3D CT Scanner Generating Panoramic Radiographs via Forward Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dental imaging requires separate machines for producing panoramic radiographs and 3D radiographs, which is inefficient and inconvenient for dental clinics.
Innovation Solution
A panoramic radiograph can be produced using a 3D CT scanner, with a processor generating x-ray projection images from 3D radiograph digital data to create a panoramic radiograph without the need for a dedicated panoramic radiography machine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate machines are used for panoramic radiography and 3D radiography, then each machine can be optimized for its specific function, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The 3D CT scanner is designed to perform multiple functions: it can acquire both 3D volumetric data and generate panoramic radiographs through software processing. The same hardware system (x-ray source, detector, rotation mechanism) serves dual purposes by implementing different reconstruction algorithms (3D tomography and 2D panoramic projection), eliminating the need for a separate panoramic radiography machine
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the panoramic radiography function with the 3D CT scanning system. By integrating the panoramic image generation capability into the 3D CT scanner's software suite, two previously separate imaging functions are merged into a single unified system, reducing equipment quantity and operational complexity
2Reliability
If separate machines are used for panoramic and 3D radiography, then specialized imaging can be achieved, but the productivity and efficiency of dental clinics decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The unified 3D CT scanner system provides both 3D volumetric imaging and 2D panoramic radiography capabilities through software selection. This multi-functionality allows dental clinics to obtain all necessary diagnostic images in a single scanning session, eliminating the need for separate appointments or machine usage, thereby significantly improving diagnostic efficiency and patient throughput
3Speed
If a dedicated panoramic radiography machine is used, then panoramic images can be obtained quickly, but the loss of time for patient scheduling and machine availability increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the panoramic radiography function into the 3D CT scanner, the system allows simultaneous acquisition of both 3D and panoramic images during a single scanning operation. This eliminates the need for separate scheduling of panoramic imaging sessions, reducing time loss related to appointment coordination and machine availability while maintaining fast image acquisition speeds
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for the production of high-quality panoramic radiographs using existing 3D CT scanner technology, reducing the need for multiple imaging devices and enhancing efficiency in dental diagnostics.
Implementation Method 1
The processor may be configured to generate a plurality of x-ray projection images of the target object by performing forward-projection on voxels associated with the target object
Implementation Method 2
The processor may further configured to use at least one of a morphology image processing (MIP) algorithm, an edge detection algorithm, and a blob detection algorithm to detect the ROI
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure is related an apparatus and method for producing a panoramic radiograph of a target object using a three dimensional (3D) radiograph of the same object. The apparatus may include a communication circuit and a processor. The communication circuit may be configured to receive 3D radiograph digital data of the 3D radiograph. The processor may be configured to generate a plurality of x-ray projection images of the target object by performing forward-projection on voxels associated with the target object, and to combine the generated x-ray projection images to produce the panoramic radiograph of the target object.