Dental Arch Panorama Tomogram Extraction from X-ray Data

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for obtaining a panorama tomogram in dental X-ray computer tomography require complex operations such as inputting multiple coordinate points or setting reference curves, making it difficult for operators to produce the image efficiently and effectively.

Innovation Solution

An image processing method that extracts dental arch projection data based on preset position and shape information from X-ray projection data, allowing for the generation of a panorama tomogram with a simple operation, such as selecting a 'panorama display' option, without the need for additional X-ray exposure or complex data reconstruction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If conventional methods are used to obtain panorama tomogram from X-ray projection data, then the panorama tomogram can be produced, but complex operations such as inputting multiple coordinate points or setting reference curves are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation simplicityVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically identifies and extracts dental arch projection data from the X-ray projection data without requiring operator intervention for coordinate input or reference curve setting. The extraction is performed self-service through automated algorithms that detect anatomical features and generate the panorama tomogram directly from the acquired data

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Position and shape information about the dental arch is stored in advance in the system memory. When panorama tomogram generation is requested, the pre-stored information is automatically applied to extract the relevant projection data, eliminating the need for real-time manual setup and reducing processing time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If conventional methods are used to obtain panorama tomogram, then the image can be displayed, but immense amount of time and effort is required for complicated operations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata processing efficiencyVSAvoidoperation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system extracts only the necessary dental arch projection data from the complete X-ray projection data set using automated extraction based on pre-stored position and shape information. This selective extraction eliminates the need for complex manual operations while maintaining high processing efficiency by focusing computational resources on relevant data only

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The same X-ray projection data acquisition system is used for both conventional CT imaging and panorama tomogram generation. The system provides multi-functionality by enabling panorama image production as an additional capability without requiring separate specialized equipment, thereby improving productivity while maintaining operational simplicity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8254520B2Image processing method, image display method, image processing program, storage medium, image processing apparatus and X-ray imaging apparatus
Publication Date: 2012.08.28 J MORITA MANUFACTURING CORP
  • US8254520B2 patent drawing
  • US8254520B2 patent drawing
  • US8254520B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An object of the present invention is to provide an image processing method, etc. capable of producing a panorama tomogram with a simple operation whenever required by the operator. The present invention relates to an image processing method for producing a panorama tomogram of the dental arch using the X-ray projection data on the dentomaxillofacial region obtained by the X-ray computer tomography. The image processing method according to the present invention includes the steps of retrieving the dental arch projection data corresponding to the dental arch from the X-ray projection data based on the preset position and shape information to specify the position and shape of the dental arch from the X-ray projection data (S3) and generating a panorama tomogram by executing a predetermined process using the dental arch projection data (S4).