Intraoral X-ray system with functional switch in the X-ray unit for the use of different sensor types

Description

TECHNICAL AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an intraoral X-ray system with automatic exposure control (AEC) functionality, consisting of an intraoral X-ray sensor and a dental X-ray device. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Automatic exposure control, namely the AEC (automatic exposure control) technique, is already known, also in the dental field for intraoral radiography with digital X-ray image receptors, see e.g. EP1859659A1 and US 6,898,268 B2.

[0003] X-ray image detectors have an optimized dynamic range for typical exposure situations in intraoral X-ray diagnostics. Underexposed images are characterized by increased noise, while overexposed areas can no longer resolve the signal due to pixel saturation effects. Using AEC (Automatic Image Concentration) technology, the saturation limit can be resolved by multiple exposures and summing the individual images. By lowering the saturation limit, the X-ray image detector can be optimized for low exposures. With this setup, the user can precisely define the required minimum image quality for each indication in order to keep the patient dose as low as possible.

[0004] A scout shot can be used to measure the exposure situation. This involves using information about the exposure level of this initial shot. This indicates the maximum value reached or exceeded for a specific number of pixels. It can also be a relative value in relation to a maximum permissible value, for example, as a percentage of the saturation limit. Exposure level information can also be found in the histogram.

[0005] In AEC X-ray systems with Scout Shot, rapid evaluation of the pre-exposed images is necessary to determine the total X-ray exposure and reduce motion artifacts that can be caused by movement of the imaging geometry during the scan session. Currently, the Scout Shot exposure level is evaluated independently of the intraoral X-ray sensor (hereinafter referred to simply as "sensor") by an evaluation unit located in the X-ray machine (or in the connected computer). The current procedure is as follows: 1. Sensor captures the first shot. 2. Sensor transmits the first shot partially or completely to the X-ray machine. 3. Evaluation unit analyzes the first shot in the X-ray machine. 4. Evaluation unit sets the exposure level for the second shot. 5. Sensor captures the second shot. 6. Sensor transmits the second shot to the X-ray machine. 7. Evaluation unit calculates the combined image from the first and second shots in the X-ray machine.

[0006] Generally, an intraoral X-ray unit with AEC functionality is connected to a computer or cloud. The X-ray sensor, in readiness mode, captures the X-ray image. After exposure, the X-ray image data is read from the X-ray detector and transmitted to the computer.

[0007] Reference is made to US2016 / 262715 A1, WO96 / 03917 A1, US2017 / 188987 A1, EP3673810 A1, US2014010350 A1 which concern intraoral x-ray sensors. REVELATION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] One objective of the present invention is to provide a mode-switching intraoral X-ray system that enables the use of different sensor types, including an intraoral X-ray sensor with or without AEC functionalities.

[0009] These objectives are achieved by an intraoral X-ray system according to claim 1. The subject matter of the dependent claims relates to further developments and preferred embodiments.

[0010] The intraoral X-ray system according to the invention is described in the attached claims.

[0011] The following description explains different types of X-ray sensors and their associated modes. AEC Plus mode and an intraoral X-ray sensor with exposure level detection for use with an X-ray system with AEC functionality:

[0012] According to the present invention, in the AEC Plus mode (mode (M)) the analysis of the Scout image or video stream with regard to the exposure level is performed by the IO X-ray sensor, notfrom the IO X-ray machine or other system components, such as a computer. The video stream can be used, for example, as an independent sequence of individual images.

[0013] If the aforementioned evaluation is shifted to the IO X-ray sensor (hereinafter also referred to as "sensor"), the data transfer and complexity on the IO X-ray device side are reduced. The process according to the invention is then, for example, as follows: 1. The sensor captures the first shot (scout shot); 2. The evaluation unit (e.g., an exposure analysis unit of the sensor) analyzes the first shot and compiles information on the exposure level; 3. Information on the exposure level, as well as any sensor properties, is transmitted to a decision unit outside the sensor; 4. Based on this and other information, the decision unit determines the exposure parameters for further shots; 5. Depending on this decision, no, one, or further exposures are captured by the sensor; 6. The sensor transmits individual images and / or (optionally) at least one summed image to the intraoral X-ray unit or PC.

[0014] A key feature of the present invention is that the electronics associated with the IO X-ray sensor (e.g., exposure analysis unit) are able to acquire information about the exposure level of the scout image or video stream and communicate this information to the IO X-ray device. This reduces the initialization effort and speeds up the process.

[0015] The intraoral X-ray unit, in particular its decision unit or other system components, uses this information regarding the exposure level and other specifications, preferably sensor-specific properties, required image quality, indication, kV adjustment for dual energy, increased dynamic range (HDR), dose-dependent noise behavior, etc., to determine exposure parameters, such as the number of exposures, exposure time, tube current, and tube voltage, for subsequent exposures. This could be one further exposure, several, or no further exposures.

[0016] In the case of a video stream, the exposure is preferably aborted by the X-ray device when a value calculated by the decision unit of the X-ray device is reached.

[0017] The evaluation unit (e.g., exposure analysis unit) can preferably be housed in the IO X-ray sensor head or the IO X-ray sensor connector. Alternatively, the sensor head could be wirelessly connected to the IO X-ray unit, eliminating the need for a connector. AEC mode and an intraoral X-ray sensor without exposure level detection for use with an X-ray system with AEC functionality.

[0018] According to the present invention, in the AEC mode (mode (M')), the analysis of the Scout image or video stream with regard to the exposure level is carried out. only performed by the X-ray unit or other system components. The AEC Plus mode differs from the AEC mode, in which the aforementioned evaluation takes place in the X-ray sensor and not in the intraoral X-ray unit. Standard mode and intraoral X-ray sensor without exposure level detection for use with X-ray systems without AEC functionality

[0019] According to the present invention, in standard mode no analysis of the Scout image or video stream with regard to the exposure level is performed by either the intraoral X-ray sensor or the X-ray device / system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] In the following description, the present invention is explained in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments and the drawings, wherein Fig. 1 - is a schematic representation of an intraoral x-ray system to which a standard IO x-ray sensor is connected for operation in standard mode; Fig. 2 - is a schematic representation of an intraoral x-ray system with AEC functionality to which an IO x-ray sensor is connected for operation in AEC mode; Fig. 3 - is a schematic representation of an intraoral x-ray system with AEC functionality to which an IO x-ray sensor is connected for operation in AEC Plus mode.

[0021] The function blocks with strong outlines in the illustrations are not necessarily activated in the respective mode.

[0022] The reference numbers shown in the drawings denote the elements listed below, which are referred to in the following description of exemplary embodiments. 1. Intraoral X-ray sensor (sensor type for standard mode) 1' Intraoral X-ray sensor (sensor type for AEC mode) 1" Intraoral X-ray sensor (sensor type for AEC Plus mode) 1.1 Communication interface 1.2 Exposure analysis unit 1.3 Imaging X-ray detector 1.4 Control unit 1.5 Sensor-specific characteristics 1.6 Image storage 2. X-ray unit 2.1.1 Communication interface 2.1.2 Communication interface 2.1.3 Communication interface 2.2 Decision unit 2.3 X-ray source 2.4 Control unit 2.5 Communication interface 2.6 Power supply and high-voltage source 2.7 User interface 2.8 Exposure analysis unit 2.9 Image storage 2.10 Function switch 3. Intraoral X-ray system 4.1 Computer 4.2 User interface and monitor 5. Network 6. Cloud

[0023] As shown in Figures 1 to 3 of different embodiments, the intraoral X-ray system (3) comprises an intraoral X-ray device (2) equipped with an Automatic Exposure Control (AEC) function and connectable to a cloud (6) and a computer (4.1), wherein at least one intraoral X-ray sensor (1; 1'; 1") can be connected to the X-ray device (2), and the X-ray device (2) has a functional switch (2.10) which, in an initial identification process, Sensor type detects at least one connected intraoral X-ray sensor (1;1';1"), and an associated mode(M; M'; M") activated. The intraoral X-ray system (3) includes the following modes (M; M'; M"): a mode (M") for intraoral X-ray sensor-side detection of an exposure level, a mode (M') for intraoral X-ray unit-, computer- or cloud-side detection of an exposure level, and optionally a mode (M) without detection of an exposure level. AEC Plus mode

[0024] The following explains mode (M"), which corresponds to the AEC Plus mode explained at the beginning: Fig. 3Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of an intraoral X-ray system (3) according to the invention. The intraoral X-ray system (3) has an intraoral X-ray unit (2) which is connected to an intraoral X-ray sensor (1") via the communication points (2.1.1; 1.1). The connection is preferably a cable connection. The IO X-ray sensor (1") consists of a sensor head (housing), cable, and connector. The IO X-ray sensor (1") is connected to the intraoral X-ray unit (2) via this connector. Preferably, additional X-ray sensors (1, 1', 1") with or without AEC functionality, of different types, can be connected to the IO X-ray unit (2) simultaneously via their connectors. Alternatively, a wireless connection can be used. The intraoral X-ray sensor (1") has a communication interface (1.1), an exposure analysis unit (1.2), an imaging X-ray detector (1.3), a control unit (1.4), a memory (1.5), which includes sensor-specific properties, and an image memory (1.6). The image memory (1.6) stores some or all of the image data received from the imaging X-ray detector (1.3). The image memory (1.6) is useful if pixel image data from the imaging X-ray detector (1.3) cannot be read out for evaluation without signal loss, or if signal loss is unacceptable for reasons of radiation hygiene. Preferably, the X-ray sensor (1") can be equipped with a battery and wireless communication. This eliminates the need for a cable. Alternatively, wired data communication and / or power supply can also be considered. A USB interface or Power over Ethernet (PoE) are suitable standard options.

[0025] The intraoral X-ray sensor (1") incorporates components for automatic exposure control (AEC) functionality, which is explained in more detail below. The Scout Shot or Scout Video Stream received by the imaging X-ray detector (1.3) is processed by the exposure analysis unit (1.2). locally inThe intraoral X-ray sensor (1) analyzes the image to capture information about the exposure level. The analysis result, including the exposure level information, is transmitted via the communication interface (1.1) to the intraoral X-ray unit (2) or to another external device (e.g., a computer). The intraoral X-ray unit (2) has corresponding communication interfaces (2.1.1; 2.5) for this purpose. The intraoral X-ray unit (2) has a decision unit (2.2) that evaluates the analysis result, including the captured exposure level information, and decides on the sequence of further exposures, in particular the number of shots and their duration. In the case of a video stream, this can also occur during the ongoing exposure. When using a video stream, the first and second shots are expanded to a set of first "m" shots and second "n" shots. In this case, the process can be repeated multiple times.The intraoral X-ray sensor (1") remains in readiness to record until the end of the imaging session. The intraoral X-ray unit (2) also includes an X-ray tube (2.3), a power supply and high-voltage source (2.6), and a control unit (2.4). The decision unit (2.2) is further configured to take into account sensor-specific characteristics and / or user-defined image quality parameters. The sensor-specific characteristics include, among other things, information on sensor dimensions, local pixel defects, the dose / signal behavior, and the maximum saturation level, above which saturation effects occur that prevent or limit the digitization of the analog exposure signal. The image quality parameters can be entered by the user directly or indirectly via a user interface (2.7) on the X-ray unit (2). An indirect specification can be made via the medical indication (e.g.,Clarification of suspected caries, periodontitis, root canal progression) is carried out by the intraoral X-ray system (3) with the decision unit (2.2), which is converted into exposure parameters, e.g., maximum exposure, dual energy, etc. Alternatively, this can also be done via a user interface (4.2) of a computer (4.1) connected to the intraoral X-ray unit (2). The intraoral X-ray unit (2) is connected to the computer (4.1) via its communication interface (2.5) and preferably via a network (5). The intraoral X-ray unit (2) and the computer (4.1) can also have a connection to a cloud (6). The received raw image data is processed into a first raw image to compensate for sensor- and acquisition-specific deficiencies. These are: Gain, Blemish and DC correction (classic), Dynamic Range Enhancement (HDR), Motion artifact compensation (Anti-Shake).Instead of the IO X-ray sensor or the X-ray device (2) performing these and other image processing functions using their respective internal image storage (2.9;1.6), this can be done in the cloud (6) or by the PC (4.1).

[0026] The intraoral X-ray device (2) does have an exposure analysis unit (2.8), but this is not required because the IO X-ray sensor (1") performs the evaluation itself. Furthermore, the other components outlined in bold are also not strictly necessary. Preferably, the communication interfaces (2.1.1) to (2.1.3) are provided separately or alternatively as a single, shared communication interface. AEC mode

[0027] The following explains the mode (M') which corresponds to the AEC mode explained at the beginning: Fig. 2Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of an intraoral X-ray system (3) according to the invention. The intraoral X-ray system (3) has an intraoral X-ray device (2) which is connected to an intraoral X-ray sensor (1') via the communication interfaces (2.1.2; 1.1). The connection is preferably a cable connection. The I / O X-ray sensor (1') consists of a sensor head (housing), cable, and connector. The I / O X-ray sensor (1') is connected to the intraoral X-ray device (2) via this connector. Preferably, additional sensors (1, 1', 1") with or without AEC functionality can be connected to the I / O X-ray device (2) simultaneously via their connectors. Alternatively, a wireless connection can be used. The intraoral X-ray sensor (1') has a communication interface (1.1). noThe system comprises an exposure analysis unit (1.2), an imaging X-ray detector (1.3), a control unit (1.4), and a memory unit (1.5) containing the sensor-specific properties. Preferably, the X-ray sensor (1') can be equipped with a battery and wireless communication, eliminating the need for a cable. Alternatively, wired data communication and / or power supply options are available. A USB interface or Power over Ethernet (PoE) are suitable standard solutions.

[0028] The intraoral X-ray sensor (1') includes no Components for automatic exposure control (AEC) functionality. The scout shot or scout video stream received from the imaging X-ray detector (1.3) is processed by the exposure analysis unit. (2.8) locally inThe X-ray device (2) analyzes the data to acquire information about the exposure level. The intraoral X-ray device (2) has a decision unit (2.2) that evaluates the analysis result, including the acquired information about the exposure level, and decides on the sequence of further exposures, in particular the number of shots and their duration. In the case of a video stream, this can also be done during the ongoing exposure. When using a video stream, the first shot and second shot are expanded to the set of first "m" shots and second "n" shots. In this case, the process can also be repeated multiple times. The IO X-ray sensor (1') remains ready to record until the end of the recording session. The intraoral X-ray device (2) also has an X-ray tube (2.3), a power supply and high-voltage source (2.6), and a control unit (2.4). The decision unit (2.2) is furthermore designed to take into account the sensor-specific properties and / or user-specified image quality parameters. The sensor-specific properties include, among other things, information on sensor dimensions, local pixel defects, dose / signal behavior, and the maximum saturation level, above which saturation effects occur that do not allow or allow limited digitization of the analog exposure signal. The image quality parameters can be entered by the user directly or indirectly via a user interface (2.7) on the X-ray device (2). An indirect specification can be made via the medical indication (e.g., clarification of suspected caries, periodontitis, root canal), which is translated by the intraoral X-ray system (3) with the decision unit (2.2) into exposure parameters, e.g., maximum exposure, dual energy, etc. Alternatively, this can also be done via a user interface (4.2) of a computer (4.1) occurs, which is connected to the intraoral X-ray unit (2). The intraoral X-ray unit (2) is connected to a computer (4.1) via its communication interface (2.5) and preferably via a network (5). The intraoral X-ray unit (2) and the computer (4.1) can also be connected to a cloud (6). The received raw image data is processed into a first raw image to compensate for sensor- and acquisition-specific deficiencies. These are: gain, blemish and DC correction (classic), dynamic range extension (HDR), and motion artifact compensation (anti-shake). Instead of the X-ray sensor (1') or the X-ray unit (2) performing image processing functions, this can be done in the cloud (6) or by the PC (4.1). The X-ray unit (2) also has an image storage (2.9).

[0029] The communication interfaces (2.1.1) to (2.1.3) are preferably provided separately or alternatively as a common communication interface. Standard mode

[0030] The following explains mode (M), which corresponds to the standard mode explained at the beginning: Fig. 1Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of an intraoral X-ray system (3) according to an embodiment of the invention. The intraoral X-ray system (3) has an intraoral X-ray unit (2) which is connected to an intraoral X-ray sensor (1) via the communication interfaces (2.1.3; 1.1). The connection is preferably a cable connection. The I / O X-ray sensor (1) consists of a sensor head (housing), cable, and connector. The I / O X-ray sensor (1) is connected to the intraoral X-ray unit (2) via this connector. Preferably, additional I / O X-ray sensors (1, 1', 1") with or without AEC functionality can be connected to the I / O X-ray unit (2) simultaneously via their connectors. Alternatively, a wireless connection can be used. The intraoral X-ray sensor (1) has a communication interface (1.1). noThe exposure analysis unit (1.2), an imaging X-ray detector (1.3), a controller (1.4), and a memory (1.5) containing the sensor-specific properties are included. Preferably, the IO X-ray sensor (1) can be equipped with a battery and wireless communication, eliminating the need for a cable. Alternatively, wired data communication and / or power supply options are available. A USB interface or Power over Ethernet (PoE) are suitable standard options.

[0031] The intraoral X-ray sensor (1) includes no Components for automatic exposure control (AEC) functionality. The intraoral X-ray sensor (1) remains in the appropriate exposure readiness until the end of the imaging session. The intraoral X-ray unit (2) also has an X-ray tube (2.3), a power supply and high-voltage source (2.6), and a control unit (2.4).

[0032] The intraoral X-ray unit (2) is connected to a computer (4.1) via its communication interface (2.5) and preferably via a network (5). The intraoral X-ray unit (2) and the computer (4.1) can also be connected to a cloud (6). Instead of the X-ray sensor (1) or the X-ray unit (2) performing image processing functions, this can be done in the PC (4.1). The X-ray unit (2) can also have an image storage device (2.9). The received raw image data is processed into a first raw image to compensate for sensor- and acquisition-specific deficiencies. These are: gain, blemish and DC correction (classic), dynamic range extension (HDR), and motion artifact compensation (anti-shake).

[0033] The intraoral X-ray unit (2) does have an exposure analysis unit (2.8), but this is not required in this configuration. Furthermore, the other components outlined in thick are also not strictly necessary.

[0034] The communication interfaces (2.1.1) to (2.1.3) can preferably be provided separately or alternatively as a common communication interface.

[0035] Three modes have been presented in the present invention. Further modes with associated sensor types are also conceivable. Additional communication interfaces can be added separately. Depending on their functionality, more or fewer functional components of the X-ray device (2) or X-ray system (3) become accessible. The function switch (2.10) identifies the respective sensor type and activates the corresponding mode (M; M'; M") to also integrate the extended functional components.

Claims

1. Intraoral X-ray system (3) comprising: an intraoral X-ray device (2), which is equipped with an automatic exposure control (AEC) functionality and is connectable to a cloud (6) and a computer (4.1), wherein at least one intraoral X-ray sensor (1; 1'; 1") can be connected to the intraoral X-ray device (2) via communication points (2.1.2; 1.1), wherein the intraoral X-ray device (2) has an exposure analysis unit (2.8) which is suitable for recording information about the exposure level of a scout image or video stream forwarded by the intraoral X-ray sensor via the communication points and for forwarding this information to a decision-making unit (2.2) of the X-ray device (2), computer (4.1) and / or cloud (4) for evaluation and decision-making on further exposures, and wherein the intraoral X-ray device (2) has a function switch (2.10) which, in an initial identification process, recognizes the sensor type of the at least one connected intraoral X-ray sensor (1; 1'; 1") and activates an associated mode (M; M'; M"), wherein the intraoral X-ray system (3) comprises the following modes (M; M'; M"): a mode (M") for the intraoral X-ray sensor-side detection of an exposure level, wherein the sensor type for mode (M") for the intraoral X-ray sensor-side detection of an exposure level is an intraoral X-ray sensor (1") with an exposure analysis unit (1.2), and a mode (M') for the intraoral X-ray device-side, computer-side or cloud-side detection of an exposure level, wherein the sensor type for mode (M') for the intraoral X-ray device-side, computer-side or cloud-side detection of an exposure level is an intraoral X-ray sensor (1') without an exposure analysis unit.

2. Intraoral X-ray system (3) according to claim 1, wherein the system further has an intraoral X-ray sensor (1") associated with mode (M") for the intraoral X-ray sensor-side detection of an exposure level which includes an exposure analysis unit (1.2), an imaging X-ray detector (1.3), and a communication interface (1.1), wherein the scout shot or scout video stream received from the imaging X-ray detector (1.3) is analyzed by the exposure analysis unit (1.2) in the intraoral X-ray sensor (1") in order to record information about the exposure level of the scout image or video stream and to forward this information by means of the communication interface (1.1) to a decision-making unit (2.2) of the intraoral X-ray device (2) or another device, which decision-making unit is arranged externally of the intraoral X-ray sensor (1), for evaluation and decision-making on further exposures.

3. Intraoral X-ray system (3) according to one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the system further has an intraoral X-ray sensor (1') associated with mode (M') for the intraoral X-ray device-side, computer-side or cloud-side detection of an exposure level which does not record any information on the exposure level and which includes an imaging X-ray detector (1.3) and a communication interface (1.1), wherein the scout shot or video stream received from the imaging X-ray detector (1.3) is forwarded to the X-ray device (2) by means of the communication interface (1.1) and analyzed locally by the exposure analysis unit (2.8) in the X-ray device (2), to record information about the exposure level of the scout image or video stream and forward this to a decision-making unit (2.2) of the X-ray device (2), computer (4.1) and / or the cloud (4) for evaluation and decision-making on further exposures.

4. Intraoral X-ray system (3) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein it further comprises a mode (M) without detection of an exposure level.

5. Intraoral X-ray system (3) according to claim 4, wherein the system further has an intraoral X-ray sensor (1) associated with mode (M) without detection of an exposure level which does not record any information on the exposure level, and wherein for mode (M) the X-ray device (2) also does not record any information on the exposure level.