Imaging Patents (Class 378/87)
  • Patent number: 7120227
    Abstract: The scattering vector of X-ray diffraction is dynamically displayed on a screen. A dynamic motion and tracks of the tip location of the scattering vector of X-ray diffraction is displayed two-dimensionally or three-dimensionally under changing measuring conditions on a screen which represents the reciprocal space of a sample crystal. The tip location of the scattering vector can be seen dynamically and the X-ray diffraction phenomenon under changing measuring conditions can be readily understood, effecting easy consideration of the measuring conditions and easy evaluation of the measured results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Rigaku Corporation
    Inventors: Tetsuya Ozawa, Susumu Yamaguchi, Kohji Kakefuda
  • Patent number: 7110493
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting concealed items on or in an object by utilizing a low Z material panel. The object to be scanned is located between an x-ray detector and the low Z material panel. The method includes producing a pencil beam of x-rays from an x-ray source directed toward the object, scanning the beam of x-rays over the object, and detecting x-rays scattered from the beam of x-rays as a result of interacting with the object and the low Z material panel. The apparatus includes an x-ray source to produce a pencil beam of x-rays directed toward the object, a scanner to scan the beam of x-rays over the object, and the detector to detect x-rays scattered from the beam of x-rays as a result of interacting with the object and the low Z material panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Rapiscan Security Products (USA), Inc.
    Inventors: Andreas F. Kotowski, Steven W. Smith
  • Patent number: 7099434
    Abstract: An inspection system based upon an enclosed conveyance such as a van, capable of road travel, for inspecting objects of inspection that may include persons. The conveyance is characterized by an enclosing body, or skin. A source of penetrating radiation and a spatial modulator for forming the penetrating radiation into a beam, both contained entirely within the body of the enclosed conveyance, irradiate an object with a time-variable scanning profile. A detector module generates a scatter signal based on penetrating radiation scattered by contents of the object, while a proximity sensor generates a relative motion signal based on a relative disposition of the conveyance and the inspected object. An image is formed of the contents of the object based in part on the scatter signal and the relative motion signal. A detector, which may be separate or part of the scatter detector module, may exhibit sensitivity to decay products of radioactive material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: American Science and Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: William Adams, Alex Chalmers, Lee Grodzins, Louis W. Perich, Peter Rothschild
  • Patent number: 7099436
    Abstract: A method for the detection of ionizing radiation including directing ionizing radiation towards an object to be examined, preventing Compton scattered radiation from being detected, and detecting ionizing radiation spatially resolved as transmitted through the object to reveal a spatially resolved density of the object. The ionizing radiation is provided within a spectral range such that more photons of the ionizing radiation are Compton scattered than absorbed through the photoelectric effect in the object, thereby reducing the radiation dose to the to the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: XCounterAB
    Inventors: Tom Francke, Christer Ullberg
  • Patent number: 7092482
    Abstract: Scatter effects are reduced in a radiographic imaging device, such as a digital slot scan mammographic imaging device, by reducing detected scatter and processing detector information to compensate for scatter effects. Spatial intensity profile information together with other imaging signal and patient dependent parameters can be used in image processing to estimate and compensate for various scatter effects including single and multiple scatters and Compton and Rayleigh scatter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Fischer Imaging Corporation
    Inventor: Guy M. Besson
  • Patent number: 7072440
    Abstract: X-ray radiation is transmitted through and scattered from an object under inspection to detect weapons, narcotics, explosives or other contraband. Relatively fast scintillators are employed for faster X-ray detection efficiency and significantly improved image resolution. Detector design is improved by the use of optically adiabatic scintillators. Switching between photon-counting and photon integration modes reduces noise and significantly increases overall image quality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: Control Screening, LLC
    Inventors: Arthur W. Mario, Scott D. Kravis
  • Patent number: 7065393
    Abstract: A C-arm imaging device method, apparatus and system are provided. The apparatus and system includes a module for determining the positions of an imaging source and an imaging receptor and a local gravity vector to determine an imaging source focal point displacement. The apparatus and system may include a module for determining magnetic field distortion. Data obtained by the apparatus and system can be stored for use in subsequent interpolation of imaging source focal point displacement for the C-arm imaging device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: Cedara Software Corp.
    Inventors: Marwan Sati, Martin Cyr
  • Patent number: 7061533
    Abstract: An image processing system which processes an image signal, and determines, extracts and corrects defective pixel signals from defective pixels in a sensor array including a plurality of pixels. A given pixel signal from a pixel in the array is determined to be defective if it has a signal level below a threshold value, as determined by an extraction unit which then extracts each defective pixel signal from the defective pixels in the array. A block-forming unit forms positional information for each defective pixel having a defective pixel signal extracted by the extraction unit, with positional information for a group of such extracted defective pixel signals being formed into a block. A storage units stores, in units of blocks, positional information for the defective pixel signals. A correction unit corrects the defective pixel signals by using the positional information, in units of blocks, stored in the storage unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Urushiya
  • Patent number: 6999557
    Abstract: Reciprocal-space mapping measurement of X-ray diffraction requires setting of the measuring range of 2?/? and setting of the measuring range of ?. When the measuring range of ? is designated in absolute angle, the absolute-angle-designated range is converted into a relative-angle-designated range to be acquired; preventing setting of a warped measuring region. When the measuring range of ? is designated in relative angle, it is acquired as it is. For the measuring range of 2?/?, any one of the absolute-angle-designated range and the relative-angle-designated range may be acquired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Rigaku Corporation
    Inventors: Susumu Yamaguchi, Tetsuya Ozawa, Katsuhiko Inaba, Ryuji Matsuo
  • Patent number: 6980626
    Abstract: Method for an x-ray arrangement for compensation of scattered radiation and x-ray apparatus The invention concerns a method for an x-ray arrangement comprising two x-ray systems (1, 2) for compensation of scattered radiation. In addition, the invention concerns an x-ray apparatus with two x-ray systems (1, 2) which respectively comprise an x-ray source (4, 5) and an x-ray detector (5, 7). An x-ray scattered radiation image based on the x-ray radiation (11) scattered on a subject (P) is acquired for at least one of the two x-ray systems (1, 2), given a definite positioning of the x-ray systems (1, 2) relative to one another. The acquired x-ray scattered radiation image is saved and used for subtraction from an x-ray image acquired with the x-ray system (1, 2) in order to compensate for the influence of the scattered radiation originating from the other x-ray system (1, 2) and to achieve an improved image quality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Burkhard Groh, Volker Heer, Mathias Hörnig, Bernhard Sandkamp
  • Patent number: 6970533
    Abstract: A scanning-based radiation detector apparatus for recording an image of an object comprises a 1D detector unit exposed to a fan-shaped ionizing radiation beam, after having interacted with the object; a device for moving the 1D detector unit and the fan-shaped beam relative the object while repeatedly detecting to thereby create a 2D image of the object; and a control device for controlling the repeated detections. The one-dimensional detector unit has an ionizing radiation sensitive thickness, which is larger than the thickness of the fan-shaped beam when impinging on the one-dimensional detector unit. To obtain a short exposure time of each 1D image, but still a high spatial resolution in the 2D image, a 1D image of the fan-shaped beam is recorded every n'th length unit of the movement, where n is not lower than essentially half the thickness of the fan-shaped beam in that length unit, but lower than the ionizing radiation sensitive thickness of the 1D detector unit in that length unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: XCounter AB
    Inventors: Tom Francke, Christer Ullberg
  • Patent number: 6956928
    Abstract: A small angle x-ray diffraction scattering system has a vertical orientation, allowing for simplified analysis of liquid samples. The system may function in a beam-up or a beam-down configuration. An x-ray source provides an initial x-ray beam that is directed vertically along a primary beampath to a sample located on a sample support. The small angle scattered x-ray energy travels through a secondary beampath to a detector. The primary and secondary beampaths may be evacuated and separated from a sample chamber by fluid seals. Beam conditioning optics and a collimator may be used in the primary beampath, and a beamstop used in the secondary beampath. The sample chamber may have a microscope or camera, which may be movable, for observing the sample, and a translation stage for moving the sample in at least two dimensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: Bruker AXS, Inc.
    Inventors: Bob Baoping He, Rolf Dieter Schipper
  • Patent number: 6950495
    Abstract: Backscatter imaging using Hadamard transform masking includes an area x-ray source with alternating, masked, Hadamard transform patterns. The total backscatter signal from a target for each pair of corresponding masks is recorded. The difference in signal strengths for each pair of corresponding masks is a direct measurement of the Hadamard transform coefficient for that mask. An image of the target is formed by performing an inverse discrete Hadamard transform on the complete matrix of coefficients.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: James M. Nelson, William B. Shepherd
  • Patent number: 6947521
    Abstract: A method for detecting an image of an object by measuring the intensity at a plurality of positions of a transmitted beam of x-ray radiation emitted from the object as a function of angle within the transmitted beam. The intensity measurements of the transmitted beam are obtained by a crystal analyzer positioned at a plurality of angular positions. The plurality of intensity measurements are used to determine the angular intensity spectrum of the transmitted beam. One or more parameters, such as an attenuation property, a refraction property and a scatter property, can be obtained from the angular intensity spectrum and used to display an image of the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Illinois Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Miles N. Wernick, Leroy Dean Chapman, Oral Oltulu, Zhong Zhong
  • Patent number: 6879657
    Abstract: An imaging system includes an x-ray source coupled to a gantry. The x-ray source generates an x-ray flux, wherein a portion of the x-ray flux becomes scatter radiation. A scatter detector is also coupled to the gantry to receive the scatter radiation. The scatter detector generates a scatter signal in response to the scatter radiation, and a host computer receives the scatter signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology, LLC
    Inventor: David Michael Hoffman
  • Patent number: 6876723
    Abstract: A pump-probe scheme measures the rise time of ultrafast x-ray pulses. Conventional high speed x-ray diagnostics (x-ray streak cameras, PIN diodes, diamond PCD devices) do not provide sufficient time resolution to resolve rise times of x-ray pulses on the order of 50 fs or less as they are being produced by modern fast x-ray sources. Here, we are describing a pump-probe technique that can be employed to measure events where detector resolution is insufficient to resolve the event. The scheme utilizes a diamond plate as an x-ray transducer and a p-polarized probe beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Department of Energy
    Inventors: Peter M. Celliers, Franz A. Weber, Stephen J. Moon
  • Patent number: 6870896
    Abstract: A method of imaging an object that includes subjecting an object to a beam of radiation that is directed along a first direction and analyzing a first portion of the beam of radiation that is transmitted through the object along the first direction so that the intensity of the first portion is suppressed. Analyzing a second portion of the beam of radiation that is refracted from the object. Generating an image of the object based on the suppressed first portion of the beam of radiation and the second portion of the beam of radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Assignee: Osmic, Inc.
    Inventor: Vladimir V. Protopopov
  • Patent number: 6836570
    Abstract: A method for enhancing the image contrast of digital portal images for presentation on an output medium comprising: providing an input digital portal image having radiation and collimation fields; locating and labeling said radiation and collimation fields to produce labeled radiation and labeled collimation field images; designing a tone scale curve to display the image inside the radiation field using the full dynamic range of the output medium; applying said tone scale curve to the input digital portal image to produce a tone-scaled radiation field image; designing a tone scale curve to display the image outside the radiation field using the full dynamic range of said output medium; applying said tone scale curve to the input digital portal image to produce a tone-scaled collimation field image; enhancing the image contrast of said tone-scaled radiation field image and said tone-scaled collimation field image; combining said enhanced images using the labeled radiation and collimation field images; and blac
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Susan S. Young, William E. Moore, David H. Foos
  • Publication number: 20040228442
    Abstract: A method for obtaining an X-ray image for an X-ray diagnosis apparatus including plurality of imaging systems, including: collecting first scatter data using a first X-ray detector after an X-ray is irradiated from a first X-ray tube in a first imaging system; collecting second scatter data using a second X-ray detector after an X-ray is irradiated from a second X-ray tube in a second imaging system; collecting first image data including a scatter component using X-ray detectors after an X-ray is irradiated from a third X-ray tube in the first imaging system; collecting second image data including a scatter component using X-ray detectors after an X-ray is irradiated from a fourth X-ray tube in the second imaging system; and obtaining X-ray images for the first and second imaging systems by subtracting the first and second scatter data from the first and second image data including a scatter component, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA
    Inventors: Takuya Sakaguchi, Akira Tsukamoto
  • Patent number: 6804324
    Abstract: An 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: Osmo, Inc.
    Inventors: Vladimir V. Martynov, Yuriy Platonov
  • Publication number: 20040175018
    Abstract: An information barrier for determining whether a person is concealing a dangerous weapon without exposing any sensitive or private information about the subject is disclosed. Within an enclosure, detector means obtain images of individuals, including images of concealed dangerous items, and output the images. Computing means receive the images for separating the concealed dangerous items from the personal image, and output a signal if an image of the concealed dangerous items is located, and display means output a non-sensitive indication of whether the concealed dangerous items have been detected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Publication date: September 9, 2004
    Inventors: Duncan W. MacArthur, Diana Langner
  • Patent number: 6754304
    Abstract: A method and device for producing visually sensed images of the internal structure of, particularly, a biological object. When used for diagnostic purposes in medicine the x-ray dosage of tissues surrounding the spot that is being examined is decreased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Inventor: Muradin Abubekirovich Kumakhov
  • Patent number: 6751288
    Abstract: A detector for time-resolved small-angle x-ray scattering includes a nearly constant diameter, evacuated linear tube having an end plate detector with a first fluorescent screen and concentric rings of first fiber optic bundles for low angle scattering detection and an annular detector having a second fluorescent screen and second fiber optic bundles concentrically disposed about the tube for higher angle scattering detection. With the scattering source, i.e., the specimen under investigation, located outside of the evacuated tube on the tube's longitudinal axis, scattered x-rays are detected by the fiber optic bundles, to each of which is coupled a respective photodetector, to provide a measurement resolution, i.e., dq/q, where q is the momentum transferred from an incident x-ray to an x-ray scattering specimen, of 2% over two (2) orders of magnitude in reciprocal space, i.e., qmax/qmin≅100.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
    Inventor: Jan P. Hessler
  • Patent number: 6735279
    Abstract: A snapshot backscatter radiography (SBR) system and related method includes at least one penetrating radiation source, and at least one radiation detector. The radiation detector is interposed between an object to be interrogated and the radiation source. The radiation detector transmits a portion of the forward radiation from the radiation source to the object. A portion of the transmitted radiation is scattered by the object and is detected by the detector. An image of the object can be obtained by subtracting the forward radiation detected at the detector, or an estimate thereof, from a total of all radiation detected by the detector. Integrated circuit inspection, land mine detection, and luggage or cargo screening systems can be SBR based.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignee: University of Florida
    Inventors: Alan M. Jacobs, Edward T. Dugan
  • Publication number: 20040079232
    Abstract: In an x-ray device having two x-ray systems each having an x-ray source and an x-ray detector, and a method for operating such an x-ray device to compensate scattered radiation, an x-ray scattered radiation image based on the x-ray radiation scattered from a subject is acquired for one of the two x-ray systems, given a specific positioning of the x-ray systems relative to one another. The acquired x-ray scattered radiation image is saved and used for subtraction from an x-ray image acquired with that x-ray system in order to compensate the influence of the scattered radiation originating from the other x-ray system and to achieve an improved image quality.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2003
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventors: Burkhard Groh, Volker Heer, Mathias Hornig, Bernhard Sandkamp
  • Publication number: 20040062452
    Abstract: A phase information restoring method improves estimation accuracy of phase by using radiation with energy of high transmittance when constructing a radiation image of a living organism such as a human body by the phase-contrast method. The phase information restoring method includes the steps of: (a) obtaining plural sets of detection data respectively representing plural kinds of radiation image information on a detection plane at a predetermined distance from an object by using plural radiations having different wavelengths with energy from 16 keV to 30 keV to detect intensity of the plural radiations transmitted through the object on the detection plane; and (b) restoring phase information on the radiations transmitted through the object on the basis of the plural sets of detection data so as to obtain phase data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Applicant: FUJI PHOTO FILM CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hideyuki Sakaida
  • Patent number: 6658087
    Abstract: An apparatus for inspecting a physical object in a nautical environment includes a radiation source capable of directing a beam of penetrating radiation toward the physical object, and a detector capable of detecting the reaction of the physical object to the penetrating radiation. In addition to detecting the reaction, the detector is capable of delivering an output signal characterizing the physical object. Accordingly, the output signal is based upon the reaction of the physical object to the penetrating radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: American Science and Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Alex Chalmers, Charles Squires
  • Patent number: 6594337
    Abstract: X-ray diagnostic system. The system includes a source of x-rays which communicates with an x-ray beam concentrator spaced apart from the x-ray source and disposed for receiving x-rays from the x-ray source. An x-ray spectrometer is disposed for receiving x-rays from the concentrator. In a preferred embodiment, the concentrator is formed of a cylindrical spiral of a metal-coated plastic material having a surface for reflecting x-rays. In another embodiment, the concentrator includes a plurality of concentric nested cylinders of a metal-coated plastic material for reflecting x-rays. In yet another embodiment, the concentrator is a glass capillary bundle. The concentrator allows the spectrometer to be spaced away from the source of x-rays such as scanning electron microscope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory
    Inventors: Eric H. Silver, Herbert W. Schnopper, Russel Ingram
  • Patent number: 6556653
    Abstract: The system for inspecting an object comprises a structure having a first, second and third orthogonal axes, and a source of x-ray pencil beam mounted thereto along the first axis. An incident radiation detector is mounted to the structure perpendicularly to the first axis. A first and second linear arrays of scattered radiation detectors are mounted to the structure perpendicularly to the second and third axes respectively. The source of x-ray pencil beam, the incident radiation detector and the first and second linear arrays of scattered radiation detectors are spaced apart and define therebetween an inspection zone. In use, an object to be inspected is moved inside the inspection zone relative to the x-ray pencil beam. The object is inspected voxel by voxel and the radiation measurements taken at each voxel are indicative of incident radiation attenuation, scattered radiation attenuation and electron density of that voxel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: University of New Brunswick
    Inventor: Esam Hussein
  • Patent number: 6546072
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for enhancing an image of penetrating radiation scattered by objects concealed within a container. An image derived from penetrating radiation transmitted through the container is combined with a scatter image in regard to which it is accurately registered in such a manner as to provide enhanced visibility and photorealism of the combined image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: American Science and Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Alexander Chalmers
  • Patent number: 6510201
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the pulse transmission spectrum of elastically scattered quantities includes at least one diaphragm displaceable in a y-direction for switching between fine and coarse local resolution of the examined partial volumes of an examination object, wherein the diaphragm narrows the effective ray width transversely of a scanning direction, and a diaphragm system displaceable in a x-direction for limiting and extension of the partial volume in a z-direction, wherein the diaphragm system includes at least two circular ring diaphragms arranged one above the other and identical with respect to their circular ring structure, and wherein the circular ring diaphragms are arranged at a relative offset for reducing an effective imaging slot width or a detector slot width.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: YXLON International X-Ray GmbH
    Inventor: Gerhard Martens
  • Publication number: 20020185612
    Abstract: An apparatus for inspecting a physical object in a nautical environment includes a radiation source capable of directing a beam of penetrating radiation toward the physical object, and a detector capable of detecting the reaction of the physical object to the penetrating radiation. In addition to detecting the reaction, the detector is capable of delivering an output signal characterizing the physical object. Accordingly, the output signal is based upon the reaction of the physical object to the penetrating radiation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventors: Alex Chalmers, Charles Squires
  • Patent number: 6424695
    Abstract: A system and a method for determining the depth of an object with respect to a surface behind which the object is concealed. The intensity of x-rays backscattered from the object is measured by at least two backscatter detectors disposed at different positions with respect to the scattering object. The depth of a scattering source within the volume penetrated by the x-rays is derived from the ratio of scattered x-rays measured by the detectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: American Science and Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Lee Grodzins, William Adams
  • Patent number: 6411406
    Abstract: A holographic microscope is described along with a method for numerically reconstructing a holographic image. The method uses a coordinate transformation of the Kirchhoff-Helmholtz equation to remove the non-linear component from the phase factor. The intensity distribution in the transformed coordinate system is then interpolated on an equidistant point grid and Fast-Fourier-Transforms are used to compute the result.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Dalhousie University
    Inventor: H. Juergen Kreuzer
  • Patent number: 6359964
    Abstract: An apparatus for X-ray analysis of materials advantageously utilizes a parabolic multilayer mirror for parallelizing the X-rays. Moreover, it may be desirable to monochromatize the parallelized radiation, for example by means of a crystal monochromator. According to the invention an influencing device for the X-rays is constructed as a single mechanical unit comprising a combination of an X-ray mirror (46) and a monochromator (48). This unit (66) can be arranged in the analysis apparatus in at least two positions (74, 76) in such a manner that the X-rays travel via the X-ray mirror (46) and the monochromator (48) in the first position (74) whereas the X-rays travel only via the X-ray mirror (46) in the second position (76). Consequently, no separate units comprising only an X-ray mirror or a combination of an X-ray mirror and a monochromator are required, so that a substantial saving in costs is achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventor: Vladimir A. Kogan
  • Publication number: 20020027970
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2001
    Publication date: March 7, 2002
    Inventors: Leroy Dean Chapman, Moumen O. Hasnah, Oral Oltulu, Zhong Zhong, Juergen Mollenhauer, Carol Muehleman, Klaus Kuettner, Matthias Aurich, Etta D. Pisano, R. Eugene Johnston, William Craig Thomlinson, Dale Sayers
  • Publication number: 20010038680
    Abstract: As described in the methods of the present invention, x-ray photons derived from a microscopic solid-density plasma that is produced by optically focusing a high power laser beam upon a high atomic number target, may be use for phase-contast medical microimaging and also for absorptive microradiography. As described in the methods of the present invention, x-rays derived from a microscopic solid-density plasma are utilized as object illumination sources that are microscopic in at least one direction (so that ultrathin slicebeams and fan-beams are allowed, as are linear arrays of numerous clusterd parallel microbeams). Collimating optical devices of prior art are required.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2000
    Publication date: November 8, 2001
    Inventor: Charles J. Davidson
  • Patent number: 6282260
    Abstract: A hand holdable inspection device for three-dimensional inspection of a volume distal to a surface. The inspection device has a hand-holdable unit including a source of penetrating radiation for providing a beam of specified cross-section and a detector arrangement for detecting penetrating radiation from the beam scattered by the object in the direction of the detector arrangement and for generating a scattered radiation signal. Additionally, the inspection device has a controller for characterizing the volume based at least on the scattered radiation signal. The detector arrangement includes one or more backscatter detectors that may be disposed asymmetrically with respect to the beam and at differing displacements with respect to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: American Science & Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Lee Grodzins
  • Patent number: 6269142
    Abstract: Interrupted-Fan-Beam imaging is a method of producing back-scatter x-ray images from conventional line scan systems, such as those used for luggage and cargo inspection. Since back-scatter and transmission images are formed from different physical principles, the use of both images provides a more thorough security inspection. A mathematical relation relates the signal-to-noise ratio to the spatial resolution in an Interrupted-Fan-Beam image. When used in conjunction with typical operating values of x-ray systems, such as flux level and number of pixels, this relation provides the performance level of the Interrupted-Fan-Beam technique.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Inventor: Steven W. Smith
  • Patent number: 6215845
    Abstract: Detection of components (22-24) missing from sealed packages (16) is accomplished by combining a multiplicity of electrical outputs representing the mass in volumes of the package (16) and comparing the combined value with a standard value for packages (16) including all components (22-24). In the preferred form, the mass is represented by the absorption of x-rays, with the packages (16) being conveyed on a conveyor (18) between an x-ray radiator (12) generating a fan-shaped x-ray beam (14) and a line array (20) of individual detectors (20a, 20b, etc.). The detectors (20a, 20b, etc.) detect radiation after passing through the package (16) and provide a numerical electrical signal equal to the amount of radiation detected. If the sum of the multiplicity of numerical electrical signals is less than the standard value, the package (16) is rejected from the conveyor (18) by a rejection device (30).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: General Mills, Inc.
    Inventor: Wayne I Knigge
  • Patent number: 6195412
    Abstract: A method for imaging a target volume comprises the steps of: radiating a small bandwidth of energy toward the target volume; focusing the small bandwidth of energy into a beam; moving the target volume through a plurality of positions within the focused beam; collecting a beam of energy scattered from the target volume with a non-diffractive confocal coded aperture; generating a shadow image of said aperture from every point source of radiation in the target volume; and, reconstructing the shadow image into a 3-dimensional image of the every point source by mathematically correlating the shadow image with a digital or analog version of the coded aperture. The method can comprise the step of collecting the beam of energy scattered from the target volume with a Fresnel zone plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Assignee: UT-Battelle, LLC
    Inventors: Kenneth William Tobin, Jr., Clarence E. Thomas, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6104777
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for correcting scatter energy in which:using an X-ray and a first three-dimensional model of the object, a second model of the object is generated adapted to its geometry;the source energy spectrum is made discrete and an average density value is allocated to each zone of this object;primary energy is mapped;along the source-point tracklength of the primary energy map, a new average density value is determined for each of the zones and for each source-point tracklength of the detector;a coherent distribution coefficient and an incoherent distribution coefficient are obtained per energy, per tracklength and per zone;scatter energy is mapped;primary energy is mapped and an image of the object is obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Commissariat a l'Energie Atomique
    Inventors: Michel Darboux, Jean-Marc Dinten
  • Patent number: 6094471
    Abstract: X-ray diagnostic system. The system includes a source of x-rays which communicates with an x-ray beam concentrator spaced apart from the x-ray source and disposed for receiving x-rays from the x-ray source. An x-ray spectrometer is disposed for receiving x-rays from the concentrator. In a preferred embodiment, the concentrator is formed of a cylindrical spiral of a metal-coated plastic material having a surface for reflecting x-rays. In another embodiment, the concentrator includes a plurality of concentric nested cylinders of a metal-coated plastic material for reflecting x-rays. In yet another embodiment, the concentrator is a glass capillary bundle. The concentrator allows the spectrometer to be spaced away from the source of x-rays such as scanning electron microscope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Assignee: Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory
    Inventors: Eric H. Silver, Herbert W. Schnopper, Russel Ingram
  • Patent number: 6094472
    Abstract: A pencil beam of X-rays is scanned over the surfaces of the body of a person being examined as the person walks through the scanning apparatus. Specifically, a tracking assembly is employed to rotate the scanning plane through a tracking angle and in a direction progressing from the entrance to the exit of the portal, through which the person passes, in order to substantially track the person or body as it moves with respect to the system from the entrance to the exit X-rays that are scattered or reflected from the subject's body are detected by a detector assembly. The signal produced by this scattered X-ray detector in then used to modulate an image display device to produce an image of the subject and any concealed objects carried by the subject. The detector assembly is constructed in a configuration to automatically and uniformly enhance the image edges of low atomic number (low Z) concealed objects to facilitate their detection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Assignee: Rapiscan Security Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven W. Smith
  • Patent number: 6094470
    Abstract: A method of determining the density profile of a plate-shaped material M, the density of which varies discretely or continuously across the plate thickness, whereas the density at a specific depth of the plate M is preferably assumed to be constant. The inventive method employs X-rays or .gamma.-rays from a source K. The latter source K is placed on one side of the plate M, whereas at least two detectors T, F are arranged on the opposite side of the endless plate being advanced during the measuring in the longitudinal direction. A first detector T is preferably placed in the radiating direction of the source and measures the transmittent radiation through the plate M, and the second detector F is placed outside the radiating direction of the source K and measures the scattered radiation on partial volumes along the radiating direction of the source. Based on the signals measured by the detectors it is possible to measure the density in each individual partial volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Assignee: Wesser & Dueholm
    Inventor: Steen Teller
  • Patent number: 6081580
    Abstract: A tomography system for analyzing an object concealed within an enveloping surface. The system has multiple beams of penetrating radiation, each beam disposed with a distinct orientation with respect to the enveloping surface. Detectors are provided for measuring radiation backscattered by the contents of the enveloping surface and for measuring radiation transmitted through the enveloping surface. The enveloping surface is moved with respect to the multiple beams, and a timer provides for measurement of a time difference between the appearance of features in signals of respective detectors, allowing geometrical characteristics of the features to be determined and displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: American Science and Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Lee Grodzins, William L. Adams
  • Patent number: 6058160
    Abstract: An x-ray diffraction system for determining stress in integrated circuit materials includes a source of x-rays (3) that are directed toward a sample holding mechanism for diffracting from the test sample (8). An x-ray detector (14) is arranged for detecting high back reflected diffracted x-ray intensity data representing stress in the test sample. A two-dimensional detection and storage arrangement (24) is arranged for detecting and storing the data representing stress in the test sample. A data processor (2) accesses the stored data from the two-dimensional detection and storage arrangement and processes the data representing stress in the test sample to determine stress in the test sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: Hypernex, Inc.
    Inventor: David S. Kurtz
  • Patent number: 6005916
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for rapid real time imaging with wavefield energy using a C.P.U. programmed to process data derived from wavefield energy that has been transmitted and scattered by an object so as to reconstruct a wavefield image of the object. Electronic signals are propagated and are transduced into wavefield energy waves which in turn are propagated toward the object. Detectors detect the wavefield energy waves scattered by the object. The detected wavefield energy waves are then electronically processed and input into a high-speed digital computer which may comprise a C.P.U. and/or a C.P.U. in combination with an array or parallel processor. Data is also prepared and input to the computer representing the incident field and the computer then reconstructs a high-quality image of the object having high spacial resolution and including actual properties of the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Techniscan, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven A. Johnson, David T. Borup, James W. Wiskin, Frank Natterer, F. Wubeling, Yongzhi Zhang, Scott Charles Olsen
  • Patent number: 5940468
    Abstract: An X-ray imaging system which measures X-rays scattered by material concealed within an enveloping surface. A beam of X-ray radiation is incident on the enveloping surface and scattered onto one or more arrays of detectors. One or more masks of material opaque to X-ray transmission but for a series of apertures is interposed between the object and the detectors so as to cast shadows on different parts of the detector array. The image of the scattering material, as detected at the detector array, is modulated by the pattern of mask apertures. A controller reconstructs the image of the illuminated line. By scanning the illumination with respect to the object, an image of the entire object in scattered radiation is obtained, while use of multiple arrays or variation of geometrical settings allows reconstruction of the source of scattering in three dimensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: American Science and Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Suzhou Huang, Michael V. Hynes
  • Patent number: RE37899
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for obtaining the density distributions of three-dimensional elements that compose objects or groups of objects, by examining the objects with beams of x-rays or gamma radiation that are transmitted through the object in a plurality of approximately parallel paths and measuring the intensity of the radiation, scattered approximately perpendicular to the parallel paths, in arrays of detectors around the object. The energy of the x-rays or gamma rays is such that dominant interaction in the object is Compton scattering. The density of each element is determined from the totality of measurements by standard mathematical tomographic or relaxation techniques of data manipulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Assignee: American Science and Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Lee Grodzins, Charles G. Parsons