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Stationary Engineer Jobs, Employment in Boca Raton, FL
Stationary Engineer jobs in Boca Raton, FL
Stationary Engineers license if required by local code. Hire, train, supervise, conduct employee performance reviews and discipline department staff and all...
Utility Engineers may perform the following limited duties without direct supervision of the Chief, Assistant Chief or Stationary Engineer:....
Capable of performing duties as a stationary Operating engineer in a large facility. Data Center Operating Engineer....
Reports to the Chief Stationary Engineer. Assists the Maintenance Technician or Chief Stationary Engineer as required....
View all Alsco jobs in Pompano Beach, FL - Pompano Beach jobsSalary Search: Maintenance Worker salaries in Pompano Beach, FLLearn more about working at AlscoRelated forums: Maintenance Worker - Alsco - Pompano Beach, Florida
Turbo Service Trainee
(MSHS) provides turnkey solutions for the maritime and stationary power industries. Traveling as needed to support the service engineers with service calls from...
View all Motor Services Hugo Stamp jobs in Fort Lauderdale, FL - Fort Lauderdale jobsSalary Search: Turbo Service Trainee salaries in Fort Lauderdale, FLLearn more about working at Motor Services Hugo StampRelated forums: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Service Engineer (MSHSSE050715-FL)
Service Engineer (CAT) - FL. (MSHS) provides turnkey solutions for the maritime and stationary power industries....
View all Motor Services Hugo Stamp jobs in Fort Lauderdale, FL - Fort Lauderdale jobsSalary Search: Service Engineer salaries in Fort Lauderdale, FLLearn more about working at Motor Services Hugo StampRelated forums: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Turbo Service Engineer
Turbo Service Engineer. (MSHS) provides turnkey solutions for the maritime and stationary power industries. MSHS has a vacancy in Fort Lauderdale, Florida in...
View all Motor Services Hugo Stamp jobs in Fort Lauderdale, FL - Fort Lauderdale jobsSalary Search: Turbo Service Engineer salaries in Fort Lauderdale, FLLearn more about working at Motor Services Hugo StampRelated forums: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
5 years training as a stationary Engineer. Assistant Director of Engineering....
View all Faena jobs in Miami, FL - Miami jobsSalary Search: Assistant Director Engineering salaries in Miami, FLLearn more about working at FaenaRelated forums: Miami, Florida - Faena
Traffic Control Specialist - Certified
The engineers and supervisors on the projects are required to be trained in the latest standards, practices and procedures to accomplish this goal....
View all Hubbard Construction jobs in Miami, FL - Miami jobsSalary Search: Traffic Control Specialist salaries in Miami, FLLearn more about working at Hubbard ConstructionRelated forums: Miami, Florida - Hubbard Construction
OSM Mechanical Engineer
OSM Mechanical Engineer. (MSHS) provides turnkey solutions for the maritime and stationary power industries....
View all Motor Services Hugo Stamp jobs in Fort Lauderdale, FL - Fort Lauderdale jobsSalary Search: Osm Mechanical Engineer salaries in Fort Lauderdale, FLLearn more about working at Motor Services Hugo StampRelated forums: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Relevant state/local license for stationary engineer and/or Refrigeration Operator's License, plus universal level refrigerant recovery license....
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5511 Office Blvd Ne, Albuquerque, NM, 87109 1-866-599-6674
Very nice hotel and close to highway
Pros: Very clean and staff was awesome
Cons: Pillows and breakfast
Loved the room and staff very friendly and helpful. The location was great close to were we were needing to be. Was a short visit so didn’t get to see any attractions
by A verified traveler from Chicagoland, Il
Conveniently located, great amenity hotel
We found out hotel room laid out perfectly for a longer stay in the city. The handy, full-sized fridge was great, as was the well-equipped kitchenette. The extra storage space and business desk/area in the room was very convenient. The young man that checked us in and was frequently at the front desk was accommodating, personable, and efficient. Would recommend this hotel to anyone staying in the Albuquerque area.
Weed is Legal in CO
Since marijuana is legal in Colorado there was, unfortunately, an overwhelming smell of weed in my first room. I had to ask to be moved because as the front desk explained to me, the area and floor I was on was above the smoking floor and my room was sharing the venting with those rooms. They were able to move me to the second floor. It is a pet friendly hotel but there was no area to walk your pet. They also informed me that my dog was not allowed in the lobby (not so pet friendly to me). They also didn't advise me that there would be a pet fee until the second evening I was there.
It was in a convenient location, but we stayed two nights and our room was not cleaned between nights. We had to request towels for our second night...they actually tried to place the blame on us instead of taking care of it.
Love staying here great place to always stay. Great walking places to eat.
Pros: I liked that we could walk to restaurants and the movie theater. It was easy access to I-25 and I-40.
Cons: The breakfast was the least favorite part of our stay. The waffle machine stopped working and the eggs and bacon were cold.
We enjoyed staying at TownePlace Suites. The staff was friendly and even called the day after we left to let us know we had left a stuffed bear in the room. Our granddaughter loved the pool. It was close to everything we wanted to do.
Perfect place to stay, every stay has been great!

type: global

value: This website is an online travel agency owned by Expedia Group, an American online travel shopping company based in Seattle.


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swarovski in Children's Jewelry | eBay
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Patent US20040128164 - Breakaway interfacing of radiological images with work orders - Google PatentsSearch Images Maps Play YouTube News Gmail Drive More »Sign inPatentsA breakaway interface between radiological information systems, imaging equipment and picture archive and communications systems has automated filtering and handling of multiple study work orders or affiliated work orders, while passing single study work orders through unaltered. The work orders are...http://www.google.com/patents/US20040128164?utm_source=gb-gplus-sharePatent US20040128164 - Breakaway interfacing of radiological images with work ordersAdvanced Patent SearchTry the new Google Patents, with machine-classified Google Scholar results, and Japanese and South Korean patents.Publication numberUS20040128164 A1Publication typeApplicationApplication numberUS 10/667,947Publication dateJul 1, 2004Filing dateSep 22, 2003Priority dateDec 31, 2002Also published asUS7756725Publication number10667947, 667947, US 2004/0128164 A1, US 2004/128164 A1, US 20040128164 A1, US 20040128164A1, US 2004128164 A1, US 2004128164A1, US-A1-20040128164, US-A1-2004128164, US2004/0128164A1, US2004/128164A1, US20040128164 A1, US20040128164A1, US2004128164 A1, US2004128164A1InventorsWayne DeJarnette, Charles Stockham, Steven WinekeOriginal AssigneeDejarnette Research Systems, Inc.Export CitationBiBTeX, EndNote, RefManPatent Citations (5), Referenced by (16), Classifications (17), Legal Events (2) External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, EspacenetBreakaway interfacing of radiological images with work orders
US 20040128164 A1Abstract
A breakaway interface between radiological information systems, imaging equipment and picture archive and communications systems has automated filtering and handling of multiple study work orders or affiliated work orders, while passing single study work orders through unaltered. The work orders are processed by the breakaway interface to consolidate multiple procedure or multiple study work orders into a single super order, which is then communicated, preferably using DICOM standard protocol, to an imaging machine. The imaging machine returns a single image sequence, and the breakaway interface will then break images away from the single image sequence into a plurality of grouped image sequences. The preferred grouping is based upon anatomical regions, and separate but adjacent anatomical regions will preferably share one or more images at the boundary between the adjacent regions. The exact number of shared images may preferably be preset at the system level. A number of different techniques for analyzing the single image sequence are proposed individually or in combination, including histogram analysis, peak finding techniques, moments of order analysis, evaluating information from one or more previous analyses, and evaluating image sequence series information to distinguish discrete imaging procedures. Images(4) Claims(29)
I claim: 1. A breakaway interface between a radiology accounting and billing information system having one-to-one correspondence between individual radiological studies and individual work orders, a picture archive and communication system having one-to-one correspondence between individual radiological studies and individual work orders, and a radiological imaging machine that produces multiple studies from a single work order, comprising: means for receiving an image sequence from said radiological imaging machine; means for dividing said image sequence into separate, anatomically associated image sequences; means for matching said anatomically associated images with corresponding individual work orders; and means for transmitting said matched anatomically associated image sequences and said corresponding individual work orders to said picture archive and communication system. 2. The breakaway interface of claim 1 further comprising a means to accept said individual work orders from said radiology accounting and billing information system. 3. The breakaway interface of claim 1 further comprising means to convey said single work orders to said radiological imaging machine. 4. The breakaway interface of claim 3 wherein said single work orders are in compliance with DICOM standards. 5. The breakaway interface of claim 1 wherein said dividing means further comprises a means for performing histogram analysis. 6. The breakaway interface of claim 1 wherein said dividing means further comprises a means for executing peak finding techniques. 7. The breakaway interface of claim 1 wherein said dividing means further comprises a means for performing moments of order analysis. 8. The breakaway interface of claim 1 wherein said dividing means further comprises a means for evaluating information from at least one previous analysis. 9. The breakaway interface of claim 1 wherein said dividing means further comprises a means for identifying and evaluating series information. 10. A method of separating a single radiological image sequence comprising a plurality of individual radiological images into a plurality of sequences and associating said plurality of sequences with a plurality of associated studies and work orders, comprising the steps of: receiving said single radiological image sequence in electronic form; analyzing a one of said individual radiological images within said single radiological image sequence to determine an associated anatomical region; and assigning said one of said individual radiological images to an appropriate one of said plurality of associated studies and work orders. 11. The method of separating a single radiological image sequence of claim 10 wherein said single radiological image sequence is received in digital electronic form. 12. The method of separating a single radiological image sequence of claim 10 wherein said analyzing comprises histogram analysis. 13. The method of separating a single radiological image sequence of claim 10 wherein said analyzing comprises moments of order analysis. 14. The method of separating a single radiological image sequence of claim 10 wherein said analyzing comprises peak finding techniques. 15. The method of separating a single radiological image sequence of claim 10 wherein said analyzing comprises evaluating information from previous analysis steps. 16. The method of separating a single radiological image sequence of claim 10 wherein said analyzing comprises evaluating series information to distinguish multiple procedures. 17. The method of separating a single radiological image sequence of claim 10 further comprising the step of recognizing compound work orders subsequent to said receiving step, and, responsive thereto, electing whether to perform said analyzing step. 18. A method of processing radiological orders using a radiological information system containing radiological examination orders and associated information, a picture archive and communication system, and an imaging apparatus capable of producing an image sequence having a plurality of individual images therein, including interfacing said radiological information system, said picture archive and communication system and said imaging apparatus in an effective and efficient manner, comprising the steps of: receiving said radiological examination orders; conveying said radiological examination orders to said imaging apparatus for imaging; generating image sequences having at least one individual radiological image; delivering image sequences corresponding to said unaffiliated radiological examination orders to a storage system; analyzing said at least one individual radiological image within said image sequences corresponding to said super orders to determine an associated study; assigning said at least one individual radiological image to an appropriate one of said plurality of associated studies and work orders based upon said analyzing and determining step; and transmitting said assigned at least one individual radiological image and said appropriate one of said plurality of associated studies and work orders to said storage system. 19. The method of processing radiological orders of claim 18 further comprising the steps of: distinguishing said radiological examination orders that are unaffiliated with other radiological examination orders from radiological examination orders that are affiliated with other radiological examination orders; and assembling affiliated radiological examination orders into a super order responsive to said distinguishing. 20. The method of processing radiological orders of claim 19 wherein: said conveying step further comprising conveying said unaffiliated radiological examination orders and said super orders to said imaging apparatus for imaging responsive to said distinguishing and said assembling steps; and said at least one individual radiological image is generated corresponding to said unaffiliated radiological examination orders and said super orders. 21. The method of processing radiological orders of claim 19 wherein said radiological examination orders are received from said radiological information system; said image sequences and said unaffiliated radiological examination orders are delivered to said picture archive and communication system; and said at least one individual radiological image and said appropriate one of said plurality of associated studies and work orders are transmitted to said picture archive and communication system. 22. The method of processing radiological orders of claim 18 wherein said analyzing step further comprises histogram analysis. 23. The method of processing radiological orders of claim 18 wherein said analyzing step further comprises moments of order analysis. 24. The method of processing radiological orders of claim 18 wherein said analyzing step further comprises peak finding techniques. 25. The method of processing radiological orders of claim 18 wherein said analyzing step further comprises analysis of information from at least one previous analysis step. 26. The method of processing radiological orders of claim 18 wherein said analyzing step further comprises evaluating series information to distinguish multiple procedures. 27. The method of processing radiological orders of claim 18 wherein said step of determining an associated region further comprises determining an associated anatomical region. 28. In combination with medical imaging equipment normally operating independently of a stand-alone radiological information system, a breakaway interface disposed between the radiological information system and the medical imaging equipment, thereby facilitating conventional use of the medical imaging equipment for multi-anatomical or multi-procedural studies for generating a series of anatomical images under a single work order and for simultaneously producing respective individual work orders which are matched to corresponding anatomical images, and which are inputted into the radiological information system for management control, tracking, accounting and/or billing purposes. 29. The combination of claim 28, further including a picture archive and communication system (PACS) and means for transmitting individual work orders and the anatomical images into the PACS.
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims priority to co-pending U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/437,556 filed on Dec. 31, 2002 and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] This invention pertains generally to computer-aided imaging systems and computer-aided radiological information systems. More specifically, the present invention incorporates image analysis and work order evaluation to ensure that a radiological information system and computer-aided imaging system produce desired and matched images and work orders in an automated and reliable manner. [0004] 2. Description of the Related Art [0005] Radiological information systems provide a hospital, imaging or other medical facility appropriate computer software tools to manage information regarding radiological exams. Modern radiological imaging facilities will typically utilize a variety of highly sophisticated testing, imaging and analysis equipment. For exemplary purposes only, and not limited thereto, exemplary imaging equipment commonly found at such facilities may include CT, SPECT, PET, and MRI scanners. These machines are very expensive assets that will most desirably be operated in an efficient manner to minimize idle time and, simultaneously, to minimize the amount of time required to produce a desired set of images for a given patient. By minimizing the time required for a patient, the throughput on a given machine may be increased, decreasing the total cost per patient and reducing the need for additional machines that might be otherwise required to maintain a particular level of service. The patients will also see better service through reduced waiting time and fewer retakes or extra visits for missed or overlooked image requests. [0006] The operations which are provided for through the radiological information system will typically include scheduling, billing, tracking, generation of work orders, storage of reference information such as referring physician, patient information, and the like. Such systems form an important accounting and management role within a well-managed facility and so are a vital part of the administrative data management. [0007] In addition to the administrative scheduling and accounting functions of a typical radiological information system, additional management is required when receiving, handling and archiving radiological images. In particular, recent imaging systems are capable of generating either single images or, alternatively, a relatively large number of relatively small image slices. These slices may not be evenly distributed across a patient's body, but in accord with a physicians' needs may be unevenly concentrated in a particular body area or region. For exemplary purposes, multi-slice CT equipment is capable of producing hundreds of slices in a single very short scanning session, and the equipment is capable of scanning from the top of a person's head through the pelvis in a single acquisition. Multiple separate procedures or anatomical studies may be included in a single CT acquisition. The maintenance of this image data, which generally involves the archiving of large amounts of data, is most preferably handled through specialized computer systems referred to herein as Picture Archive and Communication Systems (PACS). A PACS system will most desirably incorporate much specialized software which enables specialized handling and display of the images, and will most preferably work cooperatively as a part of or in close association with the radiological information system. [0008] Unfortunately, the objectives of the various systems are somewhat different from each other, and, as a result, certain technical challenges are present in the integration of the various components that comprise a complete radiological program. For example, to facilitate billing most radiological information systems require a specific work order be associated with each image set. That way, there is a clear accounting trail of work ordered and delivered, and the system can thereby ensure that the orders have properly been fulfilled and billed. This approach works very well for single study work orders. The work order may be generated without intelligent intervention, and the radiology technician can conduct the single study as ordered. When complete, the radiologist will generate a single radiology report and the facility will then deliver and bill for the study. [0009] Unfortunately, when there is a multi-anatomical study or multi-procedure study work order placed, which is very well handled by many axial medical imaging scanners, neither the PACS system nor the radiological information system are well suited. Prior to the present invention, the persons entering or tracking the information would be called upon to recognize that the request was for a plurality of studies. In order for the radiological information system and the PACS to accurately account for this multi-study, a person would have to enter the work order manually by dividing the work order into a plurality of work orders. When the work order was not divided and manually entered, only one imaging study could be assigned to or electronically associated with the work order. Not only is a radiological information system designed to account for each study separately, but the PACS associates only one procedure with the study. Consequently, for a multi-anatomical study, the remaining image studies could not be assigned by the reading radiologist, and these studies remained unassigned and not associated with any particular work order. As a result, the facility was unable to properly account, track and bill for the remaining image studies. [0010] As aforementioned, the prior art manual intervention is not limited solely to the entry of information into the radiological information system. Once the multi-study is properly entered into the radiological information system, including dividing into each individual study, the work order is conveyed to a technician responsible for conducting a particular study. In the case of a multi-anatomical study, such as for exemplary purposes only and not limiting thereto, a CT scan covering head, neck and upper torso, the CT technician will most desirably recognize that the patient can be positioned for a single comprehensive procedure. The work orders, however, indicate three separate procedures, a discrepancy that may, particularly in the case of a new or less-experienced technician, lead to error, confusion or delay, any of which is associated with a decreased level of service and the potential need to expose the patient multiple times to the imaging radiant energy. [0011] When the CT technician properly completes the single comprehensive procedure, yet another problem exists. The work order has multiple studies specified, and yet there is only a single imaging sequence produced by the imaging equipment. Consequently, interpretation and manual intervention are once again required. This time, the technician must review the images and determine an appropriate grouping to correspond to the work order, or a radiologist or the like will otherwise have to re-organize the single multi-study output from the equipment to attempt to match the studies to the multiple work orders. In either case, additional work not associated directly with patient care is undesirably required. [0012] In the event the multi-study imaging output is not divided (which is tedious work not directly affiliated with patient care) issues arise regarding the accounting between the radiology report and the radiological information system. When work orders are properly divided, but the images are not, the remaining work orders are all too frequently orphaned, unmatched to any image set in spite of the fact that the imaging study has actually been completed. [0013] In either case, when work orders are not properly divided or images are not properly divided, another very significant benefit of the PACS is lost. By electronically archiving imaging information, a radiologist or other health care provider may compare present images to past images stored with the patient's records, and do this with almost no delay. Unfortunately, when either the work order or the imaging studies have not been properly manually divided, the physician will find it difficult or impossible to locate the archived images to carry out the past and present comparisons. For example, if the patient had a full scan including head, neck and upper torso as described above, and the results of the head scan were not stored with the head scan work order, the physician may be unable to locate the head scan, and may typically assume that it has been permanently lost or destroyed or waste valuable time researching what should be an automatic display. Many PACS systems refer to studies by procedure type, so it is important that distinct procedures be subdivided, or the information from the procedure may not be retrievable using the procedure type reference. As may be understood, comparisons of current imaging information with previous imaging data can be invaluable in the evaluation and diagnosis of a medical condition, and the loss of such useful information can be very detrimental to the provision of timely and efficient patient care. [0014] What is desired then is a system which eliminates the tedious and unreliable manual intervention, and thereby allows the users of each system to better focus their efforts on their primary duties. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0015] The present invention provides, for use in combination with medical imaging equipment normally operating independently of a stand-alone radiological information system, a breakaway interface disposed between the radiological information system and PACS and the medical imaging equipment. This breakaway interface facilitates conventional use of the medical imaging equipment for multi-anatomical or multi-procedural studies for generating a series of anatomical images under a single work order and for simultaneously producing respective individual work orders which are matched to corresponding anatomical images, and which are inputted into the radiological information system for management control, tracking, accounting and/or billing purposes. [0016] Preferably, a picture archive and communication system (PACS) is provided for transmitting individual work orders and storing the anatomical images into the PACS. [0017] In a first manifestation, the breakaway interface is operative between a radiology accounting and billing information system having one-to-one correspondence between individual radiological studies and individual work orders, a picture archive and communication system (PACS) having one-to-one correspondence between individual radiological studies and individual work orders, and a radiological imaging machine that produces multiple studies from a single work order. Means are provided within the breakaway interface for receiving an image sequence from the radiological imaging machine. Means are also provided for dividing the image sequence into separate, anatomically associated image sequences. Means are additionally provided for matching anatomically associated images with corresponding individual work orders. Additional means transmit the matched anatomically associated image sequences and corresponding individual work orders to the picture archive and communication system. [0018] In a second manifestation, the invention is a method of separating a single radiological image sequence comprising a plurality of individual radiological images into a plurality of sequences and associating the plurality of sequences with a plurality of associated studies and work orders. According to the method, the single radiological image sequence is received in electronic form. Individual radiological images within the sequence are analyzed, preferably using histogram analysis, moments of order analysis and peak finding techniques, info from previous analysis steps, and the evaluation of series information to distinguish between multiple procedures, to determine an associated anatomical region. The individual radiological images are assigned to an appropriate one of the plurality of associated studies and work orders based upon the analysis and determination. [0019] In a third manifestation, the invention is a method of processing radiological orders using a radiological information system containing radiological examination orders and associated information, a picture archive and communication system, and an imaging apparatus capable of producing an image sequence having a plurality of individual images therein, including interfacing the radiological information system, the picture archive and communication system and the imaging apparatus in an effective and efficient manner. According to the method, examination orders are received from the radiological information system, and then distinguished by whether the orders are unaffiliated with other examination orders or not. Affiliated examination orders are assembled into a super order. Unaffiliated examination orders and super orders are conveyed to the imaging apparatus for imaging, which will generate image sequences having at least one individual radiological image corresponding to unaffiliated examination orders and super orders. The image sequences corresponding to unaffiliated examination orders are delivered to the picture archive and communication system without further processing. Images within image sequences corresponding to super orders are analyzed, preferably using histogram analysis and peak finding techniques, information from previous analysis steps, and by evaluating series info to distinguish multiple procedures, to determine an associated anatomical region. Based upon the analyzing and determining, individual radiological images are assigned to an appropriate one of the associated studies and work orders. Finally, individual radiological images and associated studies and work orders are transmitted to the picture archive and communication system for further processing. OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION [0020] A first object of the invention is to provide improved and more highly automated communication between a radiological information system and a radiological imaging machine. A second object of the invention is to reduce the need for human intervention and interpretation, and consequently reduce the likelihood for errors. A third object of the invention is to ensure that appropriate information is stored with each appropriate work order, whereby at a later date the imaging information may be readily obtained for review and comparison. A fourth object of the invention is to permit both a radiological information system and a radiological imaging machine to be operated using native logic and associated work orders, whereby the benefits of each system are preserved and allowed to remain optimal for their intended purposes. Another object of the invention is to provide filtered conversions both from a radiological information system to a radiological imaging machine and in an opposite direction from said radiological imaging machine to said radiological information system. A further object of the invention is to maintain compliance with existing standards, such as the DICOM standards. These and other objects are achieved in the present invention, which may be best understood by the following detailed description and drawing of the preferred embodiment.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0021] [0021]FIG. 1 illustrates the preferred breakaway interface and associated imaging systems designed in accord with the teachings of the present invention by schematic block diagram. [0022] [0022]FIG. 2 illustrates the preferred method of processing radiological orders, using the preferred method of breaking away images shown in FIG. 3, in accord with the teachings of the present invention by flow chart. [0023] [0023]FIG. 3 illustrates the preferred method of breaking images away from a multi-study image sequence into individual anatomically organized image sequences in accord with the teachings of the present invention by flow chart.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT [0024] A preferred embodiment breakaway apparatus 100 and breakaway method 200 of interfacing radiological images with work orders is illustrated in FIGS. 1-3. As illustrated in FIG. 1, breakaway apparatus 100 couples a standard radiological information system 110 or other known or suitable substitute, including a PACS system, to breakaway interface 140. In the preferred embodiment, radiological information system 110 will communicate to breakaway interface 140 by transmission of communications signals using industry standard protocols such as DICOM work lists or HL-7 orders. [0025] Most preferably, though not essential to the workings of the present invention, the various components within breakaway apparatus 100 will be compliant with the DICOM industry standards. DICOM, which stands for Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine, is the industry standard for transfer of radiological images and other medical information between computers. Patterned after the Open System Interconnection of the International Standards Organization, DICOM enables digital communication between radiological imaging equipment and systems from various manufacturers. [0026] Compliance with the DICOM open standards is important to ensure compatibility between radiological services providers and various health-care facilities that may be physically separated one from the other. The facilities may be divided merely within buildings, or across distant geographic regions. Hardware and software from diverse vendors located at one site or many remote sites can communicate by means of the DICOM standard across an open system network. As a result, medical images can be captured and communicated more quickly, allowing physicians to make diagnoses sooner. Additionally, the use of DICOM standard components ensures more modularity in the construction of the preferred embodiment. Consequently, for the purposes of this disclosure, phrases such as coupling, transmitting, receiving and the like will be understood to include not only direct connection by local wiring, but also to other suitable communications, including but not limited to both physical and virtual interconnections including local area networks, wide area networks, Internet, radio and satellite communications, and so forth. [0027] Breakaway interface 140 includes means to receive the work lists, the means which are dependent upon the type of network or communications system in use and which includes all suitable known apparatus. The reception means, for exemplary and not limiting purposes, may include such devices as network interface cards, modems, direct wiring or the like, typically associated with appropriate software or hardware for implementing the necessary function. The appropriate apparatus will be determined by those skilled in the art at the time of design. [0028] Breakaway interface 140 will filter work lists or orders received from radiological information system 110, as will be described in much greater detail with regard to FIGS. 2 and 3 herein below, and then transmits a rationalized work list, preferably using the DICOM standards and format, to imaging equipment 120. Similar to the above mentioned reception means, breakaway interface 140 will include appropriate means for transmission, once again dependent upon the type of network or communications system, and once again determined by those skilled in the art at design time. [0029] Imaging equipment 120 may include one or more of a wide variety of diverse medical imaging equipment. The invention is believed to offer significant benefit and advantage when applied more particularly to axial medical imaging equipment, and most particularly to such equipment when the equipment is capable of generating many image slices within a very short period of time, or processing large body sections or separate anatomical studies at once. Exemplary are current multi-slice CT scanners, which are capable of producing hundreds of slices in a short time interval, scanning from the top of a head through the pelvis in a single acquisition, and processing images for five separate anatomical studies in a single CT sequence. Capabilities to which the present invention is most suited may also be found in many SPECT, PET and MRI imaging machines, though this list is strictly exemplary, and in no way limiting to the scope of the invention. [0030] Imaging equipment 120 in turn transmits back to breakaway interface 140 an image sequence taken in accord with the rationalized DICOM work list. Once again, the image sequence will preferably be transmitted from imaging equipment 120 to breakaway interface 140 in accord with the DICOM standards, though the invention is not so limited. Breakaway interface 140 will include reception means suited for receiving image sequences from imaging equipment 120, such means within the purview of those skilled in the art and the selection of which will be made at design time. [0031] In the event the image sequence was generated from a rationalized work list which was different from the work list received from radiological information system 110, breakaway interface 140 will include means to break images away from the image sequence received from imaging equipment 120 into smaller rationalized image sequences. In the preferred embodiment, breakaway interface 140 intelligently applies algorithms to the images to determine the best way to split up the image sequence, as will be described in greater detail herein below with specific reference to FIG. 2. [0032] Once the smaller rationalized image sequences are derived from the larger sequence received from imaging equipment 120, breakaway interface 140 includes means to communicate the smaller rationalized image sequences to a PACS system 130 or the like. Most preferably, the communications protocol will conform to DICOM standards, though this is not essential to the workings of the invention. In addition to the transmission of the rationalized image sequences, the associations to rationalized work lists or EL-7 orders will also be transmitted, thereby ensuring proper one-to-one correspondence within PACS 130. The specific apparatus used will be selected by those skilled in the art from the myriad of available hardware and software combinations known in the art to be suitable for the communications required herein. [0033] In accord with the teachings of the present invention, the provision of breakaway interface 140 enables users of radiological information system 110 and picture archive and storage system 130 to continue to generate work orders, bills, studies, archival records and the like using the systems as they were designed, with one-to-one work order to image sequence and study correspondence, without special training or manual intervention for exceptions such as multiple procedure studies or multiple-study imaging. This conformance is highly desirable, since these systems were designed to best ensure accurate and optimal management, tracking, and archival retrieval. The avoidance of manual interventions for exceptions is also highly desirable, since, as aforementioned, such manual intervention is extremely tedious, prone to errors, and very much avoided in industry, to the point of seriously hampering the effectiveness of entire electronic radiology systems. [0034] The input to imaging equipment 120 is additionally optimized by breakaway interface 140, assembling super orders where appropriate, thereby reducing the clutter of pluralities of work orders for a single scanning sequence, and also eliminating the need for manual intervention to recognize and assemble the plurality of work orders into the single scanning sequence. Consequently, not only are the operations at the radiological information system 110 and PACS 130 optimized, but so is the operation of imaging equipment 120. [0035] [0035]FIG. 2 illustrates a preferred method 200 of processing radiological orders within breakaway interface 140. Method 200 may be implemented using various combinations of software and hardware, as is known in the art. Consequently, method 200 is not limited solely to either software or hardware, and may include one or both in combination. Breakaway interface 140 must receive examination orders at step 210. These examination orders will typically be provided through radiological information system 110, but may alternatively be permitted to be received from other diverse systems or sources, including but not limited to PACS 130 or other remote radiological information systems, PACS, or other systems or sources capable of providing sufficient information for breakaway interface 140 to generate or assemble appropriate examination orders. [0036] Any orders that are affiliated with or would require additional work orders, for example multiple studies or procedures on a single patient using a single imaging machine, will preferably be distinguished and assembled into a super order for that machine, as shown in steps 220 and 230. Unaffiliated orders are conveyed to imaging equipment 120 as received, while affiliated orders are collected in step 230 and conveyed as a single super order to imaging equipment 120 in step 240. This conversion of work orders into rationalized work orders at step 230 is done by breakaway interface 140, where rationalized work orders refer to super orders that are either assembled by or alternatively identified as multiple procedure or multiple study work orders by breakaway interface 140. [0037] Imaging equipment 120 will generate one or more image sequences, which in turn are received at breakaway interface 140 in step 250. These received image sequences are then analyzed and assigned as outlined herein below with reference to method 300. The assigned images and associated studies and work orders are then preferably transmitted to PACS 130 as shown by step 260, though transmission to other devices and equipment available either directly or through a network or other diverse communication channel may be used. Among the possible devices for transmission to, but not limiting the invention to the present list, are PACS systems, medical imaging networks, radiological information systems, and various storage devices for possible future use or reference. [0038] [0038]FIG. 3 illustrates the preferred method 300 of identification of the appropriate divisions between various smaller rationalized image sequences. In the preferred embodiment breakaway apparatus 100, method 300 is the preferred means for dividing the image sequence into separate, anatomically associated image sequences. At step 310, an image sequence is received from imaging equipment 120. A decision must be made at step 315 to decide whether the work order was rationalized or not. This decision may, for exemplary purposes, be made by tracking within breakaway interface 140 the work orders and whether they were rationalized. In the event the work order was not a rationalized work order, meaning the image sequence and work order have the desired one-to-one correspondence, then the image may be directly assigned to the order at step 340. [0039] For rationalized work orders, individual images within an image sequence will be analyzed beginning at step 320. As is schematically illustrated, this image analysis may include one or more techniques, either simultaneously or separately. Most preferred techniques include image pixel analysis using histograms analysis, moments of order analysis, and peak finding techniques at steps 322, 323 and 324, and will also include comparisons of the last image analysis in step 326 and review of series information at step 328. Histogram analysis, moments of order analysis and peak finding techniques for pixel analysis are known in the graphics industry, and the application within the present breakaway interface 140 will be within the skill of those working in the present industry upon a review of the present disclosure and without further unnecessary elaboration. While several preferred image analysis techniques are described herein, other image analysis techniques may be used or adapted for application herewith based upon the goals apparent from the present disclosure, and consequently without deviating from the present disclosure. In fact, owing in part to the great flexibility of the present invention, as image analysis techniques are introduced or refined, they will reasonably be expected to be implemented in combination with the other features disclosed herein without departing from the scope of the present invention. [0040] Information from the last analysis, as shown in step 326, represents an awareness by the present inventors that there is a sequence which various image slices must occur in. In other words, a person's head is above the neck which in turn is above the chest. Consequently, if the last image represented a neck region image, and the imaging is proceeding from top of the head downward toward the pelvis, then the current image could not reasonably be taken from the head. Step 326 is not limited solely to the last image that was analyzed, but may alternatively represent the last state of the complete sequence analysis as well, depending upon data storage and processing capabilities designed into breakaway interface 140. [0041] Series information as shown in step 328 represents a check to see if the current image is from the same image series and frame of reference as the previous image. As an example, it is possible that a single image sequence may include head and neck slices as a first procedure executed by the imaging equipment 120 and represented by a first series designation, and then also include a second imaging procedure executed by imaging equipment 120 showing chest, abdomen and pelvis slices. In such an instance, breakaway interface 140 will most preferably recognize that the series information creates a logical separation of the image sequence into distinct anatomical regions. Consequently, in such an instance, one or more of the boundaries of division between smaller rationalized image sequences may be defined entirely by a change in image series information. [0042] As already noted herein above, the specific techniques for analyzing individual images will vary from one system to another. The present invention uses all five steps 322-328 in the analysis, though other systems may include any combination of steps 322-328 in any order or simultaneously, or other image analysis techniques. [0043] From the analysis of steps 320-328, breakaway interface 140 is preferably programmed to determine what anatomical region the individual image was taken from. Once determination step 330 has been completed, the individual image may be confidently assigned to one or more orders in step 340. Preferably, at the boundaries of divisions between smaller rationalized image sequences, and where the divisions are not occurring due to changes in series described with reference to step 328, images will be assigned so as to overlap between both of the adjoining sections. Said another way, images may be duplicated between two smaller rationalized image sequences in order to adequately preserve all of the important features found near the boundaries of each separate image sequence. The amount of overlap between smaller rationalized image sequences may beselected or configured by the user in the preferred embodiment, though this is not essential to the working of the invention. [0044] In accord with the preferred embodiment methods 200 and 300 illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 and described in detail herein above, the present invention performs automatic dissection of a single, multi-order image study into its constituent studies. This processing occurs without a user or the PACS needing to intervene, or even needing to be aware of the automatic intervention and dissection. [0045] Having thus disclosed the preferred embodiment and some alternatives to the preferred embodiment, additional possibilities and applications will become apparent to those skilled in the art without undue effort or experimentation. Therefore, while the foregoing details what is felt to be the preferred embodiment of the invention, no material limitations to the scope of the claimed invention are intended. Further, features and design alternatives that would be obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art are considered to be incorporated herein. As but one example and certainly not limiting of the possibilities, while breakaway interface 140 is illustrated and described herein above as a separate apparatus, those skilled in the art will recognize that the function of breakaway interface 140 may be implemented independently of physical placement. In other words, breakaway interface 140 may be included within or implemented in any of the remaining associated components, such as, for example, the imaging equipment 120, without negating the functional characteristics described herein above. Where one or more of the components 110-130 have sufficient computational power and storage, only software appropriate to the machine may be required to implement the present invention Consequently, rather than being limited strictly to the features recited with regard to the preferred embodiment, the scope of the invention is set forth and particularly described in the claims herein below. Patent CitationsCited PatentFiling datePublication dateApplicantTitleUS5452416 *Dec 30, 1992Sep 19, 1995Dominator Radiology, Inc.Automated system and a method for organizing, presenting, and manipulating medical imagesUS20010011336 *Feb 20, 1998Aug 2, 2001Larry R. SitkaDigital image management system having method for managing images according to image groupsUS20030228042 *Jun 6, 2002Dec 11, 2003Usha SinhaMethod and system for preparation of customized imaging atlas and registration with patient imagesUS20040086202 *Nov 1, 2002May 6, 2004Short Stephanie A.Method and apparatus for simultaneous acquisition of multiple examination dataUS20040125908 *Jul 22, 2003Jul 1, 2004Erdogan CesmeliMethod and apparatus for deriving motion information from projection data* Cited by examinerReferenced byCiting PatentFiling datePublication dateApplicantTitleUS8046240 *Nov 24, 2006Oct 25, 2011Toshiba Medical Systems CorporationMedical image diagnostic system for creating order informationUS8165426 *Jan 31, 2007Apr 24, 2012Siemens AktiengesellschaftWorkflow-based management of medical image dataUS8548122Jul 27, 2006Oct 1, 2013Koninklijke Philips N.V.Method and apparatus for generating multiple studiesUS8892577 *Feb 15, 2008Nov 18, 2014Toshiba Medical Systems CorporationApparatus and method for storing medical informationUS9514275 *Mar 13, 2006Dec 6, 2016General Electric CompanyDiagnostic imaging simplified user interface methods and apparatusUS20060078184 *May 16, 2005Apr 13, 2006Hong ShenIntelligent splitting of volume dataUS20060155577 *Jan 7, 2005Jul 13, 2006Confirma, Inc.System and method for anatomically based processing of medical imaging informationUS20060173719 *Jan 28, 2005Aug 3, 2006Agfa CorporationMessage-based connectivity managerUS20070167713 *Nov 24, 2006Jul 19, 2007Hiroshi FukatsuMedical image diagnostic systemUS20070192408 *Jan 31, 2007Aug 16, 2007Helmut KonigWorkflow-based management of medical image dataUS20070214017 *Mar 13, 2006Sep 13, 2007General Electric CompanyDiagnostic imaging simplified user interface methods and apparatusUS20080201372 *Feb 15, 2008Aug 21, 2008Hiroshi FukatsuApparatus and method for storing medical informationUS20140378819 *Oct 10, 2013Dec 25, 2014Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Method of providing guide information for photographing object, method of recommending object, and medical image capturing apparatusDE102006004618A1 *Feb 1, 2006Aug 9, 2007Siemens AgArbeitsablauf-basiertes Management von medizinischen BilddatenWO2006074206A2 *Jan 6, 2006Jul 13, 2006Confirma, Inc.System and method for processing anatomical imaging informationWO2006074206A3 *Jan 6, 2006Apr 23, 2009Con Inc FaSystem and method for processing anatomical imaging information* Cited by examinerClassifications U.S. Classification705/2, 705/34, 705/1.1International ClassificationG06Q50/24, G06Q50/22, G06Q30/04, G06Q10/10Cooperative ClassificationG06Q30/04, G06F19/321, G06Q50/22, G06Q50/24, G06Q10/10European ClassificationG06Q10/10, G06F19/32A, G06Q50/24, G06Q30/04, G06Q50/22Legal EventsDateCodeEventDescriptionSep 22, 2003ASAssignmentOwner name: DEJARNETTE RESEARCH SYSTEMS, INC., MARYLANDFree format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:DEJARNETTE, WAYNE T.;STOCKHAM, CHARLES D.;WINEKE, STEVENG.;REEL/FRAME:014548/0421Effective date: 20030815Jan 6, 2014FPAYFee paymentYear of fee payment: 4RotateOriginal ImageGoogle Home - Sitemap - USPTO Bulk Downloads - Privacy Policy - Terms of Service - About Google Patents - Send FeedbackData provided by IFI CLAIMS Patent Services

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Hotels in Benidorm Slideshare uses cookies to improve functionality and performance, and to provide you with relevant advertising. If you continue browsing the site, you agree to the use of cookies on this website. See our User Agreement and Privacy Policy.
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http://www.hotelsinbenidorm.org/The hotels in Benidorm are good places to stay because of the various advantages that they have. There are a lot of people visiting this place because of the affordable stay that this lace boasts and this is the first major advantage.
Hotels in Benidorm 1.
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 The one reason for this to be ahead of the other tourist destinations is because of the low cost tariffs on the hotels in Benidorm. The low cost tariff does not mean that you will not have a lot of comforts. The comforts that are provided to you are simply superb, but in spite of all these comforts and enjoyment, you will be able to get the whole deal for a very less price. 4.
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Do this for Christmas cards - ornaments or other shapes MerMagPaperstripPumpkinArt2
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Patent US6477932 - Explosive-triggered RF beam source - Google PatentsSearch Images Maps Play YouTube News Gmail Drive More »Sign inAdvanced Patent SearchPatentsRF beam sources (HPM sources) serve in the non-lethal destruction, interference or screening of targets. An explosive-triggered RF beam source (2) constructed solely from a pulse-generation device (4), whose generated pulses are radiated directly at a target is provided. The pulse generator (4) is a...http://www.google.com/patents/US6477932?utm_source=gb-gplus-sharePatent US6477932 - Explosive-triggered RF beam sourceAdvanced Patent SearchPublication numberUS6477932 B2Publication typeGrantApplication numberUS 09/949,942Publication dateNov 12, 2002Filing dateSep 12, 2001Priority dateSep 12, 2000Fee statusPaidAlso published asDE10044867A1, DE50113812D1, EP1189492A1, EP1189492B1, US20020035918Publication number09949942, 949942, US 6477932 B2, US 6477932B2, US-B2-6477932, US6477932 B2, US6477932B2InventorsMarkus JungOriginal AssigneeRheinmetall W & M GmbhExport CitationBiBTeX, EndNote, RefManPatent Citations (12), Non-Patent Citations (4), Referenced by (8), Classifications (17), Legal Events (4) External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, EspacenetExplosive-triggered RF beam source
US 6477932 B2Abstract
RF beam sources (HPM sources) serve in the non-lethal destruction, interference or screening of targets. An explosive-triggered RF beam source (2) constructed solely from a pulse-generation device (4), whose generated pulses are radiated directly at a target is provided. The pulse generator (4) is a magnetic flux compressor, and has a coil (6) that is filled with explosive material (10). A capacitive load (CL) integrated into the RF beam source (2) is connected on the output side to the pulse-generator (4), and forms an electrical resonating circuit with the coil (6) and simultaneously functions as an antenna. Preferably, an element (14) is mounted in the region (13) between the coil body (6.1) and the windings (6.2) to increase the number of free electrons for supporting the plasma formation and attaining a higher conversion of chemical energy into electrical energy, and therefore inducing a higher frequency.
What is claimed is: 1. An explosive-triggered RF beam source, comprising a pulse-generation device including a coil, having a coil liner and a coil body with windings disposed about the liner, an explosive material located in the liner; a fuze for igniting the explosive at one end of the liner adjacent an input of the pulse-generation device to cause consecutive short circuiting of the coil windings; a voltage source for selective connection to the coil; an element that supports plasma formation disposed in a region between the coil body and the liner; and an electrical reactive load connected on the output side of the pulse-generation device and functioning as an antenna.
2. The explosive-triggered RF beam source according to claim 1, wherein the load is a capacitive load, which act as an antenna.
3. The explosive-triggered RF beam source according to claim 1, wherein the plasma formation comprises a material that is mounted on the surface of the coil body and has at least one of a poor electrical conductivity, a poor bonding energy for electrons and a rough surface structure.
4. The explosive-triggered RF beam source according to claim 3, wherein the material comprises carbon fibers.
5. The explosive-triggered RF beam source according to claim 3, wherein the material is velvet.
6. The explosive-triggered RF beam source according to claim 1, wherein the plasma supporting element has a conical coil cross-section.
7. The explosive-triggered RF beam source according to claim 6, wherein the conical cross-section of the plasma-supporting element is greatest at said one input end of the liner.
8. The explosive-triggered RF beam source according to claim 7, wherein the supporting element further includes a background gas.
9. The explosive-triggered RF beam source according to claim 8, wherein the background gas is helium or argon.
10. The explosive-triggered RF beam source according to claim 7, wherein the plasma supporting element further includes a vacuum.
11. The explosive-triggered RF beam source according to claim 1, wherein the supporting element includes a background gas.
12. The explosive-triggered RF beam source according to claim 11, wherein the background gas is helium or argon.
13. The explosive-triggered RF beam source according to claim 1, wherein the plasma supporting element is a vacuum.
14. The explosive-triggered RF beam source according claim 1, wherein the reactive load comprises a capacitor (CL) and a coil (LL) electrically connected as a parallel resonating circuit to the pulse-generation device.
15. The explosive-triggered RF beam source according to claim 1, wherein the load is an inductive load, which acts as an antenna.
This application claims the priority of German patent Application No. 100 44 867.4 filed Sep. 12, 2000, which is incorporated herein by reference.
The invention relates to an explosive-triggered RF beam source, having a pulse-generation device with a coil, which includes a liner and windings, an explosive material located in the liner, and a fuze for igniting the explosive material.
RF (Radio Frequency) beam sources, also referred to as HPM (High Power Microwave) sources, are known for the non-lethal destruction, interference or screening of targets. For these purposes, the RF beam sources can be accommodated in a carrier system, such as a warhead.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,192,827 describes an RF beam source in a projectile. The current required to generate a high emission frequency is stored in a pulse-shaping device prior to the firing of the projectile. The pulse-shaping device is formed by a coil, a dielectric rod and a dielectric material. The pulse-shaping device is discharged via a nanosecond switch. By way of this switch, the generated pulse is fed into an antenna located in the projectile, which radiates the pulse through the projectile housing and toward the target. In one exemplary embodiment, a plurality of pulse-shaping devices is disposed in the projectile. The total attainable power is about 12 MW.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,707,452 describes an electron-accelerated microwave applicator for a plasma source. Here, the high energy is realized through the acceleration of the generated plasma electrons as they pass gaps of the slotted applicator, which is electrically connected to an antenna. U.S. Pat. No. 5,975,014, which ensues from the above-cited U.S. Pat. No. 5,707,452, also describes an applicator of this nature.
DE 41 41 516 A1 describes an electrical pulse generator having a saturatable inductive reactance. To shape pulses, a coaxial line is loaded through a magnetic compression, and relieved via a magnetic switch having a saturatable inductive reactance, which shapes pulses.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,307,079 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,216,695 disclose circuits that generate and amplify microwaves. Transistors that transmit the microwaves to an antenna are integrated into a Marx generator for attaining high frequencies.
German patent reference DE 199 59 358 discloses an autonomous RF beam source that is triggered by an explosive material. Here, a fuse of a magnetic flux compressor is ignited by a battery, with time or impact control, and the highly-explosive material located in the liner ruptures the coil body in a conventional manner, whereby the individual windings are short-circuited consecutively. On the output side, the flux compressor is connected to an amplifier unit, which amplifies the generated voltage and transmits it to a UWB chopper via a high-pressure spark gap for generating pulses. The pulses are then radiated at the target by way of a broadband antenna that is adapted with the cable resistance of the UWB pulse.
It is the object of the invention, to provide a simple, explosive-triggered RF beam souse that simultaneously permits an increase in the high frequency and is able to radiate.
The above object generally is accomplished according to the present invention by an explosive-triggered RF beam source, having a pulse-generation device with a coil, which includes a liner and windings, and with an explosive material located in the liner and ignited by a fuze; and wherein an element that supports plasma formation is disposed in a region between the coil body and the liner, and the pulse-generation device is connected on the output side to a capacitive load functioning as an antenna, and/or an inductive load.
The concept underlying the invention is to construct an explosive-triggered RF beam source solely from a pulse generator or a pulse-generation device whose generated pulses are radiated directly at a target. The pulse generator is embodied as a magnetic flux compressor, and has a liner that is filled with an explosive material and is located in a coil. A capacitive load that is connected on the output side to the pulse generator is integrated into the RF beam source; the coil thereby forms an electrical resonating circuit with the capacitive load, and the capacitive load simultaneously functions as an antenna. The frequency generated in this resonating circuit can therefore be radiated directly. For this purpose, the housing of the RF beam source must be configured such that the generated frequencies can pass through it unimpeded. Furthermore, an element for increasing the power of the RF beam source is mounted in the region between the liner in the coil and the windings, which increases the number of free electrons for supporting the plasma formation and attaining a better conversion of chemical energy into high-frequency energy in order to induce a higher frequency.
Materials having a low electrical conductivity, a low bonding energy for electrons and rough surface structures with material peaks in the range of a few micrometers (μm) are suitable as means for forming a plasma.
A further option for increasing plasma formation is to increase the electrical field intensity in the region between the coil and the explosive-triggered short-circuit device with a corresponding embodiment of the coil structure.
The generation of a vacuum for reducing the ambient pressure where the liner opens in the region between the coil and the explosive-triggered short-circuit device likewise has a positive effect on the formation of free electrons.
Moreover, a background gas that is beneficial for plasma formation can be introduced into the region between the coil and the explosive-triggered short-circuit device.
The invention is described in detail by way of exemplary embodiments.
FIG. 1 shows an RF beam source in a carrier system.
FIG. 2 illustrates a first embodiment of the RF beam source according to the invention.
FIG. 3 illustrates a further embodiment of the RF beam source according to the invention.
FIG. 4 illustrates a parallel resonating circuit as a load.
FIG. 1 depicts a carrier system 1, here a projectile, for accommodating an RF beam source 2. The RF beam source 2 comprises a battery 3 or a similar electrical energy-storage unit that is in an electrical connection with a fuze 11 of a pulse-generation device 4 that is operated with an explosive material 10, as well as a capacitive load CL. The capacitive load CL is connected to the output of a pulse-generation device 4. In this case, the pulse-generation device 4 is a magnetic flux compressor having a coil 6 that comprises a coil body 6.1, on which windings 6.2 are located, and into which a liner 6.3 is integrated. The connection to the battery or the on-switch of the battery initiates a current flow in the windings 6.2. The explosive material 10 and the fuze 11 are accommodated either in a short-circuit device 7 that is additionally integrated into the coil 6, or in the liner 6.3.
The general operating principle of this RF beam source 2 can be described as follows:
The autonomous RF beam source 2 is brought to the target on-site with the carrier system 1. There, the battery 3 is connected to the coil 6, possibly with time or impact control. When the current maximum has been attained in the coil 6, a further energy supply, not shown, ignites the fuze 11, e.g., an annular fuse, of the magnetic flux compressor 4. In the process, the highly-explosive material 10 located in the short-circuit device 7 or in the opening liner 6.3, ruptures the short-circuit device 7 and the coil body 6.1 in a conventional manner, and the individual windings 6.2 are short-circuited consecutively. If the initial inductance is small, and the magnetic flux is constant, an amplification of almost 100 times or more is still effected with only one winding 6.2. Chemical energy is converted into electrical energy, with the end energy W being dependent on the initial inductance L0/end inductance Ln x initial energy W0.
After the current circuit has been closed and the liner 6.3 has opened, the capacitive load CL and the coil 6 form a resonating circuit whose frequency changes due to the temporal change in the inductance of the coil 6 based on the shock wave in the liner 6.3. This frequency, or the generated pulse 8, is radiated directly from the capacitive load CL functioning as an antenna.
To increase the frequencies that can be radiated, FIGS. 2 and 3 show structural changes to the magnetic flux compressor 4 to obtain a plurality of free electrons. This effects a spontaneous plasma formation with an extremely-fast switch-on behavior, so higher frequencies can be generated without additional electrical components.
FIG. 2 shows a first variation, in which an element 14 that supports the plasma formation is mounted between the coil body 6.1 with its windings 6.2 and the liner 6.3.
This supportive element 14 can be, on the one hand, a material 15 that is positioned as a layer between the coil body 6.1 and the liner 6.3, or, on the other hand, a beneficial background gas or a vacuum, in which case it is possible to combine the layer and the gas or vacuum.
A material 15 that increases plasma formation has a low electrical conductivity, a low bonding energy for electrons, and/or a surface structure that has material peaks in the range of a few micrometers. An example of a material 15 that possesses all of these features for increasing the number of free electrons is a carbon fiber or velvet.
FIG. 3 illustrates a further measure for increasing the electrical field intensity in the region 13, which likewise positively influences the plasma formation. Here, the coil cross-section of the coil 6 has been altered: The coil body 6.1 has a frustoconical shape, and its larger coil cross-section already reaches the first windings 6.2 of the coil 6. A sharp edge is formed between the short-circuit device 7 or the liner 6.3, and the coil body 6.1 with the first winding 6.2, i.e., at the input end of the pulse-generator. The energy required for the short-circuit that ruptures the short-circuit device and the coil body 6.1 can be minimized, and therefore be available for the plasma formation, depending on the smaller necessary path between the short-circuit device 7 or liner 6.3 and the windings 6.2.
As a variation of the capacitive load CL, an LC parallel resonating circuit can also be connected on the output side to the pulse-generation device 4, as shown in FIG. 4. This improves the radiation characteristic of the RF beam source 2.
Of course, modifications are possible within the spirit of the inventive concept. For example, the described RF beam source 2 can also be combined with conventional amplifying devices and antennas.
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