X-ray CT Apparatus Offset Scan Panoramic Imaging Mode
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray CT apparatuses for jaw/face imaging in dentistry require large two-dimensional X-ray sensors for detecting ranges larger than the visual field, leading to increased costs.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray CT apparatus that utilizes a relatively small two-dimensional X-ray sensor capable of performing offset scan/CT and panoramic imaging, with an imaging mode selecting device to switch between offset scan/CT and normal scan/CT modes, and includes slits to form X-ray beams into narrow strips or cone beams depending on the imaging mode, allowing for efficient imaging with a cost-effective setup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a large two-dimensional X-ray sensor is used to detect a range not smaller than the visual field, then the imaging range is increased, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging process is divided into multiple sequential positions rather than capturing the entire range simultaneously. The X-ray sensor remains small while the system moves to different positions (offset scan/CT positions) to capture different portions of the imaging range, effectively segmenting the imaging process in space and time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds temporal and positional dimensions to the imaging process. Instead of expanding the sensor area in two dimensions, the invention moves the X-ray source and sensor through a third dimension (spatial displacement along the rotational arm) and time (sequential positioning) to achieve extended imaging coverage.
2Area of stationary object
If the rotational arm is positioned for offset scan/CT imaging, then the imaging range exceeds the sensor visual field, but the region of interest may not be constantly irradiated
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the rotational arm position between offset scan/CT mode and normal scan/CT mode based on imaging requirements. The rotational arm can be moved to different positions during operation, allowing the system to optimize between extended imaging range and constant region of interest irradiation depending on the specific imaging task.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the positional parameter of the rotational arm to switch between imaging modes. By adjusting the rotational arm position (a spatial parameter), the system transitions between offset scan/CT configuration (wider imaging range) and normal scan/CT configuration (constant ROI irradiation), effectively using parameter change to resolve the contradiction.
3Adaptability or versatility
If slits are used to form narrow strip or cone beam, then the X-ray beam is optimized for specific imaging modes, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The slit structure serves multiple functions: it forms narrow strip beams for panoramic imaging and cone beams for CT imaging. This single component achieves beam shaping for different imaging modes, reducing the need for separate beam-forming devices for each mode and thereby reducing overall device complexity despite the added functionality.
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
Enables panoramic and offset scan/CT imaging using a small X-ray sensor, increasing the imaging range while maintaining cost-effectiveness and improving image resolution by selectively adjusting the X-ray beam and rotational central axis for optimal imaging.
Implementation Method 1
X-rays having been radiated from the X-ray generating section (15) and transmitted through the imaging object are detected in the X-ray detecting section (16)
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a new X-ray imaging apparatus by the use of which X-ray CT and panoramic imaging can be effectively performed. In an X-ray imaging apparatus which rotates an X-ray generating section and an X-ray detecting section around an imaging object arranged between these X-ray generating section and the X-ray detecting section and also detects in the X-ray detecting section X-rays having been radiated from the X-ray generating section and transmitted through the imaging object to form an X-ray image, a panoramic imaging mode in which the X-ray generating section and the X-ray detecting section are driven to form a panoramic image of the imaging object and an offset scan/CT mode in which the X-ray generating section and the X-ray detecting section are driven to form a tomographic image of the imaging object are set, so as to selectively execute these two imaging modes. Consequently, the panoramic imaging mode and the offset scan/CT mode can be arbitrarily selected, thereby allowing formation of an X-ray imaged image that is optimum for treatment.