X-ray bone densitometry apparatus with variable attenuation, modulation and collimation of penetrating radiation beam
US5835555A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 7, 1995 |
| Grant date | Nov 10, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 7, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B6/583
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Radiological apparatus, such as a bone densitometry measurement system, utilizes a penetrating radiation source, such as an x-ray source. The apparatus has a multi-position attenuator mechanism for placement of different attenuating materials in the radiation beam. The mechanism includes a rack of attenuating materials which is translated across the radiation beam path by a drive mechanism, such as a linear motor. The mechanism preferably includes a controller for actuating the drive mechanism in response to operator command and monitoring which attenuating material crosses the beam path by way of position signals generated by a position encoder that is coupled to the controller. This attenuator mechanism allows attenuating materials to be stored within the radiological apparatus, enables operator selection of attenuating materials under automatic machine control and self-alignment of the material relative to the radiation beam. Spectral content and intensity of the penetrating radiation beam is modulated in a known an repeatable pattern by a modulating apparatus. In the preferred embodiment one or more concentric, rotating cylinders are interposed between the x-ray beam and the pa…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.