Abstract: A CT scanner system provides projection-like images of a patient volume. After a CT scan is obtained and a three-dimensional model of the patient is created, any synthetic view can be generated by choosing any array of projection lines, e.g. between a point and a surface (a flat plane, curved plane, spherical, etc) or between two surfaces (parallel or not) and summing across the projection lines. The synthetic projections can mimic certain traditional views, such as a ceph scan, Water's view, Caldwell's projection, etc or can provide a new view that is impossible or impractical with traditional x-ray equipment, such as a perfect parallel projection, or a projection that does not pass all the way through the patient.

Abstract: An x-ray diagnostic apparatus and methods performs Real-Time Digital Radiography with particular application in dental x-ray imaging modalities, such as Orthopantomography, Scannography, Linear Tomography and Cephalography, by using a versatile and modular electronic unit, featuring ultra fast computation capability to serve diversified image sensor typology and scanning modality. In Digital Orthopantomography and Scannography, a plurality of tomographic images at different depths of the jaw can be generated, based on the pre-selection made by the user interface. The image processing unit utilizes for the tomo-synthesis of the diagnostic image an accurate and economic digital simulator of the radiographic film speed, including a digital frequency synthesizer fed with film cassette speed digital input and high resolution clock signal, ensuring accurate and reproducible phase continuity of the output frequency signal.

Abstract: A novel image capture device, system and method are disclosed for use in capturing dental images. A novel collimator tube includes one or more devices integrated within its wall, such as a radio frequency transmitter, a camera, a frame grabber, or a transilluminator light. The integrated devices are used instead of or in addition to an x-ray generator, which is coupled to the collimator tube. The camera is used to capture digital images. The camera is either a camera port for plugging in an external camera, such as an intra-oral camera, or is wholly contained within the collimator tube. The radio frequency transmitter transmits digital data to a remote computer. The frame grabber captures digital data for display on a display device. The transilluminator light can illuminate an area for digital capture. A novel receptor holder includes a docking port for docking a sensor that is used for digital x-ray capture.

Abstract: A CT scanner includes a gantry supporting an x-ray source and an x-ray detector. A motor in the gantry controls rotation of the gantry relative to a mounting plate from which the gantry is supported. The gantry also houses a computer for controlling the motor to rotate the gantry in a controlled, known manner. The computer also controls the x-ray source, including powering the x-ray source on and off and varying the intensity and frequency of the produced x-ray. The computer also collects data from the x-ray detector.

Abstract: A novel image capture device, system and method are disclosed for use in capturing dental images. One or more devices are integrated within one or more components of the system. Examples of such devices include a radio frequency transmitter, a wireless receiver, a camera, a frame grabber, a beeper, indicator light system, or a transilluminator light. A novel collimator tube insert includes one or more integrated devices. A novel receptor holder includes a docking port for docking a sensor that is used for digital x-ray capture. A novel receptor holder includes multiple arms to allow a holder bar to be positioned in multiple positions for capturing different image types. A novel receptor holder includes a measurement guide for measuring a distance from which an image was taken from a patient. A novel alignment ring includes a sensor port and/or a radio frequency transmitter for transmitting data to other devices.

Abstract: A plurality of segmental images captured of teeth are analyzed, and feature information including directions in which the segmental images are oriented, angles of inclination of straight lines related to the teeth, and width and lengths of the teeth is extracted. According to the feature information, which may also include therapeutic information of the teeth, display positions and display postures of the segmental images are calculated, and the segmental images are displayed in locations based on the calculated display positions and display postures.

Abstract: A multi-layer dental panoramic and transverse x-ray imaging system includes an x-ray source; a digital imaging device capable of frame mode output with a sufficient frame rate; a mechanical manipulator having at least one rotational axis located in a position other than the focal point of the x-ray source; a position detection mechanism for detecting the camera position in 1D, 2D or 3D depending of the complexity of the trajectory; a final image reconstruction mechanism for reconstructing the final images out of the stored frames; a real time storage system such as RAM, hard drive or an drive array able to store all the frames captured during an exposure; and a digital processing unit capable of executing the reconstruction algorithm, such components being interconnected in operational arrangement. The system produces selectively dental panoramic x-ray images, dental transverse x-ray images and dental tomosynthetic 3D images from a frame stream produced by a high-speed, x-ray digital imaging device.

Abstract: An x-ray image sensor has an array disposed between an x-ray source and a photo-responsive device, such as a CCD or CMOS device. The array is comprised of a plurality of generally linearly-shaped, opaque elements that are spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance and are adapted to absorb either x-ray radiation or light radiation. When a plurality of x-ray images is taken of the same object from different angles, images of the array are superimposed on the images of the object. Using a CAD program or other algorithm, the differences in spacing between the array elements for each image are used to derive a three-dimensional image of the object.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus. The apparatus includes, an X-ray source part, an X-ray sensor part having a panoramic sensor and/or a CT sensor, a rotary arm for arranging the X-ray source part and the X-ray sensor part thereon in such a way as to be opposed to each other, a rotary arm supporting member, and rotary arm driving means, wherein the panoramic sensor and the CT sensor are dedicated sensors respectively for panoramic photographing and CT photographing. The apparatus can obtain a CT image and a panoramic image by one photographing apparatus, and allow a user to previously set the optimum enlargement ratio according to panoramic photographing or CT photographing.

Abstract: A CT scanner generates a three-dimensional CT image that is used to construct a ceph image. The computer automatically outlines various parts of the patient to automatically locate points and/or contours that are displayed on the three-dimensional image. The computer also automatically calculates a plurality of cephalometric points that are displayed on the three-dimensional CT image. Once the contours and the ceph points located, the computer determines angles between certain ceph points and/or the contours and compares the angles to stored standard angles. This provides an objective standard for assessing the appearance of the patient and can be used as a guideline in planning any procedure that may affect the appearance of the patient.

Abstract: There is described an X-ray diagnostic device for performing cephalometric, dental or orthopedic examinations on a patient who is seated or standing. The X-ray diagnostic device comprises an X-ray emitter and an image detector embodied as a flat-panel detector that are arranged situated opposite each other on an orbitally moveable mount. The X-ray diagnostic device further comprises means for adjusting the height of the X-ray emitter and the image detector, a digital image system for recording a projection image using rotation angiography, a device for image processing for reconstructing the projection image into a 3D volume image; and a device for correcting physical effects or artifacts for representing soft tissue in the projection image and in the 3D volume image reconstructed therefrom.

Abstract: An X-ray apparatus, in particular a dental X-ray apparatus, includes an X-ray radiation source for generating X-ray radiation to be directed at an object to be investigated, for example, a patient's tooth or jaw. The apparatus has an optical device through which an aiming device, for example, an additional visible pilot radiation generated by a further light source, is directed substantially parallel to the X-ray radiation at the object to be investigated to facilitate the positioning of the X-ray head.

Abstract: An X-ray computer tomography apparatus wherein a conical X-ray beam is radiated on a local area of an object while a rotary means with an X-ray generator and a two-dimensional X-ray image sensor faced to each other is rotated relative to the object which is disposed between the X-ray generator and the two-dimensional X-ray image sensor.

Abstract: A novel image capture device, system and method are disclosed for use in capturing dental images. A novel collimator tube includes one or more devices integrated within its wall, such as a radio frequency transmitter, a camera, a frame grabber, or a transilluminator light. The integrated devices are used instead of or in addition to an x-ray generator, which is coupled to the collimator tube. The camera is used to capture digital images. The camera is either a camera port for plugging in an external camera, such as an intra-oral camera, or is wholly contained within the collimator tube. The radio frequency transmitter transmits digital data to a remote computer. The frame grabber captures digital data for display on a display device. The transilluminator light can illuminate an area for digital capture. A novel receptor holder includes a docking port for docking a sensor that is used for digital x-ray capture.

Abstract: A radiation-recording plate (104) can be constructed and arranged to form an image upon exposure from both a front side and a back side. The plate can include a marker (201) detectable in the image (205) after exposure and indicative of which of the front side and the back side the plate is exposed from. The marker may comprise a medium opaque to the radiation coating a region that does not interfere with reading the image when the plate is exposed from either side, or may be a void in the sensitive layer of the plate. The marker may have horizontal asymmetry about a vertical axis relative to a normal image orientation, or the marker may have vertical asymmetry about a horizontal axis relative to a normal image orientation. The marker may further comprise a front side marker and a back side marker whose appearance in an image on the plate indicates exposure from the front side or the back side respectively.

Abstract: An imaging system for high energy radiation direct conversion scan imaging includes a high energy radiation source and a semiconductor high energy radiation direct conversion imaging device arranged around an object position. The imaging device includes a plurality of imaging cells, each imaging cell comprising a detector cell and a readout cell for producing imaging cell output values representative of high energy radiation incident on the detector cell. The source member and/or the imaging device were arranged to move substantially continuously relative to each other for scanning an object at the object position. The readout cells are operated to read out the imaging cell output values at time intervals which substantially correspond to an object image point traversing half the distance of a detector region or cell in the scanning direction. Such a configuration provides for pixel level resolution during the scanning operation.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in a cephalostat has a collimator for defining the shape of an X-ray beam and a soft tissue filter screen, mounted independently of the collimator, for attenuating a portion of the X-ray beam. The soft tissue filter screen has an anterior facial portion and a submental-neck portion having a leading edge at a position posterior relative to the leading edge of the anterior facial portion. The soft tissue filter screen is independently adjustable relative to the collimator. A cephalometric radiology apparatus includes a support structure, an X-ray source, and an X-ray detector, in addition to the collimator and the soft tissue filter screen. A method for imaging soft tissue and hard tissue involves positioning the soft tissue filter independently of positioning the collimator. A modular system, which can be mounted onto a cephalostat, includes the soft tissue filter screen and a mounting component.

Abstract: The invention relates to a digital camera, an imaging device and a method for dental digital imaging. One sensor is used for tomographic imaging and at least one sensor is used for transillumination imaging. The sensors are arranged to overlap each other. This arrangement provides a multiple use and a relative inexpensive camera compared with the ones using one sensor with a large area. Additionally, it is possible to arrange at least two separate electric connection structures for the different imaging modes. Further, its connection arrangements can be arranged in such a way that the mechanical connection structures of the camera are separated from the electrical connection structures.

Abstract: An apparatus that mounts on a standard dental x-ray film view box, and holds a moveable camera chassis with a high resolution CCD video board camera therein, is disclosed. The advantage of this invention is that users will be able to quickly, easily, and inexpensively convert a standard dental x-ray viewer into analog and/or digital x-ray image viewing systems, utilizing computer or video monitors. The camera chassis with CCD video board camera is mounted on tracks set on a line disposed to be parallel to both the X-axis and Y-axis of the plane of the translucent viewing plate of a standard dental x-ray viewer. The CCD video camera can slide over a target x-ray film placed thereon, for selective viewing on a video monitor or computer monitor. Additionally, the CCD video camera mechanism can be rotated up and away from the x-ray film set, which allows the dentist to visually scan the entire x-ray film set without visual obstruction.

Abstract: A display method and apparatus of an X-ray projection image for medical use wherein a projection interested area to construct the X-ray projection image of an object is set on an image layer with an extending predetermined thickness perpendicular to an X-ray radiation plane defined by rotational radiation of an X-ray beam, the projection interested area is comprised of the three dimensional X-ray absorption coefficient data, and the X-ray projection image is produced by projecting the three dimensional X-ray absorption coefficient data existing in the projection interested area with respect to a projection plane intersecting the X-ray radiation plane.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for performing single-point projection imaging uses an X-ray source and a line scan camera present at a set distance therefrom and provided with a digital detector. The X-ray source, as well as the line scan camera, are adapted to rotate around an object placed between the X-ray source and the line scan camera. The X-ray source's focal spot is aligned at a desired position and the object is then imaged by scanning it with a beam emanating from the X-ray source, which beam is received by the detector of the line scan camera. The scanning motion is effected in such a way that the focal spot remains essentially stationary during the imaging process.

Abstract: A dental or orthopedic densitometry modeling system includes a computer with a digital memory adapted for storing patient densitometry information, an input and an output. A dental or orthopedic input device includes energy source and an energy sensor, both of which can be either external or intraoral to the patient. The sensor transfers densitometry signals to the computer, which creates, stores and compares digital densitometry models. A densitometry modeling method includes the steps of creating a densitometry database consisting of dental or orthopedic information and obtaining current dental or orthopedic densitometry information from a patient. The current information is compared to the database, which can include the patient's previous densitometry models, and an updated patient densitometry model is created.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for performing X-ray imaging in intraoral application. The method comprises irradiation of an object with a substantially low amount of X-radiation, and a substantially low amount of X-radiation passed through the object is received. The method comprises compiling a sample of image data from the received, substantially low amount of X-radiation. The sample of image data information is communicated to an X-ray source (100), and according to the sample of image data information the object is irradiated with X-radiation, from which X-radiation the part that has passed through the object is received, and the received X-radiation, which is consistent with the sample of image data information, is used for compiling image information.

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.

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 centre (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.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for imaging the head area by using a line detector camera (8) equipped with a digital detector, at which camera is directed an X-ray beam (11) through the object being imaged. In the method is used an apparatus (1) which makes possible the implementation of cephalometric imaging and at least one other imaging method, such as panoramic imaging. The apparatus comprises an X-ray source (5), a primary collimator (6) in conjunction with the X-ray source, a line detector camera (8), which is located to a position further away from the X-ray source (5) for implementing cephalometric imaging and/or to a position closer to the said X-ray source for the said other imaging method, and a secondary collimator (9) in the vicinity of the line detector camera (8) intended for cephalometric imaging.

Abstract: A x-ray diagnostic apparatus and methods perform Real-Time Digital Radiography with particular application in dental x-ray imaging modalities, such as Orthopantomography, Scannography, Linear Tomography and Cephalography, by using a versatile and robotized mechanical structure, featuring projection movements in the required a real range and automatic adaptation of the same mechanical structure to serve the various x-ray imaging modalities foreseen.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for determining and/or positioning a sensor of a digital X-ray unit. The device includes an input and output unit, which serve to interactively control the device, and further includes a first storage location in which a digital picture of an area to be examined is stored. The device also includes a second storage location, in which at least one template-shaped image of the sensor is stored, and further includes a processing unit that simulatively places the template-shaped image of at least one sensor onto an area of the digital picture to be examined whereby completely displaying the area to be examined in the event of an actual X-ray picture.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for panoramic dental X-raying comprises an arm (7) rotating about an axis (6), a radiation source (9) at one end (8) of the arm for generating an X-ray beam (12), a shutter (13) for shaping the X-ray beam, and at the opposite end (10) of the arm, a recorder (11) for receiving the X-ray beam after it has passed through the dental arch for forming an image of the dental arch. The X-raying is performed with rotation of the arm (7) so as to image substantially the entire length of the dental arch. The shutter (13) narrows the X-ray beam (12) in the front area of the dental arch in order to increase the thickness of the sharply imaged layer compared to the two sides of the dental arch.

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.

Abstract: A method and a suite of filters for detecting carotid artery calcification in a panoramic dental radiograph, including imposing a filter between an x-ray radiation beam source and an imaging medium, wherein the imposing attenuates the effect of the incident x-ray in the region of the carotid artery; obtaining a panoramic dental radiograph while imposing the filter, wherein the imposing enhances the contrast of the radiograph in the region of carotid artery; and detecting a calcification region in the area of the radiograph wherein the x-ray image's contrast has been enhanced by using the filter, and which area corresponds with the location of the carotid artery. The suite of filters include a patient format, a cassette format, an x-ray unit format and a software-based format.

Abstract: In a computer system that includes a Central Processing Unit and an associated input device, storage device and display device, a method for displaying on the display device a virtual three-dimensional (3D) dental model at desired preset views, for orthodontic use. The virtual 3D dental model is stored on the storage device and is indicative of a 3D structure of an individual's dental arches. The method includes the steps of providing a graphic user interface (GUI) that includes a graphic representation of the dental model and a plurality of graphic symbols each representative of a desired pre-set view of the dental model from a desired direction. Selecting through the input device graphic symbol from among the plurality of graphic symbols. Moving the dental model to a pre-set view which corresponds to the graphic symbol, whilst retaining the model in zoom.

Abstract: A new and improved intraoral sensor for use in a filmless radiography system is disclosed. The sensor is configured to fit comfortably and close to a target area in an intraoral cavity. By providing a comfortable relative fit to the target area, the sensor is ergonomically improved, in terms of its comfort and feel to a dental patient. In addition, the configuration of the sensor is designed to allow the sensor to be placed closer to a target area in an oral cavity than prior sensors (i.e. closer to target teeth, gum, etc). Moreover, the sensor is configured so that it can easily be located in a correct position relative to the target area, and when located correctly to properly position its sensing structure for receiving radiant energy. These features are believed to reduce refractive error in the image received by the sensor, thereby improving the image data transmitted by the sensor.

Abstract: An X-ray object positioning apparatus for use in X-ray imaging apparatus which irradiates X-rays an object to be examined to produce an X-ray absorption coefficient of a desired region of the object by means of X-rays transmitted through the object. The X-ray object positioning apparatus comprises a chair for fixing and holding the object; an imaging position moving apparatus for relatively moving an X-ray imaging target area relative to the fixed object chair; and display for variably showing the relative positional relation between an object model corresponding to the object and an imaging target area index corresponding to the X-ray imaging target area.

Abstract: A dental imaging system and apparatus, designed for receiving dental image data and transmitting dental image data in accordance with the IEEE 1394 protocol is disclosed. A digital image integration device is configured to (a) receive dental image data from any or all of a plurality of dental image recording devices, each of which is configured to record and output image data, and to (b) transmit digital image data, via a plurality of IEEE 1394 connectors, to any or all of a plurality of digital image receiving devices via the IEEE 1394 protocol At least one of the image recording devices is a single frame image recording device, preferably a filmless radiography sensor. The plurality of dental image recording devices further preferably includes an intraoral video camera configured to record and transmit intraoral video images. In addition, the plurality of digital image receiving devices preferably comprises at least one image display device.

Abstract: An imaging system for producing a panoramic radiograph of a patient's jaw for dental analysis includes an X-ray source (2) carried at one end of an arm (1) and detector means (7) at the other end. The front surface of the detector means (7) carries scintillator material (8) which substantially solely defines the area of the detector means at which the image information is captured. The secondary diaphragm or slot used in conventional panoramic X-ray imaging systems can thus be omitted, giving a less complicated system.

Abstract: In a method and x-ray apparatus for making and reproducing a radiological tomogram of a subject, the subject is irradiated with radiation emanating from a focus disposed at a known distance from a focal plane, situated at the subject. The focal plane is disposed at a known distance from a radiation receiver, which is disposed in the image plane, and which contains a number of picture elements. In a digital radiological tomogram, either the slice position with the aforementioned distances is allocated to respective picture elements, or a correction factor, based on the slice position and the aforementioned distances, is allocated to the respective picture elements, from which a corrected image is obtained with the subject appearing with a corrected size corresponding to the size of the subject in the focal plane.

Abstract: An apparatus and method used in dental transversal x-ray tomography provides off-line alignment of the patient denture impression with the bite block of a panoramic x-ray equipment, and allows accurate and reproducible patient positioning during the imaging process. An impression of the patient denture is taken on a special tray. The tray is mounted on the alignment apparatus and is aligned by using optical marking in correspondence with the target zone. The alignment apparatus is then mounted on a panoramic x-ray equipment, and the patient is invited to bite on the tray during the imaging process.

Abstract: The invention relates to a medical imaging means including a movement mechanism (10). The movement mechanism (10) comprises a first mounting part (21) and a second mounting part (22) and at least three link arm members. The link arm assemblies of the mechanism include actuator means and a link arm member or a set of link arm members. The movement mechanism is used for moving a medical imaging device or a part thereof.

Abstract: An apparatus and method used in intra-oral dental x-ray imaging equipment provides automatic detection of the x-ray emission in order to obtain timely transition to the image integration and acquisition phase with high level of rejection of false triggering induced by blemish defects of the image sensor or by variations of the ambient and temperature conditions. A solid state imager, such as a CCD image sensor, is continually clocked during the standby phase prior to irradiation from an X-ray source, so providing on same time an output signal proportional to the accumulated dark current and the continuous removal of the same. A control unit analyses the output signal of the imager, detects the variation caused by the start of the x-ray emission using appropriate threshold levels, and automatically triggers the imager to the image integration and acquisition phases.

Abstract: In a method for imaging in digital dental radioscopy making use of a sensor array, the individual image elements of which are smaller than a desired local resolution so that a plurality of image elements forms a respective effective image element, first reference signals, which are generated by the image elements of the sensor array when said sensor array is not exposed to X-radiation, are initially detected. In addition, second reference signals, which are generated by the image elements of the sensor array when said sensor array is exposed to X-radiation, are detected. Subsequently, defective image elements are determined on the basis of the detected first and second reference signals, whereupon an image of an object is produced using exclusively the image elements that have been determined as being non-defective.

Abstract: An X-ray computed tomography method and apparatus for obtaining a panoramic X-ray image seen from a direction of a projection line &ggr; (&ggr;′) of a curved sectional area SA by expanding calculation results of three-dimensional distribution information of X-ray absorption coefficient on the projection line &ggr; (&ggr;′) intersecting at a specified angle &bgr; (&bgr;′) for any regions &agr; of the panoramic sectional image layer SB on a two-dimensional plane based on the three dimensional distribution information of X-ray absorption coefficient of the curved sectional area SA obtained by a X-ray CT.

Abstract: This invention relates to tomographic imaging and is particularly intended to be applied to medical x-ray photography. An object of the invention is to provide an imaging mode where the imaging means can follow the anatomy of the object to be imaged without having to make compromises between the thickness of the layer to be imaged and the optimal imaging path, i.e., a path which is perpendicular to the object to be imaged. The invention provides a new way of producing tomographic effect in tomographic methods based on the use of a narrow beam, the new way being based on the idea that the rotational direction of the beam is changed in the object to be imaged during an imaging scan.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cranial radiography apparatus, particularly intended for dental panoramic radiography, said apparatus comprising a first body part to which is connected a second body part (13) having thereto connected a third body part (14) to which is connected a fourth body part (15). To the opposite ends of said fourth body part (15) are connected an x-ray source and an x-ray detector. The body parts are connected to each other by means of pivot shafts aligned essentially parallel to each other. The pivot shafts are rotated by means of active actuators and their rotational movement is programmably controlled by means of a computer, thus permitting the x-ray source and the x-ray detector to be moved over any predetermined orbit. The apparatus further includes means for radiography using a cephalostat.

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: An apparatus and method used in dental transversal x-ray tomography provides off-line alignment of the patient denture impression with the bite block of a panoramic x-ray equipment, and allows accurate and reproducible patient positioning during the imaging process. An impression of the patient denture is taken on a special tray. The tray is mounted on the alignment apparatus and is aligned by using optical marking in correspondence with the target zone. The alignment apparatus is then mounted on a panoramic x-ray equipment, and the patient is invited to bite on the tray during the imaging process.

Abstract: An apparatus and method used in dental panoramic and cephalographic x-ray equipment provides automatic adjustment of the pre-programmed exposure factors in order to obtain optimisation of the grey scale of the latent image on various kinds of x-ray detectors, such as the radiographic film or x-ray image detector plates. A sensor, such as photo diodes, detects the intensity of the radiation passed through the patient and incident on the x-ray detector and feeds it to a control unit. The control unit provides a computed simulation of the latent image grey level and adjusts the programmed exposure factors in order to establish the grey level of the latent image at the required reference value.

Abstract: An apparatus and method used in dental transversal x-ray tomography provides off-line alignment of the patient denture impression with the bite block of a panoramic x-ray equipment, and allows accurate and reproducible patient positioning during the imaging process. An impression of the patient denture is taken on a special tray. The tray is mounted on the alignment apparatus and is aligned by using optical marking in correspondence with the target zone. The alignment apparatus is then mounted on a panoramic x-ray equipment, and the patient is invited to bite on the tray during the imaging process.

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: The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for panoramic dental X-raying. The apparatus comprises an arm (7) rotating about an axis (6), a radiation source (9) at one end (8) of the arm for generating an X-ray beam (12), a shutter (13) for shaping the X-ray beam, and at the opposite end (10) of the arm, a recorder (11) for receiving the X-ray beam after it has passed through the dental arch for forming an image of the dental arch. The X-raying is performed with rotation of the arm (7) so as to image substantially the entire length of the dental arch. According to the invention, the shutter (13) narrows the X-ray beam (12) in the front area of the dental arch in order to increase the thickness of the sharply imaged layer compared to the two sides of the dental arch. This solution allows compensation for the decrease in the width of the sharp layer caused by the orthogonal X-raying and for the consequently shortened X-raying radius in the front area of the dental arch.