Abstract: A high speed computed tomography x-ray scanner using a plurality of x-ray generators. Each x-ray generator is scanned along a source path that is a segment of the scanner's source path such that each point in the source path is scanned by at least one tube. X-ray generators and detectors can be arranged in different scan planes depending on the available hardware so that a complete and near planar scan of a moving object can be assembled and reconstructed into an image of the object.

Abstract: A method for Computed Tomography (CT) imaging is provided. The method comprises rotating a gantry at a substantially slow rotation speed about a volume of interest. The gantry comprises a combination of X-ray source points. The X-ray source points comprise one or more discrete emission points and an arc of discrete or continuous X-ray source points. The method then comprises obtaining projection data from the combination of X-ray source points and performing a suitable reconstruction based on the projection data obtained from the combination of X-ray source points, to generate one or more reconstructed images.

Abstract: An imaging system and method for taking an image of an object. The imaging system comprises a mechanism that propels the object linearly in a direction of motion through an imaging region that has a top, bottom, front, and rear; an x-ray source located below the bottom, aligned with the front, and emitting an x-ray cone beam to the imaging region; and a plurality of x-ray detector assemblies, each of the detector assemblies including a linear row of detectors above and parallel to the top and perpendicular to the direction of motion, and a linear column of detectors outside of and parallel to the rear right side and extending at an angle to the direction of motion, wherein each of the detector assemblies defines an x-ray fan beam within the x-ray cone beam. A second system embodiment duplicates the x-ray source/detector assemblage and rotates the second assemblage by 90° around the object.

Abstract: To simplify the reconstruction of structural data of an object (7) examined using a tomography device (1), it is proposed to implement a radiation source (4) in such a way that radiation bundles (6) with parallel beam geometry are produced.

Abstract: A method and system of CT colonography is presented that includes the acquisition of energy sensitive or energy-discriminating CT data from a colorectal region of a subject. CT data is acquired and decomposed into basis material density maps and used to differentiate and enhance contrast between tissues in the colorectal region. The invention is particularly applicable with the detection of colon polyps without cathartic preparation or insufflation of the colorectal region. The invention is further directed to the automatic detection of colon polyps.

Abstract: To enlarge the angle range to be covered, with a simultaneously smaller variance of the focal spots, in a gantry for a computed tomography at least two x-ray tubes are provided for generation of an x-ray beam instead of a single x-ray tube. The respective x-ray beams of the x-ray tubes cover a defined examination region and a defined region of the detector device in the axial direction of the gantry substantially without overlapping with one another.

Abstract: A system according to some embodiments may include a treatment head to emit treatment radiation, a gantry coupled to the treatment head, an x-ray tube to emit imaging radiation, an imaging device to acquire an image based on the imaging radiation, and a support. The support may be coupled to the x-ray tube and to the imaging device, and movably coupled to the gantry for movement independent of gantry.

Abstract: An X-ray computer tomography apparatus includes a substantially annular rotating frame supported to be rotatable around a rotation axis, a plurality of X-ray tubes discretely provided along the circumference of the rotating frame, a plurality of X-ray detectors discretely provided along the circumference of the rotating frame, a plurality of variable-opening slits which are made to respectively correspond to the plurality of X-ray tubes, and a slit control unit which individually controls the widths and central positions of openings of the plurality of slits.

Abstract: Projection data are obtained by using a method for imaging by rotating the first imaging system having an X-ray generating unit 1a and the second imaging system having an X-ray generating unit 1b. The obtained projection data are subjected to a reconstruction process to generate X-ray image data. In this case, a relative angle ?0 formed between the imaging systems is setup according to a palmic period T0 of a subject and a rotation velocity Vr of the imaging systems. Thus, the projection data from more directions at a predetermined palmic time-phase are collected without overlapping.

Abstract: The present invention provides a volumetric computed tomography (VCT) system capable of producing data for reconstructing an entire three-dimensional (3D) image of a subject during a single rotation without suffering from cone beam artifacts. The VCT system comprises an array of source positions distributed along a line parallel to an axis of rotation, a plurality of collimators, and an array of x-ray detectors. In a preferred embodiment, a reversed imaging geometry is used. A 2D array of source positions provides x-rays emanating from each focal spot toward an array of detectors. The x-rays are restricted by a collimator array and measured by a detector array separately per each source position. The axial extent of the source array and the detector array are comparable to or larger than the axial extent of the portion of the object being imaged.

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.

Abstract: A radiological imaging system includes one or more radiation sources substantially surrounding a desired portion of an imaging volume and configured to emanate a radiation beam from a plurality of individual source positions around the imaging volume, and one or more detectors configured to receive the transmitted radiation beam. At least one of the radiation source and the detector are displaceable to allow an unimpeded path for the radiation beam and to receive the transmitted radiation beam more completely.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for integrating anatomical information from a plurality of sources of information. The system receives two or more three dimensional (3D) anatomical maps sharing a common plane specified by three or more marker points common to the two or more maps; places one or more marker points on one or more teeth; generates a digital teeth model with the marker points; and aligns the two or more 3D anatomical maps and the teeth model using the marker points.

Abstract: A system according to some embodiments may include a treatment head to emit treatment radiation, a gantry coupled to the treatment head, an x-ray tube to emit imaging radiation, an imaging device to acquire an image based on the imaging radiation, and a C-arm coupled to the x-ray tube, the imaging device, and the gantry.

Abstract: In a tomography apparatus and method for obtaining correction values for two measurement planes, wherein the tomography apparatus an acquisition system disposed in a first measurement plane and a second acquisition system disposed in a second measurement plane that are disposed in the azimuthal direction around a common rotation axis, position correction values for both measurement planes are determined for a substantially constant rotation angle speed of the two acquisition systems using measurement values calculated at a rotation angle position of a reference object that can be introduced into both measurement planes. An artifact-free reconstruction of a slice or volume image can be made using the position correction values.

Abstract: A method is for production of tomographic section images, in particular X-ray CT images, of an at least partially periodically moving examination object with periodically changing movement and rest phases, preferably of a heart of a living being. A number of focus detector combinations are used, with the time resolution of the CT scanner being significantly increased by supplementary combination of detector data in the correct phase. On the one hand, a number of focus detector combinations which scan an examination object at the same time are used; and on the other hand a number of adjacent movement cycles of a periodically moving examination object are performed.

Abstract: A system and method for preparing a virtual three-dimensional representation of a first portion of a bone. The method may comprise obtaining, from a first orientation with respect to the first portion of the bone, first image data of the first portion of the bone and obtaining, from a second, different orientation with respect to the first portion of the bone, second image data of the first portion of the bone. A three-dimensional (3D) virtual representation of the first portion of the bone may be generated. The 3D virtual representation of the first portion of the bone may be displayed. The displayed 3D virtual representation may have an orientation, determined using at least the difference between the first and second orientations from which the first and second image data were obtained.

Abstract: A volumetric computed tomography method includes translating a discrete element x-ray source and detector relative to the patient or object in a z-direction parallel to the axis of rotation. As the source rotates through the angles of a single rotation, it is simultaneously translated by a distance comparable to the discrete spacing distance between individual source elements in the z-direction. The small translation is designed so that the axial planes passing through discrete source element rows are not distinguished from axial planes passing between the discrete source element rows, thereby eliminating the z-dependence of the system and associated sampling problems.

Abstract: A scanning unit for identifying contraband within objects, such as cargo containers and luggage, moving through the unit along a first path comprises at least one source of a beam of radiation movable across a second path that is transverse to the first path and extends partially around the first path. A stationary detector transverse to the first path also extends partially around the first path, positioned to detect radiation transmitted through the object during scanning. In one example, a plurality of movable X-ray sources are supported by a semi-circular rail perpendicular to the first path and the detector, which may be a detector array is also semi-circular and perpendicular to the path. A fan beam may also be used. Radiographic images may be obtained and/or computed tomography (“CT”) images may be reconstructed. The images may be analyzed for contraband. Methods of scanning objects are also disclosed.

Abstract: An electron emitter assembly and a method for generating electron beams are provided. The electron emitter assembly includes a light source configured to emit light. The electron emitter assembly further includes a photo-responsive device operably coupled to an electron emitter device. The photo-responsive device induces the electron emitter device to emit electrons in response to receiving the light. Finally, the electron emitter assembly includes an anode receiving the emitted electrons from the electron emitter device.

Abstract: An X-ray computed tomography apparatus of this invention includes a first data detecting system which includes a first X-ray tube and a first X-ray detector and a second data detecting system which includes a second X-ray tube and a second X-ray detector. A reconstructing unit reconstructs image data on the basis of the data detected by at least one of the first and second data detecting systems. A monitoring unit monitors the first data detecting system. In a period during which the first data detecting system is normal, data acquisition is performed by both the first and second data detecting systems. In a period during which the first data detecting system is faulty, data acquisition is performed by the second data detecting system alone.

Abstract: A stationary CT system comprising at least one annular x ray source assembly comprising a plurality of respective x ray sources spaced along the annular x ray source assembly. Each of the x ray sources comprises a respective stationary x ray target, an electron beam focusing chamber; an x ray channel; an electron beam source disposed in a spaced apart relationship with respect to the respective stationary x ray target; a vacuum chamber disposed in between the electron beam focusing chamber and an insulating chamber where the insulating chamber houses the electron beam source; a radiation window at a pre-defined angular displacement from the respective stationary x ray target and the x ray channel; and a target substrate attached to the respective stationary x ray target.

Abstract: An anode assembly having multiple target electrodes is disclosed. Each target electrode produces an x-ray fan beam for radiographic data acquisition. The target electrodes are designed to sequentially generate an x-ray fan beam and therefore operate at a proportional duty cycle per scan. Power output capabilities of the anode assembly is increased without an increase in the size or thermal overloading of the anode assembly.

Abstract: A volumetric computed tomography system with a large field of view has, in a forward geometry implementation, multiple x-ray point sources emitting corresponding fan beams at a single detector array. The central ray of at least one of the fan beams is radially offset from the axis of rotation of the system by an offset distance D. Consequently, the diameter of the in-plane field of view provided by the fan beams may be larger than in a conventional CT scanner. Any number of point sources may be used. Analogous systems may be implemented with an inverse geometry so that a single source array emits multiple fan beams that converge upon corresponding detectors.

Abstract: An imaging tomography apparatus, in particular x-ray computed tomography apparatus, for examining an examination subject has at least two acquisition systems, each having a radiator and a data acquisition unit to detect the radiation originating from the associated radiator. The acquisition systems are capable of rotating around a common rotation axis with a constant angular separation in the azimuthal direction. Radiation from only one of the radiators is permitted to reach the examination subject during the rotation of the acquisition systems. Signal contributions by the x-ray tubes not supplying this data acquisition unit with primary radiation arrive are prevented, the projection data set generated by one of the data acquisition units.

Abstract: In a method for generating a volume dataset of a subject with a first X-ray system having an X-ray source and an X-ray receiver and with a second X-ray system having an X-ray source and an X-ray receiver, the first X-ray system is rotated around an axis and sweeps a first angular range. Substantially simultaneously, a second series of 2D projections of the subject is acquired with the second X-ray system at projection angles differing from one another, by the second X-ray system being rotated around an axis and sweeping a second angular range differing from the first angular range. A volume dataset of the subject is generated from the first and second series of 2D projections of the subject acquired by the two X-ray systems.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for displaying X-ray images of an object, preferably in connection with surgical orthopaedic operations, wherein X-ray images of the object are generated by means of at least a first and a second X-ray device (19, 20). The first X-ray device (1)=is provided to X-ray the object in a first plane (P1) and the X-ray images obtained thereby are displaced on a first screen (28) and the second X-ray device (20) is provided to X-ray the object in a second plane (P2) and the X-ray images obtained thereby are displayed on a second screen (30).

Abstract: An imaging tomography apparatus, in particular an x-ray computed tomography apparatus, has two acquisition systems capable of rotating around a common rotation axis. Each of the acquisition systems has a radiator as well as a detector. The maximum measurement fields scanned by the two acquisition systems given rotation around the rotation axis are of different sizes, or can be adjusted to different sizes. In particular, the lengths of both detectors measured in the azimuthal direction—are of different sizes. The tomography apparatus can be fashioned to scan the entire body cross-section of an examination subject or of a patient with conventional temporal resolution, and to scan detail region, such as a heart region, with an increased temporal resolution or accelerated data acquisition rate in comparison to a device with only one acquisition system.

Abstract: An X-ray computed tomography apparatus includes a first X-ray tube configured to generate X-rays with which a subject to be examined is irradiated, a first X-ray detector configured to detect X-rays transmitted through the subject, a second X-ray tube which generates X-rays with which a treatment target of the subject is irradiated, a rotating mechanism which rotates the first X-ray tube, the first X-ray detector, and the second X-ray tube around the subject, a reconstructing unit configured to reconstruct an image on the basis of data detected by the first X-ray detector, and a support mechanism which supports the second X-ray tube. The central axis of X-rays from the second X-ray tube tilts with respect to a body axis of the subject. This makes it possible to reduce the dose on a portion other than a treatment target.

Abstract: A method for imaging an object that includes utilizing a computed tomography imaging apparatus having a distributed x-ray source to acquire samples of projection data of an object in angular and temporal space utilizing a predetermined sampling lattice. Acquired projection data is filtered utilizing a two-dimensional linear filter to produce filtered data, and the filtered data is then backprojected to obtain a reconstructed image of the object.

Abstract: A method of and system for locating a targeted region in a patient uses a CT imaging subsystem and a radiotherapy subsystem arranged so the targeted region can be imaged with the imaging system and treated with a beam of therapeutic X-ray radiation using a radiotherapy subsystem. The beam of therapeutic X-rays is in a plane that is substantially fixed relative to, and preferably coplanar with, a slice plane of the CT imaging subsystem so that the targeted region can be imaged during a planning phase, and imaged and exposed to the therapeutic X-rays during the treatment phase without the necessity of moving the patient.

Abstract: An X-ray CT apparatus includes a plurality of X-ray irradiation sources and a plurality of X-ray detection units. Timing of irradiation of X-ray is shifted by each X-ray irradiation source, the detection unit separately obtains projection data and scatter correction data. In a scatter correction unit, scatter correction is performed based on the projection data and the scatter correction data.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and devices which improve a time resolution of a scanner by segmenting the data and generating a plurality of low resolution images. The low resolution images may then be combined to reconstruct a full image of a slice of a target. Such a method improves the time resolution of the scanner while maintaining the radiation dosage and time of the scan.

Abstract: A radiation machine incorporating a diagnostic imaging system is disclosed. The invention provides a very stable design of the machine by supporting an inner gantry part, including a treatment and diagnostic radiation source and detector, by an outer gantry part at two support locations situated at opposite sides of a treatment volume in a patient to be irradiated. This stable gantry design provides a high rotation speed of the inner gantry part relative the outer gantry part around the target volume, which speed is adapted for the high resolution imaging system. Based on the obtained images, changes and developments in tumor tissue and misplacement of patient may be detected. The images may be compared to a reference image to detect any anatomical or spatial difference therebetween. Based on this comparison the settings of the radiation machine may be adapted accordingly.

Abstract: A radiation therapy system that includes a radiation source that moves about a path and directs a beam of radiation towards an object and a cone-beam computer tomography system. The cone-beam computer tomography system includes an x-ray source that emits an x-ray beam in a cone-beam form towards an object to be imaged and an amorphous silicon flat-panel imager receiving x-rays after they pass through the object, the imager providing an image of the object. A computer is connected to the radiation source and the cone beam computerized tomography system, wherein the computer receives the image of the object and based on the image sends a signal to the radiation source that controls the path of the radiation source.

Abstract: A hybrid scintillation/direct conversion computed tomography (CT) imaging system including: a gantry, wherein the gantry defines a patient cavity and includes an x-ray source and a radiation detection apparatus, wherein the radiation detection apparatus includes a first radiation detector and a second radiation detector and wherein the x-ray source and the radiation detection apparatus are rotatingly associated with the gantry so as to be separated by the patient cavity; a patient support structure movingly associated with the gantry so as to allow communication with the patient cavity; and a processing device, wherein the processing device is communicated with the radiation detection apparatus.

Abstract: An imaging tomography apparatus, in particular x-ray computed tomography apparatus, for examining an examination subject has at least two acquisition systems, each having a radiator and a data acquisition unit to detect the radiation originating from the associated radiator. The acquisition systems are capable of rotating around a common rotation axis with a constant angular separation in the azimuthal direction. Radiation from only one of the radiators is permitted to reach the examination subject during the rotation of the acquisition systems. Signal contributions by the x-ray tubes not supplying this data acquisition unit with primary radiation arrive are prevented, the projection data set generated by one of the data acquisition units.

Abstract: A multisource type X-ray CT apparatus including a fixed sensor array, a fixed vacuum chamber, and an X-ray generation unit. The X-ray generation unit includes a cathode and an anode which are fixed in the vacuum chamber so as to surround the sensor array, a gate array including a plurality of grid electrodes which are densely fixed between the cathode and anode and which include holes for passing the electron beams, a power source which applies a bias voltage to the grid electrodes of the gate array, and a controller which controls the power supply operation from the power source so as to select the grid electrode suitable for image pickup from the gate array in accordance with an image pickup portion of the subject and to release the bias voltage applied to the selected grid electrode.

Abstract: A method for transporting a source pin in a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) system having a transmission ring includes aligning the transmission ring with a source pin within a storage device having a magnetic force holding the source pin in place, and moving the source pin from the storage device to the transmission ring using a magnetic force greater than the magnetic force of the storage device.

Abstract: In a rotate rotate CT scanner a plurality of source-detector units are mounted on a gantry displaced from each other in the Z direction and the detector units are arranged to acquire data from large volumes of a subject in a single rotation so that the scanner can provide time-coherent images of large organs.

Abstract: A method for operating a radiation source includes providing a radiation source, providing a detector, and operating the radiation source and the detector such that the detector receives a substantially homogenous noise distribution.

Abstract: An X-ray CT apparatus includes a plurality of X-ray irradiation sources and a plurality of X-ray detection units. Timing of irradiation of X-ray is shifted by each X-ray irradiation source, the detection unit separately obtains projection data and scatter correction data. In a scatter correction unit, scatter correction is performed based on the projection data and the scatter correction data.

Abstract: An X-ray CT apparatus comprises a large number of X-ray sources, a detector, and a collimator. The X-ray sources are arranged around an object P of inspection. The detector detects X rays emitted from the X-ray sources. The collimator is located between the X-ray sources and the object of inspection, and restricts the angle of emission of the X rays emitted from the X-ray sources so as to match the size of the detection surface of the detector.

Abstract: An X-ray inspection system is provided comprising an X-ray source having means for generating more than one beam defining an inspection plane, the beams being substantially parallel to each other; an X-ray detector having a plurality of detector arrays, each of which is aligned with one of the beams, and means for supporting an object between the X-ray source and the X-ray detector. The means for generating more than one beam may include an electron gun and means for steering an electron beam generated by the gun to multiple focal spots on a target.

Abstract: A digital x-ray imaging system employs a pixelated flat panel digital x-ray detector separated by a space from a source of x-rays which is selectively switchable between first and second, different x-ray energy levels, the space accommodating a body to be subjected to x-ray irradiation and imaging. A computer controls the x-ray source to irradiate the body with the first and second energy level x-rays and produce corresponding first and second x-ray images respectively of the first and second energy levels on the detector, the computer processing the respective digital signal outputs of the detector for the first and second digital images respectively of the first and second energy levels for each pixel, in individual succession for all pixels, and selectively produces and displays a soft tissue image or a bone/calcification image.

Abstract: In a data transmission system, and a method for transmitting data in the gigabit/second range, data are transferred from a source located on a rotary part to a stationary part via a slip ring system. A first gigabit data link proceeds from the source at the rotary part to a rotary module of the slip ring system, from which the data are transferred to a stationary module of the slip ring system. From the stationary module of the slip ring system, the data are transferred via a second data link to a receiver. Each of the rotary module and the stationary module of the slip ring system has a clock regenerator. The clock regenerators are operated to synchronize the gigabit/second data, proceeding from the first data link and proceeding to the second data link, to a stable reference clock, so as to prevent jitter from proceeding from the source to the receiver.

Abstract: This invention describes a dynamic X-ray imaging system for small animal studies and other applications that include a volumetric CT fluoroscopy (VCTF) scanner and software, which operates in accordance with a generalized Feldkamp algorithm or any other suitable reconstruction methods. The VCTF system is a significant advancement of current micro-CT techniques. While prior micro-CT systems are featured by relatively slow data acquisition and static image reconstructions, the present invention includes real-time data acquisition hardware, a dedicated real-time image reconstruction algorithm, an extra-fast cone-beam reconstruction engine, and integrating them into a 4D micro-CT scanner. The system of the present invention can be constructed relatively economically using state-of-the-art x-ray source, electronic detector techniques and image reconstruction methods.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining a specified physical characteristic in an object exposes the object to at least two angularly fixed sources of electromagnetic radiation to create projected images of the object. The sources are rotationally scanned about the object so as to oscillate in an angular range about the object. The sources are relatively stationary to one another. A three dimensional reconstructed image of the object based on the projected images of the object is created and examined for a specified physical characteristic in the object.

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

Abstract: In the exemplary embodiment, a method is provided for transporting a source pin in a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) system. The PET system includes a storage device, a transmission ring, and a source pin loader. The method includes aligning the transmission ring and the source pin, linearly moving the source pin to the transmission ring, and operatively engaging the source pin in the transmission ring.