Dental X-Ray Source Array for Low-Dose 3D Tomosynthesis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dental x-ray imaging technologies face limitations in diagnostic accuracy due to anatomical superposition in 2D imaging, with low sensitivity for caries detection and root fracture, and CBCT's high radiation dose and cost are not suitable for screening.
Innovation Solution
A multi-modality dental x-ray imaging system combining CBCT, 2D intraoral x-ray imaging, and intraoral tomosynthesis, utilizing a rotatable gantry with a spatially distributed x-ray source array and digital detector, enabling synchronized x-ray exposure and reconstruction of 3D tomosynthesis images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If 2D intraoral radiography is used, then the imaging process is simple and fast, but diagnostic accuracy is limited due to anatomical superposition
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D projection radiography to 3D tomosynthesis by introducing a temporal dimension through sequential x-ray exposures at different angles. Multiple 2D projections are acquired over time and reconstructed into 3D image slices, allowing virtual dissection of dental anatomy to eliminate superposition artifacts while maintaining clinical workflow simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging volume is segmented into multiple thin slices through tomosynthesis reconstruction. Instead of presenting a single superimposed 2D image, the system divides the 3D dental anatomy into discrete depth layers that can be individually examined, isolating structures of interest from overlapping anatomical features.
2Measurement precision
If CBCT is used, then 3D imaging eliminates anatomical superposition, but radiation dose and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of performing a complete 360-degree rotational scan as in CBCT, the system acquires x-ray projections over a limited angular range (typically 20-40 degrees) sufficient for dental imaging needs. This partial scanning approach achieves the necessary 3D visualization while dramatically reducing radiation exposure and scan time compared to full CBCT protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate in 2D radiography mode for routine screenings, switch to 3D tomosynthesis mode for enhanced diagnostic cases, and provide both modalities through a single integrated platform. This multi-functionality allows clinicians to select the appropriate imaging level based on clinical need, optimizing the balance between diagnostic accuracy and radiation dose.
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
Enhances diagnostic accuracy by providing depth information, reducing radiation dose, and improving image interpretation efficiency, potentially replacing conventional 2D intraoral radiography as the new standard.
Implementation Method 1
an x-ray source array attached to the rotatable gantry and comprising a plurality of spatially distributed x-ray focal spots
Implementation Method 2
a digital area x-ray detector attached to the rotatable gantry, opposite the x-ray source array
Implementation Method 3
a reconstruction algorithm to process the projection images to generate tomosynthesis image slices in real-time
Data Source
AI summary
Multi-modality dental x-ray imaging devices, systems, and methods. In some embodiments, an x-ray imaging system is operable in cone-beam computed tomography, two-dimensional intraoral x-ray, and intraoral tomosynthesis imaging modes. In some embodiments, the device includes a rotatable gantry, an x-ray source array attached to the rotatable gantry and including x-ray focal spots, a digital area x-ray detector attached to the rotatable gantry, an intraoral sensor, an adjustable collimation assembly positioned between the x-ray source array and the subject and configured to limit x-ray radiation to a surface of the intraoral sensor or the digital area x-ray detector depending on the selected imaging mode, and a control unit including one or more processors, the control unit configured to operate the x-ray imaging system in one of the imaging modes.