Abstract: A panoramic X-ray apparatus, comprising at least a support element (2), a patient support (9) arranged to be movable in a vertical direction and an imaging station (4a). The panoramic X-ray apparatus has a support structure (4) arranged to support at least the imaging station (4a), and it has an actuator (15) producing a vertical linear motion for moving at least the imaging station (4a) to different height positions. The panoramic X-ray apparatus comprises a transmission mechanism (28) which affects the velocity/travel distance of the vertical movement of the imaging station (4a) and which is connected at least to the actuator (15) and either to the aforesaid support structure (4) or to the aforesaid support element in such manner that the velocity/travel distance of the vertical movement of the imaging station (4a) is substantially greater than the velocity/travel distance of the motion imparted by the actuator (15) to the transmission mechanism (28).

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for determining the set relative position of a patient in a dental panorama X-ray apparatus during which the curvature of a front area of a dental arch of a patient is determined. Set position coordinates for the patient are calculated based on this curvature and on a projection arch surface. In addition, the curvature of a middle area and/or of a rear area of the dental arch is determined and is taken into consideration during the calculation of the position coordinates. During a method for determining the set path of a diagnostic unit, the curvature of a front area of a dental arch of a patient is determined and is fixed at a location in the X-ray apparatus located within the space scanned by an X-ray source and by a detector unit. In addition, the curvature of a middle area and/or of a rear area of the dental arch is determined and a set path curve for the diagnostic unit is calculated based on the measured curvatures.

Abstract: A dental radiology apparatus includes: a generator (18) emitting X-radiation provided with a collimation device collimating the radiation in an appropriate manner using several forms of collimation slits, at least one radiation sensor (20a, 20b) including a first, a second and a third image acquisition surface which are each positioned opposite an appropriate form of slit in order to use the apparatus in panoramic mode, cone beam tomographic mode and mode determining a trajectory which will be used in panoramic mode respectively. In the third mode a form of slit elongated along a plane P is arranged opposite the third surface corresponding to a part of the second surface along a Z-axis perpendicular to the plane P and the assembly is driven in rotation about an axis parallel to the Z-axis.

Abstract: An improved intraoral x-ray system that includes a dental tray with the shape of a dental arch and can be positioned within the oral cavity, for accommodating image detectors at the lingual (or, palatal) side of the tray; an image processing system, situated external to said oral cavity, for converting the image data detected by the image detector to a viewable image; a mechanism for transferring the image data to the image processing system; and a display unit for displaying the image.

Abstract: An extra-oral digital panoramic dental x-ray imaging system is disclosed for multi-layer panoramic and transverse X-ray imaging. The system includes an X-ray source and a digital imaging device capable of “real time” frame mode output. The source and imaging device are mounted in a mechanical manipulator defining the trajectory of a predetermined image layer. The imaging device communicates with a processor that generates a frames memory from which an image reconstruction mechanism composes the final images. For “real time” imaging, the frames memory is a fast data storage system such as RAM. The processing unit executes the reconstruction algorithms, allowing the system to selectively generate dental panoramic X-ray images, dental transverse x-ray images and dental tomosynthetic 3D images.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method is proposed which allow for a simplified patient positioning based on the selection of a region of interest for the tomographic image of the dentition of a patient. The region of interest is selected on a previously acquired panoramic image of the dentition of the patient.

Abstract: The present invention relates to applying an existing carbon nanotube X-ray tube for a dental X-ray imaging system that can replace a carbon nanotube electron emission source installed in a cathode portion. An X-ray tube system formed in a pen according to the present invention can be inserted in the oral cavity due to its thin thickness, thereby displaying an accurate image of an inner location of the oral cavity needing a diagnosis. For therapy of oral cancer requiring an appropriate amount of radiation therapy, since radiation can be directly irradiated to a diseased part, brachytherapy is enabled without concern of exposure dose of normal tissues. Therefore, when the system is commercialized, a great amount of distribution effect may be expected. The X-ray tube system that can be used for medical services such as a dental service includes an X-ray emission module emitting X-rays using a chipped nano-structured material, for example, carbon nanotube.

Abstract: A radiographic X-ray apparatus is equipped with multiple devices for the acquisition of anatomical data, in particular cameras. These devices are used to facilitate and automate the imaging process, providing: before exposure the automated identification of the specific anatomical features of the patient and the optimized presetting of the exposure technique factors and projection geometry, tailored on the actual anatomy of the patient; during exposure the optimized X-ray dose modulation, either automatically or selected by the operator, in order to correctly expose the various regions of interest, and accordingly impart reduced dose to other body parts, according to the actual anatomy of the patient and imaging requirements; after exposure the possibility to complement the radiographic image with additional information about the internal and external anatomy, providing valuable tools for the medical analysis and diagnosis.

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 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 aiming method and a device for an extraoral radiographic technique using a pair of length-adjustable indicator rods. Install a circular locator on each to the indicator rod. While keeping at an appropriate angle, hold the two locators closely beside the cheeks of the patient, and then along the hypothetical axis, secure a radioactive-rays emission head onto one of the circular locator. Following this hypothetical axis to the other locator, and secure a film or a sensor. Aim the radioactive-rays emission head along the hypothetical axis while taking the radiographic shots.

Abstract: A method and systems for capturing digital intra-oral images, while automatically determining a location of an intra-oral sensor placed within a mouth of a patient, is disclosed. A spatial frame-of-reference is established with respect to teeth within the mouth of the patient. An intra-oral digital imaging sensor is placed within the mouth of the patient adjacent to at least one tooth within the mouth that is to be imaged using the intra-oral sensor. Spatial location information is automatically generated such that the spatial location information defines how the intra-oral sensor is placed with respect to the spatial frame-of-reference. A digital image of the at least one tooth is acquired using the intra-oral sensor and the spatial location information is automatically associated with the acquired digital image.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for pictorially representing and determining tissue densities of a body region, especially in the mouth/jaw/face region (1), of a patient. According to said method, a set of three-dimensional image data representing the body region as well as calibration data that is provided as three-dimensional image data and represents a calibration phantom (5, 8, 15) having a previously known density are photographed by generating an image while the tissue densities are derived from a comparison of the calibration data with the image data. The image data and the calibration data are photographed in the framework of the same shot and in an upright position of the patient, particularly during sitting or standing. The calibration phantom (5, 8, 15) is held in the immediate vicinity of the body region (1) that is to be photographed during the shot by means of a fixture (4, 10, 14) which is fixed independently of the patient's body and in a defined relation to the imaging device.

Abstract: Disclosed therein is a dental complex imaging system including: a base seated on the ground; a chair part disposed on the upper portion of the base for allowing a patient to wait for imaging with him/her seated thereon; a pole mounted on the base so as to be adjacent to the chair part; a support part adapted to extend toward the patient from the top of the pole; an expanding and contracting part pivotally coupled to the underside of the support part so as to be expanded and contracted; a radiation generator part disposed below one side of the expanding and contracting part and moving according to expansion and contraction of the expanding and contracting part for emitting radiation selected according to CT imaging, cephalography and panoramic radiography; a radiation detecting part disposed on the other side of the expanding and contracting part in such a way as to be opposed to the radiation generator part for detecting radiation selectively emitted from the radiation generator part according to the CT imagi

Abstract: The invention relates to a radiographic device and method of servoing an X-ray source (800) in a radiography device comprising a MOS-type image sensor (810) with pixels provided with separate read and refreshment commands, respectively, in which, during a radiography operation, read commands of a plurality of image sensor pixels are called repeatedly, while maintaining a source of X-rays power-supplied, so as to establish, in response to each reading, at least one image acquisition characteristic, and in which the emission of X-rays is interrupted when the image acquisition characteristic corresponds to a preset image acquisition characteristic.

Abstract: An arrangement for positioning an X-ray machine, with an input and an output device, for interactive control, with a memory region, in which digitised X-ray images and X-ray machine data are stored, an interface, by means of which information is exchanged with the X-ray machine, a pointing device for selecting regions in digitized X-ray images, a processing unit, which carries out calculations based on the digitized X-ray images, the associated X-ray machine data and the selected region, in order to determine control data such that the X-ray machine is controlled whereby, on taking an image, the selected region is screened.

Abstract: The present invention relates to network enabled analysis of x-ray images. Also described are devices comprising calibration phantoms; methods of using these devices; methods of formulating databases containing information regarding x-ray images; the databases themselves; and methods of manipulating the information and databases.

Abstract: An X-ray detector for use in a medical X-ray imaging apparatus comprising a rotary means rotatable relative to an object to be examined, an X-ray generator provided at one side of the rotary means, and an X-ray detecting portion provided at the other side of the rotary means so as to face the X-ray generator. The X-ray detector is provided in the X-ray detecting portion or is detachably mounted in the X-ray detecting portion, the X-ray detector is provided with an imaging portion comprised of a plane electric imaging means extending in a two-dimensional direction used for X-ray CT and has an imaging portion positioning means for moving up and down the imaging portion in the X-ray detector.

Abstract: A dental x-ray diagnostic apparatus and method for performing cephalography is disclosed that rotates an x-ray source generating an x-ray beam while synchronously linearly moving the secondary collimator and x-ray imager to produce the cephalometric image. The x-ray beam is swept through a position where a detector is positioned for performing panoramic scanning.

Abstract: A method for preserving orientation information in an image may comprise: collecting image data, including orientation information inherent to collecting the image data; and embedding in the image data an orientation mark unambiguously identifying when the image data is presented in a correct viewing orientation. Image data is stored in a medium together with data forming an embedded orientation mark which is bilaterally asymmetrical in at least two orthogonal axes. In a variation, the data forming the embedded orientation mark further comprises at least one humanly recognizable text or punctuation character, word or trademark.

Abstract: The invention proposes a dental X-ray apparatus comprising a patient-positioning system arranged on a support and having a forehead rest. A horizontally pivotable bearing arm is arranged on the support, and the forehead rest is in turn arranged thereon.

Abstract: An apparatus for generating a panoramic image of part of a target, the apparatus including a source of penetrating radiation and a detector aligned with the source of penetrating radiation. The detector and source of penetrating radiation are rotate-able together with respect to the target. The detector has an array of radiation sensors arranged in rows and columns and is configured to output contents of each radiation sensor in the array of radiation sensors. The apparatus also includes a computer connected to the detector and configured to generate a panoramic image by combining data from sensors in the same row in different columns in different readout intervals, corresponding to different positions of the detector as it rotates with respect to the target. The combined outputs are selected to represent rays of radiation passing through a point on a defined curve.

Abstract: An improved bitewing x-ray film holder for interproximal radiographic analysis is provided. The device includes a dental medium holder for placement of a dental x-ray imaging medium (electronic sensor or film) and a bite block containing an alignment guide to aid the dental professional in achieving a perpendicular or near perpendicular relationship of the x-ray medium to the interproximal region of clenched maxilliary and mandibular teeth. The bite block is preferably molded from a single piece of polyethylene (a thermoplastic) to ensure that the x-rays pass unhindered therethrough since x-rays are required to penetrate the bite block. The bite block is joined to a mid-region of the so that the bite block rests along the occlusal plane of the arch of the teeth being radiographed. The device also includes a guide rod which is detachably adapted to the bite block and a sighting ring adapted to a x-ray nose cone of a x-ray unit.

Abstract: A dental x-ray apparatus is provided that includes an x-ray system having an x-ray source and x-ray detection means; positioning means for positioning a patient's head in a predefined position with respect to the x-ray system; and at least one video camera for generating video images of the patient's head.

Abstract: This invention presents a method of image reconstruction based on static and irregular detector positioning using fan-beam back projection technique of computerized tomography.

Abstract: A unit for acquiring dental radiographic images of a patient is provided with an x-ray head coupled to a respective supporting arm via a ball joint.

Abstract: A radiopaque diagnostic kit, tool and method for helping a practitioner define an optimal anatomical location of a patient to perform diagnostic and interventional procedures.

Abstract: This invention relates to mutual positioning of an x-ray beam and an intra-oral x-ray sensor in connection with an imaging process by utilizing at least one measurement signal, which is achieved by arranging means for producing a magnetic field resp. for measuring the magnetic field in connection with a radiation source resp. the sensor.

Abstract: A bite device for the correct positioning of a patient when a panoramic x-ray is taken, comprising a holder part (42) which can be placed in a fixed direction in relation to the x-ray device, a plate (46) which can pivot against the holder and which is provided with a bite part (50) into which a patient bites, and means (58, 60) for detecting the pivoting angle A between the plate (46) and the holder part (42).

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide an image processing method, etc. capable of producing a panorama tomogram with a simple operation whenever required by the operator. The present invention relates to an image processing method for producing a panorama tomogram of the dental arch using the X-ray projection data on the dentomaxillofacial region obtained by the X-ray computer tomography. The image processing method according to the present invention includes the steps of retrieving the dental arch projection data corresponding to the dental arch from the X-ray projection data based on the preset position and shape information to specify the position and shape of the dental arch from the X-ray projection data (S3) and generating a panorama tomogram by executing a predetermined process using the dental arch projection data (S4).

Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) system having the capacity to detect conditions of alignment, wherein the system may be used with hand-held, fixed-in-place, stationary, and permanently mounted apparatus. The system includes an RF interrogator configured for use with dental x-ray, medical imaging, film, and digital radiography apparatus, and may include a multiplicity of RF transponders or interrogators. An RF interrogator, an RF transponder, and an x-ray sensitive imaging device, and its holder are configured to be critically aligned to a dental x-ray machine head apparatus, rendering repeat imaging unnecessary. The x-ray emitter may be further configured to automatically obtain a desired x-ray image or configured so that the device cannot activate and provide a radiograph until alignment with the transponder and associated x-ray sensitive imaging device has occurred.

Abstract: There is provided a new X-ray imaging apparatus by the use of which X-ray CT and panoramic imaging can be effectively performed. In an X-ray imaging apparatus which rotates an X-ray generating section and an X-ray detecting section around an imaging object arranged between these X-ray generating section and the X-ray detecting section and also detects in the X-ray detecting section X-rays having been radiated from the X-ray generating section and transmitted through the imaging object to form an X-ray image, a panoramic imaging mode in which the X-ray generating section and the X-ray detecting section are driven to form a panoramic image of the imaging object and an offset scan/CT mode in which the X-ray generating section and the X-ray detecting section are driven to form a tomographic image of the imaging object are set, so as to selectively execute these two imaging modes.

Abstract: An X-ray image sensor (1) for use in a medical X-ray imaging apparatus (10) has a mounting portion (12) for the X-ray image sensor (1) and a rotary means (13a) holding the X-ray image sensor (1) mounted on the mounting portion (12) and an X-ray generator (11) so as to interpose an object (H) to be examined therebetween. The X-ray image sensor (1) is so constructed as to be mounted on the mounting portion (12) and comprises an X-ray slit beam imaging plane (1S), (1P) which is vertically long and has small width and a CT imaging plane (1T) combined with said X-ray slit beam imaging plane (1S), (1P) and having larger width than the X-ray slit beam imaging plane.

Abstract: This system for dental X-ray image acquisition comprises an X-ray generator and a control module for controlling an intra-oral sensor. The module includes means for sending a command to the generator in application of at least one predetermined criterion for preventing, stopping, or modifying the power of X-ray emission. The use of this system for optimizing the quantity of X-rays received by a patient.

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: Numerous structural/patient positioning features are provided for use with a dental x-ray machine. At least the following features are included: an inverted motor arrangement to actuate an outer support column with respect to an inner support column; wiper elements disposed between the inner and outer support columns to provide enhanced electrical grounding therebetween; adjustable roller subassemblies disposed between the inner and outer columns; a flexible electrical cable disposed inside the inner column; a self-aligning base for use with the inner column, the base having symmetric halves; an adaptable handgrip handrail extending from the outer column at compound oblique angles; a drive system for film transport; and a side projection system for patient head positioning, including multiple horizontal light beams.

Abstract: A novel image capture device, system and method are disclosed for use in capturing dental images including a receptor holder including a first measurement guide for measuring a distance from which an image was taken from a patient. A future embodiment includes a second measurement guide for measuring the distance between the X-ray receptor and the X-ray generator from which an image was taken from a patient.

Abstract: A positional relationship between image capturing means and a player is properly adjusted before a game is started. An image of a player P is captured by a camera unit 42, and from this image the head position of the player is recognized, so that the game proceeds based on the recognized result. At this time, the player image is displayed on the title screen, and the position where the head position of the player P should be located is displayed distinctively in the player image. As a result, the player P can properly adjust the positional relationship between the camera unit 42 and himself/herself before starting a game.

Abstract: A digital dental image apparatus comprising: (A) an intra-oral image sensor configured to output a raw analog video signal; (B) a processing raw analog video signal (PRAVS) means for processing the raw analog video signal for optimum detection; (B) a digitizing, over sampling, and averaging (DOSA) means for digitizing, over sampling, and averaging the optimized analog video signal; and (C) a programmable control and signal processing (PCSP) means configured to generate a control signal to control an over sampling rate of the (DOSA) means. The PCSP means is configured to process the DOSA video signal, and configured to output the processed DOSA video signal to an output network interface.

Abstract: One aspect relates to visualizing, imaging, or providing information of an at least some tissue-based matter or bone-based matter of an at least a portion of an individual at least partially through at least one range of visualizing, imaging, or providing information depth to at least one prescribed visualizing, imaging, or providing information depth of the at least some tissue-based matter or bone-based matter of the at least the portion of the individual, at least partially dependent on an at least one applied characteristic of an at least one applied X-ray being applied to the at least some of the at least some tissue-based matter or bone-based matter of the at least the portion of the individual.

Abstract: A radiographic system is provided, which is capable of displaying brightness of laterally corresponding points with equivalent brightness, when an object having equivalent texture structures or micro areas of equivalent X-ray transmittance at laterally symmetric positions. The radiographic system includes an exposure time deriving section that obtains a period during which the object has been exposed to X-rays in a process of generating each charge signal output from an X-ray image detecting section based on vertical transfer information held at the vertical transfer information holding section, a correction coefficient deriving section that obtains a correction coefficient for correcting the value of an image signal obtained by being converted from each charge signal, based on the exposure time, and an image generating section that generates an image signal from the charge signal output from the X-ray image detecting section and the correction coefficient.

Abstract: A method of dental microscopic procedure, using a digital surgical scope, includes steps for selecting a function of the digital surgical scope to perform, obtaining the corresponding images from the image data taking device or the image data processing/storing device, processing the images by the image data processing/storing device, and displaying the images on the displays. The dental surgical procedure is done by seeing the images displayed on the screen. The digital surgical scope includes a microscope lens assembly for magnifying an optical image of an object and an in-line illumination device for illuminating the object along the same optical axis and from the same direction of the microscope lens assembly. The image data processing/storing device is for manipulating the image taken by the microscope lens assembly and the image data taking device.

Abstract: In a unit for acquiring dental radiographic images of a patient, an X-ray head is connected to a supporting device by at least one cylindrical joint having a pin fitted inside a hub defined by two tightening members, which extend about the pin and are movable with respect to each other to and from a lock position locking the pin.

Abstract: In a computed tomography scanner, the panoramic image of an object to be analysed is reconstructed by: acquiring volumetric tomographic data of the object; extracting, from the volumetric tomographic data, tomographic data corresponding to at least three sections of the object identified by respective mutually parallel planes; determining, on each section extracted, a respective trajectory that a profile of the object follows in an area corresponding to said section; determining a first surface transverse to said planes such as to comprise the trajectories; and generating the panoramic image on the basis of a part of the volumetric tomographic data identified as a function of said surface.

Abstract: An X-ray CT apparatus which executes a first X-ray tomography on a sectional plane having a desirable thickness in an object to be examined (0) with the object interposed between an X-ray generator (1) and a two-dimensional X-ray image sensor (2) provided so as to hold their mutual facing positional relation, and also executes a second X-ray tomography for obtaining a CT image of the interested area of the object (0). The first X-ray tomography is executed on the object (0) while the object (0) is held and fixed by an object holder (4) with the center of the orbit of the X-ray circulating radiation fixed, and while the object holder (4) is moved by an object mover (5) along the X-ray sectional image forming path according to the rotary angle of the X-ray circulating radiation.

Abstract: In order to produce a device for guiding a surgical tool, a support repositionable on a human body is produced. Three-dimensional radiological information delivered by said support and the treatable area of the human body are used for developing a virtual model of the support and the human body treatable area by means of computer assistance. Said virtual model makes it possible to determine at least one axis and to transfer said axis onto the repositionable support, thereby enabling it to be produced directly on a patient's jaw or the model thereof.

Abstract: In order to set up digital image acquisition in classic panoramic X-ray machines, the invention proposes providing a row of detectors in the cartridge unit of said machines, said row of detectors being arranged or being able to be arranged behind the recording slit. The output signals from the row of detectors and the output signals from a rotary encoder are wirelessly transferred to an evaluation unit. Retrofitting the digital image acquisition thus does not require any intervention in safety-related parts of the panoramic X-ray machine.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and an arrangement for controlling the movements of the functional elements (13-16) of an X-ray apparatus, such as a panoramic X-ray apparatus. In the method, one or more power means (1) provided with a control system (21), a power stage (11) and a rotating power output shaft (2) is/are controlled so as to produce the aforesaid movements of the functional elements. The power output shaft (2) of the power means is caused to rotate by the control system and the power stage so that the power output shaft is in direct contact with the force receiving means (3, 3a) of the functional element.

Abstract: This invention relates to a computer tomography apparatus, especially to a computer tomography apparatus intended for use in connection with odontological diagnostics. In the computer tomography apparatus according to the invention, it is essential that one has arranged thereto, in addition to a computer tomography imaging station, a second imaging station comprising second patient support means 16? at a distance from said computer tomography imaging station. The invention enables more versatile odontological imaging than prior art apparatuses, whereby one does not have to acquire to the clinic, in addition to the computer tomography apparatus, e.g. a separate skull-imaging device.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for cephalometric imaging using an apparatus (1) which comprises an X-ray source (5), a line detector camera (8) equipped with a digital detector, which line detector camera is located to a position far away from the X-ray source (5) for carrying out cephalometric imaging while the slot of the line detector camera is substantially vertical. In cephalometric imaging, an X-ray beam (11) located substantially on the vertical plane is directed from the X-ray source (5) through the object being imaged, and the X-ray source (5) is at the same time turned about the rotation center (13) located between the X-ray source and the line detector camera (8) in order to scan the object being imaged in the horizontal direction, whereby the line detector camera (8) is moved during the scanning movement in such a way that the ray beam (11) meets the slot (14) of the line detector camera.