Abstract: A method of conducting a panoramic x-ray examination. The method includes generating a signal representing a pressure map of an anatomical region of interest, calculating an imaging layer based on the generated signal, and generating a scan based on the calculated imaging layer.

Abstract: An electronic x-ray imaging sensor that flexibly fits within a patient's mouth includes a flexible portion and a rigid portion. The flexible portion includes an array of detection devices, and the rigid portion includes complementary circuitry for controlling and/or obtaining image data from the array. The flexible portion may be detachable from the rigid portion, which allows the flexible portion to be disposable while the detachable portion is reusable.

Abstract: An x-ray system comprises an x-ray tube, covered by a housing, which emits x-rays therefrom, and a receiver mounted within the x-ray tube housing. An electronic sensor receives the emitted x-rays, converts the received x-rays into electrical image data signals, and transmits the electrical image data signals to the receiver. An image processing unit processes the electrical image data signals received from the receiver.

Abstract: A method of computing oral bone mineral density using a panoramic x-ray system. A reference phantom having a known density is provided. A digital panoramic image of a body part and the reference phantom is obtained by irradiating the body part and the reference phantom. The reference phantom is disposed in a location free from anatomical features and in the same scan line as the body part. A relationship is established between a region of the image corresponding to a portion of the body part and a region of the image corresponding to the reference phantom. Bone mineral density is calculated based upon the established relationship and the known density of the reference phantom.

Abstract: An electronic x-ray imaging sensor that flexibly fits within a patient's mouth includes a flexible portion and a rigid portion. The flexible portion includes an array of detection devices, and the rigid portion includes complementary circuitry for controlling and/or obtaining image data from the array. The flexible portion may be detachable from the rigid portion, which allows the flexible portion to be disposable while the detachable portion is reusable.

Abstract: An x-ray system comprises an x-ray tube which emits x-rays therefrom, and a receiver mounted within the x-ray tube. An electronic sensor receives the emitted x-rays, converts the received x-rays into electrical image data signals, and transmits the electrical image data signals to the receiver. An image processing unit processes the electrical image data signals received from the receiver.

Abstract: A flush poke-through fitting, with both electrical power and data communication access, includes a data jack face plate that can be replaced without disassembly of any other part of the fitting. The data jack face plate is also removable without disruption of power to the electrical outlets. Increased wiring space for flexibility in electrical outlet orientation and improved conductor organization during assembly is also provided by pins that support the electrical contacts in the electrical receptacle when assembled.

Abstract: An intra-oral dental camera is provided having a digital output which communicates directly with a computer. A handpiece is included which has a plurality of LEDs to illuminate a subject, an image sensor that generates an analog signal representing an intra-oral video image, an analog-to-digital converter that converts the analog signal into a digital signal, and a video compression circuit that compresses compressing the digital signal. A cable is connected to the handpiece that receives the compressed digital signal from the handpiece, provides the compressed digital signal to a digital port on an image processing unit and provides power from the image processing unit to the handpiece to drive the LEDs.