Intra-oral camera system and camera device

Abstract

An intraoral imaging system includes an imaging device and a control device. The imaging device has an imaging section, a control section, and a housing that houses the imaging section and the control section. The imaging section is configured to detect radiation for imaging detection to acquire an image of an object and to detect radiation for monitoring detection to monitor a dose of the radiation. The control section transmits an imaging signal acquired by the imaging detection and a monitoring signal acquired by the monitoring detection to the control device. The control device receives the imaging signal and the monitoring signal, and transmits a control instruction generated based on the monitoring signal to the control section. The control section controls the imaging section in accordance with the control instruction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an intraoral imaging system and imaging device. Background Technology

[0002] An imaging device is known to detect radiation transmitted through an object when positioned within the oral cavity. In such an imaging device, the radiation dose is monitored, and the detection of radiation used to acquire an image of the object (i.e., imaging of the object) is terminated when the radiation dose falls below a predetermined threshold. However, depending on the type of object (anterior teeth, posterior teeth, etc.) and / or the type of imaging method (parallel method, bisection method, wing method, bite method, etc.), the total radiation dose necessary to properly acquire an image of the object varies. Therefore, if imaging of the object is terminated solely based on the radiation dose, there is a possibility that an image of the object may not be properly acquired. Therefore, in the imaging device described in Patent Document 1, a control module is separately provided from the sensor used when positioned within the oral cavity. The sensor sends a signal regarding the radiation dose to the control module, which analyzes the signal and thereby determines when to terminate the imaging of the object.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 5715960 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] However, in the camera device described in Patent Document 1, since the control module, which is envisioned to be separately installed from the sensor and connected to a control device such as a PC, is designed to be connected, there is a concern that the control module may become an obstacle when the sensor is placed inside the oral cavity, resulting in low operability of the camera device. On the other hand, for example, if the sensor and control module are housed in a single housing, although the operability of the camera device is improved, there is a concern that the camera device inside the oral cavity may overheat when performing signal analysis on radiation dose in the control module placed inside the oral cavity.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide an intraoral imaging system and imaging device that can achieve proper acquisition of an image of an object, improve the operability of the imaging device, and suppress the heating of the intraoral imaging device.

[0009] Technical means to solve the problem

[0010] An intraoral imaging system according to one aspect of the present invention includes: an imaging device for detecting radiation transmitted through an object in a state disposed within the oral cavity; and a control device electrically connected to the imaging device, the imaging device having: an imaging unit for detecting radiation; a control unit configured to communicate with the control device and control the imaging unit; and a housing housing the imaging unit and the control unit, the imaging unit performing a first detection of radiation for acquiring an image of the object and a second detection of radiation for monitoring the dose of radiation, the control unit sending a first signal obtained through the first detection and a second signal obtained through the second detection to the control device, the control device receiving the first signal and the second signal and sending a control command generated based on the second signal to the control unit, the control unit receiving the control command and controlling the imaging unit according to the control command.

[0011] In the aforementioned intraoral imaging system, the control device receives a second signal regarding the radiation dose and sends a control command generated based on the second signal to the control unit. The control unit receives the control command and controls the imaging unit according to the control command. Thus, for example, the timing of ending the imaging of the object can be determined based on the type of object and / or the type of imaging method, resulting in the appropriate acquisition of an image of the object. Furthermore, in the aforementioned intraoral imaging system, the imaging unit and the control unit are housed within a housing. This avoids problems that arise when the control unit and imaging unit are separately arranged, such as the control unit becoming an obstacle when the imaging unit is placed inside the oral cavity. Moreover, in the aforementioned intraoral imaging system, the generation of the control command based on the second signal regarding the radiation dose is implemented in the control device. This reduces the processing burden on the control unit on the imaging device side, resulting in miniaturization of the imaging device and suppression of heat generation. Based on the above explanation, the aforementioned intraoral imaging system achieves appropriate acquisition of an image of the object, improved operability of the imaging device, and suppression of heat generation in the intraoral imaging device.

[0012] In one aspect of the intraoral imaging system of the present invention, the control device can also generate an image of the object based on the first signal. Thus, an image of the object can be reliably generated.

[0013] In one aspect of the intraoral imaging system of the present invention, the control command may include a termination command to end the first detection. Upon receiving the termination command, the control unit controls the imaging unit to end the first detection. Thus, for example, the detection of radiation used to acquire an image of the object can be terminated at an appropriate time corresponding to the type of object and / or the type of imaging method, resulting in the appropriate acquisition of an image of the object.

[0014] In one aspect of the intraoral imaging system of the present invention, the control device may also generate an end command if the total dose of radiation calculated based on the second signal exceeds a predetermined threshold. Thus, for example, the detection of radiation used to acquire an image of the object can be terminated with an appropriate total dose corresponding to the type of object and / or the type of imaging method, resulting in the appropriate acquisition of an image of the object.

[0015] In one aspect of the intraoral imaging system of the present invention, the control device may also store thresholds for each imaging condition of the object, and accept input of imaging conditions, setting the threshold corresponding to the imaging condition. Thus, by setting an appropriate threshold corresponding to the input imaging condition, for example, an image of the object can be appropriately acquired regardless of the type of object and / or the type of imaging method.

[0016] In one aspect of the intraoral imaging system of the present invention, the control device may also accept imaging conditions including object information about the object and set a threshold corresponding to the object information. Therefore, by setting an appropriate threshold corresponding to the object being imaged, an image of the object can be appropriately acquired regardless of the type of object.

[0017] In one aspect of the intraoral imaging system of the present invention, the control device may also accept imaging conditions including imaging method information about the imaging method of the object, and set a threshold corresponding to the imaging method information. Therefore, by setting an appropriate threshold corresponding to the imaging method of the object, an image of the object can be appropriately acquired regardless of the type of imaging method.

[0018] In one aspect of the intraoral imaging system of the present invention, the control unit can also be configured to communicate with the control device via a wire. This ensures a stable communication environment between the control unit and the control device. Furthermore, because the imaging unit and the control unit are housed in a single housing, even in a structure where the control unit and the control device are physically connected via a wire, problems such as the control unit becoming an obstruction when the imaging unit is placed inside the oral cavity can be avoided.

[0019] One aspect of the present invention is an imaging device for detecting radiation transmitted through an object in a state disposed within the oral cavity, comprising: an imaging unit for detecting radiation; a control unit configured to communicate with a control device and control the imaging unit; and a housing housing the imaging unit and the control unit. The imaging unit performs a first detection of radiation for acquiring an image of the object and a second detection of radiation for monitoring the dose of radiation. The control unit transmits a first signal obtained through the first detection and a second signal obtained through the second detection to the control device, and receives control commands from the control device, and controls the imaging unit according to the control commands.

[0020] In the aforementioned camera device, the control unit sends a second signal obtained through the second detection to the control device and receives control commands from the control device, controlling the camera unit according to the control commands. Thus, for example, the control device can determine the timing of ending the image capture of the object based on the second signal, the type of object, and / or the type of imaging method, resulting in the appropriate acquisition of an image of the object. Furthermore, in the aforementioned camera device, the camera unit and the control unit are housed within a housing. This avoids problems that arise when the control unit and camera unit are separately arranged, such as the control unit becoming an obstacle when the camera unit is placed inside the oral cavity. Moreover, in the aforementioned camera device, the generation of control commands is implemented within the control device. This reduces the processing burden on the control unit on the camera device side, resulting in miniaturization of the camera device and suppression of heat generation. Based on the above explanation, the aforementioned camera device achieves appropriate acquisition of an image of the object, improved operability of the camera device, and suppression of heat generation in the oral cavity.

[0021] The effects of the invention

[0022] According to the present invention, an intraoral imaging system and imaging device are provided that can achieve proper acquisition of an image of an object, improve the operability of the imaging device, and suppress the heating of the intraoral imaging device. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of an intraoral camera system according to one implementation method.

[0024] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the camera device.

[0025] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Block diagram of the camera device and control device shown.

[0026] Figure 4 It is a sequence diagram representing the process flow of camera processing from the acceptance of camera conditions to the start of camera detection.

[0027] Figure 5 It is a sequence diagram representing the processing flow of camera processing from the generation of the second instruction starting from the first instruction to the acquisition of the image of the object.

[0028] Figure 6 This is a flowchart representing the threshold setting process. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, identical or equivalent parts in the drawings are labeled with the same symbols, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0030] [Structure of an intraoral camera system]

[0031] like Figure 1 As shown, the intraoral imaging system 100 includes an imaging device 1 and a control device 10. The imaging device 1, positioned within the oral cavity, detects radiation (e.g., X-rays) passing through an object such as teeth. The imaging device 1 is electrically connected to the control device 10 via a cable 9. The imaging device 1 and the control device 10 communicate by transmitting and receiving signals via the cable 9. The control device 10 is, for example, a computer device such as a PC or tablet. In the intraoral imaging system 100, when the imaging device 1 detects radiation passing through an object, it sends a generated electrical signal to the control device 10. Based on this electrical signal, the control device 10 generates an image of the object (a radiation-transmitted image).

[0032] [Structure of the camera device]

[0033] like Figure 2 As shown, the camera device 1 includes a wiring board 2, an image sensor 3, a FOP (Fiber Optic Plate) 4, a scintillator 5, a control circuit 6, a communication module 7, a housing 8, and a cable 9. The image sensor 3 is mounted on one main surface of the wiring board 2. The image sensor 3 is, for example, a solid-state imaging element such as a CMOS image sensor. The FOP 4 is disposed on the image sensor 3. The scintillator 5 is disposed on the FOP 4. The camera device 1 is connected, for example, to a control device 10 (see reference 10) via the cable 9. Figure 1 It receives an electricity supply.

[0034] The control circuit 6 and the communication module 7 are mounted on another main surface of the wiring board 2. The control circuit 6 is composed of integrated circuits such as FPGA (field-programmable gate array), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device), and CPU (Central Processing Unit). The control circuit 6 implements various controls in the camera device 1. The communication module 7 communicates with the control device 10 according to the instructions of the control circuit 6. The communication module 7 receives various data sent from the control device 10. The communication module 7 is, for example, an integrated circuit such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) controller. As an example, the communication module 7 is a USB controller that communicates with the control device 10 according to the USB standard.

[0035] The housing 8 houses the wiring board 2, image sensor 3, FOP 4, scintillator 5, control circuit 6, and communication module 7. The wall portion 8a along the scintillator 5 in the housing 8 is a predetermined wall for the incidence of radiation. The wiring board 2 is electrically connected to the end of a cable 9 that passes through the wall portion 8a on the opposite side of the wall portion 8. As an example, the cable 9 is a USB cable.

[0036] like Figure 3 As shown, the camera device 1 includes a camera unit 20 and a control unit 30. The camera unit 20 is composed of the image sensor 3, FOP 4, and flash 5 described above. The control unit 30 is composed of the control circuit 6 and communication module 7 described above. The control unit 30 performs communication with the camera unit 20, communication with the control device 10, and control of the camera unit 20. The camera unit 20 is electrically connected to the control unit 30 within the housing 8 via a wiring (not shown). The camera unit 20 and the control unit 30 communicate by transmitting and receiving signals, etc., via this wiring. The control unit 30 is configured to communicate with the control device 10 via a wired connection. Specifically, the control unit 30 can communicate via a cable 9 (see reference 1). Figure 1 It is configured to communicate with the control device 10.

[0037] In the imaging device 1 configured as described above, when the housing 8 is disposed inside the oral cavity, radiation from the object passes through the wall 8a of the housing 8 and is incident on the scintillator 5 of the control unit 30, generating fluorescence in the scintillator 5 corresponding to the intensity of the incident radiation. When this fluorescence is guided by the FOP4 and incident on the image sensor 3, the image sensor 3 generates an electrical signal corresponding to the intensity of the incident fluorescence, and this electrical signal is sent to the control circuit 6 of the control unit 30 through wiring inside the housing 8.

[0038] The image sensor 3 of the camera unit 20 has a plurality of imaging pixels 3A and a plurality of monitoring pixels 3B. The plurality of imaging pixels 3A are arranged in a two-dimensional shape to form a light detection area. The plurality of monitoring pixels 3B are arranged, for example, along the outer periphery of the plurality of imaging pixels 3A. In addition, the number of monitoring pixels 3B need to be at least one.

[0039] The imaging unit 20 uses multiple imaging pixels 3A to perform imaging detection (first detection) to detect radiation in order to acquire an image of an object, and outputs an imaging signal (first signal). Specifically, when the control unit 30 controls the image sensor 3 to start imaging detection, each imaging pixel 3A converts the fluorescence emitted by the scintillator 5 through the incident radiation into an electrical charge, and outputs this charge as an imaging signal. More specifically, the control unit 30 controls the image sensor 3 to output the electrical charge generated by each imaging pixel 3A as an imaging signal by switching the switch SW1 ON / OFF. The switch SW1 is a switch provided by the image sensor 3 and is connected to the imaging pixels 3A and the control circuit 6. The switch SW1 is, for example, composed of a transistor.

[0040] The camera unit 20 uses multiple monitoring pixels 3B to perform radiation detection (second detection) for monitoring radiation dose and outputs a monitoring signal (second signal). Specifically, when the control unit 30 controls the image sensor 3 to start the monitoring detection, each monitoring pixel 3B converts the fluorescence emitted by the scintillator 5 due to the incident radiation into an electrical charge, and outputs this charge as a monitoring signal. More specifically, the control unit 30 controls the image sensor 3 to output the charge generated by each monitoring pixel 3B as a monitoring signal by switching the switch SW2 on / off. The switch SW2 is a switch provided by the image sensor 3 and is connected to the monitoring pixels 3B and the control circuit 6. The switch SW2 is, for example, composed of a transistor.

[0041] The control unit 30 acquires imaging signals and monitoring signals from the camera unit 20 and sends them to the control device 10. The control unit 30 receives control commands from the control device 10 and controls the camera unit 20 according to the control commands. The control commands include a first start command, a second start command, and an end command. The first start command is a command to start monitoring detection for acquiring monitoring signals. Upon receiving the first start command from the control device 10, the control unit 30 performs monitoring detection. Specifically, as described above, the control unit 30 controls the camera unit 20 to start the charge accumulation process of each monitoring pixel 3B. The control unit 30, for example, ends the monitoring detection after a predetermined period. Specifically, as described above, the control unit 30 controls the camera unit 20 to end the charge accumulation process of each monitoring pixel 3B. When the control unit 30 ends the monitoring detection and acquires a monitoring signal from the camera unit 20, it sends the monitoring signal to the control device 10. More specifically, the control unit 30 converts the monitoring signal obtained from the camera unit 20 into a signal according to the communication protocol of the USB standard, and sends the converted monitoring signal to the control device 10. That is, when the control unit 30 receives the first start command from the control device 10, it starts the monitoring of radiation dose by the camera unit 20, ends the monitoring at a predetermined time, and sends the monitoring signal as a result of the monitoring to the control device 10.

[0042] The second start command is a command to begin camera detection for acquiring a camera signal. The end command is a command to end camera detection. Upon receiving the second start command from the control device 10, the control unit 30 performs camera detection. Specifically, as described above, the control unit 30 controls the camera unit 20 to begin charge accumulation at each camera pixel 3A. Upon receiving the end command, the control unit 30 ends camera detection. Specifically, as described above, the control unit 30 controls the camera unit 20 to end charge accumulation at each camera pixel 3A. When the control unit 30 acquires a camera signal from the camera unit 20 after ending camera detection, it sends the camera signal to the control device 10. More specifically, the control unit 30 converts the camera signal acquired from the camera unit 20 into a signal according to the USB standard communication protocol and sends the converted camera signal to the control device 10. That is, when the control unit 30 receives the second start command from the control device 10, it starts the detection of the image acquisition of radiation by the camera unit 20. When it receives the end command, it ends the detection and sends the imaging signal as the result of the detection to the control device 10.

[0043] [Structure of the control device]

[0044] The control device 10 includes a storage unit 11, a communication unit 12, a processing unit 13, an input receiving unit 14, and a display unit 15. The storage unit 11 is, for example, a hard disk, and stores various types of data. The communication unit 12 is, for example, a communication device. The processing unit 13 is, for example, a processor. The processing unit 13 executes software (programs) read into a memory (not shown) included in the control device 10, controls the reading and writing of data in the memory, and performs communication using the communication unit 12. The input receiving unit 14 is an interface unit for receiving various types of data input from the user. The input receiving unit 14 is, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, etc. The display unit 15 displays various information according to instructions from the processing unit 13. The display unit 15 is, for example, a display device included in the control device 10. Alternatively, the display unit 15 may be configured as a GUI (Graphical User Interface) and function as an interface unit for receiving various types of data input from the user.

[0045] The control device 10 functions as a higher-level controller for the control unit 30. The control device 10 receives input from the user regarding the imaging conditions of the object being imaged. This input is, for example, implemented by the user inputting object information and imaging method information to the input receiving unit 14. In this embodiment, the object information refers to the type of object. The object is the part of the oral cavity that becomes the object of imaging, such as the posterior teeth and anterior teeth. In this embodiment, the imaging method information refers to the type of imaging method. Examples of imaging methods include the parallel method, the bisection method, the wing method, and the bite method.

[0046] When the control device 10 receives the input of imaging conditions, it generates a first start command and sends the first start command to the control unit 30 of the imaging device 1. As a result, the control unit 30 begins monitoring for radiation dose. That is, when the user inputs imaging conditions to the control device 10, the control device 10 initiates monitoring in the imaging device 1 as a preliminary step in acquiring an image of the target object.

[0047] Then, when the control device 10 receives a monitoring signal from the control unit 30, it generates a control command based on the monitoring signal and sends the generated control command to the control unit 30. Specifically, the control device 10 performs a known analysis (e.g., the analysis described in Japanese Patent No. 5715960) based on the monitoring signal to calculate the radiation dose, etc. If the analysis result does not meet the start conditions for imaging detection, it generates a first start command again and sends the first start command to the control unit 30. On the other hand, if the analysis result meets the start conditions for imaging detection, the control device 10 generates a second start command and sends the second start command to the control unit 30. Then, after sending the second start command, the control unit 30 generates the first start command again and sends the first start command to the control unit 30. Thus, in the imaging device 1, monitoring detection for monitoring the radiation dose and imaging detection for acquiring an image of the object are initiated. That is, the control device 10 in the imaging device 1 starts the detection of radiation used to obtain an image of the object, and continues to monitor the radiation dose in order to obtain an appropriate image of the object.

[0048] Then, when the control device 10 receives the monitoring signal again from the control unit 30, it generates a control command based on the monitoring signal and sends the generated control command to the control unit 30. Specifically, the control device 10 performs analysis of the radiation dose displayed by the monitoring signal. The control device 10 calculates the total radiation dose calculated based on the monitoring signal as described above. Specifically, the control device 10 estimates the total radiation dose received by the plurality of camera pixels 3A based on the monitoring signal. In this embodiment, the correlation between the radiation dose displayed by the monitoring signal (i.e., detected by the plurality of monitoring pixels 3B) and the radiation dose actually incident into the oral cavity is calculated in advance. The control device 10 calculates the total radiation dose received by the plurality of camera pixels 3A by performing a known calculation based on this correlation (for example, the calculation described in Japanese Patent No. 5715960).

[0049] The control device 10 determines whether the parsed analysis result meets the end condition for the imaging detection. Specifically, the control device 10 sets a predetermined threshold, and determines that the end condition for the imaging detection is met if the calculated total dose exceeds the threshold. The control device 10 stores thresholds in the storage unit 11 for each imaging condition of the object. The control device 10 sets a threshold corresponding to the imaging condition received by the input receiving unit 14, referring to the stored thresholds for each imaging condition of the object. In this embodiment, the control device 10 stores thresholds for each combination of object type and imaging method type, and sets a threshold corresponding to the object information and imaging method information received by the input receiving unit 14. The detailed method for setting the thresholds will be described later.

[0050] If the parsing result does not meet the termination condition for the imaging detection, the control device 10 generates a first start command again and sends it to the control unit 30. Conversely, if the parsing result meets the termination condition for the imaging detection, the control device 10 generates a termination command and sends it to the control unit 30. Thus, in the imaging device 1, the imaging detection for acquiring an image of the object ends, and an imaging signal is sent to the control device 10. In other words, the control device 10 determines the appropriate termination time for the imaging detection by performing the aforementioned parsing, thereby ending the imaging detection performed in the imaging device 1. When the control device 10 receives the imaging signal from the control unit 30, it generates an image of the object based on the received imaging signal. Thus, imaging of the object is performed.

[0051] [Camera Processing]

[0052] For the image processing performed by the intraoral imaging system 100, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 Please provide an explanation. Figure 4 It is a sequence diagram representing the process flow of camera processing from the acceptance of camera conditions to the start of camera detection. Figure 5 This is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow in image processing from the generation of the second instruction starting from the first instruction to the acquisition of the image of the object. Additionally, a radiation source in the image processing continuously irradiates the image with X-rays of a certain intensity.

[0053] First, such as Figure 4As shown, the control device 10 receives the input of the imaging conditions for the object from the user (step S01). The input of imaging conditions is implemented by the user inputting object information and imaging method information to the input acceptance unit 14. Next, the control device 10 sets a threshold used in determining the end time of the imaging detection based on the input imaging conditions (step S02). The control device 10 sets a threshold corresponding to the input imaging condition by referring to the threshold of each imaging condition stored in the storage unit 11. Details of the acceptance of the input imaging conditions and the method of setting the threshold will be described later. Next, the control device 10 generates a first start command to start the imaging detection using multiple monitoring pixels 3B and sends the first start command to the control unit 30 of the imaging device 1 (step S03). The control unit 30 receives the first start command (step S04) and controls the imaging unit 20 to start the monitoring detection according to the first start command (step S05). Specifically, the control unit 30 initiates the accumulation of charge in each monitoring pixel 3B of the camera unit 20. Then, each monitoring pixel 3B begins to accumulate charge (step S06). As a result, radiation dose monitoring begins on the camera device 1 side.

[0054] Next, each monitoring pixel 3B outputs a monitoring signal corresponding to the accumulated charge to the control unit 30 after a predetermined period (step S07). Next, the control unit 30 receives the monitoring signals from the plurality of monitoring pixels 3B (step S08) and sends the monitoring signals to the control device 10 (step S09). The control device 10 receives the monitoring signals from the control unit 30 (step S10) and performs known analysis (e.g., the analysis described in Japanese Patent No. 5715960) based on the monitoring signals (step S11). Next, the control device 10 determines whether the analysis result meets the start conditions for camera detection (step S12). If the control device 10 determines that the analysis result does not meet the start conditions for camera detection (step S12: no), the process returns to step S03. On the other hand, when the control device 10 determines that the analysis result meets the start conditions for camera detection (step S12: Yes), it generates a second start command to start camera detection and sends the second start command to the control unit 30 (step S13).

[0055] Next, the control unit 30 receives the second start command (step S14) and, according to the second start command, controls the camera unit 20 to start image detection (step S15). Specifically, the control unit 30 starts the charge accumulation of each camera pixel 3A of the camera unit 20. Then, each camera pixel 3A starts the charge accumulation (step S16). Thus, detection for acquiring an image of the object begins on the camera device 1 side.

[0056] Next, as Figure 5 As shown, the control device 10 generates a first start command again and sends the first start command to the control unit 30 of the imaging device 1 (step S17). The control unit 30 receives the first start command (step S18) and controls the imaging unit 20 to start the monitoring detection according to the first start command (step S19). Then, each monitoring pixel 3B of the imaging unit 20 begins to accumulate charge (step S20). Thus, in the imaging device 1, the detection of radiation for obtaining an image of the object is performed, and the radiation dose is monitored in order to obtain a suitable image of the object.

[0057] Next, the camera unit 20 acquires a monitoring signal after a predetermined period and outputs the monitoring signal to the control unit 30 (step S21). The control unit 30 receives the monitoring signal from the camera unit 20 (step S22) and sends the monitoring signal to the control device 10 (step S23). The control device 10 receives the monitoring signal from the control unit 30 (step S24) and performs analysis based on the monitoring signal (step S25). Specifically, the control device 10 calculates the total radiation dose calculated based on the monitoring signal as part of the analysis. Next, the control device 10 determines whether the analysis result meets the end condition for camera detection (step S26). Specifically, the control device 10 determines whether the total radiation dose calculated by the analysis exceeds the threshold set in step S02. If the control device 10 determines that the analysis result does not meet the end condition for camera detection (i.e., the total radiation dose does not exceed the threshold set in step S02) (step S26: No), the process returns to step S17. On the other hand, when the control device 10 determines that the analysis result meets the end condition for the camera detection (i.e., the total dose of radiation exceeds the threshold set in step S02) (step S26: Yes), it generates an end command to end the camera detection performed by the plurality of camera pixels 3A and sends the end command to the control unit 30 (step S27).

[0058] Next, the control unit 30 receives an end command (step S28) and controls the camera unit 20 to end the imaging detection according to the end command (step S29). Next, each camera pixel 3A ends the accumulation of charge (step S30) and outputs an imaging signal corresponding to the accumulated charge to the control unit 30 (step S31). Next, the control unit 30 receives imaging signals from the plurality of camera pixels 3A (step S32) and sends the imaging signals to the control device 10 (step S33). Next, the control device 10 receives the imaging signals (step S34) and generates an image of the object based on the imaging signals (step S35). Thus, the imaging of the object ends.

[0059] [Threshold setting processing]

[0060] For the threshold setting process performed in step S02 of the image processing, refer to... Figure 6 Please provide an explanation. Figure 6 This is a flowchart representing a series of processes involved in threshold setting. As a prerequisite, the input of camera conditions from the user to the control device 10 is completed (see...). Figure 4 Step S01).

[0061] As an example, in the display section 15 of the control device 10 (see reference) Figure 3 The screen displays a selection screen for the camera method and the type of object. The user uses the mouse or other input methods to select the camera method and the type of object from the receiving unit 14, thereby inputting the camera conditions (i.e., object information and camera method information). Figure 6 In the example shown, the imaging method is selected from any one of the parallel method, bisection method, wing method, and bite method, and the object is selected from either posterior teeth or anterior teeth. Furthermore, the control device 10 stores threshold values ​​in the storage unit 11 for each combination of object type and imaging method type. Specifically, the control device 10 stores appropriate threshold values ​​for each of the above combinations, such as setting the threshold value to "1" for the combination of the imaging method "parallel method" and the object "anterior teeth". Specifically, for the parallel method, bisection method, wing method, and bite method, the higher the proportion of multiple monitoring pixels 3B covered by teeth, bones, etc. in the oral cavity, the higher the threshold value is set. Furthermore, the threshold value is set higher for posterior teeth compared to anterior teeth. The control device 10 sets the threshold value in the threshold setting process by referring to the input imaging conditions and the threshold value for each of the above combinations. However, the value of the threshold value, the type of object, and the type of imaging method are not limited to this example.

[0062] First, the control device 10 determines whether the imaging method information included in the imaging conditions represents the parallel method or the bisection method (step S101). If the control device 10 determines that the imaging method information represents the parallel method or the bisection method (step S101: Yes), it determines whether the object information represents the front teeth (step S102). If the control device 10 determines that the object information represents the front teeth (step S102: Yes), it sets the threshold to "1" (step S103). On the other hand, if the control device 10 determines that the object information does not represent the front teeth (in other words, the object information represents the back teeth) (step S102: No), it sets the threshold to "1.3" (step S104).

[0063] If the control device 10 determines in step S101 that the imaging method information does not represent the parallel method or the bisection method (step S101: No), it determines whether the imaging method information represents the wing-biting method (step S105). If the imaging device determines that the imaging method information represents the wing-biting method (step S105: Yes), it determines whether the object information represents anterior teeth (step S106). If the control device 10 determines that the object information represents anterior teeth (step S106: Yes), it sets the threshold to "1.3" (step S107). On the other hand, if the control device 10 determines that the object information does not represent anterior teeth (i.e., the object information represents posterior teeth) (step S106: No), it sets the threshold to "1.5" (step S108). If the control device 10 determines in step S105 that the imaging method information does not represent the wing-biting method (i.e., the imaging method information represents the bite method) (step S105: No), it sets the threshold to "1.7" (step S109). Through the above threshold setting process, the camera device is set with a threshold corresponding to the camera conditions.

[0064] [Functions and Effects]

[0065] In the intraoral imaging system 100 including the imaging device 1, the control device 10 receives a monitoring signal regarding the radiation dose and sends a control command generated based on the monitoring signal to the control unit 30. The control unit 30 receives the control command and controls the imaging unit 20 according to the control command. Thus, for example, the timing of the imaging of an object can be determined based on the type of object and / or the type of imaging method, resulting in the appropriate acquisition of an image of the object. Furthermore, in the intraoral imaging system 100, the imaging unit 20 and the control unit 30 are housed within the housing 8. This avoids problems arising from separate installations of the control unit 30 and the imaging unit 20, such as the control unit 30 becoming an obstruction when the imaging unit 20 is placed inside the oral cavity. Moreover, in the intraoral imaging system 100, the generation of control commands based on the monitoring signal is performed by the control device 10. This reduces the processing burden on the control unit 30 on the imaging device 1 side, resulting in miniaturization of the imaging device 1 and suppression of heat generation from the imaging device 1. Based on the above description, the intraoral imaging system 100 and the imaging device 1 can achieve proper acquisition of the image of the object, improve the operability of the imaging device 1, and suppress the heating of the intraoral imaging device 1.

[0066] The effects of the intraoral imaging system 100 will be further explained. In the intraoral imaging system 100, the imaging device 1 has a control unit 30. The control unit 30 converts imaging signals and monitoring signals into signals according to a common communication standard (USB standard) and sends them to the control device 10. It also controls the imaging unit 20 according to the control commands received from the control device 10. Thus, the imaging device 1 has a control unit 30, separate from the control device 10, which substantially implements control of the imaging unit 20 by generating control commands for its control. This allows communication between the imaging device 1 and the control device 10 to be based on a common communication standard. As a result, communication between the imaging device 1 and the control device 10 can be achieved using a simple structure. Furthermore, when an FPGA is used as a component of the control unit 30, namely the control circuit 6, the control commands received from the control device 10 can be reliably processed at accurate timing, and cost reduction can be achieved. Furthermore, replacing the control unit 30 in the camera device 1, for example, by setting up the image sensor 3 with the same function as the control unit 30, is not practical from a cost perspective.

[0067] Furthermore, in cases where the control unit 30 is located outside the oral cavity, and the camera unit 20 is electrically connected to the control unit 30 via a first cable (not shown), and the control unit 30 is electrically connected to the control device 10 via a second cable (not shown), there are concerns about the risk of damage and malfunction at the control unit 30, the connection between the control unit 30 and the first cable, and the connection between the control unit 30 and the second cable. In contrast, in the intraoral camera system 100, the control unit 30 is housed within the housing 8, thus avoiding such risks. Moreover, compared to the above example, the intraoral camera system 100 reduces the number of cables, thereby reducing the number of components.

[0068] Furthermore, in the intraoral imaging system 100, various processes such as generating control commands and parsing monitoring signals are performed in the control device 10. Therefore, for example, changes to imaging conditions, thresholds, etc., and various additional processes can be easily implemented.

[0069] In the intraoral imaging system 100, the control device 10 generates an image of the object based on imaging signals. This enables the reliable generation of an image of the object.

[0070] In the intraoral imaging system 100, the control commands include a termination command to end the imaging detection. Upon receiving the termination command, the control unit 30 controls the imaging unit 20 to end the imaging detection. Thus, for example, the detection of radiation used to acquire an image of the object can be terminated at an appropriate time corresponding to the type of object and / or the type of imaging method, resulting in the appropriate acquisition of an image of the object.

[0071] In the intraoral imaging system 100, the control device 10 calculates the total radiation dose in the plurality of imaging pixels 3A of the image sensor 3 based on the monitoring signal, and generates an end command if the calculated total radiation dose exceeds a predetermined threshold. Thus, for example, the detection of radiation used to acquire an image of the object can end with an appropriate total dose corresponding to the type of object and / or the type of imaging method, resulting in the appropriate acquisition of an image of the object. Furthermore, according to the intraoral imaging system 100, the timing of the end of the radiation detection process for acquiring an image of the object is automatically adjusted in the imaging device 1 based on the monitoring signal, thus eliminating the need for adjustment of the radiation dose and radiation time at the radiation source side.

[0072] In the intraoral imaging system 100, the control device 10 stores threshold values ​​for each imaging condition of the object, accepts input of imaging conditions, and sets the threshold value corresponding to the imaging condition. Therefore, by setting an appropriate threshold value corresponding to the input imaging condition, it is possible, for example, to appropriately acquire an image of the object regardless of the type of object and / or the type of imaging method.

[0073] In the intraoral imaging system 100, the control device 10 receives imaging conditions containing object information about the object and sets a threshold corresponding to the object information. Therefore, by setting an appropriate threshold corresponding to the object being imaged, an image of the object can be appropriately acquired regardless of the type of object.

[0074] In the intraoral imaging system 100, the control device 10 receives imaging conditions containing imaging method information about the imaging method of the object, and sets a threshold corresponding to the imaging method information. Therefore, by setting an appropriate threshold corresponding to the imaging method of the object, an image of the object can be appropriately acquired regardless of the type of imaging method.

[0075] In the intraoral imaging system 100, the control unit 30 is configured to communicate with the control device 10 via a wired connection. This ensures a stable communication environment between the control unit 30 and the control device 10. Furthermore, because the imaging unit 20 and the control unit 30 are housed in a single housing 8, even in a structure where the control unit 30 and the control device 10 are physically connected via a wired connection, problems such as the control unit 30 becoming an obstruction when the imaging unit 20 is placed inside the oral cavity can be avoided.

[0076] [Variation Example]

[0077] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. For example, the camera unit 20 may be a component that performs detection for imaging and detection for monitoring. As an example, the camera unit 20 may be composed only of the image sensor 3 and the scintillator 5, or the camera unit 20 may be composed only of a direct conversion type imaging element that generates charge through incident radiation. Furthermore, the control unit 30 may be configured to communicate with the control device 10, receive control commands, and control the camera unit 20 according to the control commands. As an example, the control unit 30 may include components other than the control circuit 6 and the communication module 7, or replace the control circuit 6 and the communication module 7. Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the image sensor 3 includes a plurality of imaging pixels 3A and a plurality of monitoring pixels 3B, but the image sensor 3 may also be configured to include only one pixel area, in which imaging signals and monitoring signals are output. Furthermore, switches SW1 and SW2 may be provided outside the image sensor 3.

[0078] The intraoral imaging system 100 may also include multiple imaging devices 1. Such multiple imaging devices 1 can be configured, for example, inside the mouth of an animal. Hereinafter, an example of an intraoral imaging system 100 including two imaging devices 1 will be described. In such an intraoral imaging system 100, it is conceivable that one imaging device 1 is configured on the inner side of the animal's mouth, and the other imaging device 1 is configured on the front side of the mouth. In this case, if the monitoring signal of one of the two imaging devices 1 exceeds a threshold, the control device 10 sends a termination command to the control unit 30 of each imaging device 1. That is, the control device 10 terminates the detection of radiation used to acquire an image of the object for both imaging devices 1. This prevents the saturation of the multiple imaging pixels 3A of each imaging device 1. Therefore, according to the intraoral imaging system 100 of this modified example, even when imaging an object in the oral cavity where the proportions of the inner and outer sides, teeth and bones differ greatly, the detection of radiation used to obtain an image of the object can be completed with an appropriate total dose, and as a result, an image of the object can be appropriately obtained.

[0079] Furthermore, the control unit 30 and the control device 10 can also be configured to communicate wirelessly (e.g., LAN, Bluetooth, Wifi, etc.).

[0080] The imaging processing performed by the intraoral imaging system 100 is not limited to the embodiments described above. For example, the control device 10 may set a threshold based on either object information or imaging method information, or it may set a threshold based on imaging conditions different from object information and imaging method information. For example, the control device 10 may only generate an end command. In this case, the control unit 30 may, for example, start monitoring detection at a time after a predetermined period has elapsed. Furthermore, in the intraoral imaging system 100, the control device 10 may also generate other control commands.

[0081] Furthermore, the sequence diagram of the aforementioned imaging method ( Figure 4 and Figure 5 The flowcharts for the steps shown and the threshold setting method described above are as follows ( Figure 6 The steps shown can also be omitted appropriately. In addition, the order of the steps can also be changed appropriately.

[0082] Explanation of symbols

[0083] 1…camera device, 8…housing, 10…control device, 20…camera unit, 30…control unit, 100…intraoral imaging system.

Claims

1. An intraoral imaging system, characterized in that, include: A camera device configured within the oral cavity to detect radiation transmitted through an object; and The control device electrically connected to the camera device, The camera device includes: The camera unit that detects the radiation; A control unit configured to communicate with the control device and control the camera unit; and A housing that accommodates the camera unit and the control unit. The camera unit performs a first detection of the radiation in order to acquire an image of the object and a second detection of the radiation in order to monitor the dose of the radiation. The control unit sends the first signal obtained through the first detection and the second signal obtained through the second detection to the control device. The control device receives the first signal and the second signal, and sends the control command generated based on the second signal to the control unit. The control unit receives the control command and controls the camera unit according to the control command. The control device is not housed within the housing.

2. The intraoral imaging system as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The control device generates the image of the object based on the first signal.

3. The intraoral imaging system as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The control commands include a termination command that ends the first detection. Upon receiving the termination command, the control unit controls the camera unit to terminate the first detection.

4. The intraoral imaging system as described in claim 2, characterized in that: The control commands include a termination command that ends the first detection. Upon receiving the termination command, the control unit controls the camera unit to terminate the first detection.

5. The intraoral imaging system as described in claim 3, characterized in that: The control device generates the termination command when the total dose of radiation calculated based on the second signal exceeds a predetermined threshold.

6. The intraoral imaging system as described in claim 4, characterized in that: The control device generates the termination command when the total dose of radiation calculated based on the second signal exceeds a predetermined threshold.

7. The intraoral imaging system as described in claim 5, characterized in that: The control device, The threshold is stored according to each camera condition of the object, and Accept the input of the camera conditions and set the threshold corresponding to the camera conditions.

8. The intraoral imaging system as described in claim 6, characterized in that: The control device, The threshold is stored according to each camera condition of the object, and Accept the input of the camera conditions and set the threshold corresponding to the camera conditions.

9. The intraoral imaging system as described in claim 7, characterized in that: The control device accepts the camera conditions containing object information about the object, and sets the threshold corresponding to the object information.

10. The intraoral imaging system as described in claim 8, characterized in that: The control device accepts the camera conditions containing object information about the object, and sets the threshold corresponding to the object information.

11. The intraoral imaging system as described in claim 7, characterized in that: The control device accepts the camera conditions containing camera method information about the camera method of the object, and sets the threshold corresponding to the camera method information.

12. The intraoral imaging system as described in claim 8, characterized in that: The control device accepts the camera conditions containing camera method information about the camera method of the object, and sets the threshold corresponding to the camera method information.

13. The intraoral imaging system as described in claim 9, characterized in that: The control device accepts the camera conditions containing camera method information about the camera method of the object, and sets the threshold corresponding to the camera method information.

14. The intraoral imaging system as described in claim 10, characterized in that: The control device accepts the camera conditions containing camera method information about the camera method of the object, and sets the threshold corresponding to the camera method information.

15. The intraoral imaging system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that: The control unit is configured to communicate with the control device via a wired connection.

16. The intraoral imaging system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that: The control command includes at least one of a first start command that initiates the second detection and a second start command that initiates the first detection.

17. The intraoral imaging system as described in claim 15, characterized in that: The control command includes at least one of a first start command that initiates the second detection and a second start command that initiates the first detection.

18. A camera device, characterized in that, It is a camera device installed inside the oral cavity to detect radiation transmitted through objects. include: The camera unit that detects the radiation; A control unit capable of communicating with a control device to control the camera unit; and A housing that accommodates the camera unit and the control unit. The camera unit performs a first detection of the radiation in order to acquire an image of the object and a second detection of the radiation in order to monitor the dose of the radiation. The control unit, The first signal obtained through the first detection and the second signal obtained through the second detection are sent to the control device, and Receive control commands from the control device, and control the camera unit according to the control commands. The control device is not housed within the housing.

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