X-Ray Light Field Alignment for Precise Anatomical Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dental and medical X-ray imaging systems face challenges in accurately positioning the anatomy to minimize radiation exposure to non-essential areas and ensure proper alignment of the X-ray source and detector, particularly in cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) apparatus with multiple functionalities, which can be cumbersome and complex.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates a light field indicator that projects a visible light field pattern from the same location as the X-ray beam, allowing for precise alignment and adjustment of the X-ray source and detector, enabling accurate positioning of the anatomy for optimal exposure without unnecessary radiation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a light field indicator is used to facilitate positioning of the anatomy, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components remaining between the X-ray source and detector
Solution Approach 1:
The light field indicator components are extracted from the permanent positioning between source and detector. Instead of remaining components blocking the X-ray path, the light field indicator is activated only before exposure to project the light field pattern for positioning, then removed or deactivated before the actual X-ray exposure occurs. This eliminates the complexity of having permanent components in the radiation path while maintaining positioning assistance when needed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functionalities are added to the apparatus to support different imaging modalities, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The light field indicator system serves multiple functions: it provides positioning guidance for 2D radiography, assists in 3D CBCT positioning, and can adapt to different imaging modalities. The same basic light field projection mechanism is used across different imaging types, reducing the need for separate positioning systems for each modality and thereby managing complexity while maintaining versatility.
3Ease of operation
If the light field indicator remains between the X-ray source and detector during exposure, then positioning guidance is continuous, but harmful radiation exposure increases due to additional components in the beam path
Solution Approach 1:
The light field indicator operates periodically rather than continuously. It is activated before the X-ray exposure to provide positioning guidance, then turned off or removed before the exposure begins. This periodic operation ensures positioning assistance is available when needed while eliminating the presence of components in the beam path during radiation exposure, thereby preventing additional 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
This solution allows for reduced radiation dose by ensuring precise anatomical positioning, improving image quality while minimizing exposure to non-essential areas, and facilitating easier patient access and positioning in CBCT and other imaging modalities.
Implementation Method 1
a light field indicator comprising a visible light emitting construction and being configured to project a visible light field pattern
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates, in particular, to structures of an arrangement applicable for use in the context of dental or medical X-ray imaging, wherein the arrangement comprises an X-ray detector (15), an X-ray source (14), a light field indicator (141) and a support construction (12) to which the X-ray source (14) construction and the light field indicator (141) construction are mounted. The support construction (12) is configured to enable positioning the X-ray source (14) construction and the light field indicator (141) construction at essentially the same location, so as to when at a given time locating at said essentially same location, to direct a given X-ray irradiation field pattern and visible light field pattern in essentially the same direction towards the X-ray detector (15).