Single X-ray Sensor for Panoramic and CBCT Acquisitions
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extraoral dental radiography apparatuses require alternating mechanisms and varying X-ray source-sensor distances for panoramic and cone beam volumetric acquisitions, leading to increased dimensions and collision risks with the patient's head, while also being costly and complex.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus utilizing a single X-ray sensor capable of performing both panoramic and CBCT acquisitions with a fixed source-sensor distance, employing a non-centered and non-symmetrical trajectory for CBCT to avoid collisions and simplify the mechanical structure, eliminating the need for an alternating device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If alternating mechanisms are used to switch between PAN and CBCT sensors, then both PAN and CBCT acquisitions can be performed, but the apparatus dimensions increase and collision risks with patient's head increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a single X-ray sensor that can perform both panoramic and CBCT acquisitions through different trajectories. The sensor is designed to handle multiple functions without requiring separate sensors or alternating mechanisms, thereby reducing apparatus dimensions and eliminating collision risks while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functionality of separate PAN and CBCT sensors into a single unified sensor system. By combining these functions into one sensor that can operate in different modes with different trajectories, the apparatus achieves size reduction while maintaining the capability to perform both types of acquisitions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If alternating mechanisms are used to switch between PAN and CBCT sensors, then both PAN and CBCT acquisitions can be performed, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates device complexity by designing a universal sensor system that performs both PAN and CBCT acquisitions. The control system manages different trajectories and acquisition modes software-controlled, removing the need for complex mechanical alternating mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity.
3Measurement precision
If varying X-ray source-sensor distances are used for PAN and CBCT acquisitions, then optimal image quality can be achieved for each mode, but the apparatus requires complex alternating mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the X-ray source-sensor distance variable through trajectory selection rather than physical sensor replacement. The system dynamically adjusts the effective distance by choosing different movement paths (PAN trajectory with closer distance, CBCT trajectory with farther distance), eliminating the need for complex alternating mechanisms while maintaining optimal image quality for each mode.
4Device complexity
If a single sensor is used for both PAN and CBCT acquisitions, then apparatus size and complexity are reduced, but the sensor must handle different acquisition frequencies and trajectories
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves universality at the sensor level by designing a single X-ray sensor capable of operating at different acquisition frequencies and following different trajectories. The sensor system is engineered to handle high-frequency PAN acquisitions and lower-frequency CBCT acquisitions, adapting its operational parameters based on the selected mode without requiring physical replacement.
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 reduces the apparatus's size, cost, and complexity, while maintaining high image quality by using a single sensor and fixed source-sensor distance, providing a larger field of view and preventing collisions during CBCT acquisitions.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray source (5), and an X-ray sensor (6)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
Method and apparatus for acquiring volumetric CBCT radiographies in an apparatus having a rotary supporting arm, at whose ends at least an X-ray source and at least an X-ray sensor are positioned, said supporting arm having the aim of rotating said at least one source and at least one sensor around a patient; said method comprising the following steps: - Positioning a patient on the positioning device 7; - Acquiring a CBCT image through a trajectory having an angular extension lower than 360°; characterized in that the rotation centre of the trajectory (11) of said X-ray sensor (6) is never on the median sagittal plane (13) defined by the patient positioned inside the apparatus (1) and in that the trajectory is not symmetric to any of the possible sagittal planes of the patient.