X-ray imaging arrangement

Abstract

The present invention particularly relates to a structure applicable for use in the context of dental or medical x-ray imaging, comprising an x-ray detector (15), an x-ray source (14), a light field indicator (141), and a support structure (12) to which the x-ray source (14) and light field indicator (141) structures are mounted, the support structure (12) being configured to allow the x-ray source (14) and light field indicator (141) structures to be positioned in essentially the same location, so that when located in said essentially the same location at a given time, they direct a given x-ray illumination field pattern and visible light field pattern in essentially the same direction towards the x-ray detector (15).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to dental or medical radiography. In particular, the configuration of the arrangement according to the present invention is applicable for use in the context of dental or medical x-ray imaging. [Background technology]

[0002] When a living organism is exposed to ionizing radiation to produce images of anatomy for medical purposes, the imaging must be performed with the lowest possible radiation dose while still obtaining images of reasonable quality, taking into account the purpose of the imaging.

[0003] One parameter to consider in relation to radiation dose is the volume of the anatomy to be exposed. When one does not want to irradiate non-critical portions of the anatomy, one is faced with the problem of proper relative positioning of the desired anatomy and the components of the imaging setup.

[0004] To facilitate such positioning, for example, various positioning lights are used. Such lights may be configured, for example, to project a laser line or a light field onto the anatomical structure. In the context of radiography, the term optical illumination field indicator is sometimes used to refer to equipment incorporated into an x-ray imaging system configured to "predict" the shape and dimensions of the illumination field during a subsequent exposure. Such systems may include components that remain between the x-ray source and detector during the imaging exposure, while some other components are moved out of the x-ray beam path prior to the x-ray exposure to remain between the x-ray source and detector.

[0005] Computed tomography (CT) is a form of X-ray imaging in which the volume to be imaged is illuminated from different directions and from the image information thus obtained, a desired two- or three-dimensional image can be reconstructed.

[0006] Conventional CT machines are large and bulky, and are typically floor-mounted. The patient is positioned for imaging within the machine's examination opening, typically on a horizontally extending, laterally movable examination platform.

[0007] Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is slower due to the single rotation of the imaging device, and therefore lighter devices have been developed than conventional CT devices. Some CBCT devices are not designed to be floor-mounted, for example, but are configured to be mobile.

[0008] Some recently designed CT systems are multipurpose, supporting more than one imaging modality, such as those configured to enable both 2D and 3D radiography. However, with more functionality, the complexity of the system tends to increase, for example, as a result of new degrees of freedom of movement placed in one or more components of the system. Also, the weight of the system may increase, and some modifications may create new challenges related to obtaining the anatomical structures positioned for exposure. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The object of the invention is a medical or dental X-ray imaging arrangement, in one particular embodiment a CBCT device, with novel features regarding the mutual positioning of the X-ray source of the arrangement and the anatomical structures for imaging exposure.

[0010] The features of the present invention are defined in claim 1. More specifically, these features include the disclosed arrangements in which a light field indicator system is configured to enable an X-ray beam generating system to project a visible light field pattern from essentially the same location from which the X-ray radiation beam is emitted during an imaging exposure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] The present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to some of its preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view illustrating, by way of example, components of an imaging device having features of the present invention. [Figure 2a] 1 shows some exemplary structural details of an embodiment comprising a motorized guide structure arranged in operative connection with an X-ray source and an X-ray detector. [Figure 2b] 1 shows some exemplary structural details of an embodiment comprising a motorized guide structure arranged in operative connection with an X-ray source and an X-ray detector. [Figure 2c] 1 shows some exemplary structural details of an embodiment comprising a motorized guide structure arranged in operative connection with an X-ray source and an X-ray detector. [Figure 3] The guidance structure shown in FIGS. 2 a - 2 c is shown as being partially covered by the housing of the support structure for the X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15 . [Figure 4a] As an example, an arrangement is shown for implementing the principle of projecting a visible light field pattern towards an X-ray detector from essentially the same location where the X-ray beam is configured to be emitted during exposure. [Figure 4b] As an example, an arrangement is shown for implementing the principle of projecting a visible light field pattern towards an X-ray detector from essentially the same location where the X-ray beam is configured to be emitted during exposure. [Figure 4c] As an example, an arrangement is shown for implementing the principle of projecting a visible light field pattern towards an X-ray detector from essentially the same location where the X-ray beam is configured to be emitted during exposure. [Figure 5] 1 illustrates an embodiment in which the X-ray source and X-ray detector are positioned and extend outside the housing of the support structure for the X-ray source and X-ray detector. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 shows a schematic side view of an embodiment similar to that shown in FIG. 1, arranged with elements that allow it to be turned. [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic diagram of the device in a horizontal position, certain components of which are driven to positions other than their base positions. [Figure 8a] By way of example, some details of a patient support suitable for use with the apparatus of the present disclosure are shown. [Figure 8b] As an example, a cross section of a patient support is shown. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the characteristics of a control system of the present device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] A more complete understanding of the components, processes, and apparatus disclosed herein can be obtained by reference to the accompanying drawings, which are merely schematic representations for convenience and are therefore not intended to illustrate the relative size and dimensions of the apparatus or its components, and / or to define or limit the scope of the example embodiments.

[0013] Although specific terminology is used in the following description for the sake of clarity, these terms are intended to refer only to the particular configurations of the embodiments selected for illustration in the drawings and are not intended to define or limit the scope of the present disclosure. In the drawings and the following description, it should be understood that like numerical designations refer to components of similar function.

[0014] The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0015] The term "about," as used herein, is intended to generally and substantially encompass structural or numerical modifications that do not significantly affect the purpose of the element or number modified by such term. For example, the term can substantially encompass a range of variation, such as 25%, or 10%, or 0%, from the stated relationship.

[0016] As used in the specification and in the claims, the term "comprising" may include "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of." The terms "comprise(s)," "include(s)," "having," "has," "can," "contain(s)," and variations thereof, as used herein, are open-ended transitional phrases, terms, or words that require the presence of named elements / steps and permit the presence of other elements / steps.

[0017] 1 illustrates an apparatus including a longitudinally extending frame portion 11 extending in a first direction and having a first end and a second end. This longitudinally extending frame portion 11, i.e., "elongated frame portion 11," extends a support structure 12 supporting an X-ray source 14 and an X-ray detector 15 (not visible in FIG. 1) in a second direction, the second direction being substantially perpendicular to the first direction. The X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15 may together be referred to as or be part of an X-ray imaging assembly 14, 15, but in embodiments of the present invention, the X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15 may be mounted on the support structure 12 essentially facing each other, and their relative positions may be adjustable.

[0018] It should be noted that the apparatus of Figure 1, including the configuration described above, is merely an example of one preferred embodiment in which the present invention may be practiced. By way of example, other types of frames and support structures may also be applicable, such as those with "C-arms" for supporting the X-ray source and X-ray detector.

[0019] While medical and dental x-ray imaging devices often include a patient support, Figure 1 illustrates one particular type of patient support 18 configuration that is mechanically connected to elongated frame portion 11. This patient support 18 is adaptable for use in various embodiments of the present invention and includes a surface that extends substantially parallel to elongated frame portion 11. And, although such a patient support 18 is optional, in the particular embodiment of Figure 1, patient support 18 is essentially the same length as elongated frame portion 11.

[0020] Examples of how the X-ray source 14 and X-ray detector 15 may be mounted to the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 are provided when some of the other figures of this disclosure are discussed further below, with FIG. 1 generally showing the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 comprising a housing 121. The housing 121 may cover a ring-shaped gantry 122 to which the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 are mounted. In one embodiment, the housing 121 may extend to completely cover the X-ray source 14 and X-ray detector 15, while in another embodiment, the gantry housing 121 may cover the structure to which the X-ray source 14 and X-ray detector 15 are mounted to the gantry 122, rather than the X-ray source 14 and X-ray detector 15 themselves.

[0021] The X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15 may be rotatably positioned about an axis of rotation 13. In one embodiment, the ring gantry 122 to which the X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15 are mounted is rotatable. In the particular configuration shown in FIG. 1 , which shows the schematic side view described above, this axis of rotation 13 is, or can be, coincident with the central axis of the support structure 12 of the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15, the central axis of the housing 121, and the central axis of the ring gantry 122, as described above.

[0022] Thus, according to one embodiment not directly visible in Figure 1, for example, the apparatus comprises a drive mechanism 16 configured to drive an X-ray source 14 and an X-ray detector 15 about an axis of rotation 13. The axis of rotation 13 may be a physical axis, as in Figure 1, or may be a virtual axis of rotation.

[0023] According to one embodiment, for example, the axis of rotation 13, or the center of rotation of the X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15 when driven along a curved path, thus defining the position of the virtual axis of rotation 13, coincides with the central axis of the gantry 122.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the rotation axis 13 is an instantaneous (optionally virtual) rotation axis, and as described above, the position of the instantaneous rotation axis relative to the central axis of the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15, the central axis of the housing 121, and / or the central axis of the ring gantry 122 can be configured to be changed.

[0025] Rotation may be configured to be performed by rotating the gantry 122 by any conventional mechanism known to those skilled in the art. In one embodiment, a drive belt driven by at least one pulley is arranged to extend around the ring-shaped gantry 122. Such a configuration allows the gantry 122 to rotate through an angle greater than 360 degrees.

[0026] According to another embodiment, a separate drive mechanism 17 may be disposed in the apparatus to move the support structure 12 for the x-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 back and forth in a direction substantially parallel to the extension of the elongated frame portion 11. According to one embodiment, the drive mechanism 17 may be configured to move the support structure 12 along or alongside the elongated frame portion 11.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the drive mechanism 17 for driving the support structure 12 in a direction substantially parallel to the direction in which the elongated frame portion 11 extends can comprise a motor disposed in the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 themselves.

[0028] Regardless of the details of the construction of the drive mechanism 17 for driving the support structure 12 along or alongside the elongated frame portion 11, in one embodiment the construction of the apparatus allows for driving the support structure 12 over essentially the entire length between the first and second ends of the elongated frame portion 11.

[0029] While the details of the drive mechanism 17 for moving the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 back and forth in a direction substantially parallel to the direction in which the elongated frame portion 11 extends can vary, one preferred example of such a mechanism is disclosed in co-pending patent application FI20190054, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0030] 2a-2c, some structural details of one possible embodiment that can be used in practicing the present invention are shown by way of example. In Figures 2a-2c, a portion of the housing 121 of the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 has been removed to reveal a guidance structure 50 that can be placed in operative association with at least the X-ray source 14 of the imaging assemblies 14, 15. According to one embodiment, the guidance structure 50 is motorized.

[0031] Although Figures 2a-2c show two guide structures 50 configured to enable the X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15 to be moved laterally relative to their support structure 12 or relative to the gantry 122, according to one embodiment, a guide structure 50 is arranged only relative to the X-ray source 14.

[0032] Lateral movement of the X-ray source 14 and / or X-ray detector 15 relative to the support structure 12 or gantry 122 can be performed in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation 13 about which the X-ray source 14 and X-ray detector 15 are arranged to rotate.

[0033] According to one embodiment, for example, at least one guidance structure 50 discussed herein is attached to a ring gantry 122 disposed on the support structure 12 that supports the x-ray imaging assemblies 14,15.

[0034] The range of movement provided by the guide structure 50 may include a base position and first and second extreme positions located in opposite directions from the base position.

[0035] 2a-2c show an embodiment in which a structurally identical guide structure 50 is arranged for both the X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15, and for clarity of illustration, the guide structure 50 is shown in different details, however, not all of the components are visible in all of them, so not every component is presented in each of FIGS. 2a-2c with an associated reference number.

[0036] According to one embodiment, by way of example, the guidance structure 50 includes at least a carriage 51 (seen in FIG. 2c) that is attached to and allows lateral movement of the x-ray source 14. The range of lateral movement of the carriage 51 can include a base position and first and second extreme positions located in opposite directions from the base position.

[0037] Furthermore, according to one embodiment, the at least one guide structure 50 comprises at least one guide groove or rail 52 on the side of the support structure 12 or gantry 122 and a mating structure 52' (again seen in Figure 2c) on the side of the carriage 51.

[0038] According to one embodiment, at least one guide structure 50 may comprise an electric structure 53 operatively associated with the carriage 51, the electric structure 53 providing lateral movement of at least the X-ray source 14 within said range of lateral movement.

[0039] According to one aspect, the motorized structure 53 can include a drive screw 54 aligned parallel to at least one guide groove or rail 52 and disposed in operative connection with the carriage 51. According to the embodiment shown in Figures 2a-2c, the drive screw 54 is disposed to rotate via a belt 531 driven by a motor 532, although other configurations for rotating the drive screw 54 may be used.

[0040] According to yet another embodiment, the guidance structure 50 may include a position sensor arrangement 55 configured to obtain information regarding the position of the X-ray source 14 and / or the X-ray detector 15 within a range of lateral movement of at least one of the X-ray source 14 and / or the X-ray detector 15.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the position sensor arrangement 55 may be configured to detect the position of the carriage 51 within its range of lateral movement.

[0042] According to a further embodiment, a signal path can be arranged between at least one guide structure 50 and the control system of the device.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the signal path can include a signal path between the position sensor arrangement 55 and the device's control system.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the position sensor arrangement 55 is an absolute position sensor arrangement 55 .

[0045] According to one embodiment, the absolute position sensor arrangement 55 can include a magnetic component 56 structurally connected to the carriage 51 and movably connected to at least one guide groove or rail 52 and a rod 57 extending parallel to the drive screw 54.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the first longitudinally extending frame portion 11 extends horizontally or is arranged to move so as to extend horizontally, and the motorized structure 53 of the guide structure 50 is arranged to be self-maintaining with respect to all of: i) positions of at least one of the X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15 within a range of lateral movement; and ii) rotational positions in which the first drive mechanism 16 is configured to move the X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15 about a virtual or physical rotation axis 13.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15 extend from the same side of the ring gantry housing 121, while a particular side of the ring gantry housing 121 may comprise an otherwise closed surface in which there is an opening 59 for the X-ray source 14 and / or the X-ray detector 15. The opening 59 may be dimensioned to allow a range of lateral movement of the X-ray source 14 and / or the X-ray detector 15 as guided by at least one guiding structure 50.

[0048] 2c and 3 show an embodiment including a mounting bracket 58 configured to extend through an opening 59 in the gantry housing 121. The mounting bracket 58 can be secured to the carriage 51 on one side and to the X-ray source 14 and / or X-ray detector 15 on the other side. Different dimensions of the mounting bracket 58 can be used. As another detail, with respect to the guide structure in general, the movement does not necessarily have to be lateral.

[0049] 4a-4c, a configuration is shown that further includes a light-emitting component as compared to Figures 2a-2c. Alternatively, referring to the background disclosure above, a light illumination field indicator 141 is shown that includes a visible light emitting structure 141' configured to emit a visible light illumination field pattern.

[0050] 4a-4c, the visible light emitting structure 141' is disposed in a fixed position on the collimator structure 142 of the X-ray source 14, and these three components are movably arranged together as a fixed assembly. Movement of the assembly can be achieved, for example, by the type of guide structure 50 described above.

[0051] The light emitting structure 141' may alternatively also be mounted directly to (the housing of) the X-ray source 14, or may be mounted elsewhere to a frame arrangement of a collimator structure 142 that is mounted to or operatively connected to the X-ray source 14.

[0052] 4a-4c, the visible light emitting structures 141′ can be configured with respect to their shape and size so as to be able to project different light field patterns, preferably of essentially the same shape and / or size, with the X-ray beam collimator structures 142 configured so as to be able to limit the X-ray beam.

[0053] Therefore, considering the use of the structure, an arrangement including the X-ray source 14, collimator structure 142 and visible light emitting structure 141' as shown in Figures 4a-4c can be moved to a position according to Figure 4a before the imaging exposure so that the visible light emitting structure 141' is located in essentially the same location as the X-ray source is located in Figure 4b, i.e., at the location where the X-ray beam is emitted during the imaging exposure.

[0054] In other words, more generally, the support structure 12 carrying the X-ray source 14 may be configured to enable the X-ray source 14 and the visible light emitting structure 141' to be positioned at essentially the same location, so that at a given time while positioned at said essentially same location, a given field pattern can be directed in essentially the same direction towards the X-ray detector 15.

[0055] Thus, a structure such as that shown in Figures 4a to 4c allows, for example, a procedure to first drive the visible light emitting structure 141' into a position according to Figure 4a, position the anatomical structure to be imaged within the imaging area of ​​the arrangement, and then adjust the light field pattern projected onto the anatomical structure according to the given imaging mode to be applied and according to that particular individual anatomical structure.

[0056] The procedure may further include a control system for the arrangement having information regarding the correlation between the dimensions of the light field pattern projected towards the X-ray detector 15 and the collimation of the X-ray beam so that the dimensions of the visible light and X-ray illumination beams substantially correspond to each other in the vicinity of the X-ray detector 15, i.e., so that the dimensions of the visible light pattern and the X-ray illumination field pattern approximately coincide at a predetermined distance from the X-ray detector 15.

[0057] According to one embodiment, information about the size and shape of the visible light pattern is provided for X-ray beam collimator control, and the component(s) of the collimator structure 142 are moved such that when the X-ray source 14 is moved to a position that substantially corresponds to the position where the visible light pattern is projected onto the anatomical structure, the shape and size of the X-ray beam pattern impinging on the anatomical structure defines an opening that at least substantially corresponds to the shape and size of the light pattern.

[0058] According to another embodiment, adjustment of the light illumination field pattern is made via control of the collimator structure 142, such that as the opening of the collimator structure 142 is adjusted, the shape and size of the light illumination field pattern is adjusted accordingly based on correlation information recorded in the control system of the arrangement. That is, in such an embodiment, no separate input means is required for adjusting the light field pattern, as that control can be made via control of the collimator structure 142.

[0059] In both of the above embodiments, the device's control system can include information about which types of X-ray beam and light field patterns correspond to each other under given circumstances, such as in the context of a given imaging mode being applied. An imaging mode may, for example, be imaging a certain anatomical structure from a particular direction, which generally means that the surface of the anatomical structure is located approximately the same distance from the X-ray detector 15 and, therefore, approximately the same distance from the X-ray source 14 and the light-emitting component 141 when located at the same position within the support structure 12. When the imaging mode involves rotation around the anatomical structure, i.e., scanning the anatomical structure with the X-ray beam, the light field pattern can be configured to indicate all or at least a portion of the entire area through which the X-ray beam will travel during scanning, instead of or in addition to indicating the position of the X-ray beam pattern at the initial position of the X-ray beam. In the case of tomography, particularly CBCT imaging modes, the area of ​​the anatomical structure indicated by the visible light-emitting component 141′ can be related to the volume of the anatomical structure covered by a given CT imaging mode when using a given collimation setting of the X-ray beam.

[0060] Using an arrangement of the type shown in Figures 4a-4c, for example, it is not necessarily necessary to have light field patterns and X-ray beam patterns of exactly the same shape and size, depending on the context. For one thing, the focal points or emission points of the diverging visible light and X-ray beams need not be located exactly the same distance from the X-ray detector 15, and their divergence angles need not be exactly the same. Differences can be taken into account when determining the differences and the distance to the location (i.e., the surface of the anatomical structure) where the patterns should essentially coincide. Such correlation information can be recorded in the control system of the arrangement, so that the pattern dimensions are configured to essentially correspond to one another under given circumstances.

[0061] 4a-4c show an embodiment in which the components X-ray source 14, X-ray beam collimator structure 142, and visible light emitting structure 141′ are arranged to be moved as an integrated assembly, and this embodiment involves configuring the control system of the apparatus to provide information about the size and shape of the light field pattern to be generated to the X-ray beam collimator structure 142, or vice versa, but an alternative arrangement is to implement only the X-ray source 14 and light field indicator 141 as a fixed assembly, which would then be arranged to be moved relative to the collimator structure 142. In such an embodiment, the collimator structure 142 may be used to limit both the visible light beam and the X-ray beam.

[0062] With regard to the accuracy of the correspondence of beam size and shape, or field pattern size and shape, it is more important from the standpoint of certain embodiments that they closely match each other in the context of using the imaging arrangement to take a single 2D radiograph compared to 3D tomographic imaging.

[0063] Referring to FIG. 5 , according to one embodiment, the support structure 12 comprises a ring-shaped gantry housing 121 that houses i) at least one guide structure 50 and, optionally, ii) a drive mechanism 16 configured to move the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 around a virtual or physical axis of rotation 13, while the X-ray source 14 and the image detector 15 are configured to be positioned or extend outside the ring-shaped gantry housing 121.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the X-ray source 14 and / or the X-ray detector 15 may include a housing for the X-ray source 14 and / or the X-ray detector 15, the housing designed and dimensioned to cover the opening 59 through which the mounting bracket 58 extends in all positions within the range of lateral movement of the X-ray source 14 and / or the X-ray detector 15.

[0065] According to one embodiment, if there is more than one guide structure 50, they may include the same number of components with the same functionality to form a similarly functioning assembly. As an example, the guide structures may be identical, and optionally the mounting brackets 58 may be different so as to be specifically adapted for the x-ray source 14 and image detector 15.

[0066] According to one aspect, if the housing 121 of the support structure 12 does not house the X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15, but functions primarily or solely as a housing for, for example, a ring gantry 122 to which the X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15 are mounted, and the arrangement arranged in the apparatus drives the X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15 about the axis of rotation 13, the support structure 12 may be implemented to be lighter and provide better patient and personnel accessibility to the imaging volume between the X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15. Such an embodiment may also facilitate personnel having a clear line of sight into the imaging volume inside the housing 121 where the patient will be positioned for exposure.

[0067] Referring to Figure 6, by way of example, a schematic side view shows certain components of an embodiment in which, in addition to what may be referred to as the first elongated frame portion 11 described above, there is a second elongated frame portion 21 that is essentially the same length as the first elongated frame portion 11 and is mechanically connected to the first elongated frame portion 11.

[0068] 6 , according to one embodiment, an articulation structure 22 is disposed near the first ends of the elongated frame portions 11, 12 for mechanically connecting the first and second elongated frame portions 11, 21, allowing the first elongated frame portion 11 to be tilted about at least one tilt axis relative to the second elongated frame portion 21. The at least one tilt axis may be an axis that is orthogonal to the direction in which the first and second elongated frame portions 11, 21 extend and to the direction in which the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 extends (perpendicularly from the first longitudinally extending frame portion 11).

[0069] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, at least one tilt axis is horizontal.

[0070] According to another embodiment, a mounting arrangement 23, not directly visible in Figure 6, is arranged on the side of the second elongated frame portion 21 in association with the articulating structure 22. The mounting arrangement 23 is arranged movably along or alongside the second elongated frame portion 21.

[0071] According to another aspect, for example, a locking mechanism 24 configured to allow the first and second elongated frame portions 11, 21 to be connected and disconnected is disposed near the second end of the second elongated frame portion 21. In particular, the locking mechanism 24 may be disposed near the second ends of the first and second elongated frame portions 11, 21 and configured to allow the first and second elongated frame portions 11, 21 to be connected and disconnected together near the second ends of the first and second elongated frame portions 11, 21.

[0072] When the second elongated frame portion 21 is stably mounted and the locking mechanism 24 does not connect the first and second elongated frame portions 11, 21, the second end of the first elongated frame portion 11 is free to move laterally, while the articulation connection 22 between the frame portions 11, 21 allows the first elongated frame portion 11 to rotate about the horizontal tilt axis near the first end of the first elongated frame portion 11. For a vertical start position, the movably positioned mounting arrangement as described above allows the first end of the first elongated frame portion 11 to be lowered and raised.

[0073] The structure enabling the tilting of first elongated frame portion 11 and the lowering and raising of the first end of first elongated frame portion 11, as well as the structure of locking mechanism 24 discussed above, can be varied, examples of which are disclosed in more detail in co-pending patent application FI20190054, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0074] 6 shows the apparatus with the first end of the first elongated frame portion 11 moved downward and the second end of the first elongated frame portion 11 moved horizontally on the surface. The apparatus of FIG. 6 can be configured to allow the first end of the first elongated frame portion 11 to be lowered adjacent to the second end of the second elongated frame portion 21.

[0075] According to yet another embodiment not directly visible in Figure 6, a drive mechanism 27 is disposed in operative association with the second elongate frame portion 21 for driving the mounting arrangement 23 along or alongside the second elongate frame portion 21. When in mechanical communication with the first elongate frame portion 11, the drive mechanism 27 is capable of moving the first end of the first elongate frame portion 11 proximate its first end in the direction of extension of the second elongate frame portion 21.

[0076] The drive mechanism 27 for driving the mounting arrangement 23 may be similar in structure to the drive mechanism 17 that drives the support structure 12 of the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 along or alongside the first elongated frame portion 11.

[0077] According to one aspect, the drive mechanism 27 for driving the mounting arrangement 23 comprises a chain drive.

[0078] Figure 7 is a schematic overall view of an example horizontally extending device. Although not shown in Figure 7, the device may include a structure such as that discussed in connection with Figure 6 that allows the direction in which the elongated frame portion 11 extends to be changed. The support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 in Figure 7 is not similar to that in Figure 6, and Figure 7 shows some components of the device as being driven to locations other than their base positions.

[0079] That is, for example, with respect to aspects of access to the volume between the X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15, FIG. 7 illustrates how certain components of the apparatus can be moved to various positions within their designated range of movement. According to this embodiment, while the embodiments described above for laterally moving at least one of the X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15 can be used to facilitate patient access within the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15, another similarly interpreted or similarly functioning structure can be disposed within the apparatus to also laterally move the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 themselves relative to the elongated frame portion 11. By incorporating such a linear movement mechanism 50′ into the apparatus, for example, more room can be provided for a patient to enter the imaging region and then be properly positioned for exposure.

[0080] Thus, according to one aspect, the apparatus further comprises a linear movement mechanism 50′ arranged to enable movement of the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assembly relative to the longitudinally extending frame portion 11 in a direction that is perpendicular to the direction of extension of the longitudinally extending frame portion 11. The range of linear movement of the support structure 12 can include a base position and first and second extreme positions relative to the first longitudinally extending frame portion 11.

[0081] When the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 extends in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinally extending frame portion 11, the direction in which the linear movement mechanism 50' moves the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 relative to the longitudinally extending frame portion 11 is also perpendicular to that direction.

[0082] With respect to the base position provided by the linear motion mechanism 50' for the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15, in an embodiment, either of the first and second extreme positions may be the base position. The same is true with respect to the guiding structure 50 for at least the X-ray source.

[0083] According to yet another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8 a, the connection structure 19, 20 that mechanically connects the patient support 18 to the elongated frame portion 11 can include a patient support adjustment mechanism 19′, 20′ configured to allow the patient support 18 to be moved closer to and further away from the (first) elongated frame portion 11.

[0084] According to another embodiment, the patient support drive mechanisms 19'', 20'' are disposed in operative association with the patient support adjustment mechanisms 19', 20'.

[0085] According to another aspect, the patient support adjustment mechanism 19', 20' may comprise a first adjustment mechanism 19' disposed substantially at a first end of the elongated frame portion 11 together with a drive mechanism 19'' included in the patient support drive mechanism 19'', 20'', and a second adjustment mechanism 20' disposed substantially at a second end of the elongated frame portion 11 together with a drive mechanism 20'' included in the patient support drive mechanism 19'', 20''.

[0086] According to one embodiment, for example, the patient support adjustment mechanism 19', 20' is disposed in operative connection with a control system of the apparatus, and the control system is configured to control the patient support drive mechanism 19'', 20'' of the patient support adjustment mechanism 19', 20'.

[0087] According to one embodiment, for example, the control system comprises an adjustment mechanism 19' having its drive mechanism 19'' substantially positioned at a first end of the (first) elongated frame portion 11, and a second adjustment mechanism 20' having its drive mechanism 20'' substantially positioned at a second end of the (first) elongated frame portion 11, so as to maintain the same distance between the (first) elongated frame portion 11 and the patient support 18 at both the first and second ends of the elongated frame portion 11 when adjusting the distance between the two.

[0088] According to another embodiment, the distance between the end of the (first) elongated frame portion 11 and the patient support 18 can be adjusted differently.

[0089] According to one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8b, considering the above-mentioned first orientation of patient support 18, its cross section with respect to its dominant portion is curved to better support the patient against the concave surface of patient support 18.

[0090] According to one other embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8b, at the cross-sectional edge 181 of patient support 18, the cross-sectional shape changes to curve in opposite directions.

[0091] According to one other embodiment, and as further shown in Figure 8b, a retaining structure 182 is positioned near the edge of the aforementioned cross section of the patient support 18, opposite the concave surface of the dominant portion thereof. The retaining structure 182 may be, for example, an elongated handle or attachment structure for receiving a strap designed to extend over or over the concave surface of the patient support 18, and is used to provide additional support to the patient and thus help maintain stillness during imaging exposure.

[0092] According to one embodiment, as already generally described above, various degrees of freedom of movement of the device components, including those that may be positioned for the patient support 18, can be utilized when positioning the patient, i.e., more precisely, the anatomical structure for exposure. As an example, considering the situation of a patient's shoulder to be examined while lying on the patient support 18 as described above, the patient support 18 can first be driven to a height position that makes it easiest for the patient to get on the patient support 18. Then, while the patient is lying on the patient support 18, at least one of the following can be adjusted: i) the height position of the patient support 18; ii) the horizontal position of the support structure 12 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15; and iii) the position of the X-ray source 14 and / or the X-ray detector 15 within the range of lateral movement provided therefor, so that the desired anatomical structure is located within the field of view of the device. This is obviously within the degrees of freedom of movement of the device components positioned therefor.

[0093] Configurations according to embodiments allow for various patient entry and positioning operations to be performed on the device. They can also be utilized to perform, for example, other than traditional types of CT imaging, and in addition to CT imaging, imaging modes that do not involve rotation of the x-ray imaging assembly but merely linear motion can also be deployed. In particular, embodiments can be applied in the context of positioning anatomical structures for individual 2D imaging exposures.

[0094] The operation mode as described above may include, as a pre-exposure operation, driving the guide structure 50 for the X-ray source 14 to which the visible light-emitting structure 141′ is connected so that the visible light-emitting structure 141′ moves and is positioned at a basic base position of the X-ray source 14, and adjusting the field pattern generated by the visible light-emitting structure 141′ to a default shape and size. The default shape and size may be set according to an imaging mode that may be configured to be selected from a user interface of the device.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the selected imaging mode may include driving the X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15 a distance from their base positions. After such a pre-exposure operation, the apparatus may be configured to allow for adjusting the optical illumination field pattern, and thus the X-ray beam size and / or shape used during the imaging exposure, according to the characteristics of a given anatomical structure positioned for imaging.

[0096] In one embodiment, the device comprises a component(s) adapted to determine the position and / or shape of the anatomical structure positioned for imaging, and the control system then uses that information to adjust the X-ray beam collimation and / or the projected visible light pattern on the anatomical structure. Techniques exist for determining the distance and shape to a surface in a coordinate system, and for transferring information from one coordinate system to another, where it is knowing the geometry of the (relevant components of) the imaging arrangement and the correlation of that geometry to the coordinate system from which the position and shape of the surface are determined. In an embodiment, instead of determining the shape of the surface of the anatomical structure, for example, one can determine just the shortest distance from said same location to the surface of the anatomical structure.

[0097] Pre-exposure operations that are related to the mutual positioning of the anatomical structure and the imaging assembly and that adjust the size and shape of the X-ray beam according to a given imaging mode and further according to the anatomical structure to be imaged can be applied in the context of various imaging modes arranged in the imaging device. Such operations can generally include a control system of the device that includes geometric information about the mutual positions of the X-ray source, the light-emitting structure 141′, the X-ray detector, and / or the patient support, so that for a given light field pattern and where it is projected, the control system includes corresponding collimation information for limiting the X-ray beam when it is emitted at a given location of the X-ray source in the context of a given imaging mode.

[0098] The operation mode can include, as an example, a pre-exposure operation in which, before optionally driving the X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15 from their base positions, the guide structure 50 for the X-ray source 14 to which the visible light-emitting structure 141′ is connected is driven so that the visible light-emitting structure 141′ is moved to be located substantially at the base position of the X-ray source 14, and the field light pattern generated by the visible light-emitting structure 141′ is adjusted to a default shape and size. The default shape and size can be preset according to an imaging mode selected from a user interface of the device.

[0099] According to one embodiment, by way of example, the selected imaging mode includes driving the X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15 a distance from their base positions. After such a pre-exposure operation, the apparatus may be configured to allow for adjusting the optical illumination field pattern, and thus the X-ray beam size and shape used during the imaging exposure, according to the characteristics of a given individual anatomical structure positioned for imaging.

[0100] For a given patient entry operation or mode, according to one embodiment, the visible light emitting structure 141′ includes being positioned in the same location where the X-ray source will be positioned during or at the start of a subsequent imaging exposure.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the light field indicator 141 may then be configured or adjusted to project a light beam having the same shape as the shape of the X-ray beam that the X-ray source 14 is configured to emit. Such a light field indicator 141 may be mounted on the same guiding structure 50 as the X-ray source 14, e.g., as a separate component from the X-ray source 14, so as to be movably mounted relative to the support structure 12. The range of movement of the guiding structure 50 to which the X-ray source 12 and the light emitting component may be mounted is preferably configured so that the X-ray source 14 and the light emitting structure 141′ can be positioned at the same position within the range of movement provided by the guiding structure 50. Such an arrangement provides a novel arrangement in which a positioning light pattern can be projected onto the object being imaged from the same position where the actual X-ray imaging exposure takes place or is initiated.

[0102] Figure 9 shows, as a block diagram, an example of components of a control system applicable for use in this configuration. The control system according to Figure 9 is first configured to enable control of the operation of the X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15 (imaging means or assembly) during an exposure according to an imaging mode. The components controlling the operation of the X-ray source 14 and the X-ray detector 15 may include components physically located at the X-ray source 14 and / or the X-ray detector 15 and / or elsewhere in the apparatus.

[0103] The control system may further be configured to control various drive means of the apparatus, such as those driving one or more guide structures 50, as well as those moving the support structure 20 for the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15. Signal paths may also be configured to control the components described above in connection with adjusting the shape and size of the field pattern and the positioning of these components relative to the support structure 12.

[0104] The control system of Figure 9 further illustrates optional features for rotating the X-ray imaging assemblies 14, 15 and a patient entry mode feature which may include controlling at least one of the drive means described above.

[0105] Also shown in Figure 9 is the signal path to the mounting arrangement 23 as further discussed above, and in the case of devices that include an electric locking mechanism 24 for connecting and disconnecting the first and second elongated frame portions 11, 21 as described above, the control system may also control the actuation of the locking mechanism 24.

[0106] In general, the control system may be configured to control the above-described operations or portions thereof. The above-described configurations and functions provide a variety of possibilities to facilitate positioning and imaging of a desired volume of a patient.

[0107] Control signals for various operations can be triggered in response to detected operations or inputs from the device's user interface. The control system memory can contain various correlation information for the pattern shapes and dimensions described above, as well as the associated control protocols described above, and protocols for one or more approach and / or imaging modes.

[0108] While various embodiments have been described above, the configuration of the present disclosure can be described as a dental or medical X-ray imaging arrangement comprising: an X-ray detector; an X-ray source configured to generate X-ray radiation and including a collimator structure operatively connected to the X-ray source, the collimator structure configured to restrict the X-ray radiation generated by the X-ray source into a beam directed toward the X-ray detector and defining an X-ray radiation field pattern; a light field indicator including a visible light-emitting structure and configured to project the visible light field pattern directed toward the X-ray detector; a support structure to which the X-ray source and the visible light-emitting structure are mounted; and a control system including control information related to an imaging mode. Further, the support structure may be configured to allow the X-ray source and the visible light-emitting structure to be positioned in essentially the same position relative to the support structure 12, thereby directing a given field pattern toward the X-ray detector in essentially the same direction when located in said essentially the same position at a given time.

[0109] To add to or summarize some of the features described above, embodiments may include the X-ray source 14, the collimator structure 142, and the visible light-emitting structure 141′ being movably arranged as a fixed assembly. Alternatively, the X-ray source 14 and the visible light-emitting structure 141′ may be movably arranged as a fixed unit relative to the collimator structure 142.

[0110] The light field indicator 141 may be configured to generate a visible light field pattern such that the pattern is a substantially uniformly illuminated area or a combination includes a pattern of light fields that indicate an area. Further, the light field indicator 141 may be configured to allow for projecting visible light field patterns of different sizes and / or different shapes, and the collimator structure 142 allows for confining x-ray irradiation field patterns of different sizes and / or different shapes.

[0111] The control system may include correlation information regarding dimensions of the visible light illumination field pattern and the X-ray illumination field pattern at a given distance from the X-ray detector 15, and the light illumination field indicator 141 and the collimator structure 142 are configured to enable the dimensions and / or shape of the respective field patterns to be adjusted in accordance with the correlation information such that the field patterns cover essentially the same area at said given distance from the X-ray detector 15, and the correlation information optionally includes correlation information regarding a given imaging mode. The given imaging mode may be a CBCT imaging mode, and the control system may be configured to enable the visible light field pattern to indicate, for the given CBCT imaging mode, an area at a given distance from the X-ray detector 15 of the volume that it would cover when using a given collimation setting of the X-ray beam.

[0112] The arrangement may further comprise a component(s) configured to determine the position and / or shape of the anatomical structure arranged for imaging, and the control system may then use that information (knowledge) to adjust the X-ray beam collimation and / or projected visible light pattern on the anatomical structure, the position and / or shape of which is then configured to define a given distance from the X-ray detector 15.

[0113] The control system may also be configured to receive information from the light field indicator 141 regarding the characteristics of the projected visible light pattern and convert said received information into information on how to control the operation of the collimator structure 142 so as to adjust the X-ray irradiation field pattern to correspond at least substantially to the size and shape of the area indicated by the projected visible light pattern.

[0114] The control system may be further configured to receive information regarding the characteristics of the X-ray illumination field pattern from the collimator structure 142 and convert the received information into information regarding how to control operation of the light field indicator 141 to adjust the visible light illumination field pattern to correspond at least substantially to the size and shape of the X-ray illumination field pattern.

[0115] The arrangement may include a first guiding structure 50 mounted on the support structure 12, with the X-ray source 14 and the visible light emitting structure 141′ mounted together as a fixed unit, the first guiding structure 50 configured to allow movement of the fixed unit, the range of movement including a base position and first and second extreme positions. The first guiding structure 50 may include a carriage 51 mounted on the fixed unit including the X-ray source 14 and the visible light emitting structure 141′, the range of movement of the carriage 51 including a base position and first and second extreme positions.

[0116] The first guide structure 50 may comprise at least one guide groove or rail 52 on the side of the support structure 12 and a mating structure 52' on the side of the carriage 51. Meanwhile, the first guide structure 50 may comprise a motorized structure 53 operatively associated with the carriage 51, the motorized structure 53 providing movement of the stationary unit comprising the X-ray source 14 and the visible light emitting structure 141' within a range including first and second extreme positions. The first guide structure 50 may also comprise a position sensor arrangement 55 configured to acquire information regarding the position of the stationary unit comprising the X-ray source 14 and the visible light emitting structure 141' within its range of movement, the position sensor arrangement 55 being configured to detect the position of the carriage 51 within its range of movement. The first guide structure 50 may be configured to enable the stationary unit to be moved laterally, and the motorized structure 53 may comprise a drive screw 54 aligned parallel to the at least one guide groove or rail 52 and arranged in operative connection with the carriage 51.

[0117] The position sensor arrangement 55 may comprise a magnetic component 56 structurally connected to the carriage 51 and movably connected to a rod 57 extending parallel to the at least one guide groove or rail 52 of the guide structure 50 and the drive screw 54.

[0118] The mounting bracket 58 may be fixed to the carriage 51, or may be fixed to a fixed unit including the X-ray source 14 and the visible light emitting structure 141' to mechanically connect the fixed unit to the guide structure 50.

[0119] A signal path may be provided between the first guidance structure 50 and the control system. The signal path may include a signal path between the position sensor arrangement 55 and the control system.

[0120] Signal paths may also be provided between the collimator structure 142 and a control system, and between the light field indicator 141 and a control system, to control the collimator structure 142 and the light field indicator 141 according to the correlation information.

[0121] Additionally, X-ray detector 15 may be mounted to support structure 12 on which X-ray source 14 and visible light-emitting structure 141' are mounted. This arrangement may also include additional X-ray detectors mounted at locations other than support structure 12 on which X-ray source 14 and visible light-emitting structure 141' are mounted, and the mounting of X-ray source 14 and visible light-emitting structure 141' to support structure 12 may be realized in a manner that allows their respective field patterns to be directed in essentially the same direction towards both X-ray detectors.

[0122] The support structure 12 to which the X-ray source 14 and visible light emitting structure 141′ are mounted may comprise a ring-shaped configuration. The ring-shaped configuration may comprise a ring gantry 122 and a housing 121 that houses at least said ring gantry 122 and the first guiding structure 50. The housing 121 may comprise a surface having at least one opening 59 for mounting the at least one X-ray source 14 to a mounting bracket 58 via the at least one opening 59, the at least one opening 59 being dimensioned to allow a range of movement of the X-ray source 14 guided by the guiding structure 50.

[0123] Such an arrangement may include a first frame portion 11 extending in a first direction and including a first end and a second end, and the support structure 12 extending from the first frame portion 11 in a second direction essentially perpendicular to the first direction. Arranging the X-ray source 14 and the visible light emitting structure 141′ at essentially the same location may include positioning the X-ray source 14 and the visible light emitting structure 141′ movably in a direction perpendicular to both the first and second directions.

Claims

1. an X-ray detector 15; an X-ray source 14 configured to generate X-ray radiation, the X-ray source 14 comprising a collimator structure 142 operatively connected to the X-ray source 14, the collimator structure 142 configured to restrict the X-ray radiation generated by the X-ray source 14 into a beam aimed towards the X-ray detector 15 and to define an X-ray radiation field pattern; a light field indicator 141 comprising a visible light emitting structure 141' and configured to project a visible light field pattern aimed towards said X-ray detector 15; a support structure 12 to which the X-ray source 14 and the visible light emitting structure 141′ are mounted; a control system containing control information related to an imaging mode; A dental or medical X-ray imaging device, wherein the support structure (12) is configured to enable the X-ray source (14) and the visible light emitting structure (141') to be moved to be positioned at essentially the same position relative to the support structure (12), and wherein when each of the X-ray source (14) and the visible light emitting structure (141') is positioned at the essentially same position at different given times, they direct a given illumination / light illumination field pattern in essentially the same direction towards the X-ray detector (15).

2. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the X-ray source, the collimator structure, and the visible light emitting structure are movably arranged as a fixed assembly.

3. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the X-ray source and the visible light emitting structure are movably arranged as a fixed unit relative to the collimator structure.

4. 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the light field indicator is configured to generate a visible light field pattern such that the visible light field pattern is a substantially uniformly illuminated area or comprises a pattern of light fields that in combination indicate an area.

5. 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the light field indicators are configured to enable projecting the visible light field patterns of different sizes and / or different shapes, and the collimator structure is configured to enable confining X-ray irradiation field patterns of different sizes and / or different shapes.

6. 6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the control system includes correlation information regarding dimensions of the visible light field pattern and the X-ray irradiation field pattern at a given distance from the X-ray detector, and wherein the light field indicator and the collimator structure are configured to enable adjusting the dimensions and / or shape of their respective field patterns in accordance with the correlation information, so that the field patterns cover essentially the same area at the given distance from the X-ray detector, and / or the correlation information optionally includes correlation information regarding a given imaging mode.

7. 7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the given imaging mode is a CBCT imaging mode, and the control system is configured to enable the visible light field pattern to indicate an area at a given distance from the X-ray detector 15 for the given CBCT imaging mode and for a volume that it covers when using a given collimation setting of the X-ray beam.

8. 8. The apparatus of claim 6 or 7, wherein the apparatus comprises a component(s) configured to determine the position and / or shape of an anatomical structure positioned for imaging, and wherein the control system is configured to be able to adjust the X-ray beam collimation and / or the projected visible light pattern on the anatomical structure using information of the position and / or shape of the anatomical structure positioned for imaging, the position and / or shape then defining the given distance from the X-ray detector 15.

9. 9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the control system is configured to receive from the light field indicator (141) information regarding the characteristics of the visible light pattern projected by the light field indicator (141) and to convert the received information into information regarding how to control operation of the collimator structure (142) to adjust the X-ray irradiation field pattern to correspond at least substantially to a size and shape of the area indicated by the projected visible light pattern; and / or wherein the control system is configured to receive from the collimator structure (142) information regarding the characteristics of the X-ray irradiation field pattern limited by the collimator structure (142) and to convert the received information into information regarding how to control operation of the light field indicator (141) to adjust the visible light field pattern to correspond at least substantially to a size and shape of the X-ray irradiation field pattern.

10. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising a first guiding structure (50) attached to the support structure (12), wherein the X-ray source (14) and the visible light emitting structure (141′) are attached together as a fixed unit, and wherein the first guiding structure (50) is configured to enable the fixed unit to be moved, the range of movement including a base position and first and second extreme positions.

11. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the first guide structure comprises a carriage attached to the fixed unit comprising the X-ray source and the visible light emitting structure, and the range of movement of the carriage includes a base position and first and second extreme positions.

12. 12. The device according to claim 11, wherein the first guide structure (50) comprises at least one guide groove or rail (52) on the side of the support structure (12) and a mating structure (52') on the side of the carriage (51).

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the first guide structure (50) comprises an electric structure (53) operatively connected to the carriage (51), the electric structure (53) providing the movement of the fixed unit comprising the X-ray source (14) and the visible light emitting structure (141') within the range including the first and second extreme positions.

14. The apparatus of claim 12 or 13, wherein the first guiding structure 50 includes a position sensor arrangement 55 configured to acquire information regarding the position of the fixed unit including the X-ray source 14 and the visible light emitting structure 141' within the range of movement, and the position sensor arrangement 55 is configured to detect the position of the carriage 51 within the range of movement of the carriage 51.

15. 15. The apparatus of any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the first guide structure (50) is configured to enable the fixed unit to move laterally, and the motorized structure (53) comprises a drive screw (54) aligned parallel to the at least one guide groove or rail (52) and arranged in functional connection with the carriage (51).

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the position sensor arrangement (55) is structurally connected to the carriage (51) and comprises a magnetic component (56) movably connected to a rod (57) extending parallel to the at least one guide groove or rail (52) of the guide structure (50) and the drive screw (54).

17. 17. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein a mounting bracket (58) is fixed to the carriage (51) and, in turn, to a fixed unit including the X-ray source (14) and the visible light emitting structure (141'), and mechanically connects the fixed unit to the guide structure (50).

18. 18. An apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 17, wherein a signal path is provided between the first guiding structure (50) and the control system, the signal path including a signal path between a position sensor arrangement (55) and the control system.

19. 9. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein signal paths are provided between the collimator structure (142) and the control system, and between the light field indicator (141) and the control system, enabling the collimator structure (142) and the light field indicator (141) to be controlled according to the correlation information.

20. 20. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the X-ray detector (15) is mounted to the support structure (12) on which the X-ray source (14) and the visible light emitting structure (141') are mounted.

21. 21. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the apparatus comprises a further X-ray detector mounted at a location other than the support structure 12 to which the X-ray source 14 and the visible light emitting structure 141′ are mounted, and the mounting of the X-ray source 14 and the visible light emitting structure 141′ to the support structure 12 is realized in a way that enables their respective field patterns to be directed in essentially the same direction towards both X-ray detectors.

22. 22. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the support structure 12 to which the X-ray source 14 and the visible light emitting structure 141′ are attached comprises a ring-shaped configuration, the ring-shaped configuration comprising a ring-shaped gantry 122 and a housing 121 that houses at least the ring-shaped gantry 122 and a first guiding structure 50.

23. 23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the housing 121 comprises a surface having at least one opening 59 for mounting at least the X-ray source 14 via a mounting bracket 58, the at least one opening 59 being dimensioned to allow a range of movement of the X-ray source 14 as guided by the guide structure 50.

24. 24. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the apparatus comprises a first frame portion (11) extending in a first direction and having a first end and a second end, and the support structure (12) extends from the first frame portion (11) in a second direction that is essentially perpendicular to the first direction.

25. 25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein arranging the X-ray source 14 and the visible light emitting structure 141′ at substantially the same position includes arranging the X-ray source 14 and the visible light emitting structure 141′ to be movable in a direction perpendicular to both the first and second directions.

Images