X-ray Imaging Device TMJ PA Mode Inversion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dental X-ray panoramic imaging devices with a two-axis drive system are unable to perform postero-anterior (PA) mode imaging of the temporo mandibular joint (TMJ), as the cervical vertebrae attenuate X-rays, limiting the image layer that can be radiographed and requiring a more complex three-axis drive system for effective TMJ PA mode imaging.
Innovation Solution
A two-dimensional tomographic imaging device with a radiography unit featuring an X-ray source and sensor facing each other with a rotating axis, driven by a driver that rotates and linearly moves the radiography unit, allowing for the production of two-dimensional tomographic images by reversing and overlapping X-ray transmission images to capture the TMJ PA mode image layer, similar to a three-axis drive system but with a conventional two-axis configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional two-axis drive system is used for panoramic imaging, then the device structure is simple and easy to operate, but the cervical vertebrae attenuate X-rays causing cervical effect and preventing effective TMJ PA mode imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies inversion by reversing the conventional imaging approach: instead of keeping the rotating axis fixed and moving the X-ray source and sensor, the patent positions the rotating axis between the X-ray source and the object, allowing the source and sensor to rotate around it. This inverted configuration enables TMJ PA mode imaging with a two-axis drive system by changing the spatial relationship and rotation center, thereby resolving the cervical vertebrae attenuation problem while maintaining operational simplicity
2Reliability
If a three-axis drive system is used to achieve effective TMJ PA mode imaging, then the imaging capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional three-axis drive configuration by repositioning the rotating axis between the X-ray source and the object. This allows a two-axis drive system to achieve the same TMJ PA mode imaging capability that traditionally required a three-axis system, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining imaging effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the two-axis drive system universal by enabling it to perform both conventional panoramic imaging and TMJ PA mode imaging through the inverted configuration. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a more complex three-axis system, as the two-axis system can now accomplish multiple imaging tasks that previously required different specialized systems
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 the miniaturization and easier operation of TMJ PA mode imaging, previously only achievable with a three-axis drive system, by providing a tomographic image of the image layer between the rotating axis and X-ray source, overcoming the limitations of conventional devices.
Implementation Method 1
X-rays are attenuated according to an X-ray attenuation coefficient, such as photoelectric effect, Compton scattering, and the like, of a substance placed in a path of the X-rays.
Implementation Method 2
X-rays are attenuated according to an X-ray attenuation coefficient, such as photoelectric effect, Compton scattering, and the like, of a substance placed in a path of the X-rays.
Implementation Method 3
X-rays are attenuated according to an X-ray attenuation coefficient, such as photoelectric effect, Compton scattering, and the like, of a substance placed in a path of the X-rays.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an X-ray imaging device, which is capable of providing a tomographic image of an image layer disposed between an axis of rotation and an X-ray source. The imaging device according to the present invention includes a radiography unit having an X-ray source and an X-ray sensor disposed to face each other with a rotating axis therebetween, wherein the X-ray sensor configured to obtain X-ray transmission images, a driver configured to rotate the X-ray source and the X-ray sensor about the rotating axis, and an image processor configured to provide a two-dimensional tomographic image of an image layer disposed between the rotating axis and the X-ray source, by shifting and overlapping the X-ray transmission images after reversing left and right at least some of the X-ray transmission images.