Abstract: A beam steering subsystem is provided in an optical communication system. The beam steering subsystem is configured for steering a free-space optical (FSO) beam from a first transceiver to a second transceiver disposed remotely from the first receiver. The beam steering subsystem includes a beam steering device disposed between the first transceiver and the second transceiver, and an optical tracking unit in optical communication and electrical communication with the beam steering device. The wherein the beam steering device is further configured to (i) receive the FSO beam from the first transceiver, (ii) receive an optical tracking signal from the second transceiver, (iii) optically relay the received optical tracking signal to the optical tracking unit, and (iv) steer the FSO beam to the second transceiver based on an electrical feedback control signal from optical tracking unit.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for holding a storage medium in the oral cavity of a patient for at least one X-ray exposure.

Abstract: A beam steering subsystem is provided in an optical communication system. The beam steering subsystem is configured for steering a free-space optical (FSO) beam from a first transceiver to a second transceiver disposed remotely from the first receiver. The beam steering subsystem includes a beam steering device disposed between the first transceiver and the second transceiver, and an optical tracking unit in optical communication and electrical communication with the beam steering device. The wherein the beam steering device is further configured to (i) receive the FSO beam from the first transceiver, (ii) receive an optical tracking signal from the second transceiver, (iii) optically relay the received optical tracking signal to the optical tracking unit, and (iv) steer the FSO beam to the second transceiver based on an electrical feedback control signal from optical tracking unit.

Abstract: A method for producing a holding apparatus for an x-ray film for teeth of a patient. The method includes performing an image registration of a first two-dimensional x-ray image of a tooth of an upper or lower jaw in a three-dimensional volume-tomographic data record of a jaw with a computer, determining a relative position of the first two-dimensional x-ray image within the three-dimensional volume-tomographic data record, preparing a virtual model for a holding apparatus that is attachable to the teeth of the upper or lower jaw in an interlocking fashion on the basis of the three-dimensional volume-tomographic data record, and producing the holding apparatus based on the virtual model. The holding apparatus includes a holding element which holds the x-ray film in a defined position. The defined position is established by the relative position of the first two-dimensional x-ray image in the three-dimensional volume-tomographic data record.

Abstract: A dental x-ray sensor holder and sheath for affixing a sensor to a backing plate of the holder. The dental x-ray sensor holder and sheath generally includes a sensor holder with a backing plate, having one or more spring arms, and affixed to or formed contiguously with a proximal end of a bite block of the holder. It also includes a sensor sheath adapted to secure a sensor to the backing plate for X-ray acquisition.

Abstract: The application relates to an X-ray imaging unit (100) for X-ray imaging. The unit comprise a processor part (372), a gantry part (120), an X-ray source part (124) for emitting X-rays, and an X-ray imaging detector part (126) for receiving the X-rays from the source part. The gantry part comprises the source and detector parts. The processor part is configured to control the source and detector parts in order to obtain (205, 216) an image data. The processor part is further configured to determine (208) at least one reference structure (235, 236) of a patient (201) from the image data and determine (212) a position of a head (237) of the patient on a grounds of the at least one reference structure.

Abstract: The infrared alignment guide for an x-ray machine is used to align a target tooth and an x-ray sensor with transmitted x-rays, as well as aligning the transmitted x-rays with a most effective orientation for imaging the target tooth. The guide includes a body having an attached x-ray sensor holder. The x-ray sensor holder may be adjusted in relation to the body for imaging different teeth. The x-ray sensor holder emits infrared light towards the body, which is detected by an infrared camera on the front of the body. The image produced by the infrared camera, which shows the crowns of the teeth, is used to align the transmitted x-rays with the tooth and the x-ray sensor holder.

Abstract: The invention comprises an alignment guide apparatus and a method of use thereof for aligning an imaging beam, longitudinally passing through an exit nozzle of an imaging system, to an imaging zone of a sample, includes the steps of: (1) providing an alignment guide, the alignment guide comprising: (a) a guide wall at least partially circumferentially enclosing an aperture, (b) a first laser element connected to the guide wall, and (c) a second laser element connected to the guide wall; (2) inserting the exit nozzle of the imaging system into the aperture; (3) projecting a first line from the first laser element onto the sample; (4) projecting a second line from the second laser element onto the sample; and (5) moving the sample relative to the exit nozzle of the imaging system to position an intersection of the first line and the second line at the imaging zone to align the imaging beam to the imaging zone.

Abstract: A medical X-ray photographing apparatus includes a support, a support holder, a motor, a turning controller, an image processor, a light emitter, and a processor. The support is configured to turn an X-ray generator and an X-ray detector about a predetermined turning axis while holding the X-ray generator and the X-ray detector such that they face each other. In the apparatus, the light emitter is disposed on a virtual loop line surrounding the turning axis and includes a plurality of color LEDs. The processor is configured to control the light emitter in association with the turning of the support. The processor controls emission of the plurality of color LEDs according to an operating situation of the apparatus.

Abstract: A medical X-ray photographing apparatus includes: a support configured to hold the X-ray generator and the X-ray detector in a facing state, the X-ray generator emitting an X-ray, the X-ray detector outputting an electric signal according to an incident X-ray; a base body that rotatably holds the support; a turning driver that turns the support about a turning axis; and a turning controller that controls the turning driver. The medical X-ray photographing apparatus also includes: a light emitter disposed at a position on a virtual loop line surrounding the turning axis; and a light emitter controller that controls the light emitter in association with the turning of the support.

Abstract: The X-ray imaging device includes an irradiation unit which includes an X-ray tube and a collimator; and a tape measure which has a scale band on which distances from the irradiation unit are printed so as to increase from one end to the other and a winding mechanism that holds and winds the other end of the scale band. The irradiation unit has a scale band fixing portion which fixes one end of the scale band, and a winding mechanism fixing portion which fixes the winding mechanism.

Abstract: A method is proposed for creating a virtual articulator for a jaw and the associated dentition having the following steps: image a virtual model of the teeth of the maxilla (140); image a virtual model of the teeth of the mandible (130); buccal imaging of the position and orientation of the teeth (130, 140) of the maxilla and mandible in the closed-bite position; buccal imaging of the position and orientation of the teeth (130, 140) of the maxilla and mandible in a slightly open position; computational determination of the position of the condylar articulation axis (150) relative to the teeth (130, 140) of the mandible and/or maxilla from the imaged positions and orientations; and a virtual articulator can thereby be created without having to possess special knowledge, e.g. of the dimensions of a specific mechanical articulator or any adapter elements, or their arrangement.

Abstract: A sensor holder for retaining a dental radiation sensing device includes an elongated support member, at least one pair of retention guides attached to the support member, and at least one bite block attached to the support member. The retention guides are capable of holding an associated dental radiation sensing device. The bite block has a leading edge which is first inserted into a mouth of a patient and a trailing edge. The leading edge defining a recess into which structure within the mouth of the patient can seat. At least one of the retention guides may be moveable relative to the other retention guide.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an X-ray targeting device which includes a frame installed at an X-ray generator of an X-ray imaging device which outputs X-rays toward a patient to be measured, and a light radiation unit installed at the frame, and radiating guide light in accordance with a direction in which the X-rays are output to display a radiated position or radiated range of the X-rays with respect to the patient. According to the present invention, since an X-ray targeting device includes a light radiation unit radiating guide light in accordance with a radiated direction of X-rays, a worker can easily identify the radiated direction or the radiated range of the X-rays, thereby saving time and effort required for X-ray imaging.

Abstract: An aligning bite of an X-ray device for aligning a subject to an X-ray imaging point and an X-ray device having the same are disclosed. The aligning bite of an X-ray may include a support unit being rotatably connected to a bite stand supporting the aligning bite, and a bite unit being rotatably connected to the support unit, wherein the support unit may include a link frame supporting the bite unit by connecting the bite unit to the bite stand, a first joint rotatably connecting one side of the link frame to the bite stand, a second joint rotatably connecting the bite unit to another side of the link frame, and a third joint being provided between the first joint and the second joint so as to allow the link frame to be folded.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are described for providing, among other things, an intra-oral x-ray imaging system configured to reduce patient exposure to x-rays, reduce amount of scatter, transmission, or re-radiation during imaging, or improve x-ray image quality. In an embodiment, an intra-oral x-ray imaging system includes an intra-oral x-ray sensor configured to communicate intra-oral x-ray sensor position information or intra-oral x-ray sensor orientation information to a remote x-ray source.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are described for providing, among other things, an intra-oral x-ray imaging system configured to reduce patient exposure to x-rays, reduce amount of scatter, transmission, or re-radiation during imaging, or improve x-ray image quality. In an embodiment, an intra-oral x-ray imaging system includes an intra-oral x-ray sensor configured to communicate intra-oral x-ray sensor position information or intra-oral x-ray sensor orientation information to a remote x-ray source.

Abstract: Disclosed is a radiation imaging device with excellent user-friendliness even in a comparatively large device configuration. A radiation imaging device includes radiation detectors and a housing. The radiation imaging device includes a plurality of radiation detectors, each of which has a detection surface for detecting a radiation image. The housing includes a top plate, and a frame body which is a sidewall provided at the edge of the top plate, a recess portion being provided in the frame body, and accommodates a plurality of radiation detectors in a state where the detection surfaces are aligned in a direction along the surface of the top plate.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a bite tray having fiducial markers for head scan registration and method of use. The bite tray is held by a patient in his teeth while the scan of his head and the fiducial markers is made by x-ray, CT, or MM and the scan is entered into a computer to register the scan to the fiducial markers. Instrument optical markers are placed on a dental instrument and it is observed by a camera and the observation is entered into the computer to register the instrument optical markers to the dental instrument. Patient optical markers are placed on the patient and it is observed by the camera and the observation is entered into the computer to register the patient optical markers to the patient. The tip of the dental instrument is then touched to one of the fiducial markers making the location of the tip and the fiducial marker the same. The computer then registers the scan to the instrument and the patient.

Abstract: A positioner arm for positioning an imaging material, an imaging material holder, an aiming device or a combination thereof is disclosed that includes at least one positioning arm having a first end and a second end, wherein each arm comprises at least two fixed arm angles and wherein at least one angle is not a 90 degree angle.

Abstract: A method for determining a combined data record for an object using individual data records based on individual scans of the object, the scans being measured using at least one sensor. To avoid accumulating errors and allow individual data to be rectified or corrected, first partial scans of the object are measured using at least one first sensor and are aligned relative to one another and/or corrected using second partial scans performed by at least two second sensors that are stationary relative to one another, and the individual data records for the combined data record are determined from the aligned and/or corrected partial scans.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are described for providing, among other things, an intra-oral x-ray imaging system configured to reduce patient exposure to x-rays, reduce amount of scatter, transmission, or re-radiation during imaging, or improve x-ray image quality. In an embodiment, an intra-oral x-ray imaging system includes an intra-oral x-ray sensor configured to communicate intra-oral x-ray sensor position information or intra-oral x-ray sensor orientation information to a remote x-ray source.

Abstract: A system for holding and aligning a radiation sensing device is described. The system includes a radiation sensing device having a sensor engagement member. The system also includes a holder having a retention member including first and second retention guides connected with opposing ends of a back plate. The first retention guide also includes a complementary holder engagement member configured to mate with the sensor engagement member at a preset position.

Abstract: A method, a device, a system and a computer program are for controlling limited-area computer tomography imaging. The method includes determining location data of a first imaging object when the first imaging object is positioned in an imaging area, determining reference location data related to the first imaging object and adjusting the imaging area based on the location data of the first imaging object and said reference location data for imaging a second imaging object. The first and the second imaging object can be located at a distance determined by the reference location data from each other or symmetrically in relation to the reference location data.

Abstract: A universal dental digital sensor holder has a bite block connected to a rod that has a connector which is used to flexibly attach a sensor holder so as to allow rotational movement of the sensor relative to the bite block and multiple sensor holders are removably connected to the connector so that they can be used to obtain different radiographic projection views due to their differing configurations for holding the intraoral sensor in the patient's mouth. The bite block can have an opening formed in it fitted with a sleeve to allow access to a tooth located beneath the opening in the patient's mouth. A cable protector can be formed in the rod adjacent an anterior bite surface so that an intraoral sensor cable can be held adjacent the rod and at least partially protected from one or more teeth biting the anterior bite surface.

Abstract: A variable aperture X-ray collimating device that fits over existing intraoral radiographic sensor positioners enables clinicians to provide radiation protection for their patients while allowing the flexibility to accommodate various commercially available positioning kits. In addition, the variable aperture allows for easy accommodation of various sensor sizes.

Abstract: The apparatus the present invention provides the ability to take an x-ray image of an entire mouth in one exposure while significantly reducing the amount of escaped x-ray energy. This is accomplished by using a full mouth insert that has slots for two strips of film, one for the upper set of teeth and one for the lower set of teeth, or an embedded imaging sensor.

Abstract: The present invention is a device for aiming a dental x-ray beam to be centered parallel to the area of contact between two adjacent teeth so that the resultant bite wing radiographic image is one that shows at least those two teeth as distinct and not superimposed images. The device, comprising a marginal ridge angulation locator that indexes into the substantially v-shaped groove on the biting surfaces between two adjacent teeth, locates and indicates an aiming vector centered over and parallel to the area of contact between those two teeth for the purpose of aiming an x-ray beam then exposing the radiographic image desired.

Abstract: A positioning device for holding a dental x-ray imaging media during the taking of a dental x-ray includes an aiming ring, a bite block and a positioning arm extending therebetween. The bite block carries a journal or barrel for receiving a portion of the positioning arm therein such that the portion of the positioning arm thus received can rotate or move therein, such that the position between the bite block and the aiming ring can be selected in one of a plurality of positions corresponding to a position for taking one of a plurality of dental x-ray images. In another embodiment, the bite block carries a window through which a color-coded or other indicia portion of the positioning arm is positioned such that the user can view the indicia to determine the x-ray image for which the device is set.

Abstract: A medical imaging assembly includes a first imaging plate and a second imaging plate for acquiring a first and a second medical image. A container is configured to receive and hold the first imaging plate and the second imaging plate in a predetermined overlapping orientation. An image reader receives the first and second medical images and produces first and second digital medical images. A processor creates a composite image of the first and second digital images. A method of acquiring a medical image includes identifying an overlapped region of a lower image and an upper image. An alignment transformation is identified by matching the overlapped regions of the upper and lower images. The upper and lower images are aligned based upon the alignment transformation. A composite medical image is created from the upper image and the lower image.

Abstract: An alignment device for a bitewing radiograph includes a longitudinally extending handle having a first end and a second end and a tip disposed at the second end and extending orthogonally to the handle, wherein a length of the tip is substantially less than a length of the handle and wherein a cross-sectional area of the tip is substantially less than a cross-sectional area of the handle. This alignment device enables a dentist or other x-ray operator to easily and quickly align a bitewing radiograph so as to obtain a diagnostic non-overlapping x-ray of crooked teeth in a patient's mouth. The alignment device may optionally include a slidable rubber ring or a slidable hub with rod. The ring and hub are dimensioned to slide over the handle to facilitate the lining up of the x-ray cone.

Abstract: A positioning device for holding a dental x-ray imaging media during the taking of a dental x-ray includes an aiming ring, a bite block and a positioning arm extending therebetween. The bite block carries a journal or barrel for receiving a portion of the positioning arm therein such that the portion of the positioning arm thus received can rotate or move therein, such that the position between the bite block and the aiming ring can be selected in one of a plurality of positions corresponding to a position for taking one of a plurality of dental x-ray images. In another embodiment, the bite block carries a window through which a color-coded or other indicia portion of the positioning arm is positioned such that the user can view the indicia to determine the x-ray image for which the device is set.

Abstract: A sensor positioning and stabilizing device is provided. The sensor positioning and stabilizing device holds and stabilizes dental x-ray film or digital sensors during implant surgery with requiring a patient to bite down or manually hold it in position in order to take an x-ray.

Abstract: A dental radiography device has an X-ray sensor (12) with a sensitive surface (22) for detecting X-rays and oriented towards the front face (16) of the sensor and a device for positioning the sensor made up of a receiver (32), for receiving the sensor, and an oblong arm (34) with an end (35) fixed to the receiver and an outwardly directed portion (34B) extending towards the front of the sensor and intended to extend out of the mouth of a patient, the receiver contained in a rear cylindrical space (33B) extending at the rear of a rear face (18) of the sensor opposite the front face (16), the rear cylindrical space (33B) defined by movement, along a lateral edge of the sensor, of a generating straight line (333) perpendicular to the sensitive surface.

Abstract: A dental sensor holder including a loop of material and an adjustable bond. The adjustable bond portion is located on the inside of the loop which may selectively be engaged to join adjacent portions of the loop into a functional bitewing.

Abstract: A positioning device for holding a dental x-ray imaging media during the taking of a dental x-ray includes an aiming ring, a bite block and a positioning arm extending therebetween. The bite block carries a journal or barrel for receiving a portion of the positioning arm therein such that the portion of the positioning arm thus received can rotate or move therein, such that the position between the bite block and the aiming ring can be selected in one of a plurality of positions corresponding to a position for taking one of a plurality of dental x-ray images. In another embodiment, the bite block carries a window through which a color-coded or other indicia portion of the positioning arm is positioned such that the user can view the indicia to determine the x-ray image for which the device is set.

Abstract: A dental positioning system and method employing the system are described. The system includes at least one receptor holder having an arm extending from a receptor grip. The receptor grip retains a receptor in a fixed position within the grip and with respect to the arm. The system also includes an alignment ring having a window formed therein and having at least one opening corresponding to the at least one receptor holder. The opening is constructed to receive the arm of the receptor holder such that the receptor is substantially centered with respect to the window.

Abstract: A dental sensor holder including a strip of pliable, longitudinally elastic material having two ends. The holder is constructed by permanently bonding the two ends of the strip to form a somewhat elastic loop. In addition, the sensor holder includes an adjustable bond portion on the inside of the loop which may selectively be engaged to join adjacent portions of the strip into a functional bitewing.

Abstract: A dental x-ray image media holder comprising: a backing plate affixed to a bite block, the backing plate including a least one channel for receiving a post affixed to the bite block, such that the bite block can be selectively moved within the channels to orient the bite block in a predetermined position relative to the backing plate; and a plurality of indicia, such that at least one of the indicia is used to indicate a first position of the bite block relative to the backing plate, the first position being associated with a predetermined first dental imaging procedure; and a locking member configured to prevent rotational movement of the bite block along a post axis upon engagement of the locking member.

Abstract: An apparatus and method to enable a simple installation of a sensor unit (in one example an intra-oral x-ray sensor) on a network. The sensor unit is preferably a sensor in the medical field, and it is provided that the sensor unit is itself fashioned as an access point and establishes its own network on which a computer automatically logs on in order to enable a data transfer between the sensor unit and the computer. Due to this measure no expertise is necessary for the installation of the sensor unit.

Abstract: A dental sensor holder including a strip of pliable, longitudinally elastic material having two ends. The holder is constructed by permanently bonding the two ends of the strip to form a somewhat elastic loop. In addition, the sensor holder includes an adjustable bond portion on the inside of the loop which may selectively be engaged to join adjacent portions of the strip into a functional bitewing.

Abstract: A dental radiology apparatus having: an intraoral sensor comprising a detector including an active pixel array produced using biCMOS technology and converting a received x-ray into at least one analog electrical output signal; an electronic module encapsulated in a case and which has at least one detector activation device, the module linked to the sensor for the transmission to the sensor of a detector activation signal generated in the module and for the transmission to the module of the at least one analog electrical output signal, the module having analog-digital means for converting the at least one analog electrical output signal into at least one digital output signal. A remote processing and display unit of the at least one digital output signal is linked to the electronic module to ensure the transmission to the unit of the at least one digital output signal.

Abstract: A dental radiology apparatus having: an intraoral sensor comprising a detector including an active pixel array produced using biCMOS technology and converting a received x-ray into at least one analog electrical output signal; an electronic module encapsulated in a case and which has at least one detector activation device, the module linked to the sensor for the transmission to the sensor of a detector activation signal generated in the module and for the transmission to the module of the at least one analog electrical output signal, the module having analog-digital means for converting the at least one analog electrical output signal into at least one digital output signal. A remote processing and display unit of the at least one digital output signal is linked to the electronic module to ensure the transmission to the unit of the at least one digital output signal.

Abstract: A dental radiology apparatus having: an intraoral sensor comprising a detector including an active pixel array produced using biCMOS technology and converting a received x-ray into at least one analog electrical output signal; an electronic module encapsulated in a case and which has at least one detector activation device, the module linked to the sensor for the transmission to the sensor of a detector activation signal generated in the module and for the transmission to the module of the at least one analog electrical output signal, the module having analog-digital means for converting the at least one analog electrical output signal into at least one digital output signal. A remote processing and display unit of the at least one digital output signal is linked to the electronic module to ensure the transmission to the unit of the at least one digital output signal.

Abstract: A dental X-ray positioning device includes a bite block for gripping receptor. The bit block may be adjusted to accept receptors of various dimensions. The bite block provides the clinician with greater freedom to accurately position the receptor relative to the X-ray source without having to utilize many different devices. The system thereby improves efficiency during X-ray exams and it also guarantees parallel placement of the receptor relative to the X-ray source and to the dentition being examined. The system also incorporates two soft “jaws” that during use prevent the receptor from drooping or failing to remain in parallel position relative to the bite block, the X-ray source, and/or the dentition.

Abstract: Methods and systems for making a computer model of a patient's jaws on the basis of digital information from computed tomography and non-radiographic digital imaging of the patient's teeth or dental casts of their teeth.

Abstract: Light from a light source is made to be reflected by a light source mirror and to pass through a variable collimator, an irradiation field shape shaped by the variable collimator is projected on a photographing screen by the light passed through the variable collimator, a projection portion of the photographing screen is photographed by a photographic device, and an image photographed by the photographic device is analyzed by an image processor.

Abstract: An adapter for connecting a ring guide and rod with a holder for a radiation sensing device is provided herein. The adapter includes but is not limited to a first engagement member for engaging a complementary engagement member formed on the rod and a second engagement member for engaging a holder for a radiation sensing device. The adapter also includes but is not limited to a handle connecting the first engagement member to the second engagement member.

Abstract: A dental radiology apparatus having: an intraoral sensor comprising a detector that includes an active pixel array produced using biCMOS technology and converting a received x-ray into at least one analog electrical output signal; an electronic module encapsulated in a case and which has at least one detector activation device, the module being linked to the sensor by a wire link for the transmission to said sensor of a detector activation signal generated in the module and for the transmission to the module of said at least one analog electrical output signal, the module having analog-digital means for converting said at least one analog electrical output signal into at least one digital output signal; and a remote processing and display unit of said at least one digital output signal which is linked to the electronic module by a wire link intended to ensure the transmission to the unit of said at least one digital output signal.

Abstract: A system for holding and aligning a radiation sensing device is described. The system includes a radiation sensing device having a sensor engagement member. The system also includes a holder having a retention member including first and second retention guides connected with opposing ends of a back plate. The first retention guide also includes a complementary holder engagement member configured to mate with the sensor engagement member at a preset position.