Baird Corporation

Francis R Croteau

The present invention is provides a digital image or frame processor that improves pulse height resolution and eliminates post facto data correction. The calibration, acquisition, and correction of all scintillation data is performed in an array mode (20.times.20 data array; 20 word postamble) by this frame processor. To enhance speed, the control word is 48 bits wide to enable several functions to be performed in parallel. This frame processor incorporates bit slice computer technology in an arithmetic logic unit that cooperates with the other components of the system. In accordance with the present invention, this frame processor performs the following functions within the shortest data accumulation time of the camera, i.e. typically 10 milliseconds in the case of a gamma camera system: pulse height analysis settings for each detector; electrocardiogram digitization and recording; dual multiplexed buffer memory acquisition; field uniformity correction; background subtract correction; detector dead time correction; and radioactive decay correction. In consequence, this frame processor permits customized, narrower energy windows to be applied to individual channels in multi-crystal cameras (or to the regions of single crystal cameras). The result is radically improved digital array spectroscopy in real time.

Digital image frame processor

In a radioactivity distribution detection system of the kind for determining the location and distribution of radioactive events emitted from a subject under diagnosis, the improvement of electrically isolating the subject from the potentially harmful effects of leakage currents. The improvement comprises a first converter for converting electronic data signals representing the location and distribution of radioactive events to optical signals, a coupler for effecting an optical path of transmission for the converted optical signals, and a second converter for converting the transmitted optical signals to electronic data signals so that they can be processed to provide a presentation of the distribution of the sensed events. Preferably, the coupler comprises a pair of fiber optic cables for complete, duplex and bidirectional transmission of optical signals. The coupler allows the processing console to be far removed from the sensors and detectors of the radioactive events. The coupler also allows a reduction in the bulk and weight of such systems while enhancing their transmission capability. The coupler effectively protects a subject under diagnosis from the potentially harmful effects of leakage currents emanating from the processing console.

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Burlington, MA, United States of America

Francis R Croteau