Combined With Non-x-ray Imaging Patents (Class 378/63)
  • Publication number: 20140119510
    Abstract: An X-ray imaging system for generating space transfer functions has an X-ray machine, a check board and a host. The X-ray machine has an X-ray camera and an image camera to respectively take an X-ray image and a reference image for a calibration pattern on the check board. The host has a controller electrically connected to the X-ray camera and the image camera to receive the X-ray image and the reference image. The controller generates parameters and space transfer functions according to the X-ray image and the reference image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: Show Chwan Memorial Hospital
    Inventors: Min-Liang WANG, Pei-Yuan Lee, Kai-Che Liu
  • Publication number: 20140050298
    Abstract: Provided is an intraoral X-ray imaging apparatus having a camera, including: a frame; an X-ray irradiator which is installed to be supported by the frame and of which the one end portion is inserted into the oral cavity and which irradiates X-ray through an X-ray irradiation hole formed on the one end portion inserted into the oral cavity; a camera unit which is installed at the one end portion of the X-ray irradiator to image an interior of the oral cavity; a monitor unit which is connected to a camera unit to output the image captured by the camera unit; and an X-ray detector which is arranged to be separated from the X-ray irradiator in the frame so as to detect the X-ray irradiated from the X-ray irradiator outside the oral cavity. In the intraoral X-ray imaging apparatus having a camera, since the X-ray irradiator is located inside the oral cavity, it is possible to obtain an image having a high quality with a low X-ray dose and to avoid confusion in image diagnosis by removing a ghost image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Applicant: EWHA UNIVERSITY-INDUSTRY COLLABORATION FOUNDATION
    Inventor: Rena Lee
  • Patent number: 8654922
    Abstract: The present application discloses a system for scanning a shoe for illegal materials. The system includes an X-ray source for projecting a beam of X-rays onto the shoe, a detector array for detecting X-rays transmitted through the shoe and at least one metal detector coil for detecting metals within the shoe. The system produces a radiographic image of the shoe by processing the detected X-rays and data obtained from the at least one metal detector coil. Other embodiments are directed toward other screening technologies, including millimeter wave screening technologies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Rapiscan Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph Bendahan
  • Publication number: 20140037062
    Abstract: An image guided radiation therapy system comprises a radiation source to generate radiation. Radiation optics forms a therapeutic radiation beam from the therapeutic radiation from the radiation source. An imaging system forms an image of a target zone to control the radiation optics to direct the therapeutic radiation beam onto the target zone. The radiation optics is provided with an optics module configured to generate an imaging photonic beam endowed with optical angular momentum. The imaging system comprises a magnetic resonance assembly to receive magnetic resonance signals the from the target zone generated by imaging photonic beam endowed with optical angular momentum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Daniel Robert ELGORT, Lucian Remus ALBU, Clemens BOS
  • Patent number: 8630696
    Abstract: An integrated Positron Emission Tomography (PET)/Computed Tomography (CT) system includes a patient support device supporting a patient pallet, a gantry having a space through which the patient pallet passes, a plurality of integrated PET/CT detector modules attached to one side of the gantry, an x-ray tube attached to the other side of the gantry, and a signal detecting/processing unit. Each of the plurality of integrated PET/CT detector modules include a plurality of PET detectors, a flat-panel x-ray detector disposed in contact with the PET detectors and a read-out driver mounted at a rear end of the PET detectors and electrically connected with the flat-panel x-ray detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Nucare Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Yong-Kown Kim, Yong Choi, Ki-Sung Lee, Hyoung-Uk Choi, Sey-Joon Park
  • Publication number: 20140003578
    Abstract: An X-ray imaging apparatus and an X-ray imaging method that can stitch transmission images detected by a two-dimensional detector at different positions of the sample are provided. An X-ray imaging apparatus and an X-ray imaging method include: an X-ray generating unit configured to irradiate a sample with a substantially parallel X-ray; a two-dimensional detector including a detection region; a stage where a support base is mounted is configured to move the support base in a plane along a plane of the detection region; and an imaging control unit configured to generate stitched transmission image data based on a plurality of transmission images of the sample detected by the two-dimensional detector. The imaging control unit is configured to stitch the transmission images at a plurality of mutually different positions in the sample to generate the stitched transmission image data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2013
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Inventors: Kazuhiko OMOTE, Yoshihiko TAKEDA
  • Publication number: 20130343523
    Abstract: An X-ray imaging apparatus and control method thereof precisely designates an imaging region and reduces user fatigue by designating a segmentation imaging region using an image of a target object captured by a camera and automatically controlling an X-ray generator according to the designated segmentation imaging region. The X-ray imaging apparatus includes an X-ray generator to perform X-ray imaging of a target object by generating and irradiating X-rays, an image capturer to capture an image of the target object, an image display to display the image captured by the image capturer, an input part to receive designation of a region for which segmentation imaging is to be performed on the image displayed on the image display, and a controller to control the X-ray generator to perform segmentation imaging with respect to the designated region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Duhgoon Lee, Phill Gu Jung, Myung Jin Chung
  • Patent number: 8611499
    Abstract: A method for monitoring the X-ray dosage administered to a patient by a radiation source when using an X-ray device is proposed. The X-ray device is in particular a C-arm X-ray device. A location-dependent dosage value on the surface of the patient is determined with reference to parameters which describe the recording geometry and the radiation that is administered. The surface is described by a patient model in particular. A representation of the dosage value and/or of a value derived therefrom is displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Martin Spahn
  • Publication number: 20130294575
    Abstract: A medical imaging system includes a first x-ray image detector, a first x-ray generator, and a motorized turntable. The first x-ray image detector and the first x-ray generator are each mounted on a base and positioned opposite each other such that x-rays are projected from the first x-ray generator to the first x-ray image detector through a first imaging volume. The motorized turntable is positioned below the first imaging volume and between the first x-ray image detector and the first x-ray generator and is configured to rotate an imaging subject within the imaging volume.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Inventor: George Papaioannou
  • Patent number: 8553839
    Abstract: A system for generating an image including information of both an interior and an exterior of a patient. The system includes an X ray device for providing an X ray image of a patient's interior, and a camera responsive to a wavelength for providing a camera image of a patient's exterior. The camera may be supported by the X ray device for establishing a determined spatial relationship between the camera and the X ray device. The system further includes a spatial reference for spatially correlating the X ray image and the camera image, where the spatial reference is detectable in the X ray image and in the camera image. A data processor configured for rendering the camera image and the X ray image into a composite image on the basis of the spatial reference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventors: Bernardus Hendrikus Wilhelmus Hendriks, Adrien Desjardins, Drazenko Babic
  • Publication number: 20130230144
    Abstract: An automated X-ray inspection system employing phase shift profilometry (PSP) and three dimensional (3D) surface modeling for improving inspection of an object, includes at least one projector for projecting light to the object, at least one optical lens for imaging a light pattern obtained from the object to at least one camera, the at least one camera being adapted to capture a plurality of images of the object. The light passing from the projector lens of the at least one projector illuminates the object thereby generating the light pattern to be imaged from the object to the at least one camera via the at least one optical lens.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2012
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Applicant: Vitrox Corporation Berhad
    Inventors: Chun-Aun Tan, Lee-Herng Cheah
  • Patent number: 8520797
    Abstract: A medical imaging apparatus includes an X-ray imaging apparatus; and a nuclear medicine imaging apparatus. The X-ray imaging apparatus includes an X-ray tube configured to emit X-rays for generating an X-ray CT image. The nuclear medicine imaging apparatus includes a detector configured to detect radiation for generating a nuclear medicine image. At least one of the X-ray imaging apparatus and the nuclear medicine imaging apparatus includes a determining unit configured to determine whether the detector detects the X-rays emitted by the X-ray tube, thereby determining whether there is a failure in the detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Yasunobu Yamada
  • Publication number: 20130216025
    Abstract: A system and method for adaptive imaging include a shape sensing system (115, 117) coupled to an interventional device (102) to measure spatial characteristics of the interventional device in a subject. An image module (130) is configured to receive the spatial characteristics and generate one or more control signals in accordance with the spatial characteristics. An imaging device (110) is configured to image the subject in accordance with the control signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2011
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Raymond Chan, Jinnan Wang, Adrien Emmanuel Desjardins, Luis Felipe Gutierrez, Maya Ella Barley, Gert Wim 'T Hooft
  • Patent number: 8461538
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising a radiation source, coincident positron emission detectors configured to detect coincident positron annihilation emissions originating within a coordinate system, and a controller coupled to the radiation source and the coincident positron emission detectors, the controller configured to identify coincident positron annihilation emission paths intersecting one or more volumes in the coordinate system and align the radiation source along an identified coincident positron annihilation emission path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: RefleXion Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Samuel Mazin
  • Patent number: 8457713
    Abstract: A medical treatment system is provided. The medical treatment system includes a medical imaging unit and a mobile display device mechanically disconnected from the medical imaging unit, a control unit, an input device. A data transmission device is operable to transmit data recorded by the medical imaging unit to the mobile display device. A vehicle supports the mobile display device and includes a drive unit. The control unit, operating in conjunction with the input device, is operable to control the display device and the drive unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Robert Kagermeier
  • Patent number: 8452381
    Abstract: A apparatus particularly well suited for use in medical imaging includes radiation sensitive detectors (40, 50) which detect gamma radiation indicative of radionuclide decays in an examination region (30). The detectors (40, 50) are supported by generally c-shaped support (70) for rotation about a detector rotation axis (35). The support (70) is farther attached to a pivot joint (77) which allows adjustment of the detector rotation axis (35). The support (70) may also be translated in two degrees of freedom to so that the detectors (40, 50) orbit the examination region (20) in a non-circular orbit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Sorin V. Cora, Mark E. Desilets, Dumitru Dragan, Moataz Karmalawy, Michael J. Petrillo
  • Publication number: 20130121468
    Abstract: In the disclosed radiograph imaging system, the transmission/reception of a signal is possible between on-site communication units and a waiting area communication unit. Also, the waiting area communication unit transmits at least an imaging menu to the on-site communication units.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Applicant: FUJIFILM CORPORATION
    Inventor: FUJIFILM Corporation
  • Patent number: 8442617
    Abstract: A patient table for a common imaging system including Magnetic Resonance and X-Ray retains the patient stationary in position prior to, during and subsequent to the imaging and includes a base, a patient support portion cantilevered from the base and a mattress. A safety system is provided for controlling the operation of the magnet and MR system and the X-Ray systems to allow effective safe operation and controls the movement of the magnet to the table and the movement of the X-Ray imaging systems to and from the table to locations where they do not interfere with the MR imaging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Imris Inc.
    Inventors: Gordon Scarth, Steven Robbins, Brendan Guyot
  • Publication number: 20130114793
    Abstract: The radiographic imaging device that configures the disclosed radiographic imaging system has at least a camera that images a main cassette body. Said camera is integrally configured to a radiation source and a control device that controls the main cassette body or is integrally configured to a main radiation source body that houses the radiation source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: FUJIFILM CORPORATION
    Inventor: FUJIFILM Corporation
  • Patent number: 8408789
    Abstract: An X-ray analysis apparatus including: a radiation source configured to irradiate an irradiation point on a sample with radiation; an X-ray detector configured to detect a characteristic X-ray emitted from the sample, and output a signal including energy information about the characteristic X-ray; an analyzer configured to analyze the signal; a sample stage configured to allow placement of the sample thereon; a shifting mechanism being capable of relatively shifting the sample on the sample stage and the radiation source and the X-ray detector with respect to each other; a height measuring mechanism being capable of measuring the height of the irradiation point on the sample; and a controller configured to control the shifting mechanism on the basis of the measured height of the irradiation point on the sample and adjust the distance of the sample with respect to the radiation source and the X-ray detector is used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: SII NanoTechnology Inc.
    Inventor: Toshiyuki Takahara
  • Patent number: 8396189
    Abstract: A photoneutron-x ray source includes a photoneutron conversion target, which outputs both photoneutrons and x-rays simultaneously. The photoneutron-x ray source includes an x-ray generator for generating an x-ray main beam that is applied to the photoneutron conversion target. The photoneutron conversion target generates photoneutrons upon the application of the x-ray main beam to the photoneutron conversion target. The photoneutron conversion target has a body that defines a passageway extending through the body and that is structured such that a first x-ray beam of the x-ray main beam can pass through the passageway without any reaction with the body, while a second x-ray beam of the x-ray main beam can enter the body and react with the body to emit the photoneutrons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignees: Tsinghua University, Nuctech Company Limited
    Inventors: Kejun Kang, Haifeng Hu, Yigang Yang, Zhiqiang Chen, Qitian Miao, Jianping Cheng, Yuanjing Li, Yinong Liu, Hua Peng, Tiezhu Li, Ziran Zhao, Yaohong Liu, Wanlong Wu
  • Patent number: 8382372
    Abstract: The invention relates to a medical apparatus. The medical apparatus includes a patient support table with a patient support plate, a medical imaging device, a location and navigation facility integrated at least partially in the patient support table and/or the medical imaging device and a system controller, which is used to operate and/or control both the medical imaging device and also the location and navigation facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Michael Maschke
  • Publication number: 20130039469
    Abstract: An X-ray stress measurement apparatus having: a camera for producing an optical image of a sample; a display for displaying the optical image; an input device capable of inputting positions on a display screen; an X-ray source for generating an X-ray; a table for moving the sample; an X-ray detector for detecting an X-ray exiting the sample; a measurement program for determining the measurement positions of the sample on the basis of the positions indicated by the input device, and measuring the determined measurement positions of the sample; a stress computation program for computing the stress at the measurement positions of the sample on the basis of an output signal from the X-ray detector; and an image formation program for causing the optical image, the measurement positions of the sample, the absolute value of the stress, and the direction of the stress to be displayed on the same display screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2012
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Applicant: Rigaku Corporation
    Inventors: Shoichi Yasukawa, Tomoyuki Iwata
  • Publication number: 20130034203
    Abstract: A method for preparing an image simulating the anatomy of a small subject test animal, and an apparatus for producing said image and an anatomical atlas for co-registering therewith, comprising the generation of two or more non-tomographic images of the test animals is described. Examples of the non-tomographic imaging modalities and the images generated include, but are not limited to one or more x-ray sources and resultant of x-ray projections, photographic cameras and resulting digital or optical images and surface scanners and resultant surface scans. The subject animal is positioned at a focal point in a carrier in an imaging enclosure. A combination of one or more of the non-tomographic images taken from different angles within the enclosure are combined and through an iterative process co-registered with the previously generated digital atlas of the anatomy of the same or similar test animals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Inventors: Hongkai Wang, Arion F. Hadjioannou
  • Publication number: 20130033700
    Abstract: A apparatus for accurately measuring radiation beams during treatment which comprises a dosimeter which is used to measure the radiation; an optical marker which is used to determine the patient position; and said dosimeter and said optical marker are connected to one another used to provide and display simultaneously a radiation dose reading and a measurement of the patient's movements during treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2011
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Inventor: Abdelbasset Hallil
  • Publication number: 20130022172
    Abstract: An X-ray device includes a camera to image an object and output the image of the object, a display member using a touch screen to display the image of the object output from the camera, and an X-ray irradiation region of the object, an X-ray irradiation region controller to control a region of the object to which an X-ray is irradiated, and a control member to enable the irradiation region controller to control the region of the object to which an X-ray is irradiated according to the X-ray irradiation region, when the X-ray irradiation region is determined, based on the image of the object displayed in the display member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Applicant: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Byeong Won LEE, Jae Hwa MOON
  • Patent number: 8351041
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of observing biological tissue, the method comprising: collecting through a first end of a bundle of optical fibers light from a surface of the tissue; observing at least one image of the tissue at a second end of the bundle, while injecting light into the second end of the bundle to illuminate the surface of the tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: L'Oreal
    Inventors: Jean-Luc Leveque, Neso Sojic
  • Patent number: 8331531
    Abstract: The present invention provides a radiotherapy treatment apparatus that includes a treatment beam, a magnetic field disposed parallel collinear to the treatment beam, and a target that is disposed along the treatment beam. The treatment beam can be a charged particle beam, a proton beam, an electron beam, or a linear accelerator (Linac) beam. The magnetic field is from a magnetic resonance imager (MRI), a megavolt x-ray imager, or a kilovolt x-ray imager and is disposed to operate in coordination with operation of the treatment beam and to narrow the beam. The tumor is disposed to rotate with respect to the treatment beam and the magnetic field, or the treatment beam and the magnetic field are disposed to rotate up to 360° with respect to the target when mounted to a ring gantry. The apparatus can include a rotation angle dependent shim disposed to account for Earth's magnetic field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignees: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University, The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Rebecca Fahrig, Norbert J. Pelc, Kim Pauly, Greig C. Scott, Amit Sawant, Paul J. Keall, Lei Xing, Steven M. Conolly
  • Patent number: 8325877
    Abstract: One or more systems and/or techniques are described for generating volumetric data from both radiographic and ultrasound examinations of an object, where the radiographic volumetric data and the ultrasound volumetric data are representative of a substantially same volumetric space of the object. This allows, for example, corresponding portions of the volumetric data and/or images resulting therefrom (e.g., indicative of a tumor) to be identified for comparison via the different modalities. Moreover, in one embodiment, a compression paddle of a mammography examination apparatus is configured to selectively receive an ultrasound component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Analogic Corporation
    Inventor: Daniel Abenaim
  • Publication number: 20120300895
    Abstract: The invention relates to a dental imaging apparatus which includes an x-ray imaging means and at least one colour camera for photographing the face of a patient positioned at the imaging station of the apparatus, which at least one colour camera is arranged to image the patient's face positioned at the patient support station from different directions, and means arranged into functional connection with said at least one colour camera for creating a virtual three-dimensional texture model of the patient's face.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2011
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Inventors: Juha Koivisto, Kustaa Nyholm, Christian De Godzinsky
  • Patent number: 8320654
    Abstract: To evaluate an exact bone mineral density, when a reference bar region in an X-ray picture of a mandible and a reference bar disposed beside the mandible is selected, the mean value and deviation of the brightness of this region are displayed by means of letter groups. When an evaluation object region is selected, the brightness of this region is corrected according to the mean value and deviation of the brightness of the reference bar region and standard mean value and deviation, or, in other words, according to a fixed reference. The corrected brightness is displayed in the form of histogram. Furthermore, the mean value and deviation of the corrected brightness are determined, and they are displayed by means of letter groups. The bone mineral density is quantitatively evaluated from the histogram and the mean value and deviation of the corrected brightness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Inventor: Yoshitomo Takaishi
  • Publication number: 20120243662
    Abstract: A dental x-ray unit comprising: an X-ray generator adapted to generate an X-ray beam in the direction of a patient's head, means of collimation adapted to confer given dimensions to the generated X-ray beam; a sensor placed facing the generator, receiving the radiologic projection of the collimated beam having irradiated the patient's head and supplying a cephalometric image of the patient's head, characterized in that the device includes: the means to acquire at least one photographic image of the patient's head, the means of automatic control for the means of collimation according to the at least one photographic image so that the dimensions of the collimated X-ray beam are adjusted to the dimensions of the patient's head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2010
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventors: Vincent Loustauneau, Sylvie Bothorel, Jean-Marc Inglese
  • Publication number: 20120236993
    Abstract: In a method for correctly geometrically assigning x-ray images of a patient an optically operating recording device is attached to an x-ray device generating the x-ray images. A dimensionally stable marker surface which can be optically detected by the recording device and defines a reference system is fixed to the patient in a fixed relative position. The x-ray device is brought into a first and second recording position such that the recording device is directed toward the marker surface. In a recording position the x-ray device produces a first and second x-ray image of the patient and the recording device produces a first and second recording of the marker surface. The respective geometric position of the first and second x-ray image is determined in the reference system from the recordings. The first and second x-ray images are correctly geometrically assigned to one another in accordance with their position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventor: Rainer Graumann
  • Patent number: 8249218
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and other modalities are described for (a) obtaining an indication relating to an emission module (which may be dangerous, e.g.) or its user (who may be untrained, e.g.) and for (b) configuring the module or causing an irradiation (for imaging, e.g.) in response to the indication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: The Invention Science Fund I, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Eric C. Leuthardt, Dennis J. Rivet, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8217357
    Abstract: An integrated tomosynthesis/molecular breast imaging device having improved sensitivity includes tomosynthesis imaging components and molecular breast imaging components. The imaging components may be used individually or in combination to provide a system with improved sensitivity and specificity. Molecular imaging components may be smoothly advanced or withdrawn depending upon the desired imaging mode. The system supports both PET and SPECT imaging and enables SPECT collimation to be modified in accordance with image capture requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Hologic, Inc.
    Inventors: Jay Stein, Baorui Ren, Andrew P. Smith, Kenneth F. Brooks, Jing Zhenxue, Ian Shaw, Ken DeFreitas
  • Patent number: 8199876
    Abstract: In an imaging system and method for preparing x-ray images and optical images, at least two x-ray images of an examination subject are acquired by emitting x-rays from at least two different x-ray image acquisition points in space. At least two optical exposures are acquired from the examination subject at respective optical exposure origination points that respectively optically correspond to the x-ray image acquisition points. The optical exposures and the x-ray images are superimposed so that each optical image is superimposed with the x-ray image that originated from an x-ray image origination point corresponding to the optical exposure origination point of that optical exposure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Rainer Graumann, Nassir Navab
  • Patent number: 8192361
    Abstract: In a medical imaging system including plural imaging section, detection accuracy and examination efficiency for breast cancer are improved by setting appropriate imaging condition. The system includes: a first imaging section for imaging an object to be inspected by using one of radiation, ultrasonic waves, nuclear magnetic resonance, positron, infrared light and fluorescence to generate a medical image; a second imaging section for imaging the object by using another one of radiation, ultrasonic waves, nuclear magnetic resonance, positron, infrared light and fluorescence to generate a medical image; and an imaging condition setting section for setting imaging condition in the second imaging section based on the medical image generated by the first imaging section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventor: Tomonari Sendai
  • Patent number: 8190235
    Abstract: A patient table for a common imaging system including Magnetic Resonance and X-Ray retains the patient stationary in position prior to, during and subsequent to the imaging and includes a base, a patient support portion cantilevered from the base and a mattress. A safety system is provided for controlling the operation of the magnet and MR system and the X-Ray systems to allow effective safe operation and controls the movement of the magnet to the table and the movement of the X-Ray imaging systems to and from the table to locations where they do not interfere with the MR imaging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Imris Inc.
    Inventors: Gordon Scarth, Steven Robbins, Brendan Guyot
  • Publication number: 20120121062
    Abstract: In accordance with one aspect of the invention a method and apparatus for generating complete scout scans with CT imaging devices having offset detector geometries is provided. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a method and apparatus for increasing the reconstructable field of view 100 for CT imaging devices having offset detector geometries is provided. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a method and apparatus for image reconstruction for region of interest and full-body imaging with CT imaging devices having offset detector geometries is provided. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a combined x-ray and SPECT imaging system is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2010
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: David Sowards-Emmerd, Charles Nortmann, Eberhard Hansis, Michael Grass
  • Patent number: 8175220
    Abstract: A multi-modality imaging system includes a first imaging system and a second imaging system that is different from the first imaging system. The first and second imaging systems are slidingly mounted on at least one rail. A table has a movable pallet configured to extend through a scan range of the first imaging system while the first and second imaging systems are positioned proximate each other at one position along the at least one rail. The pallet is further configured to extend through a scan range of the second imaging system while the first and second imaging systems are positioned proximate each other at a different position along the at least one rail. At least a portion of the scan ranges overlap each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Alexander Vaisburd, Leonid Yakubovsky, Dor Perry
  • Publication number: 20120106702
    Abstract: An imaging system for imaging at least a first and a second subject has a support stage to support the subjects. An imaging system has an ionizing radiation imaging section with at least a first ionizing radiation source for directing ionizing radiation within a first zone that includes the first subject and a second ionizing radiation source for directing ionizing radiation within a second zone that lies substantially outside the first zone and that includes the second subject. At least one imaging receiver forms an image of the subject within each zone. A camera system obtains at least one image of the at least first and second subjects. A computer is in signal communication with the imaging system and energizable to form a combined image from two or more images of the same subjects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2011
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventor: Gilbert D. Feke
  • Publication number: 20120069958
    Abstract: An image of an object is synergistically reconstructed using two or multiple imaging modalities. A first reconstructed image, showing structural information of the object is produced using a first imaging modality. The first reconstructed image is segmented, and known optical properties of the object are then mapped to the first reconstructed image. Optical signal emissions from the object are detected and registered with the first reconstructed image. A second reconstructed image volume is then produced using a second imaging modality, based on the mapped optical properties after registration between the first image and the data from the second modality. The second reconstructed image depicts some optical property, such as a bioluminescent source distribution, or optical properties, such as, attenuation and scattering properties, of the object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2011
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Inventors: Ge Wang, Eric Hoffman, Geoffrey McLennan
  • Patent number: 8139714
    Abstract: This invention relates to single session image guided all field simultaneous radiation therapy combined with hyperthermia. Hyperthermia renders the radiation resistant cells as more radiation sensitive cells. The high and super-high dose rate radiation greatly improves the RBE of the photon radiation. It also minimizes photon radiation therapy's OER and cell cycle dependent tumor cell kill by minimizing the repair capacity of cell after photon radiation. Single session hyperthermia and radiation therapy overcomes the thermotolerance-associated inefficiency of hyperthermia treatment as it is when hyperthermia is combined with fractionated, lower dose rate radiation. The synergetic effects of sublethal damage repair inhibiting single session hyperthermia-combined with high dose and dose rate single session radiation therapy, and combined chemotherapy brings the photon radiation therapy's tumor cure and control capabilities closer to high LET radiation therapy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Inventor: Velayudhan Sahadevan
  • Patent number: 8139713
    Abstract: When performing a patient scan to collect patient data for reconstruction into one or more image volumes, a combination nuclear-radiographic subject imaging device (10) includes first and second detector heads (22a, 22b), which move on respective positionable tracks (14a, 14b). The positionable tracks move on stationary tracks (12) coupled to a rotatable gantry structure (16). Each detector head is rotatably coupled to its positionable track by a rotation arm (24). When a radiographic scan is performed, the first detector head (22a) is rotated so that a radiographic detector (26) mounted to the first detector head (22a) faces the patient, and an X-ray source (28) mounted to the second detector head (22b) also faces the patient, opposite the radiographic detector (26). When a nuclear imaging scan is performed, the detector heads (22a, 22b) are rotated to face the patient during the scan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventor: Mahmoud Janbakhsh
  • Patent number: 8130904
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and other modalities are described for (a) obtaining an indication relating to an emission module (which may be dangerous, e.g.) or its user (who may be untrained, e.g.) and for (b) configuring the module or causing an irradiation (for imaging, e.g.) in response to the indication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: The Invention Science Fund I, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Eric C. Leuthardt, Dennis J. Rivet, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120051514
    Abstract: An imaging system may include a main enclosure having at least one access door that defines a substantially light-tight imaging compartment when the access door is in a closed position. An object platform provided within the main enclosure holds an object to be imaged. A camera system positioned on a first side of the object platform is operable to capture a visible light image of the object. A radiation detector positioned on the first side of the object platform is moveable from a first position to a second position across a field of view of the camera system. The radiation detector is operable to capture a radiographic image of the object by moving the radiation detector from the first position to the second position while detecting radiation from the object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: SPECTRAL INSTRUMENTS IMAGING, LLC
    Inventors: Gary R. Sims, Michael B. Nelson, Michael D. Cable
  • Publication number: 20120051513
    Abstract: An optical image of a subject is acquired with a camera while the subject is disposed between a radiation output device housing at least two radiation sources and a radiation detecting device. Doses of radiation to be emitted from the at least two radiation sources are weighted based on the optical image, and weighted doses of radiation are applied from the at least two radiation sources to the subject. A radiographic image of the subject is acquired by detecting radiation that has passed through the subject with the radiation detecting device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventors: Naoyuki Nishino, Yasunori Ohta
  • Patent number: 8116429
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and other modalities are described for (a) obtaining an indication relating to an emission module (which may be dangerous, e.g.) or its user (who may be untrained, e.g.) and for (b) configuring the module or causing an irradiation (for imaging, e.g.) in response to the indication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: The Invention Science Fund I, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Eric C. Leuthardt, Dennis J. Rivet, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8111809
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and other modalities are described for (a) obtaining an indication relating to an emission module (which may be dangerous, e.g.) or its user (who may be untrained, e.g.) and for (b) configuring the module or causing an irradiation (for imaging, e.g.) in response to the indication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: The Invention Science Fund I, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Eric C. Leuthardt, Dennis J. Rivet, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: RE43282
    Abstract: Methods are disclosed for assessing the condition of a cartilage in a joint, particularly in a human knee. The methods include converting an image such as an MRI to a three dimensional map of the cartilage. The cartilage map can be correlated to a movement pattern of the joint to assess the affect of movement on cartilage wear. Changes in the thickness of cartilage over time can be determined so that therapies can be provided. Information on thickness of cartilage and curvature of cartilage or subchondral bone can be used to plan therapy. Information on movement pattern can be used to plan therapy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University
    Inventors: Eugene J. Alexander, Thomas P. Andriacchi, Philipp Lang, Daniel Steines