is selected from a group consisting of Ba2+; Sr2+; Tl+; Rb+ . . . , and M? is selected from a group consisting of Cln; NOn; OHn; CH3COO, SO4; . . . in accordance with a standard table of inorganic substances' water solubility. The X-ray contrast substance is injected into a sample of a porous material. Upon completion of the selective ion exchange reaction a non-contrast displacing agent is injected into the sample. The sample is scanned by computer X-ray microtomography and spatial distribution and concentration of the component in question is estimated by analysis of the obtained computer tomographic image of the sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Dmitry Mikhailov, Alexander Nadeev, Vadim Khlebnikov, Pavel Zobov
  • Patent number: 8855264
    Abstract: A method for estimating effective atomic number and bulk density of objects, such as rock samples or well cores, using X-ray computed tomographic imaging techniques is provided. The method effectively compensates for errors in the interpretation of CT scan data and produces bulk densities which have lower residual error compared to actual bulk densities and produces bulk density—effective atomic number trends which are consistent with physical observations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Ingrain, Inc.
    Inventor: Naum Derzhi
  • Publication number: 20140219419
    Abstract: A method for monitoring objects for example for facilitating the identification and/or authentication of objects comprises: in a first recording phase: irradiating an object with a suitable source of radiation, collecting intensity information about radiation emergent from the object, resolving the intensity information spectroscopically between at least two energy bands, and storing the resultant dataset as a reference dataset; and in a second verification phase: irradiating an object with a suitable source of radiation, collecting intensity information about radiation emergent from the object, resolving the intensity information spectroscopically between at least two energy bands, and using the resultant dataset as a test dataset; identifying the object and retrieving its corresponding reference dataset; comparing the test dataset and the reference dataset within predetermined tolerance limits, and: in the event that the reference dataset and the test dataset correspond within the predetermined tolerance li
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventors: Ian Radley, Ben Cantwell, David Edward Joyce, Paul Scott
  • Patent number: 8792611
    Abstract: A nuclear density gauge has an elongated transmission chamber adjacent to an elongated source chamber so that they can both be installed through a single nozzle on a high pressure vessel, making an airtight seal with the nozzle. The shape and position of the source chamber allows the positioning of a radiant energy source inside the vessel, a distance from one end of the transmission chamber. The radiation emitted by the radiant energy source travels through contents of the high pressure vessel and then through the elongated transmission chamber to a detector. The method of use of the gauge or multiple gauges, and the adaptation of vessels for such gauges, are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Ohmart Corporation (The)
    Inventor: Bonaventure Cahill
  • Publication number: 20140146941
    Abstract: Measurement accuracy during determination of the thickness of rolling stock, in particular a rolling strip or a metal plate, is remotely measured using a base measurement value for the thickness obtained by a radiation measurement system having a radiation source and a radiation detector, both carried by a holding mechanism. A reference measurement value for the thickness is measured by an ultrasonic measurement head that is likewise arranged on the holding mechanism. The reference measurement value is used to eliminate the influence of errors on the base measurement value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2012
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicant: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventor: Andreas Maierhofer
  • Publication number: 20140126693
    Abstract: A method identifying a material, includes: measuring an electromagnetic radiation spectrum emitted through the material; determining at least one measurement energy band, and spectral coefficients of a comparison function in the measurement band, using the measured spectrum; estimating, using the determined spectral coefficients, a nature and/or thickness of the material based on a set of reference spectral parameters relating to reference materials and/or thicknesses and defined in reference bands.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Applicant: Commissariat a l'energie atomique et aux ene alt
    Inventors: Guillaume Beldjoudi, Veronique Rebuffel, Jean Rinkel
  • Publication number: 20140119506
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for acquiring an optimal MEX image may include an X-ray source to generate an X-ray and to irradiate the X-ray, an energy identification detector to acquire a MEX image that is generated when the irradiated X-ray penetrates an object, and an optimal MEX processor to generate an optimal MEX parameter based on a characteristic of the object and to control at least one of the X-ray source and the energy identification detector based on the generated optimal MEX parameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Dong Goo KANG, Sung Hoon KANG, Sung Su KIM, Young Hun SUNG, Hyun Hwa OH, Seok Min HAN
  • Publication number: 20140064444
    Abstract: The X-ray imaging device includes an X-ray generator to generate an X-ray and radiate the X-ray to an object, an X-ray detector to detect the X-ray passing through the object and acquire an image signal of the object, and a controller to analyze the image signal of the object, evaluate a characteristic of the object and generate at least one of a single energy X-ray image and a multiple energy X-ray image according to the evaluated characteristic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicants: SAMSUNG LIFE PUBLIC WELFARE FOUNDATION, SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hyun Hwa OH, Young Hun SUNG, Kang Eui LEE, Myung Jin CHUNG
  • Patent number: 8649481
    Abstract: The present invention relates to network enabled analysis of x-ray images. Also described are devices comprising calibration phantoms; methods of using these devices; methods of formulating databases containing information regarding x-ray images; the databases themselves; and methods of manipulating the information and databases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: ImaTx, Inc.
    Inventors: Philipp Lang, Daniel Steines
  • Publication number: 20130343519
    Abstract: Devices, tools, systems and methods for X-ray bone density measurement and imaging for radiography, fluoroscopy and related procedures. Portable, efficient peripheral bone density measurement and/or high resolution imaging and/or small field digital radiography of bone and other tissue, including tissue in the peripheral skeletal system, such as the arm, forearm, leg, hand and/or foot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventor: George W. Ma
  • Publication number: 20130319132
    Abstract: 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 multipha
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2011
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventors: Alexandre Lupeau, Andrew Charles Baker
  • Publication number: 20130315371
    Abstract: A method and device for determining a tissue density based on an x-ray image including a reference body. The method uses a device for receiving an X-ray image of a region of interest and information about a theoretical distribution of more or less dense tissue in the region of interest. Pixels of the X-ray image related to tissue are compared with a pixel related to a reference body. The actual distribution of tissue density is estimated based on the received information and the result of the pixel comparison.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Inventors: Bernd Simon, Arno Blau
  • Publication number: 20130308753
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Joel L. Groves, Christian Stoller
  • Patent number: 8542793
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for measuring a sample pore using a computed tomography (CT) and a standard sample and to a method thereof, more particularly to a system for measuring a sample pore using a computed tomography (CT) and a standard sample and to a method thereof, wherein the number of pixels in the count range of a cross-sectional image of the measurement sample and the number of pixels corresponding to the gray level range of the pore are calculated with reference to the count range utilized in the cross-sectional image of the standard sample and the gray level range of the pore so as to accurately measure the porosity of the measurement sample after performing a CT scan of the standard sample and the measurement sample together using a CT scanner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM)
    Inventors: Jae Hwa Jin, Jun Ho Kim, Min Jun Kim
  • Publication number: 20130243154
    Abstract: In accordance with an embodiment, a measuring apparatus includes an electromagnetic wave applying unit, a detecting unit, a data processing unit, a film structure transforming unit, and a film structure measuring unit. The electromagnetic wave applying unit generates electromagnetic waves to apply it to a periodic structure of films on a substrate. The detecting unit detects the electromagnetic waves scattered or reflected by the substrate. The data processing unit calculates a surface shape of the periodic structure. The film structure transforming unit calculates a virtual film structure regarding the internal structure of the periodic structure. The film structure measuring unit calculates the thickness of each layer constituting the periodic structure by fitting a first reflectance profile by actual measurement regarding the periodic structure to a second reflectance profile obtained by a simulation using the virtual film structure to restructure the shape of the periodic structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Yasuhiko ISHIBASHI
  • Publication number: 20130195245
    Abstract: Method for detecting variations in gas density within a volume surrounded by a closed metal wall opaque to optical light includes a source of x-rays positioned at a selected location outside the closed metal wall. Positioning a detector outside the closed metal wall at a location suitable to detect x-rays from the source passing entirely through a portion of the volume surrounded by the closed metal wall. Providing the detector with a plurality of sensors arranged in at least one row to capture a dimensionally distributed view of detected x-rays. Coupling a processor to an output of the detector to analyze the data which can be displayed in a suitable graphical or pictorial presentation, including processing the data to correct for any beam hardening of the x-rays as they pass through the closed metal wall, to apply the Maximum Likelihood Estimation method to generate on the display a reconstructed image of the gas density, and to use Inverse Radon Transforms for deconvolution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: EN'URGA, INC.
    Inventor: EN'URGA, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130192375
    Abstract: A void detection system for detecting voids in fresh concrete is disclosed. The void detection system includes at least one probe disposed on a vibrator and adapted to detect voids in the fresh concrete, and an indicator in communication with the at least one probe and adapted to receive real-time data from the at least one probe. Upon receiving the real-time data, the indicator relays information to a user indicative of the fresh concrete's consolidation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
    Inventor: GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
  • Patent number: 8483355
    Abstract: A radiation inspection apparatus includes a conveying unit configured to convey a sheet-like sample, a radiation source configured to emit radiation to the sheet-like sample, a line sensor configured to measure a physical property of the sheet-like sample, the liner sensor disposed to be opposed to the radiation source across the sheet-like sample, and a gas ejecting unit configured to eject gas to the sheet-like sample to reduce vertical conveyance swinging produced by a tension of the sheet-like sample, the gas ejecting unit placed in close proximity to at least one side face of the line sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Yokogawa Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Yasushi Ichizawa, Hirohiko Obinata
  • Publication number: 20130150700
    Abstract: Methods, systems, services (Internet), computer programs and circuits provide rapid bone mineral density (BMD) measurements and/or osteoporosis information using an automated image analysis circuit that evaluates a hand X-ray of a patient from an X-ray device to generate a reliable bone density evaluation within about 15 minutes, typically within about 5 minutes with receipt of a hand X-ray, and more typically substantially instantaneous and under 1 minute. The automated image analysis circuit can reside on a remote preliminary review server.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Inventors: Johan Kälvesten, Jakob Algulin
  • Patent number: 8428913
    Abstract: A system for locating and tracking an object is provided. The system includes a measuring device configured to determine a property of a paving-related material, a locating device configured to determine a location of the measuring device, a tracking system configured to store tracking information associated with the measuring device and one or more properties determined by the measuring device, and a communications system configured to transfer, to a remote device, the location of the measuring device and the tracking information associated with the measuring device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Troxler Electronic Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert E. Troxler
  • Publication number: 20130066461
    Abstract: We provide an apparatus and method for analysing a security document. An x-ray source is adapted to illuminate at least one inspection region of the security document when located at an inspection position. An x-ray detector adapted to receive x-rays from the at least one inspection region of the document and to generate a corresponding detector response. A processor analyses the detector response and generates an output signal indicative of the structure of the document in the at least one inspection region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: De La Rue International Limited
    Inventor: De La Rue International Limited
  • Patent number: 8375833
    Abstract: A system for cutting blocks of food product into bars of substantially equal weight. The system includes a cutter conveyor configured to receive incoming blocks of food product and move the blocks along an in-line processing path in a plane for cutting; a programmable logic controller coupled to the cutter conveyor; and, multiple stations associated with the cutter conveyor. One such station is a camera vision system configured to create an image of the slab portion, and further including a camera controller coupled to the vision system and the PLC, and configured to determine an optimized cut solution of the slab portion from the image and data related to the food product, and is configured to provide the cut solution to the PLC. The PLC is configured to control the cutting of the food product, based on the optimized cut solution, into bars of substantially equal weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Marchant Schmidt, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard J. Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20130039461
    Abstract: A gamma densitometer window comprises a plate of non-metallic, preferably gamma transparent, material. The window further comprises a metallic frame member fitted around the outer edge of the plate and adapted to pre-load the plate with a compressive stress that is sufficiently high such that the sum of the compressive stress, tensile stress and shear stress components generated in the plate under high-pressure conditions is always compressive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2010
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Inventors: Rolf Rustad, Paal Bratland, Jean-Francois Noel
  • Publication number: 20130028375
    Abstract: Fouling in the fill portion of a cooling tower is monitored by transmitting radiation through a cooling tower, detecting the amount of radiation that has penetrated the cooling tower, and calculating the density of the fill portion of the cooling tower based on the detected radiation. A higher than expected density indicates the presence of fouling on the fill portion of the cooling tower. A rate of fouling may be established by monitoring the density of the fill portion of the cooling tower over time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Charles B. Winfield, Lance Freeman, Stephen N. Harris
  • Patent number: 8346521
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Oxford Instruments Nanotechnology Tools Limited
    Inventors: Peter John Statham, Charles Penman
  • Patent number: 8306188
    Abstract: A method for the online determination of the ash content of a substance conveyed on a conveying device, includes a first measurement for determining the mass per unit area of the substance and a second measurement for determining the mean atomic number of the atoms present in the substance. An additional X-ray fluorescence measurement is carried out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventor: Albert Klein
  • Patent number: 8300913
    Abstract: A radiation image processing apparatus includes a radiation source for irradiating the subject with the radiation, the subject being applied with a fixation material, a radiation source controller for controlling the radiation source in accordance with different image capturing conditions, a radiation converting panel for converting the radiation into one of the pieces of radiation image information, a processing condition memory for storing a plurality of processing conditions, each including the image capturing conditions that correspond to a type of the fixation material, a processing condition selector for selecting one of the processing conditions, the selected one of the processing conditions corresponding to the type of the fixation material, and an image processor for processing in accordance with the selected processing condition the plurality of pieces of radiation image information that are provided by the radiation converting panel under the different image capturing conditions, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshitaka Yamaguchi, Sadato Akahori, Kazuharu Ueta, Yasunori Ohta, Atsushi Fukuda
  • Patent number: 8284895
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an x-ray detector configured to generate one-dimensional x-ray density profiles. In exemplary embodiments the x-ray detector is used for the purpose of detecting inclusions in agricultural commodities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture
    Inventor: Ronald P. Haff
  • Patent number: 8276490
    Abstract: A system for cutting blocks of food product into bars of substantially equal weight. The system includes a cutter conveyor configured to receive incoming blocks of food product and move the blocks along an in-line processing path in a plane for cutting; a programmable logic controller coupled to the cutter conveyor; and, multiple stations associated with the cutter conveyor. One such station is a camera vision system configured to create an image of the slab portion, and further including a camera controller coupled to the vision system and the PLC, and configured to determine an optimized cut solution of the slab portion from the image and data related to the food product, and is configured to provide the cut solution to the PLC. The PLC is configured to control the cutting of the food product, based on the optimized cut solution, into bars of substantially equal weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Marchant Schmidt, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard J. Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20120216939
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to systems and methods for detecting features on billets of laminated veneer lumber (LVL). In some embodiments, an LVL billet is provided and passed through a scanning assembly. The scanning assembly includes an x-ray generator and an x-ray detector. The x-ray generator generates a beam of x-ray radiation and the x-ray detector measures intensity of the beam of x-ray radiation after is passes through the LVL billet. The measured intensity is then processed to create an image. Images taken according to the disclosure may then be analyzed to detect features on the LVL billet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Applicant: WEYERHAEUSER NR COMPANY
    Inventors: David C. Irving, Thomas J. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20120207271
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an article inspection device, comprising: an x-ray machine, a collimation unit, a transmission detector array and a scattering detector array. The scattering detector array comprising a plurality of same scattering detector modules arranged in a matrix of i-rows and j-columns. A transmission cross section of the article transmitted by the x-rays is divided into a plurality of same sub-regions arranged in a matrix of i-rows and j-columns. The plurality of scattering detector modules arranged in i-rows and j-columns correspond to the plurality of sub-regions arranged in i-rows and j-columns one by one for detecting pair production effect annihilation photons and Compton-effect scattering photons from the respective sub-regions. Obtaining atomic numbers of the respective sub-regions based on a ratio of the pair production effect annihilation photon count to the Compton-effect scattering photon count, so as to form a three-dimensional image of the article.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2010
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventors: Yigang Yang, Tiezhu Li, Qinjian Zhang, Yi Zhang, Yingkang Jin, Qinghao Chen, Yuanjing Li, Yinong Liu
  • Patent number: 8244016
    Abstract: A method for reconstructing images from a set of acquired projection views weights the value backprojected into each image voxel depending on whether the backprojected raysum passes through a highly attenuating region in the subject of the image. If the raysum exceeds an attenuation threshold value, the backprojected values are weighted to substantially reduce the contribution of that raysum to the reconstructed image and to thereby reduce streak artifacts otherwise produced by high attenuation objects such as metal surgical clips.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation
    Inventor: Joshua E. Medow
  • Patent number: 8228488
    Abstract: The material strength of extensive objects can be determined efficiently by using two distance measurers, wherein a first distance measurer determines the distance to a first main surface of the object and a second distance measurer determines the distance to a second main surface object opposing the first main surface. If potential measurement errors due to the extensive geometry are avoided by determining a reference distance between the first distance measurer and the second distance measurer by a reference unit via X-radiation, the thickness of the object between the first main surface and the second main surface can be determined with high accuracy and velocity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Foerderung der Angewandten Forschung e.V.
    Inventors: Peter Schmitt, Guenther Kostka
  • Publication number: 20120087467
    Abstract: Multiphase flow measuring unit for performing X-ray density measurements on a fluid flow, the unit comprising an X-ray source generating an X-ray beam within a chosen spectral range and a first detector aimed at the beam for detecting radiation scattered by or transmitted through the flow, the spectral range being a narrow, essentially monochromatic range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2010
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Applicant: ROXAR FLOW MEASUREMENT AS
    Inventor: Stein-Arild TJUGUM
  • Patent number: 8126112
    Abstract: An osseo classification and digital modality modeling system includes a computer with a digital memory adapted for storing patient densitometry information, an input and an output. An input subsystem includes a pair of source/receptor units mounted on a signal positioning subsystem, which is adapted for moving the source/receptor units through predetermined paths of movement, which can be circular or linear. The resulting tomographic data is synthesized to form any 3-D model or image, which is output for further analysis and classifying osseo structure and/or prosthetic osseointegration. An osseo classification and digital tomosynthesis method includes the steps of moving a pair of sensor/receptor units relative to a patient. The resulting signals output by the receptor are digitized and synthesized to form a 3-D image or model. Multiple depths of penetration and multiple widths can be captured from single acquisitions using digital tomosynthesis signal processing techniques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Inventors: Ronald E. Massie, Christopher J. Leslie
  • Publication number: 20120020457
    Abstract: A nuclear density gauge has an elongated transmission chamber adjacent to an elongated source chamber so that they can both be installed through a single nozzle on a high pressure vessel, making an airtight seal with the nozzle. The shape and position of the source chamber allows the positioning of a radiant energy source inside the vessel, a distance from one end of the transmission chamber. The radiation emitted by the radiant energy source travels through contents of the high pressure vessel and then through the elongated transmission chamber to a detector. The method of use of the gauge or multiple gauges, and the adaptation of vessels for such gauges, are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Applicant: OHMART CORPORATION
    Inventor: Bonaventure Cahill
  • Patent number: 8086012
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for determining body weight and fat content using computed tomography data are provided. One method includes acquiring a pre-scan image using a computed tomography imaging system and segmenting the pre-scan image into pixels representing imaged fat and pixels representing imaged tissue. The method further includes determining a lean body weight based on the segmented pixels representing imaged fat and imaged tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Thomas Louis Toth, Daniele Marin, Lisa Ho, Rendon Nelson
  • Publication number: 20110313289
    Abstract: An invention is disclosed for locating a region of interest (ROI) in the radius. A method and apparatus are disclosed that use a pair of ultrasound transducers for ultrasound assessment of various properties of bone. The invention includes positioning the transducers on the anterior-posterior (dorsal and ventral) sides of a forearm of an individual. The positioning is based on the forearm length, and a selected percentage of this length at which the ROI is desired. In a presently preferred embodiment of the invention, the ROI is defined as the ?rd location. An arm is placed in an ultrasound fixture which has a first surface, a second surface with a raised portion against which the ulna styloid process is placed, and a third surface on which the elbow is placed. The distance between the raised portion of the second surface and the centerlines of the pair of ultrasound transducers is adjustable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2010
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Applicant: CyberLogic, Inc.
    Inventors: Gangming Luo, Jonathan J. Kaufman
  • Patent number: 8073101
    Abstract: A digital modality modeling system includes a computer with a digital memory adapted for storing patient densitometry information, an input and an output. An input subsystem includes a pair of source/receptor units mounted on a signal positioning subsystem, which is adapted for moving the source/receptor units through predetermined paths of movement, which can be circular or linear. The resulting tomographic data is synthesized to form any 3-D model or image, which is output for further analysis. A digital tomosynthesis method includes the steps of moving a pair of sensor/receptor units relative to a patient. The resulting signals output by the receptor are digitized and synthesized to form a 3-D image or model. Multiple depths of penetration and multiple widths can be captured from single acquisitions using digital tomosynthesis signal processing techniques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Inventors: Ronald E. Massie, Christopher J Leslie
  • Patent number: 8068580
    Abstract: The present invention relates to network enabled analysis of x-ray images. Also described are devices comprising calibration phantoms; methods of using these devices; methods of formulating databases containing information regarding x-ray images; the databases themselves; and methods of manipulating the information and databases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: ImaTx, Inc.
    Inventors: Philipp Lang, Daniel Steines
  • Patent number: 8068656
    Abstract: An x-ray inspection apparatus includes a sample image obtaining unit, an ideal curve generating unit, a curve adjustment unit, and a mass estimation unit as a function block generated by a control computer. The sample image obtaining unit obtains 10 x-ray transmission images of sample inspected products each of whose mass is known in advance. The ideal curve generating unit generates a table based on a formula that indicates a relationship between the brightness of an area included in the x-ray transmission images and the estimated mass of the area. The curve adjustment unit refers to the input actual mass of each x-ray transmission image and adjusts the table such that the estimated mass approximates the actual mass. The mass estimation unit determines the estimated mass per unit area based on the post-adjusted table and adds up these masses to determine the total estimated mass of the product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Ishida Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Osamu Hirose