Apparatus and method for enhancing radiographs and the like

摘要

Method and apparatus for producing an enhanced radiographic image from a developed radiograph. The apparatus includes a support structure for supporting the radiograph in a stacked relationship with the radiographic film, a light source positioned in close proximity to the radiograph for directing a beam of light at the radiograph to sweep generally in a line from one side to the other, and an elongate light sensor aligned with the line of travel of the light beam to sense and signal the intensity of the light passing through the radiograph and film. A controller responds to the signals produced by the light sensor by producing light control signals which are applied to the light source to vary the intensity and/or the scanning speed of the light beam. As the scanning takes place, the support structure moves transversely of the line of travel of the light beam so that the radiograph is scanned by light substantially over its length and width. As a result, an enhanced radiographic image is created by reducing the density of the high density portions of the radiograph, and increasing the density of the low density portions. Also, the light beam width or spot size may be varied to further improve the detail enhancement of the radiograph.