Abstract: A system for dental x-ray examinations includes an image receptor, and a holder removably bonded to the image receptor by an adhesive coating. The system for dental x-ray examinations provides the clinician with a greater freedom of positioning and thereby improves upon the effectiveness of x-ray examinations, as well as upon patient comfort.

Abstract: A gel covered dental film for bettering the flavor of x-ray film includes an x-ray film slide having a first side edge, second side edge, an upper edge, and a lower edge. A gripping member is attached to the lower edge of the slide. A sleeve is extended over and is attached to the gripping member. The lower edge of the film is positionable in the sleeve when the gripping member and film are generally co-planar. A flavored gel is positioned on and generally coats the gripping member.

Abstract: A system for dental x-ray examinations includes an image receptor, and a holder removably bonded to the image receptor by an adhesive coating. The system for dental x-ray examinations provides the clinician with a greater freedom of positioning and thereby improves upon the effectiveness of x-ray examinations, as well as upon patient comfort.

Abstract: A receptor positioning device for taking dental bitewing radiographs of teeth inside a patient's mouth includes a rigid, fixed structure having a collimation plate defining a substantially rectangular opening. A receptor holding member is adapted to receive a receptor, and an elongated arm is adapted to receive and couple to the collimation plate. The elongated arm extends towards and couples with a rear portion of the receptor holding member, opposite the collimation plate, such that an unobstructed path is defined between the substantially rectangular opening of the collimation plate and the receptor. A biting surface is fixedly attached to a distal end of the elongated arm and adjacent to the receptor holding member such that the receptor is positioned behind the teeth on which the radiographs are being taken while the biting surface is gripped by the teeth on the opposite side of the patient's mouth.

Abstract: A dental x-ray bite block (10) for securing an x-ray sensor (40) has a first block section (11) having a primary clamp face (17) and a second block section (12) having a secondary clamp face (23). The first block section (11) is configured with receiving means (41) to receive the second block section (12), such that the primary and the secondary clamp faces (17,23) are positioned in a spaced, opposing relation when the second block section (12) is received within the first block section (11). There is also stepped rachet members (50, 51) for affixing the position of the second block section (12) relative to the first block section (11) when received therein.

Abstract: A apparatus is described for positioning the head of a patient for taking various x-ray images of the head. The head-positioning apparatus contemplates an arm member rotatably mounted to a pivot member for rotating the arm about an axis of rotation and at least one ear locating member coupled to the arm member in which the ear locating member rotates with the arm member and in alignment with the axis of rotation. The apparatus also contemplates an x-ray emitting source and an indicator coupled to the x-ray emitting source to provide the indicator and x-ray emitting source to rotate in conjunction and same direction with each other, in which the indicator locates a plane alignable with an ear of the patient.

Abstract: A dental bite block (20) and sensor holder (21) assembly (11) has a bite block (20) configured (31) to detachably affix to a sensor holder (21). Affixing surfaces (30, 31) are provided between the bite block (20) and the sensor holder (21) such that the sensor holder (21) is removably affixed to the bite block (20).

Abstract: A reusable bite block/film packet holder is taught which includes comfort enhancing features for holding intraoral radiographic film packets therein and for proper positioning in a patient's mouth. The bite block/film packet holder includes a bite-block and a support bracket extending at an angle of about 90° from the bite-block. There is a slot in the bite-block immediately adjacent the support bracket for engaging an edge of an intraoral film packet inserted therein. A perimetric border at the peripheral edge of the support bracket has a generally rounded cross-sectional configuration and extends beyond the dimensions of the intraoral film packet inserted in the slot. Thus, the sharp, die-cut edges of the film packet are prevented from uncomfortably engaging the soft/sensitive tissues of a patient's mouth. Rather the rounded, soft-feeling perimetric border of the bite block/film packet holder is the contacting element.

Abstract: A dental and orthopedic densitometry modeling system includes a controller with a microprocessor and a memory device connected to the microprocessor. An input device is also connected to the microprocessor for inputting diagnostic procedure parameters and patient information, which may include a pre-existing densitometry model. X-ray equipment including an X-ray source and an X-ray detector array are connected to a positioning motor for movement relative to a patient's dental or orthopedic structure in response to signals from the microprocessor. The output consists of a tomographical densitometry model. A dental/orthopedic densitometry modeling method involves moving the X-ray equipment across a predetermined scan path, emitting dual-energy X-ray beams, and outputting an image color-coded to correspond to a patient's dental or orthopedic density.

Abstract: A dental bite block (20) and sensor holder (21) assembly (11) has a bite block (20) configured (31) to detachably affix to a sensor holder (21). Affixing surfaces (30, 31) are provided between the bite block (20) and the sensor holder (21) such that the sensor holder (21) is removably affixed to the bite block (20).

Abstract: The invention relates to a referencing device for mapping the position of bodily surgical or examination target points comprising at least three reflectors, the position of which can be localized by a computer-assisted position tracking and/or a CT scan, and an adapter connected to the reflectors, by means of which the referencing device is attachable to a part of the body wherein the adapter comprises a mouthpiece securable to the upper jaw by means of vacuum pressure. The invention relates furthermore to a method for referencing bodily surgical or examination target points. The device in accordance with the invention is employed more particularly in radiotherapy and in neurosurgery.

Abstract: Dental sensors receive X-rays and transmit signals showing the condition of a patients's teeth to a computer or other recorder, thereby replacing X-ray film packets. Such sensors vary in dimensions. Holders are provided which accommodate such variations. Thus, a clasp engaging one edge of a sensor is adjustably movable to cause a fixed portion of the holder to engage the opposite edge of the sensor. Interfitting ratchet teeth on clasp and holder retain the parts in the required position. The holder assists in properly and rapidly locating the sensor relative to the teeth being examined. For certain usages a bite block holds the patient's jaws apart. The sides of the bite blocks are non-parallel, thereby reducing the shadows of such sides on the X-ray usage.

Abstract: An improved dental x-ray aiming device for longitudinal radiographic analysis is provided. The device includes a bite block, a guiding rod, an aiming ring, and a supplemental ring. The bite block includes a film holder that is not perpendicular to a top surface of the bite block. The guiding rod is also attached to the bite block in a non-parallel relationship to accommodate the non-perpendicular arrangement of the film holder. As a result, a proper relationship is maintained between the aiming ring (and hence a dental radiography device) and the film holder. The aiming ring is attached to the guiding rod through a sliding member. The sliding member secures the aiming ring at a predetermined distance from the guiding rod, while allowing the aiming ring to move on an axis parallel with the guiding rod. The bite block includes a slot for receiving and holding a reference device for later density reference measurements.

Abstract: A ring shaped to fit over the nose of a dental X-Ray machine cone locates the cone relative to selected teeth of the patent. The ring is mounted on an arm having a clip which fits over a hub to oscillate to different positions. The hub is a part of the handle for a locator for an X-Ray film packet or an X-Ray electronic sensor.

Abstract: An apparatus and process is provided for permanently imprinting historical data onto original dental radiographs by radiographically developing such information onto the film when initially developed. One preferred embodiment utilizes a pliers-like film holder with jaws to secure a radiographic film in place relative to a patient's teeth. The jaws have a slot to receive a removable marker which carries radio-opaque data to be permanently imprinted onto the radiograph. Another device includes a pronged film holder having a slot to receive such a removable marker. Processes for permanently imprinting dental radiographs, including the steps above recited, are also disclosed and claimed.

Abstract: A portable and preferably hand-held X-ray generator for use in intraoral and other X-ray applications, and a new process of dental image acquisition which utilizes a novel receptor holder physically linked to the lightweight, portable generator, and a unique, articulating arm and cradle which allows one generator to be used in multiple operatories. The system's generator has a reduced X-ray output and much smaller focal spot area than conventional dental X-ray generators. This reduced X-ray output reduces the overall patient X-ray burden. The smaller focal spot also allows for improved resolution in the final image.

Abstract: Color coding the components of a dental positioner, including an aiming ring, a bite block and an indicator arm allows the operator to assemble the correct positioner for proper positioning and alignment according to a particular dental area to be X-rayed. The color coding corresponds to different dental areas including the anterior and posterior dental areas. For coronal areas, a bite-wing block is provided which also may be in the color coded.

Abstract: A dental x-ray film holder and position device wherein the film holder and an associated biteblock can be rotated 180 degrees relative to a handle and associated x-ray beam alignment aid. Such rotation is facilitated by the use of a knurled knob on the end of an axle. The position of the film holder relative to the handle is determined and fixed by the use of indexing alignment pins on the film holder which fit into corresponding holes in the handle, providing positive positioning in one of two positions.

Abstract: A method and apparatus accurately positions the apparatus at a selected cranial implant site for x-ray tomography of the mandible and/or maxilla and the temporomandibular joint. The method and apparatus comprise making a stent of the mandible and/or maxilla of a patient and making a mark on the stent at a position that corresponds to the selected dental implant site. The stent is then positioned on a fixating device and the x-ray imaging apparatus is positioned with regard to tomographic imaging so that (a) the mark on the stent is at the intersection of the projected cross light beam and (b) the arm of the cross is aligned with the tangent of the dental arch at the site of interest. This positioning data is input to a program that will then operate the positioning motors and the x-ray source to project the tomographic images of the selected site.

Abstract: An diagnostic apparatus for generating X-ray exposures for tomosynthesis includes a position detector (2, 4) for registering the mutual positional relationship between the radiation transmitter (1) and/or the radiation receiver (3) and/or the object (7) under examination. The position detector (2, 4) can be arranged in part or in whole on the radiation transmitter (1), on the radiation receiver (3) or on the object (7) under examination. An evaluation device (11) evaluates the signals from the position detector (2, 4) and generates correction signals if the relative position between the radiation transmitter (1) and/or the radiation receiver (3) and/or the object (7) under examination deviates from the home position. The correction signals are then fed to an image-generating device (12) for use in the image processing.

Abstract: Intraoral dental radiography based on X-ray photography. The radiography is performed with either a conventional film or a picture plate, in which case the dimensions of the picture may be corrected by means of a computer program while viewing the picture on a monitor. Problems caused by a shallow palate because of the oblique position of the film holder may thus be eliminated, and the top of the roots of the tooth is also visible in the picture. The picture plate or film holder used in the method comprises three interlinked parts, namely a film holder, a bite portion, and an alignment rod, and one sliding part, i.e. the positioning block.

Abstract: A device for recording an image in the oral cavity has a sensor with a housing having two main surfaces. The sensor includes an image recording layer positioned in the housing parallel and adjacent to one of the two main surfaces. A signal line is connected to the housing at one of the two main surfaces remote from the image recording layer. The signal line transmits signals of the image recording layer to a separate image processing and memory unit. A holder with a bite section and a receiving channel in which the sensor is received is provided. The holder has an abutment surface extending parallel to the two main surfaces. The abutment surface has guide means for aligning the holder and the sensor relative to one another. A hose is slipped over abutment surface and sensor for fastening the sensor at the holder.

Abstract: A film positioning system for dental X-ray and digital radiography procedures including a number of film or digital sensor carriers (bite wing, anterior, etc) each including a film or sensor holder on one end and an extending attachment rod, and an X-ray tube aiming device including an attachment rod holder, the attachment rod and the attachment rod holder keyed to correctly align the film holder with respect to an X-ray cone or tube. One example includes a non-equilateral pentagon shaped rod holder receptacle and a non-equilateral pentagon shaped attachment rod.

Abstract: The invention is an apparatus for use in serial radiography which provides replicable projection geometry between an energy source, an intraoral target area, and an image receptor. The device uses a biting surface bearing the impressions of a patient's tooth surfaces and an alignment arm which terminates in an alignment ring. The alignment ring is received by a sensor ring affixed to an x-ray source to provide proper projection geometry. Sensors in communication with electronic means may be disposed about the sensor ring to indicate proper alignment. The biting surface may comprise an acrylic stent or a platform supporting a quantity of an impressionable material.

Abstract: A radiographic film retaining device for holding a film packet while producing a radiographic image of selected teeth of a patient's mouth is disclosed. The retaining device includes a substantially thin bite portion configured for placement between upper and lower teeth of the patient's mouth and a retaining structure positioned distally of the bite portion. The retaining structure has a film packet gripping structure for holding the film packet lingually adjacent the selected teeth when the bite portion is gripped between the upper and lower teeth. The retaining structure comprises a narrow extension of the bite portion. The film packet gripping structure includes a slit formed and extending through the retaining structure from the distal end thereof toward the bite portion. The device also has means for locating an x-ray machine cone in proper position relative to the film packet.

Abstract: An x-ray diagnostics installation includes a device for positioning a radiation emitter such that the reference ray of an emitted ray beam always and automatically intersects a reference axis that is stationary with reference to said device at an acute angle .alpha. when the radiation emitter is coupled to the device. X-ray exposures for tomosynthesis can thus be produced in a simple way.

Abstract: A medical X-ray apparatus capable of indicating the center of radiation cone of X-ray, regardless of the positioning distance or angle, always with high visibility on the irradiation surface of the patient,in which a plurality of visible optical means are provided outside the radiation cone of X-ray at intervals in the peripheral direction of an irradiation tube, and the visible optical means generates a visible light on a plane including the axis of X-ray, and thereby emitting a cross optical pattern on the irradiation surface of the patient, and the center of X-ray irradiation can be indicated on the irradiation surface as the intersecting position of the linear optical images. An X-ray irradiation tube which can be incorporated in the X-ray apparatus, and which is excellent in controllability, small in power consumption, capable of obtaining a stable quantity of light, and light in weight and small in size is also provided.

Abstract: The invention is an apparatus for use in serial radiography which provides replicable projection geometry between an energy source, an intraoral target area, and an image receptor. The device uses a stent and an alignment arm which terminates in an alignment ring. The alignment ring is received by a sensor ring affixed to an x-ray source to provide proper projection geometry. Sensors in communication with electronic means may be disposed about the sensor ring to indicate proper alignment.

Abstract: A device which establishes alignment between a dental fixture implanted in the mouth of a patient and a dental instrument outside of the mouth includes a first portion insertable into the mouth and adapted for attachment to the fixture, and a second portion extending from the mouth in predetermined spatial relation to the first portion, the second portion facilitating alignment of the dental instrument to the fixture.

Abstract: A simple, reliable, convenient and safe system for aiming a dental X-ray apparatus at an X-ray film plate. In the system of the present invention, magnetic field sensors, mounted on the dental X-ray apparatus, are used as a means of detecting the relative strength of a magnetic field of a magnet which is located next to an X-ray film plate within the mouth of a patient. By measuring and comparing the relative strengths of this magnetic field at each sensor, the system of the present invention can detect and indicate the condition of alignment or misalignment, including relative displacement in the x and y directions, as well as relative tilt about the x or y axes. Furthermore, the alignment system of the present invention can indicate misalignment of the X-ray film plate axes with the axes of the collimated X-ray beam. The present invention also provides a three-dimensional display by which the alignment or misalignment of the X-ray apparatus is conveniently indicated to the operator.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for localizing cross-sectional X-ray images (6) taken from a given part of the dental arch, said imaging being effected with a panoramic X-ray apparatus which is provided with a patient supporting mechanism (1) and software for imaging the jaw in the transverse direction. The method includes a step of imaging cross-sections (6) on the same film as a respective longitudinal image (5) of the dental arch, and the cross-sectional images (6) are exposed to include identifications (A, B, C) for the sections, said identifications being also exposed on the longitudinal image (5) in alignment with the cross-sections along which the images are taken.

Abstract: Disclosed is a dental X-ray film packet 12 holder having a substantially flat, substantially rigid body member 14. The body member 14 has an anterior end 18 including a first film packet-holding slot 16 extending into the body member 14, and a posterior end 22 including a second film packet-holding slot 20 extending into the body member 14. Between the anterior and posterior ends 18 and 22 is a lateral side edge 28 from which extends guideposts 24 and 26 used to correctly position the cone 62 of an X-ray camera with respect to the film packet 12.

Abstract: The accuracy of pre-treatment radiographic images is improved by standardizing a technique for placing a bite block in a patient's mouth, by minimizing distortion in the resulting radiograph, and by providing a means for measuring the remaining distortion in the radiographic image. The placement of the bite block is registered on study models prior to the taking of the radiograph such that the dental practitioner can predetermine the best possible position for the bite block per individual patient outside the patient's mouth. The best possible position allows the dental practitioner to optimize the position of the bite block to obtain a radiograph having minimal vertical distortion and mesio-distal distortion. As some distortion is inevitable, the invention also allows for a means to measure the resulting distortion based on spatial markers set at a predetermined distance apart which are superimposed onto the radiographic image.

Abstract: A film positioning system for dental X-ray procedures including a plurality of film carriers each including a film holder on one end and an attachment rod extending therefrom; and an X-ray tube aiming device including a plurality of distinct attachment rod holders for separately positioning each film carrier in the proper orientation with respect to the X-ray tube.

Abstract: A dental X-ray aiming device adapted to place an X-ray film packet having sharp edges at a proper position in the oral cavity of a patient. The device includes a packet holder that serves to shield the sharp edges of the packet to avoid direct contact with tissue within the oral cavity and the resultant discomfort, pain or trauma. The holder is formed by a rectangular frame of resilient plastic material within which the packet is socketed, and a bite block joined to the front of the frame which, when clenched between the teeth of the patient, then places the held film packet behind a tooth region to be examined. The device also includes a distance-calibrated guide rod which is detachably coupled to the bite block, and a sighting ring adapted to receive the nose cone of an X-ray unit, the ring being slidable along the rod to a desired position thereon, whereby an X-ray beam is projected from the nose cone in accurate relationship to the film packet.

Abstract: A radiographic film retaining device for holding a film packet while producing a radiographic image of selected teeth of a patient's mouth is disclosed. The retaining device includes a substantially thin bite portion configured for placement between upper and lower teeth of the patient's mouth and a retaining structure positioned distally of the bite portion. The retaining structure has a film packet gripping structure for holding the film packet lingually adjacent the selected teeth when the bite portion is gripped between the upper and lower teeth. The retaining structure comprises a narrow extension of the bite portion. The film packet gripping structure includes a slit formed and extending through the retaining structure from the distal end thereof toward the bite portion.

Abstract: In a cassette loading and unloading apparatus, a device is provided for centering X-ray film cassettes of various sizes, which can be transported on rollers (19), by means of two parallel bars (16, 17) movable towards and away from each other, respectively. The bars (16, 17) have U-shaped recesses (16a, 17a) for passage of rollers (19). Of the lugs of bars (16, 17) formed by the recesses and projecting through the rollers, one lug (16b, 17b) of each bar (16, 17) is slidably guided on a guide rail (14) extending below rollers (19). Moreover, a second lug (16f, 17f) of each bar (16, 17) is in engagement with a driving mechanism (30, 34, 38, 45). The rollers (19), the guide rail (14) and the bars (16, 17) are arranged on the upper side of support plate (10), and the driving mechanism (30, 34, 38, 45) is provided on the lower side of that plate. They jointly form a prefinished assembly unit. FIGS. 1 and 2 are to be published.

Abstract: A radiographic depth gauge for precisely positioning dental implants in a jaw bone. The gauge is formed of a material which will show on an x-ray and is an elongated member with distance markings. The gauge is placed in a bore drilled in a jaw bone and an x-ray is taken in a standardized manner to show true dimensions of the gauge on the film relative to surrounding anatomical structures. The gauge both shows the depth and angulation of the bore relative to other bores and existing dentition.

Abstract: The apparatus of the present invention comprising a rotary means having an X-ray source disposed opposite to an X-ray image detection section for detecting the image of the X-ray which penetrated an object to be photographed, with the object positioned therebetween, and rotating the X-ray source and the X-ray image detection section as an integrated unit around the object, an image storage means which sequentially stores image information obtained by the X-ray image detection section as frame images, and an image processing means which sequentially derives image information from the image storage means at predetermined time intervals, adds the information of each image while shifting the information of each image by a predetermined distance in the image movement direction along a series of image information to digitally form the panoramic image of a given tomographic image layer depending on the interval for deriving the information of each image and the shift amount.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for storing and displaying radiographs, particularly intra-oral radiographs, is presented. Radiographs are captured, digitized, and displayed along with an icon of a portion of the anatomy from which the radiograph was taken. The anatomical sites represented by the icon are arranged according to their normal anatomical relationship. The icon is used by the system user to select a portion of the anatomy corresponding to the displayed radiograph, and the radiograph is stored along with indicia of the selected anatomical site. Then, when the stored radiograph is desired to be viewed, the icon is again displayed, and the appropriate anatomical site is selected, which causes the corresponding radiograph to be retrieved from storage and displayed.

Abstract: An X-ray apparatus includes a moving carriage having two levers hinged and designed to move equally and in opposite directions by a gear system. The movements of the levers are guided by at least one groove formed in a supporting plate, with a peg fixed to the lever co-operating with the groove. The groove includes at least two spaced-apart rectilinear portions, each corresponding to a different size of cartridge, thereby enabling the cartridge to be moved on the supporting plate.

Abstract: A dental x-ray patient identification marking device for use in conjunction with an identification camera to permanently imprint preselected patient identification indicia onto each small dental x-ray before developing. A thin aperture plate, which may be removable, is positioned atop the working surface of the identification camera having a light-emitting area there within. The aperture plate includes an elongated hole near one end of structure for properly aligning the dental x-ray so that the hole is in alignment and registry with a particular portion of the x-ray. A thin indicia card having the preselected patient identification indicia written or typed thereon in a specified region of the card, is positionable between the aperture plate and the light-emitting area in alignment with the hole which produces an exposure of the preselected patient identification indicia at one end of the x-ray in response to light passing through the card.

Abstract: An x-ray film positioning device wherein the film holder and x-ray beam alignment rod can rotate together while the biteblock remains stationary. Such rotation is accomplished by means of an axle placed through the body of the biteblock, or through tubes attached to the biteblock, and attaching the film holder to one end of an extension bar and attaching the other end of the extension bar to one end of the axle, and further attaching the beam alignment rod to the other end of the axle. By the configuration of this assembly, a predetermined relationship of the film to the x-ray beam e.g. parallel, can be maintained with all angles of rotation. Simultaneously, the biteblock remains stationary in a flat, occlusally parallel position, held securely between the upper and lower teeth. This rotational concept is particularly helpful, but not limited to, film holder biteblock arrangements which are laterally off-set one to the other when viewed from the x-ray source.

Abstract: Apparatus for taking dental x-rays used in performing subtraction radiography, includes an appliance for holding a dental x-ray film at a fixed position with respect to the teeth of a person, the appliance including a dental mold for holding the appliance in a fixed position on the teeth of the person, and a connecting member for holding the x-ray film in a fixed position relative to the teeth of the person and being mounted to the mold such that the x-ray film is positioned in the mouth at a set position; a magnetic source mounted at a fixed position in a room for producing a time-varying low frequency magnetic field; a magnetic sensor for sensing the magnetic field and for producing an output signal in response thereto, the magnetic sensor being mounted to the connecting member so as to be fixed in position relative to the x-ray film; an x-ray source for exposing the x-ray film; a robot manipulator having at least five degrees of freedom for moving the x-ray source in relation to the x-ray film, and having

Abstract: Apparatus for positioning an image receptor, such as X-ray film, within a patient's mouth in predetermined relation to an energy beam, such as an X-ray beam, generated externally of the patient's mouth, includes rigid structure supporting an image receptor and connecting it to the source of the energy beam, and a bite block removably attached to the rigid structure in a position such that the portion of the patient's maxilla and mandible gripping the bite block is removed from the portion being studied with the energy beam. The attachment system further provides for attachment of the bite block at any of a plurality of discrete sites relative to the image receptor. Bite registration material is preferably provided on the bite block surfaces to allow precise repositioning of the bite block in a series of successive exposures. The apparatus allows a plurality of target areas to be studied using one bite block position within the patient's mouth.

Abstract: A dental x-ray alignment device is described for attachment to the extension tube of the x-ray unit. The device has a cylindrical conical frustum exterior shape with a central opening adapted to frictionally reside on the extension tube. An annularly shaped conical cavity is formed in the sidewalls of the cylindrical conical frustum, the cavity being open on one end joining the front face of the frustum. A plurality of light emitting sources are situated in the base or bottom of the frustum to emit light from the open end of the cavity. The light is projected onto the patient's face to circumscribe the x-ray beam pattern for certainty of x-ray beam placement during procedures. In an alternate embodiment, the invention is incorporated into the coupler and extension tube normally attached to the x-ray unit head.

Abstract: The set of X-ray film holders for taking X-ray exposures of an entire tooth consists of a holder for the side teeth and a holder for the front teeth, each of the holders comprising a resilient clip for the X-ray film, a formed bite portion and a cranked indicator rod extending perpendicularly to the film plane for adjusting the central X-ray beam orthogonally to the film plane. The film clip is attached to the bite portion in such a manner that it is pivotable by 360.degree. and may be locked in the plane which is formed by the indicator rod with its cranked portion. Except for special X-ray tubes, it is useful to have a centering aid for the central X-ray beam. To this end, an index having pointer means is movably disposed on the indicator rod, guiding means being provided on the indicator rod and on the tube of the index in order to bring the pointer means into the correct position according to whether the X-ray film is in its upward or downward position.

Abstract: A dental X-ray patient identification marking device for use in conjunction with an identification camera to permanently imprint preselected patient identification indicia onto each small dental X-ray before developing. A thin aperture plate, which may be removable, is positioned atop the working surface of the identification camera having a light-emitting area there within. The aperture plate includes an elongated hole near one end of structure for properly aligning the dental X-ray so that the hole is in alignment and registry with a particular portion of the X-ray. A thin indicia card having the preselected patient identification indicia written or typed thereon in a specified region of the card, is positionable between the aperture plate and the light-emitting area in alignment with the hole which produces an exposure of the preselected patient identification indicia at one end of the X-ray in response to light passing through the card.

Abstract: A panoramic method for the radiography of the dental arch and jaws, in which method by means of movable radiographing and/or imaged elements, several subsequent exposure sweep sequences are performed so that the moving elements are transferred to a new position betwen the subsequent exposure sequences. In order to achieve a perfectly jointed X-ray picture, the movement of the moving elements is started before the switch-on instant of the X-ray beam in the latter exposure sequence and the starting positions of said elements is selected so as to obtain desired positions and velocities for the elements at the switch-on instant of the X-ray beam. The coincidence of the X-ray beam orientation at the start of the latter exposure sequence with the X-ray beam orientation at the end of the preceding sequence is characterizing to an embodiment of the invention.

Abstract: A patient support includes a support surface and lifting structure adapted to permit the insertion of an x-ray cassette beneath the portion of the patient's body that is to be x-rayed. The structure for lifting preferably includes a plurality of inflatable runners. Structure for selectively deflating the runners is provided so as to permit insertion of an x-ray cassette between adjacent runners and beneath the patient. Structure for placing the inflatable runners in fluid connection with fluid supply means is provided such that the runners can be reinflated. In an alternative embodiment, the inflatable runners can be replaced by mechanical lifting apparatus.