Abstract: A method for generating a panoramic image of a patient includes obtaining a digital 3D surface representation of at least a part of the patient's teeth; using the obtained digital 3D surface representation to define a customized path following the arch form of the patient's teeth; obtaining a plurality of x-ray images of at least a part of one of the patient's jaws and/or teeth; and generating the panoramic image of the patient using the customized path.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an x-ray imaging method using a variable imaging plane projection and to an x-ray imaging device applying the same. By applying a variable imaging plane projection using at least two sets of scan data for different heights obtained while varying the height of the x-ray generator from an imaging object, it is possible to solve problems caused due to a magnification effect generated in the x-ray imaging field based on a fan-beam-type or cone-beam-type x-ray generator, thereby providing more accurate x-ray image information.

Abstract: Disclosed is an X-ray image radiographing apparatus being economical by using a small width sensor, occupying less space, and providing an X-ray CT image and an X-ray panoramic image without distortion and with high accuracy. An X-ray image radiographing apparatus according the present invention includes a rotation supporter rotating based on a rotation shaft; a generating unit including an X-ray generator radiating an X-ray beam; a sensing unit including a small width sensor moving in a width direction thereof; and a controller changing a rotation speed of the rotation supporter or a frame rate of the sensing unit to compensate changes in magnification ratio according to a distance change between an area of interest of the subject and the small width sensor when performing an X-ray image radiographing sequence obtaining a number of CT images by rotating the rotation supporter.

Abstract: Disclosed is an X-ray imaging device, the device including: an X-ray radiation unit for radiating X-rays to the predetermined target areas of an object to be imaged in respective imaging positions; an X-ray sensing unit for receiving the X-rays; a movement unit for arranging the X-ray radiation unit and the X-ray sensing unit to allow the X-ray radiation unit and the X-ray sensing unit to face each other in the respective imaging positions, with the object located therebetween; a position information provision unit for providing position information of the X-ray radiation unit and the X-ray sensing unit, position information of the variable rotary shaft, and position information of the target areas; a control unit for controlling the X-ray radiation unit, the X-ray sensing unit, and the movement unit; and an image processing unit for producing three-dimensional images of the object from the projection data.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and computer readable media to automatically tailor image parameter settings used in a dental X-ray imaging system. At least one dentition characteristic and at least one non-dentition characteristic are selected and used to automatically determine at least one X-ray exposure setting for a patient to be imaged. The at least one dentition characteristic, the at least one non-dentition characteristic, and the at least one X-ray exposure setting are used to automatically generate a set of image parameter settings capable of being applied to acquired X-ray image data, being representative of the dentition of the patient.

Abstract: A radiation imaging device includes plural individual detectors defining an irregular rectangular active area responsive to x-rays and with different widths along a length of the active area. The individual detectors may be of different rectangular shapes and mounted on a motherboard. The motherboard may be formed of a first module mounting a first of two individual detectors and a second module detachable connected to the first module and mounting a second of two individual detectors.

Abstract: An X-ray photography apparatus including: a turning arm that supports an X-ray generator and an X-ray detector while the X-ray generator and the X-ray detector are opposed to each other so that a head of a patient can be interposed therebetween; and a moving mechanism that turns the turning arm about a turning axis with respect to the head and moves the turning arm in a direction perpendicular to the turning axis with respect to the head. The X-ray photography apparatus further includes: an image processor that generates an X-ray image based on an electric signal output from the X-ray detector; and a photographic region designation receiving part that designates part of a row of teeth along a dental arch as a pseudo intraoral radiography region. The image processor generates plural tomographic images by applying convolution and filtered back projection to X-ray image data obtained by pseudo intraoral radiography.

Abstract: An X-ray photography apparatus including: a turning arm that supports an X-ray generator and an X-ray detector which are opposed to each other so that the head of a patient can be interposed therebetween, and a moving mechanism that includes a turning part and a moving part. The turning part turns the turning arm about a turning axis with respect to the head. The moving part moves the turning arm relative to the head in a direction perpendicular to the turning axis. The X-ray photography apparatus also includes: an image processor that generates an X-ray image, a photographic region designation part that designates part of a row of teeth along a dental arch as a pseudo intraoral radiography region, and an X-ray forming mechanism that changes the irradiation direction in which the head is irradiated with an X-ray relative to the axial direction of the body axis of the patient.

Abstract: The invention relates to an X-ray device comprising an x-ray sensitive camera for creating tomograms, especially panoramic tomograms. Means for creating 3D shots of a partial volume of the mandibular arch are also provided, said 3D shots being created especially by a second image receiver for creating a 2D shot and means for taking a plurality of 2D shots from different directions and creating a 3D shot therefrom, preferably according to conebeam technology with the associated reconstruction algorithms. The x-ray sensitive camera comprises a first x-ray sensitive image receiver for creating a tomogram, and a second x-ray sensitive image receiver for creating plane shots.

Abstract: An extra-oral digital panoramic dental x-ray imaging system for multi-layer panoramic and transverse X-ray imaging providing with an X-ray source and a digital imaging device providing real time frame mode output and autofocusing. The X-ray 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.

Abstract: An imaging method includes obtaining a first image data for a subset of a target region, the subset of the target region having a first metallic object, obtaining a second image data for the target region, and using the first and second image data to determine a composite image. A imaging system includes a first detector configured to provide a first projection data using a first radiation having high energy, and a second detector configured to provide a second projection data using a second radiation having low energy, wherein the first detector has a first length, the second detector has a second length, and the first length is less than 75% of the second length.

Abstract: A medical X-ray apparatus comprising a supporting part for supporting an X-ray generator and a two-dimensional X-ray detector while interposing an object to be examined therebetween, a radiation area restricting part for restricting a radiation area of X-ray generated from the X-ray generator, and a scan driving part for scanning the object with the X-ray restricted by the radiation area restricting part as X-ray beam and for executing radiography. A direction intersecting with X-ray scan direction is defined as a height direction, the apparatus further comprises a radiation area setting part for setting at least one of both ends of width of the X-ray beam in the height direction at a desired position in accordance with the position of an interested area of the object; and the X-ray beam is irradiated only to the radiation area as set by the radiation area setting part with its beam width in height direction restricted by the radiation area restricting part.

Abstract: An extra-oral digital panoramic dental x-ray imaging system for multi-layer panoramic and transverse X-ray imaging providing with an X-ray source and a digital imaging device providing real time frame mode output and autofocusing. The X-ray 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.

Abstract: A dental radiology apparatus includes an X-radiation generator and a sensor opposite it receiving radiation from the generator. The apparatus produces a panoramic image of an object by displacement of the assembly formed of the generator and the sensor along a given trajectory in a plane, the generator having at least one collimation slit elongated along a z-axis perpendicular to the plane to produce an X-ray beam elongated along this axis in a first mode of operation, the sensor with an array of pixels extending along the Z-axis in correspondence with the beam. The apparatus includes elements for pivoting the sensor by 90° to extend it in a direction parallel to the plane P, switching the generator provided with the collimation slit from the first mode to a second mode of operation to produce an X-ray beam elongated parallel to the direction of the sensor, so that the these positioned sensor is always in correspondence with the beam.

Abstract: A apparatus particularly well suited for use in medical imaging includes radiation sensitive detectors (40, 50) which detect gamma radiation indicative of radionuclide decays in an examination region (30). The detectors (40, 50) are supported by generally c-shaped support (70) for rotation about a detector rotation axis (35). The support (70) is farther attached to a pivot joint (77) which allows adjustment of the detector rotation axis (35). The support (70) may also be translated in two degrees of freedom to so that the detectors (40, 50) orbit the examination region (20) in a non-circular orbit.

Abstract: An apparatus provides an image on the basis of a plurality of input images. The apparatus includes a first stage having at least a first and a second combiner, each of the combiners including a first storer for storing image data of the input images, a first processor for processing the image data of the input images into an intermediate image, and a second storer for storing image data of the intermediate image. The apparatus further includes a second stage having at least one further combiner, the further combiner including a third storer for storing image data of those intermediate images which are stored in the second storer of the first stage, a second processor for processing the image data from the third storer, so as to combine the image data of the intermediate images into the image, and a fourth storer for storing image data of the image.

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 the 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: A system, method, and computer program product for performing pan-oral imaging. A plurality of data points are generated which are representative of spatial positions of an actual dentition of a patient with respect to a defined spatial coordinate system. A fitted curve through at least a portion of the spatial positions of the dentition is computed using the plurality of data points. A pan-oral image acquisition trajectory is then computed with respect to a defined spatial coordinate system using the fitted curve. A pan-oral image of the dentition is then acquired along the pan-oral image acquisition trajectory.

Abstract: A method for producing a dental prosthesis element wherein construction relating to the dental prosthesis element is recorded together with measurement data relating to the dental prosthesis element and is reproduced on a display, the measurement data having been recorded by a three-dimensional measurement device. A 3D data record of the tooth situation can be reproduced on the display instead of the construction data. A device for the partial manual treatment of the dental prosthesis element includes a three-dimensional measurement device, a display, and a computer unit for the correlation and comparison of two data records and for graphically presenting the data generated by the comparison.

Abstract: A unit for X-ray CT imaging to be set in a panorama X-ray imaging apparatus having a cassette holder has a digital sensor cassette for CT imaging to be set in the cassette holder, includes a two-dimensional X-ray detector for acquiring X-ray projection data for CT imaging of an object, and a controller for controlling a timing of X-ray CT imaging, a radiation field of X-ray beam generated by the X-ray detector, and the rotary device. Alternatively, the unit has the digital sensor cassette for X-ray CT imaging, an image reconstructor which calculates to convert the X-ray projection data obtained with the two-dimensional X-ray detector to a distribution of X-ray absorption coefficients of the object and creates tomographic image data of sections of the object, and an image processor which sends and receives signals for X-ray CT imaging between the X-ray detector and the image reconstructor when the digital sensor cassette for CT imaging is set in the cassette holder.

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 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: A compact and mobile gantry for 3-dimensional Application Specific Emission and/or Transmission Tomography (ASETT) imaging of the breast in single photon or coincidence emission modes, and single photon, or coincidence, or x-ray transmission modes. While the ASETT gantry was designed, built and evaluated for imaging metabolically active lesions in the pendant breast, it can also be used to image other organs and objects. This system overcomes physical constraints associated with imaging a pendulous breast in prone patients, while simultaneously satisfying sampling criteria for sufficient data collection in the pendulous breast reference frame. When combined with an offset cone-beam tomographic x-ray transmission imaging system, this dual modality ASETT system could provide simultaneous and coregistered structural and functional information about large or dense breasts, breasts with indeterminate x-ray mammography, and could also be used to accurately 3-dimensionally guide biopsy or surgical resection.

Abstract: A multi-functional dental extra-oral x-ray imaging system includes a conventional x-ray source and manipulator to control the movement of the x-ray source by translating and rotating, a real time multiple frame producing x-ray imaging device and at least two different exposure profile programs, whereas one of such profiles produces a standard panoramic image and a second of such profiles produces an angled or transverse slice to a the panoramic image. A third exposure profile program produces a substantially linear projection of the human skull by combining two linear projections, one for the right and one for the left part of the head. The sensor is a linear direct conversion operating preferably in the frame mode and producing more than 100 fps.

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: A method and apparatus for generating a panoramic image of part of a target, comprises providing a scanner having a source of penetrating radiation facing a detector having an array of sensors for the penetrating radiation. The target is positioned between the source of penetrating radiation and the detector, and scanned with relative rotation of the scanner and the target. Radiation received at a plurality of the sensors spaced apart in the circumferential direction of the relative rotation is separately recorded. A panoramic image is generated by combining for each pixel of the panoramic image outputs from different sensors at different times during the relative rotation, the combined outputs being selected to represent rays of radiation passing through a point on a defined curve. The generated panoramic image and a graphical representation of the defined curve are displayed. Instructions are received from a user to alter the defined curve.

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: 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: A C-arm imaging device method, apparatus and system are provided. The apparatus and system includes a module for determining the positions of an imaging source and an imaging receptor and a local gravity vector to determine an imaging source focal point displacement. The apparatus and system may include a module for determining magnetic field distortion. Data obtained by the apparatus and system can be stored for use in subsequent interpolation of imaging source focal point displacement for the C-arm imaging device.

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: 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.

Abstract: An X-ray device for generating a panoramic tomogram is designed so that a revolving arm can move between a first position, where an X-ray generator and an X-ray receiver that are both supported by the revolving arm oppose each other through the head of a patient positioned in a patient positioning station, and a second position, where an operator of the X-ray device can look at the patient's head from a side view, thereby allowing the operator to properly position the patient in the patient positioning station. The incorporation of a second X-ray receiver additionally allows for the generation of a cephalogram. The incorporation of a blind prevents the patient from visually or physically interacting with selected components of the apparatus.

Abstract: An X-ray, neutron or electron diffraction method, which is devoid of the defects of conventional diffraction apparatus using an imaging plate, which can analyzing a sample, in a non-destructive mode without contact and with a good S/N ratio, even when the sample significantly generates fluorescence or scattered X-rays.

Abstract: A radiation diagnostic installation includes a panorama scanner for tomographically scanning a subject with radiation and for generating electrical signals dependent on the radiation shadow of the subject. A signal processor includes a memory for storing the electrical signals during the tomographic scanning and a computer for calculating signals corresponding to a tomogram of the subject in a desired slice position. The computer determines the desired slice position from the calculation of individual slice positions and their evaluation, thereby enabling faster production of tomograms in a desired slice position.

Abstract: An X-ray equipment comprising an X-ray source and an imaging means detecting the X-rays passed through a subject for digital processing, whereby the imaging means may consist of an X-ray converter film and a sensor or of a storage film and a scanner. Such an X-ray equipment for the digital evaluation of X-rays can be used for panoramic images of a patient's jaw, for thorax images and images of other parts of the body. According to an embodiment of the present invention where an X-ray converter film and a sensor are used, the X-rays are incident on the X-ray converter film 13, which converts same into visible light. The light is passed to sensor 14 by an optical lens unit 18, said sensor being controlled and read by the signal processing unit 15a. The signal processing unit 15a separates, filters and intensifies the image signals and passes them on to the image storage card 16.

Abstract: Art abstract and method for X-ray tomography is disclosed. The apparatus moves the X-ray source in a complex motion with a simple mechanism that is both low cost and reliable. The patient must be positioned such that a straight line between the X-ray source and the film will always pass through the object to be X-rayed, regardless of the position of the X-ray source and the X-ray film which are in operative relationship to each other.

Abstract: The present invention is providing a method and a sensor device arrangement for a scanning digital radiographic system offering a multiple sensor arrangement producing continuous image data acquisition along the entire length of the detector device arrangement. By cutting the sensor die short edges along a die cut (46) with a predefined angle in relation to the scanning direction there is no longer a total loss of data at any position along the longitudinal extension of the detector arrangement. Instead some minor loss pixels (40) is encountered over a certain range of the scanning width coinciding with the joint of two adjacent sensor dies, in which range the image can easily be fully reconstructed by means of the electronic circuitry.

Abstract: A digital X-ray imaging apparatus comprises an X-ray generator 6 for generating X-rays toward a subject, an X-ray imaging device 7 for detecting an image of X-rays having passed through the subject, a swivel member 4 and a horizontal movement means 8 provided with the X-ray generator 6 and the X-ray imaging device 7 opposed to each other to relatively move the X-ray generator 6 and the X-ray imaging device 7 with respect to the subject, a CPU 21 for producing a tomographic image in accordance with an imaging signal from the X-ray imaging device 7, frame memories and an image display unit 26 for displaying the tomographic image. The X-ray imaging device 7 includes a MOS image sensor having a plurality of two-dimensional light-receiving pixels. With this configuration, a tomographic image along a given tomographic plane can be produced by a signal X-ray imaging operation, and the imaging sensitivity of the digital X-ray imaging apparatus can be enhanced.

Abstract: The invention provides a medical radiographic apparatus constituted such that a swivel arm possessing an X-ray generator and an X-ray detection plane disposed to confront mutually with respect to the head of a patient is supported with a post through swivel means and a holding frame thereof in order to move the swivel arm about the head of the patient, the X-ray generator and X-ray detection plane are moved in mutually parallel reverse directions while synchronized, and irradiated X-rays are allowed to always enter the X-ray detection plane by passing through the same exposure region in the desired plane section in cooperation with the movement, the apparatus comprising:an ascending/descending main body from which the holding frame is extended, supported with the post so as to be free to move up and down, anda patient frame supported with the post so as to be free to move up and down, independently of the ascending/descending main body, having holding means for holding and fixing the head of the patient.

Abstract: The present invention provides a panoramic imaging apparatus capable of obtaining a clear tomographic image even when the rotation speed of a swivel member changes. The clock for driving an FFT CCD device in accordance with the TDI method is set on the basis of the angular speed .omega. of the arm detected by a tachogenerator and a function value f (.theta.) which responds to the rotation angle .theta. of the swivel member detected by an angle detector and used to determine a tomographic orbit. The angle detector is provided with a cam having a shape having been set in accordance with the relationship between the rotation angle .theta. and the film feeding speed at the time of performing X-ray panoramic imaging by using photographic films. The signal of the angular speed .omega. and the signal of the function value f (.theta.) corresponding to the angle .theta. are added by an analog multiplier, and subjected to frequency modulation by a V/F converter to create a TDI clock.

Abstract: An x-ray diagnostics installation for producing x-ray exposures of body parts of a patient has a line detector camera arranged diametrically opposite a radiation source, the line detector camera containing an x-ray detector arranged behind a slot-shaped opening, the width of the x-ray detector being matched to the width or length of the body part to be registered. An adjustment system adjusts the line detector camera relative to the body part such that the slot opening is moved along the body part, whereby the fan beam limited by the radiation diaphragm of the radiation source is moved synchronously relative to the camera motion. The line detector camera can be horizontally or vertically arranged.

Abstract: A planigraphic X-ray apparatus comprising a rotation mechanism for rotating a support member which supports an X-ray generator and an X-ray detection surface to rotate the X-ray generator and the X-ray detection surface around a subject, a position adjustment mechanism for setting the position of the rotation center of the support member rotated by the rotation mechanism and a linear movement means for moving the support member in the direction approximately perpendicular to the direction of the X-ray irradiated from the X-ray generator, whereby the X-ray detection surface is driven in the direction opposite to the movement of the linear movement means and the X-ray generator is rotated toward the X-ray detection surface in synchronization with the movement of the linear movement means.

Abstract: A medical X-ray tomographing apparatus, wherein the output end surfaces of a plurality of optical fiber bundles are optically coupled to the image pickup surfaces of vertically long solid-state image pickup devices, such as one-dimensional image sensors, and the input end surfaces of a plurality of the optical fiber bundles having a vertically long cross-sectional shape being identical to that of the output end surfaces thereof are optically coupled individually to a plurality of vertically long divisions obtained by dividing the fluorescent surface of a scintillator in the width direction thereof. With this apparatus, it is not necessary to significantly contract the size of the image on the fluorescent surface, thereby remarkably reducing the number of the solid-state image pickup devices and the number of the divisions of the fluorescent surface.

Abstract: An exposure apparatus for panoramic x-ray equipment automatically adjusts imaging parameters. The intensity of radiation passed through the patient is measured by detectors, such as photo diodes, and provided to a control unit. On the basis of the measured radiation, the control units identifies anatomical features and adjusts the imaging parameters accordingly.

Abstract: A rotational tomographic X-ray apparatus is disclosed as having an X-ray detection surface disposed parallel to a planigraphic plane selected as a subject to be photographed, and comprising a mechanism for linearly moving the X-ray generator and the X-ray detection surface of the apparatus in relatively opposite directions parallel to the planigraphic plane with the head of a patient positioned therebetween, and for controlling the irradiation direction of X-rays so that the irradiated X-rays always pass the same specific region in the planigraphic plane and are incident on the X-ray detection surface in synchronization with the linear movement. With this apparatus, clear planigraphic photographing with no distortion is possible and the magnifying ratios of X-ray images can be changed easily.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method and apparatus for narrow-beam tomography in which a narrow x-ray beam (X) emitted from an x-ray source (12) is aimed to pass through the object area to be radiographed onto a transferrable x-ray film (F). The object area to be imaged in the patient (P) is kept stationary in a certain preset position, while the x-ray source (12) is rotated about a virtual axis of rotation (R.sub.0) and the film cassette (14) is simultaneously transferred. In the first imaging mode for the panoramic radiography of the dental arch (L), the patient (P) is supported by patient positioning means (20 . . . 30) so that the sharply imaging plane is located between the virtual axis of rotation and the film plane. In addition to said first imaging mode, the panoramic x-ray apparatus is adjustable for a specific mandibular joint imaging mode in which the patient is supported in the panoramic x-ray apparatus using said patient positioning means (20 . . . 30). The speeds (v.sub.R, v.sub.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method and apparatus for narrow-beam tomography in which x-ray radiation is aimed to pass through the object to be radiographed onto a movable (v.sub.1) x-ray film (F). The object (P) is kept stationary in a certain position, while the x-ray source and the film cassette (14) are rotated about a vertical virtual axis of rotation (A-A). In the first operating mode for the panoramic radiography of the dental arch the patient (P) is supported by positioning means so that the sharply imaging plane (P-P) is located between the virtual axis of rotation (A-A) of the x-ray beam (X) and the film plane. In the second operating mode for the radiography of transversal projections of the dental arch (L) the patient (P) is supported in such a stationary position that the virtual axis of rotation (A-A) of the x-ray beam (X) is located in the area between the sharply imaging tissue layer (P-P) and the film plane (F).

Abstract: A panoramic dental radiography system projects multiple vertical, fan-shaped radiation beams through a subject's teeth and onto multiple detectors, with each fan-shaped beam avoiding the subject's spine. The radiographic source and radiographic detectors are rotated about a vertical axis, so that the detected radiation may be tomographically processed to produce a panoramic image of the teeth. The multiple vertical fan-shaped radiation beams are projected on either side of the spine, to reduce the radiographic dosage to the spine and to prevent the spine from blurring the panoramic radiograph. The resulting multiple projections can be tomosynthetically processed to produce a three-dimensional image of tissues of diagnostic interest, free of image artifacts produced by irradiation of the spine.

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.