Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43 Filed 02/12/21 Page 1 of 30

Damian C. Smith (2991) damian.smith@techlawventures.com

Terrence J. Edwards (9166) terrence.edwards@techlawventures.com

TechLaw Ventures, PLLC

Attorneys for Plaintiff J Morita Manufacturing Corp.
Technology Law Center
3290 W. Mayflower Ave.
Lehi, Utah 84043
Telephone: (801) 805-3684
Facsimile: (801) 852-8203

IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT, FOR THE DISTRICT OF UTAH

CENTRAL DIVISION, SALT LAKE COUNTY

)
J MORITA MFG. CORP., )
a Japan Corporation, )
) Case No. 2:20-cv-00475
Plaintiff, ) Magistrate Judge Daphne A. Oberg
)
vs. )
) SECOND AMENDED COMPLAINT
)
DENTAL IMAGING TECHNOLOGIES ) (Jury Trial Demanded)
CORPORATION, a California )
corporation, )
)
Defendant. )

Plaintiff, J MORITA MANUFACTURING CORP. (“Plaintiff”), by and through its

undersigned counsel, hereby complains against Defendant DENTAL IMAGING

TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION (“Defendant”) as follows:

PARTIES

1. Plaintiff is a corporation organized and existing under the laws of Japan.

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2. Defendant Dental Imaging Technologies Corporation is a corporation organized

and existing under the laws of the State of California.

NATURE OF THE ACTION

3. Defendant sells a certain CT/Panorama Imaging Device called the KaVo OP3D (the

“Device”).

4. Plaintiff alleges that the Device infringes five separate U.S. patents owned by

Plaintiff, namely, United States Patent No. 6,118,842 (hereinafter “the ‘842 Patent”); U.S. Patent

No. 6,289,074 (hereinafter “the ‘074 Patent”); U.S. Patent No. 7,347,622 (hereinafter “the ‘622

Patent”); U.S. Patent No. 7,486,759 (hereinafter “the ‘759 Patent”); and U.S. Patent No. 8,300,762

(hereinafter “the ‘762 Patent”) (collectively, the “Patents”), under the Patent Laws of the United

States, 35 U.S.C. § 1 et seq. and more specifically under 35 U.S.C. §§ 271, 281, 283, 284, and

285. Copies of the respective patents are attached hereto as Exhibits and incorporated herein.

JURISDICTION AND VENUE

5. This Court has jurisdiction over the subject matter of this action pursuant to 28

U.S.C. §§ 1331 and 1338(a) because this action arises under the Patent Laws of the United States,

35 U.S.C. § 271 et seq.

6. In addition to the foregoing, this also is a civil action with complete diversity of

citizenship between Plaintiff and Defendant, with the amount in controversy exceeding $75,000.

Thus, jurisdiction of this Court also is founded upon 28 U.S.C. § 1332.

7. This Court has personal jurisdiction over Defendant because Defendant directly

and/or through authorized intermediaries, ships, distributes, offers for sale, sells, and /or advertises

its products and services in the United States and the State of Utah and in this District, including

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via websites at www.kavo.com and www.kavokerr.com and through representatives assigned to

the State of Utah. Upon information and belief, Defendant has committed patent infringement in

the State of Utah. Upon information and belief, Defendant solicits customers in the State of Utah.

On information and belief, Defendant has many customers who are residents of the State of Utah

who each use Defendant’s products and services in the State of Utah. Therefore, Defendant is

subject to the jurisdiction of this Court pursuant to Rule 4(k)(1)(A) of the Federal Rules of Civil

Procedure and Utah Code Ann. § 78-27-24.

8. Venue is proper in this judicial district as to Defendant pursuant to 28 U.S.C. §§

1391 and 1400(b).

THE PATENTS

9. Paragraphs 1 - 8 are incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.

10. On September 12, 2000, the ‘842 Patent entitled “X-Ray Imaging Apparatus” was

duly and lawfully issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (“PTO”). A true and

correct copy of the ‘842 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit A and is incorporated herein by this

reference.

11. On September 11, 2001, the ‘074 Patent entitled “X-Ray Computed Tomography

Method and System” was duly and lawfully issued by the United States Patent and Trademark

Office (“PTO”). A true and correct copy of the ‘074 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit B and is

incorporated herein by this reference.

12. On March 25, 2008, the ‘622 Patent entitled “X-Ray CT Scanner and Scan Method”

was duly and lawfully issued by the PTO. A true and correct copy of the ‘622 Patent is attached

hereto as Exhibit C and is incorporated herein by this reference.

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13. On February 3, 2009, the ‘759 Patent entitled “X-Ray Computer Tomography

Apparatus” was duly and lawfully issued by the PTO. A true and correct copy of the ‘759 Patent

is attached hereto as Exhibit D and is incorporated herein by this reference.

14. On October 30, 2012, the ‘762 Patent entitled “X-Ray CT Imaging Apparatus” was

duly and lawfully issued by the PTO. A true and correct copy of the ‘762 Patent is attached hereto

as Exhibit E and is incorporated herein by this reference.

15. Plaintiff is the owner of all right, title and interest in and to the Patents or otherwise

possesses all rights of recovery under the Patents, including the right to sue and recover all past,

present and future damages for infringement thereof, including past infringement, and to enjoin

acts of infringement of the Patents.

COUNT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT AND CLAIM FOR RELIEF

16. Plaintiff hereby incorporates the preceding paragraphs 1 through 15 of this

Complaint into this First Count for Patent Infringement and Claim for Relief as though fully set

forth herein.

17. In violation of 35 U.S.C. § 271(a), Defendant has infringed and continues to

infringe claims 11 and 14 of the ‘842 Patent by making, using, offering to sell, and selling (directly

or through affiliates, subsidiaries, divisions or intermediaries), in this District and elsewhere in the

United States, the Device which embodies the inventions claimed in ‘842 Patent.

I. The following are the claim elements of independent Claim 11 of the ‘842

Patent with respect to the elements of the Accused Device (“AD”), which is shown in

Exhibit F:

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CLAIM ELEMENT CORRESPONDING ELEMENTS OF

ACCUSED DEVICE
An X-ray imaging apparatus (1) comprising: The AD is an X-ray imaging apparatus. See
Exhibit F showing where each Claim Element
numbered in red in the left column is found in
the AD.
an X-ray source (2) for generating X-rays; The AD contains an X-ray source (2) for
generating X-rays.
X-ray imaging means (3) for detecting X-rays The AD contains an X-ray imaging means (3)
having passed through an object (OB); for detecting X-rays passing through an
object (OB).
supporting means (4) for supporting the X-ray The AD contains a rotation arm (4), which is
source (2) and the X-ray imaging means (3) so the supporting means for supporting the X-
that the X-ray source (2) and the X-ray imaging ray source (2) and the X-ray imaging means
means (3) are opposed to each other across the (3) so that they opposed to each other across
object (OB); the object (OB).
an apparatus frame (6) supporting the supporting The rotation arm (4) in the AD is supported
means (4); and by and suspended from apparatus frame (6).
moving means (7) moving the supporting means The rotation arm (4) of the AD is rotated
(4) with respect to the apparatus frame (6); about the apparatus frame (6) by a motor
driving mechanism corresponding to the
moving means (7) that moves the supporting
means (4) with respect to the apparatus frame
(6).
the X-ray imaging apparatus (1) further The AD is able to execute both a panoramic
comprising mode switching means (8) for and 3D image with the ability to switch
switching between a CT mode in which a partial between these modes. The mode switching
CT image is generated, and a panorama mode in means is a connected to a workstation (8).

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which a panoramic tomographic image is See, inter alia, page 19 of the OP 3D User and
generated; and Installation Manual found at:
https://www.kavo.com/en-us/imaging-
solutions/kavo-op-3d-cone-beam-3d-
imaging#docs and a video demonstration at
time 0:23-0:51 found at:
https://www.kavo.com/en-us/kavo-
orthopantomograph-op-3d-3d-patient-
positioning-1
wherein when the CT mode is selected by the When the mode switching means (8) selects
mode switching means (8), the moving means (7) the CT mode, the motor (7) moves the X-ray
moves the X-ray source (2) and the X-ray source (2) and the X-ray imaging means (3)
imaging means (3) along a CT image formation of the AD moves along a CT image formation
locus during a partial CT imaging process, locus during a partial CT imaging process.
and when the panorama mode is selected by the When the mode switching means (8) selects
mode switching means (8), the moving means (7) the panorama mode, the motor (7) moves the
moves the X-ray source (2) and the X-ray X-ray source (2) and the X-ray imaging
imaging means (3) along a panoramic image means (3) of the AD moves along a
formation locus during a panoramic imaging panoramic image formation locus during a
process; and panoramic imaging process.
before and after the partial CT imaging process, Before and after the partial CT imaging
the supporting means (4) is positioned at a process, when the object (OB) needs to enter
specific angular position where a line connecting and exit the imaging area (IM) the supporting
the X-ray source (2) and the X-ray imaging means (4) is in a resting position where,
means (3) laterally elongates. relative to the object (OB), the space between
the X-ray source (2) and the X-ray imaging
means (3) is long enough or elongated in a
lateral dimension such that the object (OB)
may freely enter and exit the imaging area

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(IM). See, inter alia, video demonstration at

time 0:50-0:58 found at:
https://www.kavo.com/en-us/kavo-
orthopantomograph-op-3d-3d-patient-
positioning-1

II. The following are the claim elements of independent Claim 14 of the ‘842

Patent shown with respect to the elements of the AD:

CLAIM ELEMENT CORRESPONDING ELEMENTS OF

ACCUSED DEVICE
A partial X-ray CT imaging apparatus (1) The AD is an X-ray imaging apparatus. See
comprising: Exhibit F showing where each Claim
Element numbered in red in the left column
is found in the AD.
an X-ray source (2) for generating X-rays; The AD contains an X-ray source (2) for
generating X-rays.
X-ray imaging means (3) for detecting X-rays The AD contains an X-ray imaging means
having passed through an object (OB); (3) for detecting X-rays passing through an
object (OB).
supporting means (4) for supporting the X-ray The AD contains a rotation arm (4), which is
source (2) and the X-ray imaging means (3) so the supporting means for supporting the X-
that the X-ray source (2) and the X-ray imaging ray source (2) and the X-ray imaging means
means (3) are opposed to each other across the (3) so that they opposed to each other across
object (OB); the object (OB).
an apparatus frame (6) for supporting the The rotation arm (4) in the AD is supported
supporting means (4) so as to be rotatable about by and suspended from apparatus frame (6)
a rotation axis; and and is rotatable about a rotation axis.

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rotation driving means (7) for rotating the The rotation arm (4) of the AD is rotated
supporting means (4) with respect to the about the apparatus frame (6) by a motor
apparatus frame (6); and driving mechanism corresponding to the
rotation driving means (7) that rotates the
supporting means (4) with respect to the
apparatus frame (6).
wherein an image region (IM) according to the The imaging region (IM) of the AD is
X-ray source (2) and the X-ray imaging means substantially positioned on an extension line
(3) is substantially positioned on an extension of the rotation axis of the rotation
line of the rotation axis of the supporting means arm/supporting means (4); and during a
(4), during a partial X-ray CT imaging process, partial X-ray CT imaging process, the
the rotation driving means (7) rotates the rotation driving means (7) of the AD rotates
supporting means (4) in a predetermined the supporting means (4) in a predetermined
direction about the rotation axis, and the X-ray direction about the rotation axis, and the X-
source (2) and the X-ray imaging means (3) are ray source (2) and the X-ray imaging means
revolved about the imaging region (IM), thereby (3) are revolved about the imaging region
conducting a partial CT imaging of the object (IM), thereby conducting a partial CT
(OB); imaging of the object (OB).
the supporting means (4) comprises: The supporting means (4) of the AD contains
a support arm (4) which is supported by the the customary structure of a partial CT
apparatus frame (6) so as to be rotatable about imaging device, including a support arm (4)
the rotation axis extending in a vertical direction; which is supported by the apparatus frame
(6) so as to be rotatable about the rotation
axis extending in a vertical direction.
a first attaching portion which downwardly As can be seen in Exhibit F, the support arm
elongates is disposed at one end portion of the (4) of the AD contains a first attaching
support arm, and a second attaching portion portion that is downwardly elongated and is
which downwardly elongates is disposed at disposed at one end portion of the support
another end portion of the support arm; arm (4), and a second attaching portion that

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is downwardly elongated and is disposed at

another end portion of the support arm (4).
the X-ray source (2) is attached to the first As can be seen in Exhibit F, the AD
attaching portion; contains the X-ray source (2) that is
attached to the first attaching portion.
the X-ray imaging means (3) is attached to the As can be seen in Exhibit F, the AD contains
second attaching portion; and the X-ray imaging means (3) that is attached
to the second attaching portion.
the image region (IM) is placed between the first The AD contains an image region (IM) that
attaching portion and the second attaching is placed between the first attaching portion
portion of the supporting arm (4); and and the second attaching portion of the
supporting arm (4).
before and after the partial CT imaging process, Before and after the partial CT imaging
the support arm (4) is positioned at a specific process, when the object (OB) needs to enter
angular position where a line connecting the X- and exit the imaging area (IM) the supporting
ray source (2) and the X-ray imaging means (3) means (4) is in a resting position where,
laterally elongates. relative to the object (OB), the space between
the X-ray source (2) and the X-ray imaging
means (3) is long enough or elongated in a
lateral dimension such that the object (OB)
may freely enter and exit the imaging area
(IM). See, inter alia, video demonstration at
time 0:50-0:58 found at:
https://www.kavo.com/en-us/kavo-
orthopantomograph-op-3d-3d-patient-
positioning-1

18. In violation of 35 U.S.C. § 271(a), Defendant has infringed and continues to

infringe claims 1, 7, 13, 14, 15 and 23 of the ‘074 Patent by making, using, offering to sell, and

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selling (directly or through affiliates, subsidiaries, divisions or intermediaries), in this District and

elsewhere in the United States, the Device which embodies the inventions claimed in ‘074 Patent.

I. The following are the claim elements of independent Claim 1 of the ‘074

Patent shown with respect to the elements of the AD:

CLAIM ELEMENT CORRESPONDING ELEMENTS OF

ACCUSED DEVICE
An X-ray computed tomography method of the The AD is an X-ray computed tomography
local region (IM) of the object (OB) in which X- imaging apparatus that performs the claimed
rays are radiated locally on part of the object method. See Exhibit F showing where each
(OB), by turning a rotary arm (4) with an X-ray Claim Element numbered in red in the left
generator (2) and a two-dimensional image sensor column is found in the AD as previously
(3) faced to each other, the method comprising: shown in reference to claims 11 and 14 of the
‘842 patent. The AD can execute panoramic
imaging and also 3D imaging, the 3D
imaging being partial CT.
producing an X-ray projection image of a local This element is found in the AD and is
region (IM) on the two-dimensional X-ray image conventional structure of a dental CT
sensor (3) by turning the rotary arm (4) within a apparatus.
scope of angle according to projection conditions,
The AD rotates the rotary arm within a scope
of angle according to projection conditions.

See, inter alia, video demonstration at time

3:23-3:37 found at:
https://www.kavo.com/en-us/kavo-
orthopantomograph-op-3d-3d-patient-
positioning-1

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while locally radiating conical X-ray beams from This element is found in the AD and is
the X-ray generator (2) covering only the local conventional structure of a dental CT
region (IM) of the object (OB), apparatus.

In a standard CT imaging of a dental X-ray

apparatus, including the AD, the rotation arm
turns either one time or one-half time, and
the X-ray beam is a conical X-ray beam,
focusing only on a partial area of the patient
or the region of interest.

See, inter alia, video demonstration at time

0:35-0:58 and time 3:30-4:41 found at:
https://www.kavo.com/en-us/kavo-
orthopantomograph-op-3d-3d-patient-
positioning-1
with a rotating center of the rotary arm (4) fixed The AD executes positional adjustment by
at a center position of the local region (IM), the fixing the position of FOV and, in
local region (IM) being a part of the object (OB) consideration of the FOV of the AD, forms a
to be examined, and cylindrical area with the rotating center of
the rotary arm being fixed at a center position
of the local region. See, inter alia, video
demonstration at time 3:24-3:35 found at:
https://www.kavo.com/en-us/kavo-
orthopantomograph-op-3d-3d-patient-
positioning-1
arithmetically processing the X-ray projection The AD produces a sectional image of the
image thus produced and extracting a three- local region to be examined using the
dimensional X-ray absorption coefficient claimed image processing method of this

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distribution information on the local region (IM) claim element. Notably, the AD produces a
and thereby producing a sectional image of the CT image of the partial area. Thus, upon
local region (IM) of the object (OB) to be information and belief, the AD arithmetically
examined. processes the X-ray projection image thus
produced and extracts a three-dimensional
X-ray absorption coefficient distribution
information on the local region (IM) and
thereby produces a sectional image of the
local region (IM) of the object (OB) to be
examined.

II. The following are the claim elements of Claim 7 of the ‘074 Patent with

respect to the elements of the AD:

CLAIM ELEMENT CORRESPONDING ELEMENTS OF

ACCUSED DEVICE
An X-ray computed tomography system (1) The AD is an X-ray computed tomography
comprising: system. See Exhibit F showing where each
Claim Element numbered in red in the left
column is found in the AD.
an X-raying means having a rotary arm (4) with The AD contains an X-raying means having
an X-ray generator (2) and a two-dimensional X- a rotary arm (4) with an X-ray generator (2)
ray image sensor (3) faced to each other, and a two-dimensional X-ray image sensor
(3) faced to each other.

an X-ray beam width restriction means for Upon information and belief, the AD
restricting a width of a conical X-ray beam necessarily must contain an X-ray beam
radiated from the X-ray generator (2) at least in a restriction means in order to restrict the
scanning direction, width of the conical X-ray beam radiated

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from the X-ray generator (2) at least in a

scanning direction in order to only radiate the
desired region of interest and field of view.

See, inter alia, video demonstration at time

0:33-0:45 found at:
https://www.kavo.com/en-us/kavo-
orthopantomograph-op-3d-3d-patient-
positioning-1
a rotary arm drive control means for rotating the The AD contains rotary arm drive control
rotary arm (4) with a rotation center of the rotary means for rotating the rotary arm (4) with a
arm (4) fixed during projection, the means being rotation center of the rotary arm (4) fixed
so designed to move and preset at least one of a during projection, the means being so
rotation center of the rotary arm (4) and an object designed to move and preset at least one of a
(OB) to be X-rayed before projection, and rotation center of the rotary arm (4) and an
object (OB) to be X-rayed before projection.

See, inter alia, video demonstration at time

2:26-2:49 and time 3:30-3:37 found at:
https://www.kavo.com/en-us/kavo-
orthopantomograph-op-3d-3d-patient-
positioning-1
an image processing unit (8) for arithmetically The AD contains a workstation (8) that
processing an X-ray projection data and produces a sectional image of the local
extracting a three dimensional absorption region to be examined using the claimed
coefficient distribution information of the object image processing of this claim element.
(OB) through which the X-ray is passed as image Notably, the AD produces a CT image of the
information, partial area. Thus, upon information and
belief, the AD arithmetically processes the

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X-ray projection data and extracts a three-

dimensional absorption coefficient
distribution information on the object (OB)
through which the X-ray is passed as image
information.
wherein the rotary arm (4) is turned in order to This element is found in the AD and is
form an X-ray projection image of the two- conventional structure of a dental CT
dimensional image sensor (3) within a scope of apparatus.
angle according to projecting conditions, while
controlling a beam width of the conical X-ray The rotary arm (4) in the AD turns in order
beam from the X-ray generator (2) which contain to form an X-ray projection image of the
a local region (IM) of the object (OB), or a part of two-dimensional image sensor within a
the object (IM) and widens in X-ray scanning scope of angle according to projecting
direction and the X-ray projection image thus conditions, while controlling a beam width
formed is arithmetically processed to produce a of the conical X-ray beam from the X-ray
sectional image of the local region (IM) of the generator (2) which contain a local region
object (OB). (IM) of the object (OB), or a part of the
object (IM) and widens in X-ray scanning
direction and the X-ray projection image thus
formed is arithmetically processed to
produce a sectional image of the local region
(IM) of the object (OB).

III. The following are the claim elements of Claim 13 of the ‘074 Patent with

respect to the elements of the AD:

CLAIM ELEMENT CORRESPONDING ELEMENTS OF

ACCUSED DEVICE

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 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43 Filed 02/12/21 Page 15 of 30

The X-ray computed tomography system (1) Claim 13 depends from independent claim 7.
according to one of claims 7 to 10, The elements of independent claim 7 are
illustrated above with respect to the AD in
Part II. above and hereby incorporated into
this Part III.
wherein the conical X-ray beam from the X-ray The conical X-ray beam of the AD is radiated
generator (2) is horizontally radiated to the two horizontally between the X-ray generator (2)
dimensional X-ray image sensor (3) and wherein and the X-ray image sensor (3), and the
the rotating axis of the rotary arm (4) is vertically rotating axis of the rotary arm is vertical as
provided. shown in Exhibit F.

IV. The following are the claim elements of Claim 14 of the ‘074 Patent with

respect to the elements of the AD:

CLAIM ELEMENT CORRESPONDING ELEMENTS OF

ACCUSED DEVICE
The X-ray computed tomography system (1) Claim 14 depends from independent claim 7.
according to one of claims 7 to 10, The elements of independent claim 7 are
illustrated above with respect to the AD in
Part II. above and hereby incorporated into
this Part IV.
wherein the two-dimensional X-ray image sensor The AD contains an X-ray sensor (3) that has
(3) has a detection face not longer than 30 cm in a detection face that is not longer than 30 cm
length and not longer than 30 cm in width and is in length and not longer than 30 cm in width.
capable of detecting more than 30 pieces of X-ray Upon information and belief, the AD is
projection image data or partial X-ray projection capable of detecting more than 30 frames (or
image data per a second. 30 pieces) of X-ray projection image data or
partial X-ray projection image data per
second.

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V. The following are the claim elements of Claim 15 of the ‘074 Patent with

respect to the elements of the AD:

CLAIM ELEMENT CORRESPONDING ELEMENTS OF

ACCUSED DEVICE
The X-ray computed tomography system (1) Claim 15 depends from independent claim 7.
according to one of claims 7 to 10, The elements of independent claim 7 are
illustrated above with respect to the AD in
Part II. above and hereby incorporated into
this Part V.
wherein the system (1) is provided with a main The AD has a main frame (6) for rotatably
frame (6) for rotatably holding the rotary arm (4), holding the rotary arm (4). The main frame
the frame (6) having an arm vertical position (6) holds the rotary arm (4) and the rotary
adjusting means for adjusting and setting the arm arm (4) moves up and down with respect to
(4) in a vertical direction. the main frame (6), thereby vertically
moving the rotary arm (4).
See, inter alia, video demonstration at time
1:54-2:00 found at:
https://www.kavo.com/en-us/kavo-
orthopantomograph-op-3d-3d-patient-
positioning-1

VI. The following are the claim elements of Claim 23 of the ‘074 Patent with

respect to the elements of the AD:

CLAIM ELEMENT CORRESPONDING ELEMENTS OF

ACCUSED DEVICE

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 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43 Filed 02/12/21 Page 17 of 30

The X-ray computed tomography system (1) Claim 23 depends from independent claim 7.
according to one of claims 7 to 10, The elements of independent claim 7 are
illustrated above with respect to the AD in
Part II. above and hereby incorporated into
this Part VI.
wherein the two-dimensional X-ray image sensor The AD contains an X-ray sensor (3) that is
(3) is composed of either TFT, MOS, CCD, XII, a C-MOS sensor.
or XICCD.

19. In violation of 35 U.S.C. § 271(a), Defendant has infringed and continues to

infringe claim 11 of the ‘622 Patent by making, using, offering to sell, and selling (directly or

through affiliates, subsidiaries, divisions or intermediaries), in this District and elsewhere in the

United States, the Device which embodies the inventions claimed in ‘622 Patent.

I. The following are the claim elements of Claim 11 of the ‘622 Patent with

respect to the elements of the AD:

CLAIM ELEMENT CORRESPONDING ELEMENTS OF

ACCUSED DEVICE
An X-ray CT scanner (1) comprising: The AD is an X-ray CT scanner. See Exhibit
F showing where each Claim Element
numbered in red in the left column is found
in the AD.
a rotary device (4) comprising an X-ray generator The AD contains this customary structure of
(2) and an X-ray detector (3) opposing to each a dental CT scanner as shown in Exhibit F.
other, to be provided for interposing an object The AD contains a rotary arm (4) comprising
(OB) between them; an X-ray generator (2) and an X-ray detector
(3) opposing to each other, to be provided for
interposing an object (OB) between them.

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 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43 Filed 02/12/21 Page 18 of 30

a rotary mechanism (7) for rotating the rotary The AD contains this customary structure of
device (4) around a rotary axis; a dental CT scanner as shown in Exhibit F.
The AD contains a rotary mechanism (7) for
rotating the rotary arm (4) around a rotary
axis.
a mechanism (7) for moving the rotary axis of the The AD can move the rotary axis and
rotary mechanism (7) and/or the object (OB) in contains this element. The AD contains a
two-dimensional directions crossing the rotary mechanism (7) for moving the rotary axis in
axis; and two-dimensional directions crossing the
rotary axis.
a controller which controls the rotary mechanism The AD contains a controller that controls
(7) and the mechanism (7) for moving the rotary the rotary mechanism (7) for moving the
axis and/or the object (OB), rotary axis and/or the object (OB). See, inter
alia, video demonstration at time 2:26-2:49
and time 3:30-3:37 found at:
https://www.kavo.com/en-us/kavo-
orthopantomograph-op-3d-3d-patient-
positioning-1
wherein rotation of the rotary device (4) by the In the CT mode of the AD, the rotation of the
rotary mechanism (7) and movement of the rotary rotary device (4) by the rotary mechanism (7)
axis and/or the object (OB) by the mechanism (7) and the movement of the rotary axis and/or
for moving the rotary axis and/or the object (OB) the object (OB) are synchronized to set a
are synchronized so as to set a rotation center of a rotation center. This is because the FOV
synthesized motion of the rotation of the rotary forms a cylindrical area and the center of
device (4) and the movement of the rotary axis rotation needs to be fixed at the center of a
and/or the object (OB) at a point in a region of region of interest (IM) during a CT scan to
interest (IM) during a CT scan, create an image.

18
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43 Filed 02/12/21 Page 19 of 30

the rotation center being different from and In the AD, a rotation center is set at the place
defined independently of the rotary axis different from the place where the rotary axis
exists.

20. In violation of 35 U.S.C. § 271(a), Defendant has infringed and continues to

infringe claims 1, 2 and 6 of the ‘759 Patent by making, using, offering to sell, and selling (directly

or through affiliates, subsidiaries, divisions or intermediaries), in this District and elsewhere in the

United States, the Device which embodies the inventions claimed in ‘759 Patent.

I. The following are the claim elements of Claim 1 of the ‘759 Patent with respect to

the elements of the AD:

CLAIM ELEMENT CORRESPONDING ELEMENTS OF

ACCUSED DEVICE
1. An X-ray CT apparatus (1), which comprises The AD contains this customary structure of
an X-ray generating section (2) that applies X- an X-ray CT apparatus (1) that comprises a
rays and an X-ray detecting section (3) in rotation arm (4) supporting the X-ray source
opposing positions, (2) and the X-ray detector (3).
and which rotates said X-ray generating section The AD contains this customary structure of
(2) and X-ray detecting section (3) with an a dental CT apparatus. The X-ray generator
imaging object (OB) arranged between said X-ray (2) and X-ray detector (3) of the AD are
generating section (2) and X-ray detecting section rotated around an object (OB) therebetween
(3) and also detects X-rays having been radiated and the X-ray detecting section (3) also
from said X-ray generating section (2) and detects X-rays having been radiated from
transmitted through said imaging object (OB) in said X-ray generating section (2) that have
said X-ray detecting section (3) to back-project been transmitted through the imaging object
X-ray CT data, so as to form a CT image, (OB) in said X-ray detecting section (3) to
back-project X-ray CT data, so as to form a
CT image.

19
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43 Filed 02/12/21 Page 20 of 30

wherein said apparatus (1) comprises an imaging The AD contains an imaging mode selecting
mode selecting device (8) for selecting: a device (8) for selecting one of a panoramic
panoramic imaging mode in which, during imaging mode and an offset scan CT mode.
imaging, a rotational arm (4) having said X-ray In the panoramic imaging mode the rotation
generating section (2) and X-ray detecting section arm (4) having the X-ray source (2) and X-
(3) is rotationally driven while a rotational central ray detector (3) is rotationally driven while a
axis of the rotational arm (4) is moved, to form a rotational central axis of the rotation arm (4)
panoramic image of said imaging object (OB); is moved to form a panoramic image of said
imaging object (OB).
and an offset scan/CT mode in which a CT image The AD contains an offset scan/CT mode. A
of said imaging object (OB) is constructed on the CT imaging of a large diameter FOV is
basis of X-ray CT data obtained by rotating the executed by an offset scan CT imaging in the
rotational arm (4) around a rotational central axis offset scan CT mode. In the offset scan CT
wherein the rotational arm (4) is set in such a mode X-ray CT data is obtained by rotating
position as a part of a region of interest (IM) of the rotation arm (4) around a rotational
said imaging object (OB) is constantly irradiated central axis, wherein the rotation arm (4) is
with a cone beam radiated from said X-ray set in such a position such that a part of a
generating section (2) and detected in said X-ray region of interest (IM) of the object (OB) is
detecting section (3). constantly irradiated with a cone beam.
A CT image of said imaging object (OB) is
constructed on the basis of X-ray CT data
obtained by the CT imaging.

II. The following are the claim elements of Claim 2 of the ‘759 Patent with respect to

the elements of the AD:

CLAIM ELEMENT CORRESPONDING ELEMENTS OF

ACCUSED DEVICE

20
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43 Filed 02/12/21 Page 21 of 30

The X-ray CT apparatus (1) according to claim 1, Claim 2 depends from independent claim 1.
The elements of independent claim 1 are
illustrated above with respect to the AD in
Part I. above and hereby incorporated into
this Part II.
wherein said imaging mode selecting device (8) Upon information and belief, the AD
has a normal scan/CT mode in which a CT image executes a reconstruction of CT data
of said imaging object (OB) is constructed on the obtained by rotating the rotational central
basis of X-ray CT data obtained by rotating the axis of the rotation arm (4) as the center that
rotational central axis of the rotational arm (4) as is provided in such a position so as to
the center that is provided in such a position as to constantly irradiate a region of interest (IM)
constantly irradiate a region of interest (IM) of of the object (OB) with a cone beam. This is
said imaging object (OB) with a cone beam in consideration of the shape of 5H and 5W
radiated from said X-ray generating section (2) FOV being cylindrical and through
and detected in said X-ray detecting section (3). observation of the AD where a rotation shaft
was observed as moving during CT imaging
of 5H and 5W FOV at the Helsinki, Finland
factory.

III. The following are the claim elements of Claim 6 of the ‘759 Patent with respect to

the elements of the AD:

CLAIM ELEMENT CORRESPONDING ELEMENTS OF

ACCUSED DEVICE
The X-ray CT apparatus (1) according to any one Claim 6 depends from any of claims 1-4. The
of claims 1 to 4, elements of independent claim 1 are
illustrated above with respect to the AD in
Part I. above and the elements of claim 2 are
illustrated above with respect to the AD in

21
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43 Filed 02/12/21 Page 22 of 30

Part II, both of which are hereby

incorporated into this Part III.
comprising a driving device (7) for moving said During panoramic imaging, the AD contains
rotational central axis in accordance with a a driving device (7) that moves the rotational
rotational angle of the rotational arm (4) that central axis in accordance with a rotational
holds said X-ray generating section (2) and said angle of the rotational arm (4) that holds said
X-ray detecting section (3). X-ray generating section (2) and said X-ray
detecting section (3).

21. In violation of 35 U.S.C. § 271(a), Defendant has infringed and continues to

infringe claims 1, 2, 4, 5 and 8 of the ‘762 Patent by making, using, offering to sell, and selling

(directly or through affiliates, subsidiaries, divisions or intermediaries), in this District and

elsewhere in the United States, the Device which embodies the inventions claimed in ‘762 Patent.

I. The following are the claim elements of Claim 1 of the ‘762 Patent with

respect to the elements of the AD:

CLAIM ELEMENT CORRESPONDING ELEMENTS OF

ACCUSED DEVICE
An X-ray CT imaging apparatus (1) comprising: The AD is an X-ray CT apparatus. See
Exhibit F showing where each Claim
Element numbered in red in the left column
is found in the AD.
a first supporter (4) for supporting an X-ray The AD contains this customary structure of
generator (2) generating an X-ray cone beam and a rotation arm (4) as the first supporter (4)
a two-dimensional X-ray detector (3), supporting an X-ray generator (2) and an X-
ray detector (3).

22
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43 Filed 02/12/21 Page 23 of 30

the X-ray generator (2) and the X-ray detector (3) The AD structure is arranged such that an
being arranged to interpose an object (OB), object (OB) is set between the X-ray
generator (2) and the X-ray detector (3).
the X-ray detector (3) being adapted to generate a The AD structure is arranged such that the X-
data of an image of the object (OB) to be ray detector (3) generates image data for 3D
processed for calculating a three dimensional CT CT image reconstruction.
data of the object (OB);
a rotary shaft extending vertically for rotating the The AD contains a rotary shaft extending
first supporter (4) around the rotary shaft to vertically for rotating the rotation arm (4)
revolve the X-ray generator (2) and the X-ray around the rotary shaft to revolve the X-ray
detector (3) around the object (OB); generator (2) and the X-ray detector (3)
around the object (OB).
a second supporter (6) supporting the rotary shaft; The AD contains an elevating frame (6),
which is the second supporter (6) supporting
the rotary shaft.
a movement mechanism (7) for moving the first The AD contains a movement mechanism (7)
supporter (4) relative to the object; and for moving the rotation arm (4) relative to the
object (OB).
a plane movement mechanism (7) for moving the The AD contains a plane movement
rotary shaft relative to the object (OB) in the mechanism (7) for moving the rotary shaft
movement mechanism (7); relative to the object (OB) in the movement
mechanism (7).
wherein in an offset scan CT imaging the In the CT mode of the AD, the rotation of the
revolution of the first supporter (4) around the rotation arm/first supporter (4) and a relative
rotary shaft is performed at the same time as a two-dimensional movement of the rotary
relative two-dimensional movement of the rotary shaft by the plane movement mechanism (7)
shaft by the plane movement mechanism (7); and are synchronized as observed during a
demonstration of the AD at the Helsinki,
Finland factory.

23
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43 Filed 02/12/21 Page 24 of 30

wherein in the relative two-dimensional Upon information and belief, in the CT mode
movement of the rotary shaft, a position of the of the AD, a position of the rotary shaft is
rotary shaft is moved according to a rotary angle moved along a circular orbit around a center
of the first supporter (4) in two dimensions in a of a CT imaging region (IM), because the
plane crossing the rotary shaft along a circular center of the rotation must be fixed at the
orbit around a center of a CT imaging region center of the FOV during CT scan
(IM), considering the FOV forming cylindrical
area and as observed during a demonstration
of the AD at the Helsinki, Finland factory in
which movement of the rotary shaft was
observed.

Therefore, in the relative two-dimensional

movement of the rotary shaft, a position of
the rotary shaft is moved according to a
rotary angle of the rotation arm (4) in two
dimensions in a plane crossing the rotary
shaft along a circular orbit around a center of
a CT imaging region (IM).
the rotary angle of the first supporter (4) being The AD contains this element. The rotation
360 degrees or more. arm/first supporter (4) of the AD rotates 360
degrees or more because an offset CT scan
needs rotation of 360 degrees or more to
produce a CT scan.

II. The following are the claim elements of Claim 2 of the ‘762 Patent with

respect to the elements of the AD:

24
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43 Filed 02/12/21 Page 25 of 30

CLAIM ELEMENT CORRESPONDING ELEMENTS OF

ACCUSED DEVICE
The X-ray CT imaging apparatus (1) according to Claim 2 depends from independent claim 1.
claim 1, The elements of independent claim 1 are
illustrated above with respect to the AD in
Part I. above, which is hereby incorporated
into this Part II.
wherein in the relative two-dimensional When an offset CT scan of the AD is
movement of the rotary shaft in the offset scan CT executed a center of revolution of the X-ray
imaging, a center of revolution of the X-ray cone cone beam around the object (OB) of the
beam around the object (OB) according to the rotation arm (4) is set to a position different
rotation of the first supporter (4) is set to a from a symmetrical axis of the broadening
position different from a symmetrical axis of the X-ray cone beam because the position of the
broadening X-ray cone beam. rotary shaft of the rotation arm (4) of the AD
continued to move during offset CT imaging
as observed during a demonstration of the
AD at the Helsinki, Finland factory.

III. The following are the claim elements of Claim 4 of the ‘762 Patent with

respect to the elements of the AD:

CLAIM ELEMENT CORRESPONDING ELEMENTS OF

ACCUSED DEVICE
The X-ray CT imaging apparatus (1) according to Claim 4 depends from independent claim 1.
claim 1, The elements of independent claim 1 are
illustrated above with respect to the AD in
Part I. above, which is hereby incorporated
into this Part III.

25
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43 Filed 02/12/21 Page 26 of 30

wherein the circular orbit is a true circle. Upon information and belief, the AD
contains a circular orbit that is a true circle.
Upon information and belief, the circular
orbit is a true circle because the axial slice
image is illustrated as a true circle shape
image and also illustrated in a FOV image is
a cylindrical FOV with true circle section.
These images are produced by a CT imaging
wherein the rotary shaft moves along a true
circular orbit.

IV. The following are the claim elements of Claim 5 of the ‘762 Patent with

respect to the elements of the AD:

CLAIM ELEMENT CORRESPONDING ELEMENTS OF

ACCUSED DEVICE
The X-ray CT imaging apparatus (1) according to Claim 5 depends from independent claim 1.
claim 1, The elements of independent claim 1 are
illustrated above with respect to the AD in
Part I. above, which is hereby incorporated
into this Part IV.
wherein the movement mechanism (7) is set in the The AD has a second supporter/frame (6)
second supporter (6). that suspends the rotation arm (4), and the
movement mechanism (7) is located in the
frame/second supporter (6).

V. The following are the claim elements of Claim 8 of the ‘762 Patent with

respect to the elements of the AD:

26
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43 Filed 02/12/21 Page 27 of 30

CLAIM ELEMENT CORRESPONDING ELEMENTS OF

ACCUSED DEVICE
The X-ray CT imaging apparatus (1) according to Claim 8 depends from independent claim 1.
claim 1, The elements of independent claim 1 are
illustrated above with respect to the AD in
Part I. above, which is hereby incorporated
into this Part V.
further comprising a device for restricting an The AD executes a panoramic imaging, and
irradiation field, wherein the device restricts the a narrow beam restricted by a restricting
X-ray beam generated by the X-ray generator (2) device, such as a collimator, must be used in
to a narrow width beam having a width narrower the panoramic imaging.
in a direction crossing an axial direction of the
rotary shaft than in a direction in parallel to the
axial direction, and at least one of panorama
imaging and cephalometric X-ray imaging is
possible by irradiating the narrow width beam.

22. Plaintiff has not licensed or otherwise authorized Defendant to make, use, sell, offer

for sale, import, or otherwise practice in the United States of America the Device under any of the

foregoing Patents.

23. Plaintiff is entitled to recover from Defendant the damages sustained by Plaintiff as

a result of the Defendant’s wrongful acts in an amount subject to proof at trial, which, by law,

cannot be less than a reasonable royalty, together with interest and costs as fixed by this Court

under 35 U.S.C. § 284.

24. Defendant’s selling of the Device was made and continues to be made with

knowledge of the Patents and such acts constitute willful and deliberate infringement, which

27
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43 Filed 02/12/21 Page 28 of 30

thereby make this case exceptional and entitle Plaintiff to increased damages (up to three times the

amount found or assessed) and reasonable attorneys’ fees pursuant to 35 U.S.C. §§ 284 and 285.

25. Defendant’s infringement of Plaintiff’s rights under the Patents will continue to

damage Plaintiff, causing irreparable harm for which there is no adequate remedy at law, unless

enjoined by this Court.

PRAYER FOR RELIEF

WHEREFORE, Plaintiff respectfully requests that this Court enter a final order and

judgment against Defendant as follows:

A. An adjudication that Defendant infringes the claims of the Patents as set forth

above;

B. An award of all damages to compensate Plaintiff for Defendant’s past infringement

and any future infringement up to the date such judgment is entered, including interest, costs and

disbursement as justified under 35 U.S.C. § 284 and, if necessary, to adequately compensate

Plaintiff for Defendant’s infringement, and an accounting of all infringing sales, manufacture, uses,

importation and offers for sale including, but not limited to, those not presented at trial;

C. A declaration that this case is exceptional under 35 U.S.C. § 285;

D. An award to Plaintiff of its attorneys’ fees, costs, and expenses incurred in this

action;

E. That Plaintiff be granted permanent injunctive relief pursuant to 35 U.S.C. §

283 enjoining Defendant, its officers, agents, servants, employees, and all those persons in active

concert or participation with any of them, from any further acts of infringement of the Patents;

28
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43 Filed 02/12/21 Page 29 of 30

F. An award to Plaintiff of pre-judgment and post-judgment interest on the damages

caused to it by reason of Defendant’s infringement of the Patents;

G. An award to Plaintiff of Defendant’s total profits, or the greatest amount allowable

under law, related to the sale of Defendant’s products found to infringe the Patents, pursuant to 35

U.S.C. § 289; and

H. An award to Plaintiff of all its costs and expenses incurred in this litigation,

including without limitation reasonable attorneys’ fees.

DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL

Pursuant to Rule 38 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, Plaintiff hereby demands trial

by jury on all claims and issues so triable.

Dated February 12, 2021.

TechLaw Ventures, PLLC

/s/ Damian C. Smith

Damian C. Smith
damian.smith@techlawventures.com

Terrence J. Edwards
terrence.edwards@techlawventures.com

3290 W. Mayflower Ave.

Lehi, UT 84043
Telephone: 801-805-3684

Counsel for Plaintiff J MORITA MFG. CORP.

29
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43 Filed 02/12/21 Page 30 of 30

CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE

I hereby certify that on February 12, 2021, a true and correct copy of the foregoing

SECOND AMENDED COMPLAINT was filed with the Clerk of Court and served on the

following using the Court’s CM/ECF filing system:

Martin J. Black (pro hac vice)

Email: martin.black@dechert.com
Michael A. Fisher (pro hac vice)
Email: michael.fisher@dechert.com
DECHERT LLP
Cira Centre, 2929 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104-2808

Amy F. Sorenson (8947)

Email: asorenson@swlaw.com
SNELL & WILMER L.L.P.
15 West South Temple, Suite 1200
Salt Lake City, Utah 84101

Dated February 12, 2021

Respectfully submitted,
Attorneys for Plaintiff J Morita Manufacturing
Corp.

/s/ Damian C. Smith

Damian C. Smith
Terrence J. Edwards
TECHLAW VENTURES, PLLC
3290 W. Mayflower Ave.
Lehi, UT 84043
(801) 805 3684 telephone
damian.smith@techlawventures.com
terrence.edwards@techlawventures.com
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 1 of 46

USOO611.8842A
United States Patent (19) 11 Patent Number: 6,118,842
Arai et al. (45) Date of Patent: Sep. 12, 2000
54) X-RAY IMAGING APPARATUS 5,224,140 6/1993 Virta et al. ................................ 378/38
5,293,312 3/1994 Waggener ... ... 378/14
75 Inventors: Yoshinori Arai, Tokyo; Keisuke Mori, 5,793,838 8/1998 Kovacs ...................................... 378/39
Kyoto; Masakazu Suzuki, Kyoto; FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
Akifumi Tachibana, Kyoto, all of
Japan S55-1053 1/1980 Japan.
H7-136158 5/1995 Japan.
73 Assignee: J. Morita Manufacturing Primary Examiner David V. Bruce
Corporation, Kyoto, Japan Attorney, Agent, or Firm-Koda & Androlia
21 Appl. No.: 08/987,218 57 ABSTRACT
22 Filed: Dec. 9, 1997 An object of the invention is to provide a dual-purpose X-ray
imaging apparatus capable of partial CT imaging in addition
30 Foreign Application Priority Data to panoramic tomographic imaging. Another object of the
Dec. 10, 1996 JP Japan .................................... 8-33OO66 invention is to provide a dedicated partial X-ray CT imaging
Nov. 14, 1997 JP Japan .................................... 9-313963 apparatus. An X-ray imaging apparatus comprises an X-ray
Source 28 which irradiates an object with X-rays, an image
(51) Int. Cl. .................................................. A61B 6/14 Sensor 38 which detects X-rays having passed through the
52 U.S. Cl. ................................ 378/39; 378/38; 378/901 object; a Support arm 24 which Supports the X-ray Source 28
58 Field of Search .................................. 378/38, 39, 40, and the image Sensor 38; and a plurality of motorS for
378/901 moving the Support arm 24. These motorS move the X-ray
Source 28 and image Sensor 38 along a CT image formation
56) References Cited locus in the CT mode, and the X-ray source 28 and the image
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS Sensor 38 along a panoramic image formation locus in the
case of the panorama mode.
5,058,147 10/1991 Nishikawa et al..
5,093,852 3/1992 Nishikawa et al.. 15 Claims, 26 Drawing Sheets

CT MODE SELECTED

PANORAMA MODE
SELECTED

PANORAMA MODE MAGING s5

 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 2 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 1 of 26 6,118,842

FIG 1
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 3 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 2 of 26 6,118,842

G? NT97|OIH80VN1IOD,H

ZG

||TSÅHWW18dHTO1H0LI|NOWM
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 4 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 3 of 26 6,118,842

 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 5 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 4 of 26 6,118,842

FIG 5B
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 6 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet S of 26 6,118,842

FIG 6

163

8
O 104..
110 p
tril 2145.53..."is 16O
94. /148,
ziz58, ALE
102 4 thi? fift -146
106 - AAA
3% Blair,
3.1563 -120
138
96
Ret their D \
".
-1
N 132 13,128 122N 136
102 S---100"
. 98 13014042
118-1 Z.
114 92
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 7 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 6 of 26 6,118,842

iWSHnNOsLEaI,eS
99
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 8 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 7 of 26 6,118,842

FIG 8
MAGING MODE
OBJECT
TOOTH POSITION
VERTICAL 176
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 9 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 8 of 26 6,118,842

FIG 9
38 236
MAGE SENSOR
MAGE SIGNAL
PROCESSING MEANS
28
248
X-RAY SOURCE DISPLAYING
MEANS
24 O
17A, NPUT MEANS A/D CONVERTNG
MEANS 238
NROLINES ---
PROCESS INFORMATION
241
STORING MEANS

246
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 10 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 9 of 26 6,118,842

FIG 11
X-RAYS

256 ' ' '

2 7 27 27 / .
252 54-IIIT
52- .
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 11 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 10 of 26 6,118,842

s t
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 12 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 11 of 26 6,118,842

FIG 13
ONE MAGE

RDn ---
is N\ , \ \\ , \
—
CK \
M
ONE SCAN LINE
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 13 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 12 of 26 6,118,842

SHIFT REGISTER E: IMAGE SIGNAL

CK PROCESSING MEANS 236

Abc-19MAGESIGNA
R o 30 SWb SESIN MEANS
| || ||
||||||?ts
| | | | | | HD-s/Hoo:
|| || || H>{s1}--
SRb
8

2Ob
|| || D-s/Hoo TO MAGE SIGNAL
ADCJPOESSNMEANS
236
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 14 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 13 of 26 6,118,842

FIG 15
START

TURN ON POWER SOURCE

SWITCH 178

CT MODE SELECTED

CT MODE MAGNG PANORAMA MODE

SELECTED?
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 15 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 14 of 26 6,118,842

FIG 16
START

SELECTCT PROCESS
INFORMATION
3-1
SWITCH TO PRIMARY s 3-2
CT SLT

SWITCH TO SECONDARY | S 3-3

CT SLT

SET POST ON OF s 3-4

CHIN REST 12

PRESS START SWITCH 224

POSITION AT X-RAY CT S 3-6
MAGING START POSITON

AGAN PRESS START S3-7

SWITCH 224

EXECUTE X-RAY CT -
MAGING S3-8

GENERATE X-RAY CT S 3-9

IMAGE ON THE BASS OF
IMAGE SIGNAL

DISPLAY ON DISPLAYING S 3-10

MEANS 248
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 16 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 15 of 26 6,118,842

FIG - 17
START

SEECIPANORAMC,
PROCESS INFORMATION is 5-1

SWITCH TO PRIMARY | S5-2

PANORAMA SLT

SWITCH TO SECONDARY s 5-3

PANORAMA SLT

SET POST ON OF S5-4

CHN REST 12

PRESS START SWITCH 224

POSITION ATXRAY
PANORAMC MAGNG
s 5-6
START POSITION

AGAN PRESS START s 5-7

SWITCH 224

EXECUTE X-RAY S5-8

PANORAMIC MAGING

GENERATEPANORAMIC
TOMOGRAPHC MAGE ON
is 5-9
BASIS OF IMAGE SIGNAL

DISPLAY
MEANS 248ON DISPLAYING 5-10
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 17 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 16 of 26 6,118,842

I-/
9
º
9/
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 18 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 17 Of 26 6,118,842

FIG 19
MAGING MEANS

A
A. \, vá,
N
SECTION WIDTH
<C \SECTION WIDTH
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 19 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 18 of 26 6,118,842

FIG 21
3O8

344

336

332(334) 350
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 20 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 19 of 26 6,118,842

 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 21 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 20 of 26 6,118,842

 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 22 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 21 of 26 6,118,842

FIG 25
START

SELECT CT PROCESS n 3-1

INFORMATION

SWITCH TO PRIMARY in 3-2

CT SLT

SWITCH TO SECONDARY | n 3-3

CT SLT

SET POST ON OF In 3-4

SUPPORTING MEANS 18

PRESS START SWITCH 224"

POSITION AT X-RAY CT n3-6
MAGING START POSITION

AGAN PRESS START In 3-7

SWITCH 224

EXECUTE X-RAY CT O
MAGING in 3-8

GENERATE X-RAY CT in 3-9

IMAGE ON THE BASIS OF
MAGE SIGNAL

DISPLAY ON DISPLAYING n3-10

MEANS 248
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 23 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 22 of 26 6,118,842

 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 24 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 23 of 26 6,118,842

21222, 2ZY A2 21yaaZe

a.
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 25 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 24 of 26 6,118,842

 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 26 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 25 of 26 6,118,842

FIG 29
373

24 18
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 27 of 46

U.S. Patent Sep. 12, 2000 Sheet 26 of 26 6,118,842

 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-1 Filed 02/12/21 Page 28 of 46

6,118,842
1 2
X-RAY MAGING APPARATUS SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the invention to provide an X-ray
1. Field of the Invention imaging apparatus which can conduct a partial CT imaging
The present invention relates to an X-ray imaging appa in addition to a panoramic tomographic imaging.
ratus which takes an image of an object Such as a head of a It is another object of the invention to provide an X-ray
human body along a desired tomographic plane. imaging apparatus which can conduct a local CT imaging.
2. Description of the Related Art It is a further object of the invention to provide an X-ray
In the field of the dental diagnosis, conventionally, an imaging apparatus which, during a partial CT imaging
X-ray panoramic imaging apparatus which takes a tomo process, an object, X-ray Source, and X-ray imaging means
graphic image along the curve of a dental arch is known as can be held in predetermined positional relationships.
disclosed in, for example, Japanese Examined Patent Pub Firstly, an invention relating to an X-ray imaging appa
lication JP-B255-1053(1980). In such an X-ray panoramic ratus capable of conducting a partial X-ray CT imaging and
imaging apparatus, an X-ray Source and X-ray imaging an X-ray panoramic imaging will be described.
15
means which is opposed to the X-ray Source are moved A first aspect of the invention provides an X-ray imaging
along a desired locus, So that a curved-face tomographic apparatus comprising: an X-ray Source for generating
image along the curve of the dental arch is obtained. X-rays, X-ray imaging means for detecting X-rays having
In the field of medical diagnosis, there is known an X-ray passed through an object, Supporting means for Supporting
CT (computed tomographic) imaging apparatus which takes the X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means So that the
a tomographic image of an arbitrary site of a human body. X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means are opposed to
In Such an X-ray CT imaging apparatus, an X-ray Source and each other acroSS the object, an apparatus frame for Sup
X-ray imaging means which is opposed to the X-ray Source porting the Supporting means, and moving means for mov
are revolved in a predetermined direction, and an obtained ing the Supporting means with respect to the apparatus
image Signal is processed by a computer, So that a CT image 25
frame, the apparatus further comprising mode Switching
which is a Section view at an arbitrary angle of an arbitrary means for Switching between a CT mode in which a partial
Site Such as the head or the trunk can be obtained. CT image is generated, and a panorama mode in which a
An X-ray panoramic imaging apparatus of the prior art is panoramic tomographic image is generated, and, when the
dedicated to the X-ray panoramic imaging, and hence can CT mode is Selected by the mode Switching means, the
obtain only a panoramic tomographic image. The X-ray CT moving means moves the X-ray Source and the X-ray
imaging apparatus of the prior art is used for taking a imaging means along a CT image formation locus during a
tomographic image of a large portion of the human body partial CT imaging process, and when the panorama mode is
Such as the head or the trunk, and dedicated to the CT Selected by the mode Switching means, the moving means
imaging, with the result that it can obtain only a CT image. moves the X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means along
In the field of dental diagnosis, if data Such as the 35
a panoramic image formation locus during a panoramic
thickness of the jawbone are previously known prior to an imaging process.
implant operation or the like, the operation can be easily In the X-ray imaging apparatus, the imaging mode is
performed. Therefore, it is requested to take a partial CT selected by the mode Switching means. When the CT mode
image of the Site to be Subjected to the implant operation, by is Selected by the mode Switching means, the moving means
using an X-ray CT imaging apparatus. However, an X-ray 40 moves the X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means along
panoramic imaging apparatus cannot take a CT image of the CT image formation locus. Therefore, the partial X-ray
Such a site. An X-ray CT imaging apparatus of the prior art CT imaging can be conducted. By contrast, when the pan
is bulky and expensive, and has a problem that the exposure orama mode is Selected by the mode Switching means, the
dose is large. When the exposure dose is large during an moving means moves the X-ray Source and the X-ray
imaging process, the allowable number of imaging pro 45 imaging means along the panoramic image formation locus.
ceSSes is restricted. Such restriction may adversely affect the Therefore, the X-ray panoramic imaging can be conducted.
diagnosis. In this way, the imaging mode is Selected by the mode
When an X-ray CT imaging apparatus which is entirely Switching means, whereby the Selected X-ray imaging can
independent from an X-ray panoramic imaging apparatus is be conducted.
used, the Space for installing the X-ray CT imaging appa 50 A Second aspect of the invention is characterized in that,
ratus is problematic. the CT image formation locus is a locus in which the
Recently, an X-ray imaging apparatus which can conduct Supporting means is rotated about a rotation axis of the
both the X-ray panoramic imaging and the flat tomographic Supporting means without moving the rotation axis, the
imaging is proposed (Japanese Unexamined Patent Publica panoramic image formation locus is a locus in which the
tion JP-A 7-136158(1995)). In the apparatus, however, the 55 rotation axis of the Supporting means is moved along an
flat tomographic plane must be determined before the imag envelope and the Supporting means is rotated about the
ing process, and the tomographic plane cannot be changed rotation axis as required, and, when the X-ray Source and the
after the imaging process. Furthermore, the apparatus cannot X-ray imaging means are moved along the panoramic image
obtain an image of a tomographic plane which intersects formation locus, X-rays emitted from the X-ray Source
with the flat tomographic plane. 60 toward the X-ray imaging means are irradiated in a direction
When the X-ray imaging is to be conducted, particularly, Substantially perpendicular to a dental arch.
when the X-ray CT imaging is to be conducted on a local According to the invention, Since the moving means
Site, it is important to hold the Site to be imaged of the object, rotates the Supporting means about the rotation axis of the
an X-ray Source, and X-ray imaging means in predetermined Supporting means during a partial CT imaging process, a
positional relationships. If they fail to be held in the prede 65 desired partial X-ray CT imaging can be conducted. During
termined positional relationships, a Satisfactory X-ray image a panoramic imaging process, the moving means moves the
cannot be obtained. rotation axis of the Supporting means along an envelope, and
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6,118,842
3 4
rotates the Supporting means about the rotation axis as A Sixth aspect of the invention is characterized in that, the
required. Therefore, X-rays emitted from the X-ray Source apparatus further comprises, in relation to the movement
toward the X-ray imaging means are directed in a direction controlling means and the image Signal processing means,
which is Substantially perpendicular to the dental arch, and process information Storing means for Storing CT proceSS
a desired panoramic imaging can be conducted. information for obtaining the partial CT image and pan
A third aspect of the invention is characterized in that the orama process information for obtaining the panoramic
apparatus further comprises movement controlling means tomographic image; when the CT mode is Selected by the
for controlling the moving means, and the movement con mode Switching means, the CT process information of the
trolling means controls an operation of the moving means So process information Storing means is Selected, the move
that in the CT mode the X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging ment controlling means moves the X-ray Source and the
means are moved along the CT image formation locus, and X-ray imaging means along the CT image formation locus
in the panorama mode the X-ray Source and the X-ray on the basis of the CT process information, and the image
imaging means are moved along the panoramic image Signal processing means generates the partial CT image on
formation locus. the basis of the image Signal from the X-ray imaging means,
According to the invention, Since the movement control 15 and, when the panorama mode is Selected by the mode
ling means controls the operation of the moving means So Switching means, the panorama process information of the
that, in the CT mode, the X-ray source and the X-ray process information Storing means is Selected, the move
imaging means are moved along the CT image formation ment controlling means moves the X-ray Source and the
locus, and, in the panorama mode, the X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means along the panoramic image formation
X-ray imaging means are moved along the panoramic image locus on the basis of the panorama process information, and
formation locus, when the imaging mode is Selected by the the image Signal processing means generates the panoramic
mode Switching means, therefore, the Selected X-ray imag tomographic image on the basis of the image Signal from the
ing can be automatically conducted. X-ray imaging means.
A forth aspect of the invention is characterized in that, the According to the invention, the process information Stor
moving means comprises: an X-axis control motor for 25 ing means Stores CT process information for obtaining a
moving the Supporting means in an anteroposterior direc partial CT image, and panorama proceSS information for
tion; a Y-axis control motor for moving the Supporting obtaining a panoramic tomographic image. In the case of the
means in a lateral direction; and a rotation control motor for CT mode, the CT process information is selected, the X-ray
rotating the Supporting means about a rotation axis, and the Source and the X-ray imaging means are moved along the
movement controlling means controls an operation of the CT image formation locus on the basis of the CT process
rotation control motor in the CT mode, and Simultaneously information, and the image Signal processing means gener
controls operations of the X-axis control motor, the Y-axis ates a partial CT image on the basis of the image Signal from
control motor, and the rotation control motor in the pan the X-ray imaging means. By contrast, in the case of the
orama mode. panorama mode, the panorama process information is
In the X-ray imaging apparatus, Since, in the CT mode, the 35 Selected, the X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means are
movement controlling means controls an operation of the moved along the panoramic image formation locus on the
rotation control motor, the X-ray Source and the X-ray basis of the panorama proceSS information, and the image
imaging means are moved along the CT image formation Signal processing means generates a panoramic tomographic
locus. Since, in the panorama mode, the movement control image on the basis of the image Signal from the X-ray
ling means simultaneously controls operations of the X-axis 40 imaging means. When the imaging mode is Selected by the
control motor, the Y-axis control motor, and the rotation mode Switching means, therefore, an image processing
control motor, the X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging corresponding to the Selected mode is conducted and a
means are moved along a panoramic image formation locus. tomographic image corresponding to the Selected mode can
A fifth aspect of the invention is characterized in that the be obtained.
X-ray imaging means detects the X-ray from the X-ray 45 A Seventh aspect of the invention is characterized in that,
Source and outputs an image Signal, the apparatus further the apparatus further comprises primary Slit means for
comprises, in relation to the X-ray imaging means, image restricting a range of X-rays emitted from the X-ray Source
Signal processing means for forming a tomographic image toward the object, and Secondary Slit means for restricting a
on the basis of the image Signal, and the image Signal range of X-rays entering the X-ray imaging means, the
processing means generates, in the CT mode, a partial CT 50 primary Slit means comprises primary Slit Switching means
image on the basis of the image Signal from the X-ray for Switching over a primary CTSlit and a primary panorama
imaging means, and, in the panorama mode, a panoramic Slit; the Secondary Slit means comprises Secondary Slit
tomographic image on the basis of the image Signal from the Switching means for Switching between a Secondary CT Slit
X-ray imaging means. and a Secondary panorama Slit, when the CT mode is
According to the invention, the X-ray imaging means 55 Selected by the mode Switching means, the primary CT Slit
detects the X-rays from the X-ray Source as an image Signal, is Selected by the primary-slit Switching means and the
and the image Signal processing means for processing the Secondary CT Slit is Selected by the Secondary Slit Switching
image Signal generates, in the CT mode, a partial CT image means, and, when the panorama mode is Selected by the
on the basis of the image Signal from the X-ray imaging mode Switching means, the primary panorama slit is Selected
means, and, in the panorama mode, a panoramic tomo 60 by the primary slit Switching means and the Secondary
graphic image on the basis of the image Signal from the panorama slit is Selected by the Secondary-slit Switching
X-ray imaging means. When the imaging mode is Selected CS.
by the mode Switching means, therefore, the image Signal According to the invention, when the CT mode is Selected
processing means conducts an image processing corre by the mode Switching means, the primary CTSlit is Selected
sponding to the Selected mode and a tomographic image 65 by the primary-Slit Switching means, and the Secondary CT
corresponding to the Selected imaging mode can be auto Slit is Selected by the Secondary-Slit Switching means, in
matically obtained. accordance with the selected CT mode. By contrast, when
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6,118,842
S 6
the panorama mode is Selected by the mode Switching Supporting means is positioned at a Specific angular position
means, the primary panorama slit is Selected by the primary where a line connecting the X-ray Source and the X-ray
Slit Switching means, and the Secondary panorama Slit is imaging means laterally elongates.
Selected by the Secondary-Slit Switching means. In this way, In the X-ray imaging apparatus, before and after a partial
Slits corresponding to the imaging mode Selected by the CT imaging process, the Supporting means is positioned at
mode Switching means are Selected by the primary and a Specific angular position. When a partial CT imaging
Secondary slit means. Therefore, a Selected desired tomo process is to be conducted, therefore, the patient can rear
graphic image can be obtained. ward move toward the imaging region with passing through
Aeighth aspect of the invention is characterized in that the a Space between the X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging
apparatus further comprises object positioning means for means. After the imaging process, the patient can forward
positioning the object in an imaging region which is between leave the imaging region with passing through the Space
the X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means, and posi
tional relationships between the object positioning means, between the X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means. In
and the X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means are this way, the patient can easily move without being
relatively adjustable in anteroposterior, lateral, and vertical obstructed by the Supporting means, the X-ray Source, and
directions. 15 the X-ray imaging means.
In the X-ray imaging apparatus, Since positional relation Hereinafter, an invention relating to a dedicated partial
ships between the object positioning means, and the X-ray X-ray CT imaging apparatus which is dedicated to the partial
Source and the X-ray imaging means are relatively adjust X-ray CT imaging will be described.
able in anteroposterior, lateral, and Vertical directions, the A twelfth aspect of the invention provides a partial X-ray
object positioning means can be positioned at a desired imaging apparatus comprising: an X-ray Source for gener
position with respect to the X-ray Source and the X-ray ating X-rays, X-ray imaging means for detecting X-rays
imaging means. having passed through an object, Supporting means for
A ninth aspect of the invention is characterized in that, the Supporting the X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means So
moving means includes a plane moving mechanism which 25
that the X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means are
Supports the Supporting means in a manner that the Support opposed to each other acroSS the object; an apparatus frame
ing means is movable with respect to the apparatus frame in for Supporting the Supporting means So as to be rotatable
anteroposterior and lateral directions, the object positioning about a rotation axis, and rotation driving means for rotating
means is mounted on the apparatus frame via an object the Supporting means with respect to the apparatus frame,
position adjusting mechanism for Supporting the object wherein an imaging region according to the X-ray Source
positioning means in a manner that the object positioning and the X-ray imaging means is Substantially positioned on
means is movable in Vertical direction, and positional rela an extension line of the rotation axis of the Supporting
tionships between the object positioning means, and the means, and
X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means are adjusted by during a partial X-ray CT imaging process, rotation
the plane moving mechanism and the object position adjust 35 driving means rotates the Supporting means in a predeter
ing mechanism in anteroposterior, lateral, and vertical direc mined direction about the rotation axis, and the X-ray Source
tions. and the X-ray imaging means are revolved about the imag
In the X-ray imaging apparatus, Since the relative posi ing region, thereby conducting a partial CT imaging of the
tions between the object positioning means, and the X-ray object.
Source and the X-ray imaging means are adjusted by the 40 According to the invention, the imaging region where the
plane moving mechanism in anteroposterior and lateral partial X-ray CT imaging is to be conducted is Substantially
directions, and by the object position adjusting mechanism positioned on an extension line of the rotation axis of the
in Vertical direction, the positional relationships between the Supporting means. During the partial X-ray imaging process,
two means can be adjusted by a relatively simple configu the Supporting means is rotated about the rotation axis, and
ration. 45 the X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means are revolved
A tenth aspect of the invention is characterized in that, about the imaging region. Therefore, the imaging region is
positional relationships between the object positioning restricted to a local region, and the partial CT imaging can
means, and the X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means be conducted on the local region.
in the CT mode are set on the basis of position information Further, a thirteenth aspect of the invention is character
obtained from the panoramic tomographic image which is 50 ized in that the Supporting means comprises a Support arm
obtained in the panorama mode. which is Supported by the apparatus frame So as to be
In the X-ray imaging apparatus, positional relationships rotatable about the rotation axis extending in a vertical
between the object positioning means, and the X-ray Source direction, a first attaching portion which downwardly elon
and the X-ray imaging means in the CT mode are Set by gates is disposed at one end portion of the Support arm, a
using a panoramic tomographic image which is obtained in 55 Second attaching portion which downwardly elongates is
the panorama mode. In other words, a panoramic tomo disposed at another end portion of the Support arm, the X-ray
graphic image is first taken. The panoramic tomographic Source is attached to the first attaching portion, the X-ray
image is observed, and then a Site to be Subjected to the imaging means is attached to the Second attaching portion,
partial X-ray CT imaging is Set. On the basis of position and the imaging region is placed between the first attaching
information of a panoramic tomographic image correspond 60 portion and the Second attaching portion of the Support arm.
ing to the Specified region, the X-ray Source and the X-ray According to the invention, the Support arm is Supported
imaging means are held in predetermined positional rela So as to be rotatable about the rotation axis extending in the
tionships with the object positioning means. Therefore, these Vertical direction, the X-ray Source is attached to the first
components can be correctly positioned in predetermined attaching portion disposed at one end portion of the Support
positional relationships in a relatively easy manner. 65 arm, and the X-ray imaging means is attached to the Second
An eleventh aspect of the invention is characterized in attaching portion disposed at the other end portion of the
that, before and after the partial CT imaging process, the Support arm. Therefore, the imaging region is positioned
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6,118,842
7 8
between the first attaching portion and the Second attaching object positioning means are held to predetermined posi
portion of the Support arm, So that the partial X-ray CT tional relationships on the basis of the read out object
imaging can be conducted in a condition that, for example, position information. Therefore, these components are auto
the patient of the object keeps Standing. matically positioned in positional relationships which are
A fourteenth aspect of the invention is characterized in Selected by the position Selecting means from plural Sets of
that, before and after the partial CT imaging process, the positional relationships which are preset.
Support arm is positioned at a specific angular position An eighteenth aspect of the invention is characterized in
where a line connecting the X-ray Source and the X-ray that the Supporting means comprises a light beam indicator
imaging means laterally elongates. for projecting a light beam toward the object positioning
In the partial X-ray CT imaging apparatus, before and means, and the light beam indicator is disposed on the
after a partial CT imaging process, the Support arm is rotation axis of the Supporting means.
positioned at a specific angular position. At the Specific According to the invention, the Supporting means com
angular position, the line connecting the X-ray Source and prises the light beam indicator on the rotation axis in the case
the X-ray imaging means laterally elongates. Before and of the partial X-ray CT imaging, and the light beam indicator
15
after an imaging process, therefore, the patient can forward projects a light beam toward the object positioning means.
or rearward move toward the imaging region with passing When the object is positioned so as to coincide with the light
through a Space between the X-ray Source and the X-ray beam projected from the light beam indicator, therefore, a
imaging means. Site of the object onto which the light beam is projected can
A fifteenth aspect of the invention is characterized in that, be positioned in the imaging region. As a result, the object,
the X-ray Source is provided with primary Slit means, X-rays the X-ray Source, and the X-ray imaging means can be held
emitted from the X-ray Source are irradiated in a cone-like to predetermined positional relationships in a relatively easy
shape or a pyramid-like shape through the primary slit C.
means toward the imaging region, and the imaging region BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
has a spherical or cylindrical shape which is Substantially 25
centered at the rotation axis of the Supporting means. Other and further objects, features, and advantages of the
According to the invention, X-ray emitted from the X-ray invention will be more explicit from the following detailed
Source are caused to irradiate the imaging region in a description taken with reference to the drawings wherein:
cone-like or pyramid-like Shape by the function of the FIG. 1 is a partially cutaway perspective View showing a
primary Slit means, thereby forming the imaging region into first embodiment of a dual-purpose X-ray imaging apparatus
a spherical or cylindrical shape which is Substantially cen of the invention;
tered at the rotation axis of the Supporting means. AS FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an outline of the X-ray
compared with the prior art, therefore, the range of the imaging apparatus of FIG. 1;
imaging region is Smaller and the apparatus is Suitable as a FIG. 3 is a front view showing main portions of primary
partial X-ray CT imaging apparatus which conducts local 35 (secondary) slit means in the X-ray imaging apparatus of
CT imaging in the dental field. FIG. 1;
A Sixteenth aspect of the invention is characterized in that, FIG. 4 is a front view showing the primary (secondary)
object positioning means for positioning the object in the Slit means in the X-ray imaging apparatus of FIG. 1;
imaging region which is between the X-ray Source and the
X-ray imaging means is disposed, the object positioning 40
FIGS. 5A and 5B are views illustrating a slit opening of
means is mounted on the apparatus frame via an object the primary (secondary) slit means;
position adjusting mechanism, and the object positioning FIG. 6 is a Section view showing a position adjusting
means is made positionally adjustable with respect to the mechanism in the X-ray imaging apparatus of FIG. 1;
apparatus frame by the object position adjusting mechanism FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a control system for
in anteroposterior, lateral, and vertical directions. 45 various motors in the X-ray imaging apparatus of FIG. 1;
In the partial X-ray CT imaging apparatus, Since the FIG. 8 is a front view showing an operation panel in the
object positioning means is made positionally adjustable X-ray imaging apparatus of FIG. 1;
with respect to the apparatus frame by the object position FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing an image Signal
adjusting mechanism in anteroposterior, lateral, and Vertical processing System in the X-ray imaging apparatus of FIG. 1;
directions, the object can be correctly positioned at a pre 50 FIG. 10A is a circuit diagram illustrating the operation
determined imaging position with respect to the X-ray principle of a MOS Sensor used in the X-ray imaging
Source and the X-ray imaging means. apparatus of FIG. 1, and FIG. 10B is a timing chart of the
A Seventeenth aspect of the invention is characterized in MOS sensor;
that, the apparatus further comprises: position Storing means FIG. 11 is a section view showing the structure of the
for Storing object position information relating to positional 55
MOS sensor of FIG. 10;
relationships between the X-ray Source and the X-ray imag FIG. 12 is a circuit diagram showing a driving circuit for
ing means, and the object positioning means, and position the MOS sensor in the X-ray imaging apparatus of FIG. 1;
Selecting means for Selecting object position information
Stored in the position Storing means, and the X-ray Source, FIG. 13 is a timing chart illustrating the operation of the
the X-ray imaging means, and the object positioning means 60 MOS sensor driving circuit of FIG. 12;
are held in Selected positional relationships on the basis of FIG. 14 is a diagram of a circuit in which MOS sensors
the object position information Selected by the position are connected in two Stages,
Selecting means. FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of Switch
According to the invention, object position information is ing over the imaging mode in the X-ray imaging apparatus
Stored in the position Storing means, object position infor 65 of FIG. 1;
mation Selected by the position Selecting means is read out, FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an imaging operation in
and the X-ray Source, the X-ray imaging means, and the the case where a CT mode is Selected;
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6,118,842
10
FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an imaging operation in adjusting mechanism 10 and the configuration relating to the
the case where a panorama mode is Selected; mechanism will be described later.
FIG. 18 is a simplified diagram illustrating movement loci A horizontal arm 16 is disposed at the upper end portion
of an X-ray Source and an image Sensor in the case where the of the elevator frame 8. The horizontal arm 16 elongates in
CT mode is selected; the forward direction with respect to the apparatus or toward
FIG. 19 is a simplified diagram illustrating a movement the right lower portion in FIG. 1. Supporting means 18 is
locus of the middle between the X-ray Source and the image mounted on the tip end portion of the horizontal arm 16. A
Sensor and an image Sensor in the case where the panorama plane moving mechanism 20 is interposed between the
mode is Selected;
horizontal arm 16 and the Supporting means 18. The plane
moving mechanism 20 comprises an X-axis table which is
FIG. 20 is a plan view showing the X-ray imaging movable in the anteroposterior direction (the direction from
apparatus of FIG. 1 in a condition that Supporting means is the right lower portion to the left upper portion in FIG. 1)
at a Specific angler position; with respect to the horizontal arm 16, and a Y-axis table
FIG. 21 is a front view showing a modification of the which is movable in the lateral direction (the direction from
primary (secondary) slit means; 15 the left lower portion to the right upper portion in FIG. 1)
FIG. 22 is a front view showing another modification of which is perpendicular to the anteroposterior direction. A
the primary (Secondary) slit means; rotation shaft 22 (see FIG. 2) is rotatably supported at a tip
FIG. 23 is a partially cutaway perspective view showing end portion of the plane moving mechanism 20. The Sup
a Second embodiment of the dual-purpose X-ray imaging porting means 18 is mounted on the rotation shaft 22.
apparatus of the invention; Therefore, the center axis of the rotation shaft 22 constitutes
FIG. 24 is a view showing an example of a panoramic the rotation axis of the Supporting means 18, and the
image obtained by the X-ray imaging apparatus of FIG. 23; Supporting means 18 is rotated about the rotation axis. The
Supporting means 18 has a Support arm 24 which elongates
FIG. 25 is a flowchart for illustrating an imaging opera in a predetermined direction. The middle portion of the
tion in a CT mode when a modification of object positioning 25 Support arm 24 is attached to the rotation Shaft 22. A first
means is applied to the dual-purpose X-ray imaging appa attaching portion 26 which downwardly elongates is inte
ratus, grated with one end portion of the Support arm 24. An X-ray
FIG. 26 is a partially cutaway side view showing the Source 28 and primary slit means 30 are disposed on the first
dual-purpose X-ray imaging apparatus with another modi attaching portion 26. The primary slit means 30 is placed in
fication of the object positioning means, proximity to and in front of the X-ray source 28, and
FIG. 27 is a sectional view showing an elevator frame and mounted on the X-ray Source 28. A Second attaching portion
proximate region of the dual-purpose X-ray imaging appa 32 which downwardly elongates is integrated with the other
ratus of FIG. 26; end portion of the Support arm 24. An X-ray imaging unit 34
FIG. 28 is a partially cutaway perspective view showing is mounted on the Second attaching portion 32. The X-ray
a first embodiment of a partial CT X-ray imaging apparatus 35 imaging unit 34 has X-ray imaging means for detecting
of the invention; X-rays emitted from the X-ray source 28. In the
FIG. 29 is a partial perspective view showing object embodiment, the X-ray imaging means is configured by an
positioning means of the X-ray imaging apparatus of FIG. image sensor 38 (see FIG. 2). The X-ray imaging unit 34
28; and
comprises secondary slit means 40 (see FIG. 2) which is
40 placed in proximity to and in front of the image Sensor 38.
FIG. 30 is a partially cutaway perspective view showing As seen from FIG. 1, the object which is to be subjected
a Second embodiment of the partial X-ray CT imaging to the X-ray imaging is positioned between the X-ray Source
appartus of the invention. 28 and the image sensor 38. The object is irradiated with
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE X-rays emitted from the X-ray source 28. The primary slit
PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 45 means 30 restricts the width and height of X-rays emitted
from the X-ray Source 28, thereby preventing unnecessary
Now referring to the drawings, preferred embodiments of X-rays from being emitted toward the object. X-rays having
the invention are described below. passed through the object are detected by the image Sensor
The X-ray imaging apparatus in FIG. 1 can conduct an 38. As shown in FIG. 2, the secondary slit means 40 restricts
X-ray panoramic imaging, in addition to an X-ray CT 50 the width and height of X-rays entering the image Sensor 38,
imaging for a local Site. Referring to FIG. 1, an illustrated thereby preventing unnecessary X-rays from entering the
X-ray imaging apparatus comprises an apparatus frame 2. image Sensor 38. The Slits of the primary and Secondary Slit
The apparatus frame 2 comprises a base 4 which is to be means 30 and 40 which are selected in the X-ray imaging are
placed on a floor, a column 6 disposed on the base 4, and an Similar in Shape to each other and the Slit of the Secondary
elevator frame 8. The column 6 elongates from the base 4 in 55 slit means 40 is preferably set to be slightly smaller than the
an upward direction which is Substantially perpendicular to shape of the irradiation beam irradiated via the primary Slit
the base. The elevator frame 8 is mounted on the column 6 means 30. In the X-ray imaging apparatus of the
so as to be vertically movable, and vertically moved by an embodiment, both the partial CT imaging and the panoramic
elevation control motor 15 (FIGS. 2 and 7). A chin rest 12 tomographic imaging can be conducted as described in
constituting object positioning means is mounted on the 60 detail later. In relation to this, the primary and Secondary Slit
elevator frame 8 via an object position adjusting mechanism means 30 and 40 are configured so as to respectively
10 so that the position of the chin rest 12 is arbitrarily set. constitute slit openings corresponding to the Style of the
A patient of an object Stands on the base 4 and a chin of the Selected tomographic imaging. The configurations of these
patient is positioned on the chin rest 12. This positioning means will be described later.
allows the Site to be imaged, to be placed in an imaging area. 65 Next, referring to FIG. 2, an outline of the X-ray imaging
Thereafter, an X-ray imaging is conducted on a predeter apparatus will be further described. As described above, the
mined Site in the manner described later. The object position plane moving mechanism 20 which is interposed between
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the horizontal arm 16 and the Support arm 24 comprises the (58). When the slit height control motor 56 (58) is rotated in
X-axis table and the Y-axis table. For example, the X-axis a predetermined direction (or a direction opposite to the
table is mounted on the horizontal arm 16 So as to be predetermined direction), the rotation of the screw shaft 82
movable in the anteroposterior direction. In relation to the causes the pair of height shield members 64 and 66 to
X-axis table, an X-axis control motor 42 which moves the approach each other (or separate from each other) in the
table in the anteroposterior direction is disposed. The Y-axis directions indicated by arrows 84 and 86 (or directions
table is mounted on the X-axis table so as to be movable in respectively opposite to the directions indicated by the
the lateral direction. In relation to the Y-axis table, a Y-axis arrows 84 and 86), thereby reducing (or increasing) the
control motor 44 which moves the table in the lateral height of the slit 67 which is defined by the pair of height
direction is disposed. The rotation shaft 22 is rotatably shield members 64 and 66.
supported on the Y-axis table. In relation to the rotation shaft The operation of changing the size of the slit 67 by means
22, a rotation control motor 46 which rotates the rotation of the slit width control motors 52 and 54 and the slit height
shaft and which constitutes rotating means is disposed. control motors 56 and 58 is conducted in the following
According to this configuration, the rotation of the X-axis manner in accordance with the Selected imaging mode.
control motor 42 enables the supporting means 18 to be 15 Referring to FIG. 5 (in FIG. 5, the slit opening is diagonally
moved in the anteroposterior direction with respect to the shaded), in the embodiment, when the partial CT imaging is
horizontal arm 16, i.e., the apparatus frame 2, the rotation of selected, the primary and secondary slit means 30 and 40
the Y-axis control motor 44 enables the Supporting means 18 define a small square slit 67a as shown in FIG. 5A. For
to be moved in the lateral direction with respect to the example, the size of the slit 67a is set so that the slit has an
horizontal arm 16, and the rotation of the rotation control edge of about 50 mm. In the case of the slit 67a, when
motor 46 enables the supporting means 18 to be rotated X-rays from the X-ray source 28 pass through the slit 67a,
about the axis which Vertically elongates, with respect to the the X-rays are caused to irradiate the imaging region in a
horizontal arm 16. The X-axis control motor 42, the Y-axis quadrangular pyramid-like shape. When the panoramic
control motor 44, and the rotation control motor 46 consti tomographic imaging is Selected, the primary and Secondary
tute moving means for moving the Supporting means 18 as 25 slit means 30 and 40 define a rectangular square slit 67b
required in the partial CT imaging and the panoramic which vertically elongates as shown in FIG. 5B. For
imaging. example, the size of the slit 67b is set so that the slit has a
The primary and secondary slit means 30 and 40 comprise width of about 6 mm and a height of about 150 mm. The
slit width control motors 52 and 54 for controlling the width operation of Switching the slit 67 of the first and second slit
of a slit, and slit height control motors 56 and 58 for means will be described later.
controlling the height of a slit, respectively. In the In the embodiment, the pair of width shield members 60
embodiment, the primary and Secondary Slit means 30 and and 62, and the pair of height shield members 64 and 66 are
40 are configured in a Substantially identical manner. Refer moved so as to approach each other (or separate from each
ring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the configuration of the slit means will other). Alternatively, in the pair of width shield members 60
be specifically described. The primary (secondary) slit 35 and 62, one of the members may be moved with respect to
means 30 (40) comprises a pair of width shield members 60 the other member, and, also in the pair of height Shield
and 62 which are arranged in the width direction, and a pair members 64 and 66, one of the members may be moved with
of height shield members 64 and 66 which are arranged in respect to the other member. A slit plate which has plural
the height direction. The four shield members define a openings of a predetermined shape may be configured as
rectangular slit 67. Block-like members 68 and 70 are 40 each of the slit means 30 and 40, and the slit plate may be
disposed at one end portions of the pair of width shield moved.
members 60 and 62. A screw shaft 72 passes through the Next, referring to FIGS. 2 and 6, the object position
block-like members 68 and 70. A pair of threaded portions adjusting mechanism 10 for positioning the chin rest 12 at a
which are threaded in opposite directions are formed on the predetermined position, and the configuration relating to the
screw shaft 72. One of the threaded portions is screwed with 45 mechanism will be described. The object position adjusting
the block-like member 68, and the other threaded portion is mechanism 10 comprises a guide frame 90 which is fixed in
Screwed with the block-like member 70. The Screw shaft 72 the elevator frame 8 of the apparatus frame 2. The guide
is drivingly coupled with the slit width control motor 52 frame 90 has a pair of side walls 92 (in FIG. 6, only one of
(54). When the slit width control motor 52 (54) is rotated in them is shown) which are arranged with being separated
a predetermined direction (or a direction opposite to the 50 from each other in a lateral direction (the direction perpen
predetermined direction), the rotation of the screw shaft 72 dicular to the sheet in FIG. 6). A connecting wall 94 is
causes the pair of width shield members 60 and 62 to disposed between the pair of side walls 92. A slender slot 96
approach each other (or separate from each other) in the which vertically elongates is formed in the middle area of
directions indicated by arrows 74 and 76 (or directions the connecting wall 94. A first moving table 98 is mounted
respectively opposite to the directions indicated by the 55 between the side walls 92 of the guide frame 90 so as to be
arrows 74 and 76), thereby reducing (or increasing) the movable in vertical directions. The first moving table 98 has
width of the slit 67 which is defined by the pair of width a first table main unit 100 which is rectangular. A pair of
shield members 60 and 62. Block-like members 78 and 80 rollers 102 are rotatably mounted on the ends of the table
are disposed at one end portions of the pair of height Shield main unit 100, respectively. The pair of side walls 92 are
members 64 and 66. A screw shaft 82 passes through the 60 provided with guide walls 104 (in FIG. 6, only one of them
block-like members 78 and 80. In the same manner as the is shown) which are separated from the connecting wall 94
screw shaft 72, a pair of threaded portions which are by a fixed distance. The rollers 102 are rotatably received
threaded in opposite directions are formed on the Screw shaft between the sides of the connecting wall 94 and the pair of
82. One of the threaded portions is screwed with the guide walls 104. Ablock member 106 which elongates so as
block-like member 78, and the other threaded portion is 65 to pass through the slot 96 of the connecting wall 94 is
Screwed with the block-like member 80. The Screw shaft 82 disposed on the center area of the first table main unit 100.
is drivingly coupled with the slit height control motor 56 Attaching members 110 and 118 are fixed to the ends in the
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vertical direction of the connecting wall 94. A screw shaft walls 146. Ablock member 153 is disposed on the third table
112 is rotatably Supported between the attaching members main unit 152. A screw shaft 156 is rotatably supported
110 and 118. The Screw shaft 112 is Screwed with the block between attaching members (not shown) which are disposed
member 106. One end portion of the screw shaft 112 is on the second table main unit 128. The block member 153
passed through the attaching member 118 So as to be is screwed with the crew shaft 156, and a Y-axis control
downward projected. A Z-axis control motor 114 is drivingly motor 158 is drivingly coupled with the crew shaft 156.
coupled with the projected end portion. The Z-axis control According to this configuration, also in the third moving
motor 114 is fixed to the connecting wall 94 via the attaching table 144, the rollers 154 are guided by the guide walls 148
member 118. According to this configuration, the rollers 102 and 150, thereby allowing the third table main unit 152 to be
are guided by the connecting wall 94 and the guide walls movable in a predetermined range in the lateral direction
104, and the rotation of the Z-axis control motor 114 causes which is perpendicular to the moving direction of the Second
the first moving table 98 to vertically move. Namely, the first moving table 116.
moving table can be moved between the upper end position The chin rest 12 has a support rod 160. The lower end of
where the block member 106 is positioned at the upper end the support rod 160 is fixed to the third moving table 144.
of the slot 96, and the lower end position where the block 15 In the embodiment, as seen from FIGS. 1 and 6, the second
member 106 is positioned at the lower end of the slot 96. and third moving tables 116 and 144 are covered by a
A Second moving table 116 is mounted on the first moving protective cover 162 which is vertically moved integrally
table 98 so as to be movable in the anteroposterior direction with the movement of the first moving table 98. A slot is
(in FIG. 6, the rightward and leftward direction). A guide formed in the protective cover 162. The support rod 160 is
frame 118 is fixed to the outer face of the first table main unit upward projected through the slot. In the embodiment, ear
100. The guide frame 118 has a pair of side walls 120 (in rods 163 are disposed on the third moving table 144. The tip
FIG. 6, only one of them is shown) which are arranged with ends of the ear rods 163 are to be respectively put on the ears
being Separated from each other in a lateral direction. A of the patient of the object. This operation of putting the ear
connecting wall 122 is disposed between the pair of Side rods 163 on the ears enables the object to be more correctly
walls 120. A guide wall 124 is disposed on each of the side 25 held at the predetermined position.
walls 120. The second moving table 116 is mounted between In this configuration, when the Z-axis control motor 114
the pair of side walls 120 so as to be movable in the is rotated in a predetermined direction (or a direction oppo
anteroposterior direction. The second moving table 116 Site to the predetermined direction), the rotation of the Screw
comprises a Second table main unit 128 which is rectangular. shaft 112 causes the first table main unit 100 to be moved in
A pair of rollers 130 are rotatably mounted on the ends of the the upward direction (or the downward direction) with
table main unit 128, respectively. The rollers 130 are rotat respect to the elevator frame 8, i.e., the apparatus frame 2.
ably received between the connecting wall 122 and the pair When the X-axis control motor 142 is rotated in a prede
of guide walls 124. In the same manner as the first moving termined direction (or a direction opposite to the predeter
table 98, a block member 134 which elongates so as to pass mined direction), the rotation of the screw shaft 140 causes
through a slot 132 which is formed in the connecting wall 35 the second table main unit 128 to be moved in the forward
122 is disposed on the second table main unit 128. The block direction (or the rearward direction) with respect to the
member 134 is screwed with a screw shaft 140 which is elevator frame 8. When the Y-axis control motor 158 is
rotatably supported between attaching members 136 and 138 rotated in a predetermined direction (or a direction opposite
disposed on the connecting wall 122. One end portion of the to the predetermined direction), the rotation of the Screw
screw shaft 140 is passed through the attaching member 136 40 shaft 156 causes the third table main unit 152 to be moved
so as to be forward projected. An X-axis control motor 142 in the leftward direction (or the rightward direction). When
is drivingly coupled with the projected end portion. The the X-, Y-, and Z-axis control motors 142, 158, and 114 are
X-axis control motor 142 is fixed to the connecting wall 122 controlled as required, therefore, the object placed on the
Via the attaching member 136. According to this chin rest 12 can be positioned at the predetermined position,
configuration, also in the Second moving table 116, the 45 or the predetermined imaging region between the X-ray
rollers 130 are guided by the connecting wall 122 and the Source 28 and the image sensor 38. The operation of
guide walls 124, thereby allowing the Second table main unit positioning the chin rest 12 will be described later in detail.
128 to be movable in the anteroposterior direction which are The motors 15, 42, 44, 46, 52, 54, 56,58, 114, 142, 158
perpendicular to the first moving table 98. The second are configured by, for example, Stepping motors and their
moving table can be moved between the forward end 50 operation are controlled by controlling means 170 of the
position where the block member 134 is positioned at the X-ray imaging apparatus which is shown in FIG. 7. The
front end of the slot 132, and the rearward end position controlling means 170 may be configured by, for example,
where the block member 134 is positioned at the rear end of a microprocessor, and controls the motorS on the basis of a
the slot 132. Signal Supplied from input means 174, as described later. In
A third moving table 144 is mounted on the second 55 the embodiment, the input means 174 comprises an opera
moving table 116 so as to be movable in the lateral direction tion panel 176 which is shown in FIG.8. A large switch 178
(the direction perpendicular to the sheet in FIG. 6). A pair of which is disposed in the left lower portion of the operation
guide members 146 are fixed to the upper face of the Second panel 176 is used for turning on and off the power source of
table main unit 128 with being separated from each other in the apparatus. When the Switch is pressed one time, the
the anteroposterior direction. Guide walls 148 and 150 are 60 X-ray imaging apparatus is powered on, and, when the
disposed on each of the guide members 146. The third Switch is further pressed one time, the X-ray imaging
moving table 144 is placed between the pair of guide apparatus is powered off. The operation panel 176 further
members 146. The third moving table 144 comprises a third has Switches which are vertically arranged in the following
table main unit 152 which is rectangular. A pair of rollers Sequence with Starting from the upper Side. Two Switches
154 are rotatably mounted on the ends of the table main unit 65 180 and 182 constitute the mode switching means for
152, respectively. The rollers 154 are rotatably received Selecting the imaging mode. In the embodiment, either a CT
between the guide walls 148 and 150 of the pair of guide mode or a panorama mode can be Selected as the imaging
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mode. The Switch 180 is a CT mode Switch. When the Switch means. As shown in FIG. 7, control signals from the
180 is pressed, the partial CT imaging is conducted as operation controlling means 172 are Supplied to the motors
described later. The Switch 182 is a panorama mode switch. Simultaneously and in time Sequence. In the embodiment,
When the Switch 182 is pressed, the panoramic tomographic the controlling means 170 further includes chin rest position
imaging is conducted as described later. Storing means 226 which constitutes the position Storing
Object selection Switches 186,188, and 190 are arranged means, and process information Storing means 228. The chin
below the imaging mode changeover Switches 180 and 182. rest position Storing means 226 Stores object position infor
The object selection switches 186,188, and 190 are used in mation in each imaging mode, i.e., information relating to
combination with tooth position selection Switches 192 to positional relationships among the X-ray Source 28, the
210 which are arranged below the object selection switches, image sensor 38, and the site of the object to be imaged. The
in order to position the chin rest 12 at a position which imaging position is determined in accordance with the
corresponds to the imaging mode and also to the Site to be imaging mode which is selected by the Switches 180 and 182
imaged. The Switch 186 is pressed in the case where the which are disposed on the operation panel 176 (FIG. 8) and
object is a young child, the Switch 188 is pressed in the case used for Selecting the imaging mode. When the CT mode is
where the object is an ordinary young child, and the Switch 15 Selected, particularly, corresponding Specific object position
190 is pressed in the case where the object is an adult. The information is read out from object position information in
Switches 192 and 194 are used for selecting the maxillary the selected CT mode, on the basis of the size of the object
teeth or the mandibular teeth to be imaged. When the which is selected by means of the Switches 186 to 190 for
maxillary teeth are to be imaged, the Switch 192 is pressed, Selecting the object, and the imaging range and position
and, when the mandibular teeth are to be imaged the Switch which are designated by the Switches 192 to 210 for desig
194 is pressed. The switches 198 and 200 are used for nating the range and position of teeth to be imaged. On the
selecting the left teeth or the right teeth to be imaged. When basis of thus read out Specific object position information,
the left teeth are to be imaged, the Switch 198 is pressed, and, the operation controlling means 172 controls the X-, Y-, and
when the right teeth are to be imaged the Switch 200 is Z-axis control motors 142, 158, and 114 as required, so that
pressed. The Switches 204 to 210 are switches for specifying 25 the chin rest 12 is positioned at the imaging position which
the position of the tooth to be imaged. When first and second is set by the operation panel 176. Therefore, the Switches
teeth as counted with using the median line passing through 186 to 210 constitute the position selecting means for setting
the middle of the dental arch as the reference are to be the object position, and the chin rest 12 is automatically
imaged, the Switch 204 is pressed. When third and fourth positioned at the position which is Selected by the position
teeth are to be imaged, the Switch 206 is pressed, when fifth Selecting means. The Set object position can be finely
and sixth teeth are to be imaged, the Switch 208 is pressed, adjusted in Vertical, lateral, and anteroposterior directions by
and, when Seventh and eighth teeth are to be imaged, the pressing the Switches 212 to 222 of the operation panel 176.
Switch 210 is pressed. The positioning of the chin rest 12 by By contrast, when the panorama mode is selected, corre
using the Switches 186 to 210 will be described later. sponding Specific object position information is read out
Switches 212 to 222 which are disposed below the 35 from object position information Such as adult, child, or
Switches 204 to 210 are used for finely adjusting the position woman in the Selected panorama mode, on the basis of the
of the chin rest 12. The Switch 212 is a Switch for upward size of the object which is selected by means of the Switches
moving the chin rest 12. During a period when the Switch 186 to 190 for selecting the object. On the basis of thus read
212 is pressed, the Z-axis control motor 114 is rotated in the out Specific object position information, the motorS 114,
predetermined direction. The Switch 214 is a Switch for 40 142, and 158 are controlled.
downward moving the chin rest 12. During a period when The process information storing means 228 stores CT
the Switch 214 is pressed, the Z-axis control motor 114 is process information for obtaining a partial CT image, and
rotated in the direction opposite to the predetermined direc panorama proceSS information for obtaining a panoramic
tion. The Switch 216 is a Switch for leftward moving the chin tomographic image. When the Switch 180 is pressed to select
rest 12. During a period when the Switch 216 is pressed, the 45 the CT mode, the CT process information of the process
Y-axis control motor 158 is rotated in the predetermined information Storing means 228 is Selected. The controlling
direction. The Switch 218 is a Switch for rightward moving means 170 controls operations of various components Such
the chin rest 12. During a period when the Switch 218 is as the motors on the basis of the CT process information.
pressed, the Y-axis control motor 158 is rotated in the That is, during the partial CT imaging process, the move
direction opposite to the predetermined direction. The 50 ment controlling means 173 of the operation controlling
Switch 220 is a Switch for forward moving the chin rest 12. means 172 controls the operation of the rotation control
During a period when the Switch 220 is pressed, the X-axis motor 46 on the basis of the CT process information so that
control motor 142 is rotated in the predetermined direction. the X-ray source 28 and the image sensor 38 are moved
The Switch 222 is a Switch for rearward moving the chin rest along a CT image formation locus. When the Switch 182 is
12. During a period when the Switch 222 is pressed, the 55 pressed to Select the panorama mode, the panorama proceSS
X-axis control motor 142 is rotated in the direction opposite information of the process information Storing means 228 is
to the predetermined direction. selected. The controlling means 170 controls operations of
An imaging Start Switch 224 is disposed below the various components Such as the motorS on the basis of the
Switches 220 and 222. When the imaging start Switch 224 is panorama process information. That is, during the pan
pressed, the X-ray irradiation to the object is started and the 60 oramic imaging process, the movement controlling means
X-ray imaging is conducted. 173 of the operation controlling means 172 simultaneously
The controlling means 170 has operation controlling controls the operations of the X- and Y-axis control motors
means 172 for controlling operations of various motors, 42 and 44, and the rotation control motor 46 on the basis of
which operation controlling means 172 includes movement the panorama proceSS information So that the X-ray Source
controlling means 173 for controlling operations of the 65 28 and the image Sensor 38 are moved along a panoramic
X-axis control motor 42, the Y-axis control motor 44, and image formation locus. The CT image formation locus and
the rotation control motor 46 which constitute the moving the panoramic image formation locus will be described later.
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In the embodiment, when the CT mode is selected, the orama process information, thereby generating a panoramic
primary and secondary slit means 30 and 40 define the tomographic image.
primary and secondary CT slits 67a on the basis of the CT The signal of the tomographic image (the partial CT
process information. When the CT mode is selected, the image or panoramic tomographic image) generated by the
operation controlling means 172 controls the operations of image Signal processing means 236 is Supplied to displaying
the slit width control motors 52 and 54 and the slit height means 248 which may be realized by, for example, a display
control motors 56 and 58 of the primary and secondary slit device, and the tomographic image signal is displayed on the
means 30 and 40 on the basis of the CT process information, displaying means 248 as tomographic image information. AS
so that the primary and secondary slit means 30 and 40 a result of the image processing, a tomographic image of the
define the small square slits 67a shown in FIG. 5A, respec Selected imaging mode is displayed on the displaying means
tively. When the panorama mode is Selected, the primary and 248. Furthermore, external storing means 246 for storing a
secondary slit means 30 and 40 define the primary and tomographic image is disposed. AS the external Storing
secondary predetermined slits 67b on the basis of the means 246, a hard disk apparatus or a magnetooptical disk
panorama process information. When the panorama mode is apparatus may be used So that images are Stored in a hard
Selected, the operation controlling means 172 controls the 15 disk or a magnetooptical disk.
operations of the slit width control motors 52 and 54 and the
slit height control motors 56 and 58 of the primary and The embodiment is configured So that the exposure
secondary slit means 30 and 40 on the basis of the panorama amount of X-rays emitted from the X-ray source 28 is
proceSS information, So that the primary and Secondary slit adjusted on the basis of the density of the image information
means 30 and 40 define the slender slits 67b shown in FIG. stored in the frame memory 240. The X-ray source 28
5B, respectively. comprises an X-ray Source (not shown). The X-ray exposure
Because of the above mentioned control, the slit width dose of the object can be adjusted by controlling the tube
control motors 52 and 54 and the slit height control motors Voltage, the cube current, the excitation period, and the like.
56 and 58 of the primary and secondary slit means 30 and AS a result of the adjustment, a uniform tomographic image
40 constitute the primary- and Secondary-slit Switching can be obtained.
25
means. The sizes of the slits 67 of the primary and secondary AS the image Sensor 38, a MOS image Sensor can be
slit means 30 and 40 are controlled by the primary- and preferably used. Next, the operation principle of a MOS
Secondary-Slit Switching means. image sensor will be described with reference to FIG. 10.
The image Signal detected by the image Sensor 38 is Referring to FIG. 10A, a photodiode PD constituting a
processed in the following manner. Referring to FIG. 9, the light receiving pixel converts entering light into an electric
image Signal output from the image Sensor 38 is Supplied to signal. A Switch SW configured by a MOSFET is connected
image Signal processing means 236. The image Signal pro in series to the photodiode PD. The Switch is connected also
cessing means 236 may be configured by, for example, a to the inverting terminal of an operational amplifier Q1. A
microprocessor for image processing. The image Signal feedback resistor R1 is connected to the operational ampli
processing means 236 in the embodiment comprises A/D 35 fier Q1 So as to constitute a current/voltage converting
converting means 238 for converting an analog signal into a circuit, whereby an input current is output as a voltage
digital Signal, a frame memory 240 which Stores image signal. A voltage V1 with respect to the ground (GND) is
information, and a memory for arithmetic 241. The image applied to the noninverting terminal of the operational
Signal Supplied from the image Sensor 38 to the image Signal amplifier Q1.
processing means 236 is converted into a digital signal by 40 Referring to FIG. 10B, when a positive read pulse RD is
the A/D converting means 238, and digital-converted image supplied to the gate of the Switch SW, the Switch SW is
information is stored in the frame memory 240. Plural sets opened and the photodiode PD is inversely biased so that the
of image information stored in the frame memory 240 are junction capacity C1 is charged by a predetermined amount
Stored in the image memory for arithmetic 241. A predeter of charges. The Switch SW is then closed. When light enters
mined arithmetic proceSS corresponding to the Selected 45 during an accumulation period, the charges of the capacity
imaging mode is conducted on image information read out are caused to be discharged by charges due to the light
from the image memory for arithmetic 241, thereby gener incidence, and hence the cathode potential of the photodiode
ating a tomographic image of the Selected mode. PD gradually approaches the ground potential. The amount
The above process will be described in more detail. The of the discharged charges is increased in proportion to the
CT process information and the panorama process informa 50 amount of the incident light. When the read pulse RD is then
tion Stored in the process information Storing means 228 of supplied to the gate of the Switch SW and the Switch SW is
the controlling means 170 contain CT image process infor opened, charges corresponding to the charges which are
mation and panoramic image proceSS information, respec discharged during the accumulation period are Supplied via
tively. When the switch 180 (FIG. 8) is pressed to select the the feedback resistor R1 and the photodiode PD is returned
CT mode, the CT process information is selected from the 55 to the inversely biased State So as to be initialized. At this
proceSS information Storing means 228 and Supplied to the time, a potential difference is produced acroSS the feedback
image Signal processing means 236. Then the image Signal resistor R1 by the charging current. This potential difference
processing means 236 processes the image information is output from the operational amplifier Q1 as a voltage
stored in the frame memory 240 on the basis of the CT image Signal. The charging current corresponds to the discharge
process information contained in the CT process 60 current due to the light incidence, and hence the amount of
information, thereby generating a partial CT image. When the incident light can be detected on the basis of the output
the Switch 182 (FIG. 8) is pressed to select the panorama Voltage.
mode, the panorama process information is Selected from FIG. 11 is a section view showing the structure of the
the proceSS information Storing means 228, and the image X-ray image sensor 38. Optical fiber elements (FOP) 254
Signal processing means 236 processes the image informa 65 through which an optical image is transmitted are disposed
tion stored in the frame memory 240 on the basis of the on a MOS image sensor 252 in which photodiodes PD
panoramic image proceSS information contained in the pan constituting light receiving pixels are two-dimensionally
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arranged. Ascintillator layer 256 which converts X-rays into driven in the same column. In response to a single read
visible light is formed on the optical fiber elements 254. The pulse, Signals are read out in parallel from 2m photodiodes
X-ray image having passed through the object is converted and then Supplied to 2m operational amplifiers Q1 and 2m
into a visible light image by the Scintillator layer 256. The Sample and hold circuits which correspond to the columns,
Visible light image is transmitted by the optical fiber ele respectively. Two shift registers SRa and SRb are disposed
ments 254, and then subjected as it is to the photoelectric so as to correspond to the MOS image sensors 252a and
conversion by the MOS image sensor 252. 252b. The outputs of the sample and hold circuits are
FIG. 12 shows a driving circuit for the MOS image sensor transferred as time Series signals to the image Signal pro
252. The photodiodes PD constituting light receiving pixels cessing means 236 by Sequentially closing and opening 2m
are arranged into a matrix of m lineSXn columns. A junction Switches SWb. The Signals Supplied to the image Signal
capacity C1 is connected in parallel with each photodiode processing means 236 are converted into digital Signals by
PD, and the read Switch SW is connected in series to each the A/D converting means 238 and then stored in the frame
photodiode PD. An address selection circuit SL is connected memory 240. In FIG. 14, the example which uses two MOS
to the gates of the Switches SW. The photodiode PD from image sensors 252a and 252b is shown. Alternatively, MOS
which image information is to be read out is Selected on the 15 image Sensors may be connected in three or more Stages.
basis of a Signal from the image Signal processing means Next, referring mainly to FIGS. 2, 7, 9, and 15 to 17, the
236. imaging operation of the X-ray imaging apparatus will be
The outputs of the Switches SW of each line are connected described.
to each other and then Supplied to corresponding one of Referring to FIG. 15, first, a flowchart relating to the
operational amplifiers Q1 constituting the current/voltage selection of the imaging mode will be described. When the
converting circuit. The output of the operational amplifier power source switch 178 (FIG. 8) of the operation panel 176
Q1 is sampled by a sample and hold (S/H) circuit. Each is closed (turned on), the control proceeds to step S1 and a
sample and hold circuit is connected to a Switch SWb which current is Supplied to the X-ray imaging apparatus, whereby
is closed and opened by an m-stage shift register SR. The 25
the X-ray imaging which will be described later is enabled.
Switches SWb are Sequentially closed and opened, So that Next, it is judged in step S2 whether the CT mode is set
the Sampled Signals are Supplied as a time-Series signal to the or not. If the switch 180 (FIG. 8) of the operation panel 176
A/D converting means 238 of the image Signal processing is pressed to Select the CT mode, the control proceeds from
means 236. An integration circuit may be inserted between step S2 to step S3 in which the CT mode imaging operation
the operational amplifier Q1 and the Sample and hold circuit is executed. If the Switch 180 is not pressed, the control
S/H. The integration circuit integrates the current (or the proceeds to step S4, and it is judged whether the Switch 182
voltage) and the Sample and hold circuit S/H Samples the (FIG. 8) is pressed or not. If the Switch 182 is pressed to
integrated amount. The provision of the integration circuit Select the panorama mode, the control proceeds from Step S4
causes the sampled amount to contain an integration time. to Step S5 in which the panorama mode imaging operation
AS a result, the Sensitivity of the detection signal can be 35 is executed. If the Switch 182 is not pressed, the control
enhanced. returns to Step S2, and the above-mentioned routine is
FIG. 13 is a timing chart illustrating the operation of the repeatedly executed until one of the Switches 180 and 182 is
driving circuit of FIG. 12. Hereinafter, an example in which pressed.
a shift register is used as the address Selection circuit SL will The CT mode imaging operation which is executed in Step
be described. The address selection circuit SL is activated by 40 S3 in the case where the CT mode is selected in step S2 is
a Start pulse Supplied from the image Signal processing conducted in accordance with a flowchart of FIG. 16.
means 236, and outputs in Sequence a first-column read Referring to FIGS. 7 to 9, and 16, if the CT mode is selected,
pulse RD1, a Second-column read pulse RD2, . . . , an process information corresponding to the Selected imaging
nth-column read pulse RDn in Synchronization with a read mode, i.e., the CT process information is Selected in Step
clock Supplied from the image Signal processing means 236. 45 S3-1 from the process information storing means 228 of the
When the first-column read pulse RD1 is supplied to the controlling means 170. Next, in step S3-2, the slit opening
gates of the Switches SW of the first column, for example, of the primary slit means 30 is set to the primary CT slit 67a
charges corresponding to the amount of the incident light of (FIG. 5A) on the basis of the selected CT process informa
the photodiodes PD of the first column are read out, and the tion. Then, in Step S3-3, the Slit opening of the Secondary Slit
operational amplifiers Q1 output voltage Signals. A Sampling 50 means 40 is set to the secondary CT slit 67a (FIG. 5A) on
pulse SP is Supplied to the Sample and hold circuits So as to the basis of the CT process information. As described above,
Sample the timing when output of the operational amplifier the operations of Switching the slit openings in Steps S3-2
Q1 reaches its peak value. The Sampled Signals are Supplied and S3-3 are conducted by controlling the operations of the
from the shift register SR, and transferred by a shift clock slit width control motors 52 and 54 and the slit height control
Signal CK consisting of m pulses until the next Sampling 55 motors 56 and 58 of the primary and secondary slit means
pulse SP is Supplied, So as to be output as an image Signal 30 and 40 on the basis of the CT process information. When
for one Scan line. Also for the Second and Subsequent the primary and secondary slit means 30 and 40 are set to the
columns, in the Same manner as described above, Signals for primary and secondary CT slits 67a in this way, the X-ray
m lines are read out in parallel by one read pulse and a time imaging apparatus enters the State where the partial CT
Series Signal for one Scan line is configured by the shift 60 imaging is enabled. Steps S3-2 and S3-3 are not required to
register SR. be executed in the order described above, and may be
FIG. 14 shows an example of a circuit in which MOS executed in a reversed order.
image Sensors are connected in plural Stages. Two MOS Thereafter, the chin rest 12 is positioned at the predeter
image Sensors 252a and 252b having light receiving pixels mined position. AS described above, the positioning of the
of m lines and n columns are aligned in the column direction, 65 chin rest 12 is conducted by pressing the Switches 186 to 210
and connected so that read pulses RD1 to RDn from a shift of the operation panel 176, and by, if necessary, further
register SLa Serving as the address Selection circuit SL are pressing the Switches 212 to 222. When the Switches 186 to
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210 are pressed to input information relating to the size of the image Sensor 38 are respectively positioned at the
the object and the imaging Site of the partial CT imaging, imaging Start positions, and the patient then moves to the
position information corresponding to the input information imaging region 262. This order may be Suitably changed.
is read out from the object position information Stored in the For example, the patient may be first introduced to the
chin rest position Storing means 226 of the controlling imaging position, the chin rest 12 may be positioned at the
means 170. The chin rest 12 is positioned on the basis of the imaging position with the chin being placed thereon, and the
read out position information. AS described above, the X-ray source 28 and the image sensor 38 may be then
positioning is conducted by controlling the operations of the respectively positioned at the imaging Start positions.
X-, Y-, and Z-axis control motors 142, 158, and 114 of the After the positioning of the object with respect to the
object position adjusting mechanism 10 on the basis of the X-ray imaging apparatus is completed, the Start Switch 224
position information read out from the object position infor of the operation panel 176 is again pressed. Then, the
mation. operation proceeds from step S3-7 of FIG. 16 to step S3-8
When the chin rest 12 is positioned at the imaging and the partial X-ray CT imaging is executed. The imaging
position in this way, the Site to be imaged of the object is region 262 is irradiated with X-rays emitted from the X-ray
positioned in an imaging region 262 (FIG. 18) in a State 15 Source 28. X-rays which have passed through the object are
where the chin is placed on the chin rest 12. detected by the image sensor 38. During the X-ray
Next, a start Switch 224 is pressed in step S3-6 so that the irradiation, the X-ray Source 28 and the primary Slit means
Supporting means 18, i.e., the Support arm 24 is positioned 30, and the image sensor 38 and the secondary slit means 40
at a specific angular position which elongates in the lateral are moved along the CT image formation locus, that is, the
direction, So that the X-ray Source 28 and the image Sensor Supporting means 18 Supporting these components is rotated
38 are positioned at respective partial X-ray CT imaging about the rotation axis. More specifically, in the partial CT
Start positions (step S3-6). The positioning of the Supporting imaging, a range of, for example, about 50 mm, i.e., a local
means 18 is conducted by controlling the operation of the region containing two or three teeth which range centered at
rotation control motor 46 by the operation controlling means the middle point P (the middle point P coincides with the
172 on the basis of the CT process information. 25 center axis of the rotation shaft 22) of a line 264 connecting
The Specific angular position which laterally elongates the X-ray source 28 and the image sensor 38 as shown in
FIG. 18 is used as the imaging region 262. During the partial
means a Specific angular position where a line Q connecting CT imaging process, the middle point P is not varied. The
the X-ray Source 28 and the image Sensor 38 makes an angle X-ray source 28 and the image sensor 38 are revolved at a
within an angle range 0 of t30 deg. With respect to a just constant rotational speed about the middle point P by 360
lateral direction. In the embodiment, the components are deg. in, for example, a clockwise direction indicated by an
positioned at the angular position shown in FIG. 20 where arrows 266. As a result of the revolution, an omnidirectional
the line Q elongates in a just lateral direction. or 360-deg. image of the site to be imaged which is
Thereafter, the patient of the object stands on the base 4, positioned in the imaging region 262 is obtained. Since
the chin is positioned on the chin rest 12, and the ear rods 35 X-rays emitted from the X-ray source 28 pass through the
163 are put on the ears of the patient. This positioning allows primary slit means 30, X-rays impinges on the imaging
the site to be imaged (for example, an imaging site of the region, in the form of a quadrangular pyramid. Therefore,
patient), to be placed in the imaging region 262 (indicated by the imaging region 262 is always formed into a columnar
a circle in FIG. 18) which is between the X-ray source 28 shape of, for example, a diameter of 50 mm and a height of
(FIG. 2) and the image sensor 38 (FIG. 2). Therefore, an 40 about 50 mm. The imaging region 262 is positioned on an
excellent tomographic image can be obtained without con extension line of the rotation axis of the rotation shaft 22. An
ducting a cumberSome positioning operation. image Signal obtained by the image Sensor 38 is converted
In the embodiment, as seen from FIG. 20, the patient into a digital Signal by the A/D converting means 238 and
passes through between the first attaching portion 26 and the then stored in the frame memory 240. In the embodiment,
Second attaching portion 32 of the Support arm 24 to move 45 Since the primary Slit means 30 defines the Square primary
toward the imaging region 262 from the forward direction. CT slit 67a, X-rays from the X-ray source 28 impinges on
Therefore, the access route for the patient to the imaging the imaging region 262, in the form of a quadrangular
region 262 elongates between the first and Second attaching pyramid. The image Sensor 38 generates a Signal of the
portions 26 and 32 of the Support arm 24 in the anteropos corresponding image at intervals of one deg. in the revolu
terior direction (vertical direction in FIG. 20). In the thus 50 tion direction indicated by the arrows 266, So that signals
configured X-ray imaging apparatus, by positioning the corresponding to 360 images are generated as a result of the
Supporting means 18 at the Specific angler position shown in revolution of 360 deg. These image Signals are Stored in the
FIG. 20, for example, the first attaching portion 26 (the frame memory 240. Since the X-ray source 28 and the image
X-ray source 28, and the like which are attached to the unit) sensor 38 are moved as described above, the CT locus
is positioned on the left side of the access route in FIG. 20, 55 information is that the X-ray Source 28 and the image Sensor
and the Second attaching portion 32 (the image Sensor 38, 38 are revolved about the invariable middle point P. In the
and the like which are attached to the unit) is positioned on case of the CT mode, the operation of the rotation control
the right side of the access route in FIG. 20. As a result, the motor 46 is controlled during the partial CT imaging process
first and Second attaching portions 26 and 32 escape from the on the basis of the CT process information, and the Support
access route for the patient, and hence the patient can easily 60 arm 24 is rotated in the direction indicated by the arrows
enter the imaging region 262. Alternatively, the apparatus 266.
may be configured So that, at the Specific angular position, When the partial X-ray CT imaging in step S3-8 is ended,
the first attaching portion 26 is positioned on the right side the operation proceeds to Step S3-9, and a partial CT image
of the access route, and the Second attaching portion 32 is is generated on the basis of the obtained images. When a
positioned on the left Side of the access route. 65 partial CT image is to be generated, information of the
In the procedure described above, the chin rest 12 is first images Stored in the frame memory 240 is read out, and the
positioned at the imaging position, the X-ray Source 28 and read out image information is Stored in a memory for
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23 24
arithmetic 241. The image Signal processing means 236 Thereafter, the patient of the object is moved onto the base
conducts an image processing on the images read out from 4 and the chin is positioned on the chin rest 12, and the ear
the memory for arithmetic 241 on the basis of the CT image rods 163 are put on the ears of the patient. This positioning
proceSS information. As a result of the image processing, a allows the Site to be imaged (for example, an affected area),
partial CT image is obtained. to be positioned at the predetermined position which is
The generated partial CT image is displayed in step S3-10 between the X-ray source 28 (FIG. 2) and the image sensor
on the displaying means 248. In this way, a partial CT image 38 (FIG. 2). Therefore, an excellent panoramic tomographic
of the predetermined site of the object is obtained. For image can be obtained without conducting a cumberSome
example, an implant operation in the dental treatment can be positioning operation.
easily performed while observing the partial CT image 1O Also in the X-ray panoramic imaging, the chin rest 12 is
displayed on the displaying means 248. first positioned at the imaging position, the X-ray Source 28
After the partial CT imaging process, the Support arm 24 and the image Sensor 38 are respectively positioned at the
is again positioned at the Specific angular position shown in imaging Start positions, and the patient then is introduced.
FIG. 20. Since the support arm 24 is positioned in this way The procedure may be changed So that, for example, the
also after the imaging process is ended, the patient of the 15 patient is first introduced onto the base 4, the chin is
object can forward move from the imaging region 262 So as positioned at the imaging position while the chin is placed
to go out of the imaging region 262. At the Specific angular on the chin rest 12, and the X-ray Source 28 and the image
position, the line Q connecting the X-ray Source 28 and the Sensor 38 are then respectively positioned at the imaging
image Sensor 38 exists within the angle range 0 of t30 deg. Start positions. Also, the procedure may be changed So that
with respect to a just lateral direction, and hence the patient the Support arm 24 is first positioned in the Specific angler
can easily enter or exit from the imaging region 262 (FIG. position described above (FIG. 20), the patient is introduced
20). onto the base 4 under the condition that the Support arm 24
is positioned in the Specific angler position, and then the
The panoramic imaging operation which is executed in X-ray Source 28 and the image Sensor 38 are positioned at
Step S5 in the case where the panorama mode is Selected in 25 the imaging Start positions.
step S4 is conducted in accordance with the flowchart of After the positioning of the object with respect to the
FIG. 17. Referring to FIGS. 7 to 9, and 17, if the panorama X-ray imaging apparatus is completed, the Start Switch 224
mode is Selected, proceSS information corresponding to the of the operation panel 176 is again pressed. The operation of
Selected imaging mode, i.e., the panorama proceSS informa pressing the Switch 224 causes the operation to proceed from
tion is selected in step S5-1 from the process information step S5-7 to step S5-8 and the X-ray panoramic imaging is
storing means 228. Next, in step S5-2, the slit opening of the executed. The object is irradiated with X-rays emitted from
primary slit means 30 is set to the primary panorama slit 67b the X-ray source 28. X-rays which have passed through the
(FIG. 5B) on the basis of the selected panorama process object are detected by the image Sensor 38. During the X-ray
information. In step S5-3, the slit opening of the secondary irradiation, the X-ray Source 28 and the primary Slit means
slit means 40 is set to the secondary panorama slit 67b (FIG. 35 30, and the image sensor 38 and the secondary slit means 40
5B) on the basis of the panorama process information. AS are moved along the panoramic image formation locus.
described above, the operations of Switching the Slit open More specifically, in the panoramic tomographic imaging
ings in steps S5-2 and S5-3 are conducted by controlling the process, as shown in FIG. 19, the locus of the middle point
operations of the slit width control motors 52 and 54 and the (the middle point coincides with the center axis of the
slit height control motors 56 and 58 of the primary and 40 rotation shaft 22) of the line 264 which connects the X-ray
secondary slit means 30 and 40 on the basis of the panorama Source 28 and the image sensor 38 and which indicates the
proceSS information. When the primary and Secondary slit X-ray irradiation direction is moved along the curve (i.e.,
means 30 and 40 are set to the primary and secondary envelope) 268 indicated by the broken line. In FIG. 19, the
panorama Slits 67b in this way, the X-ray imaging apparatus line 270 indicated by the solid line shows the tomographic
enters the State where the panoramic imaging is enabled. 45 plane of the dental arch 272. In the panoramic imaging,
Steps S5-2 and S5-3 may be executed in a reversed order. X-rays emitted from the X-ray source 28 are directed in a
Thereafter, the chin rest 12 is positioned at the predeter direction which is Substantially perpendicular to the tomo
mined position. The positioning is conducted by controlling graphic plane 270. When the panoramic tomographic imag
the operations of the X-, Y-, and Z-axis control motors 142, ing is to be conducted along the dental arch 272, therefore,
158, and 114 of the object position adjusting mechanism 10 50 the Support arm 24 is moved in a plane and rotated about the
(step S5-4). rotation shaft 22 as required. During the panoramic imaging
Next, the start Switch 224 is pressed in step S5-5 so that process, the position of the rotation Shaft 22 is changed
the Supporting means 18 is positioned at a predetermined every moment in this way. The positional change is realized
position and at a predetermined angular position (for by momentarily moving the rotation shaft 22 by the plane
example, an angular position at which the rotation axis of the 55 moving mechanism 20. In the embodiment, Since the pri
Support arm 24 is positioned at one end of an envelope 268 mary slit means 30 defines the Slender Square primary
(FIG. 19) and X-rays from the X-ray source 28 to the image panorama slit 67b, X-rays from the X-ray source 28 impinge
sensor 38 impinge on the dental arch 272 (FIG. 19) at a in the form of a slender quadrangular pyramid. Since the
Substantially perpendicular angle), so that the X-ray Source rotation axis of the rotation shaft 22 is moved and the
28 and the image Sensor 38 are positioned at respective 60 support arm 24 is rotated about the rotation shaft 22 in this
X-ray panoramic imaging start positions (step S5-7). The way, the panoramic locus information is that a combination
positioning of the Supporting means 18 is conducted by of the above-mentioned movement of the rotation axis of the
controlling the operations of the X- and Y-axis control rotation shaft 22 and the rotation of the support arm 24 about
motors 42 and 44, and the rotation control motor 46 of the the rotation axis causes the X-ray Source 28 (including the
plane moving mechanism 20 by the movement controlling 65 primary slit means 30) and the image sensor 38 (including
means 173 on the basis of the panorama process informa the secondary slit means 40) to be moved. In the X-ray
tion. panoramic imaging, usually, the rotation of the Support arm
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25 26
24 in the case where the molar tooth region is to be imaged image sensor 38), and, when the CT mode is selected, the
is faster than that in the case where the anterior tooth region primary (or secondary) CT slit 318 is positioned in front of
is to be imaged. In the case of the panorama mode, the the X-ray source 28 (or the image sensor 38). Also in the
operations of the X- and Y-axis control motors 42 and 44, case where the thus configured primary (or Secondary) slit
and the rotation control motor 46 are simultaneously con 5 means 302 (or 304) is used, the size of the slit opening can
trolled during the panoramic imaging process on the basis of be automatically Switched to the one corresponding to the
the panoramic locus information, So that the Support arm 24 Selected imaging mode in the same manner as described
is moved and rotated as described above. above.
When the X-ray panoramic imaging in step S5-8 is ended, FIG. 22 shows another modification of the primary
the operation proceeds to step S5-9 as shown in FIG. 17, and (secondary) slit means. Referring to FIG. 22, illustrated
a panoramic tomographic image is generated on the basis of primary (or secondary) slit means 332 (or 334) comprises a
the obtained images. When a panoramic tomographic image circular shield plate 336. The shield plate 336 is provided
is to be generated, information of the images Stored in the with a rotation shaft 338 and rotatably supported by the
frame memory 240 is read out, and the read out image rotation shaft 338. A worm gear 337 is formed on the outer
information is stored in the memory for arithmetic 241. The 15 peripheral face of the shield plate 336. A worm screw shaft
image Signal processing means 236 conducts an image 340 meshes with the worm gear 337. One end portion of the
processing on the images read out from the memory for worm screw shaft 340 is drivingly coupled with a slit control
arithmetic 241 on the basis of the panoramic image proceSS motor 342. In the shield plate 336, two slits which are
information contained in the panorama process information. Separated from each other in the peripheral directions, i.e., a
AS a result of the image processing, a panoramic tomo primary (or Secondary) panorama slit 344 and a primary (or
graphic image is obtained. secondary) CT slit 346 are formed. According to this
configuration, the slit opening of the primary (or Secondary)
In the same manner as a CT image, the generated pan slit means 332 (or 334) can be switched by rotating the slit
oramic tomographic image is displayed in Step S5-10 on the control motor 342 so as to move the shield plate 336 in a
displaying means 248. In this way, a panoramic tomographic 25 clockwise direction indicated by an arrow 350 or a coun
image of the predetermined site of the object is obtained. terclockwise direction indicated by an arrow 352. Namely,
The panoramic tomographic image displayed on the dis when the panorama mode is Selected, the primary (or
playing means 248 can be used as information for a dental Secondary) panorama slit 344 is positioned in front of the
treatment or the like. X-ray source 28 (or the image sensor 38), and, when the CT
AS Seen from the above description, a tomographic image mode is selected, the primary (or secondary) CT slit 346 is
corresponding to the Selected imaging mode, i.e., a tomo positioned in front of the X-ray source 28 (or the image
graphic image which is arbitrarily Selected from a CT image sensor 38). Also in the case where the thus configured
and a panoramic tomographic image can be obtained from primary (or secondary) slit means 332 (or 334) is used, the
the Single X-ray imaging apparatus. Size of the Slit opening can be automatically Switched to the
It is preferable that after completion of the X-ray pan 35 one corresponding to the Selected imaging mode in the same
oramic imaging, the Support arm 24 is positioned at the manner as described above.
Specific angular position with respect to the horizontal arm In the embodiment of FIG.22, the primary and secondary
16 as shown in FIG. 20. Owing to such constitution the CT slits 346 of the primary and secondary slit means 332,
patient can easily go out of the imaging region. 334 are formed to be circular. In this case, X-rays which are
In the embodiment, the primary and Secondary Slit means 40 emitted from the X-ray Source and pass through the primary
30 and 40 comprise the pair of width shield members 60 and Slit means 332 irradiate the imaging region 262 in a cone
62 and the pair of height shield members 64 and 66, and the like shape, and the imaging region 262 is formed into a
Slit openings are adjusted by moving the width shield Spherical shape. Also when a primary CT Slit having Such a
members 60 and 62 and the height shield members 64 and form is used, it is possible to conduct a desired local X-ray
66. Alternatively, the apparatus may be configured in the 45 CT imaging.
manner shown in FIG. 21 or 22. Referring to FIG. 21 In the above, an embodiment of a dual-purpose X-ray
showing a modification of the primary (Secondary) slit imaging apparatus which can conduct both the partial X-ray
means, illustrated primary (or Secondary) slit means 302 (or CT imaging and the X-ray panoramic imaging has been
304) comprises a rectangular shield plate 306. The shield described. In Such a dual-purpose X-ray imaging apparatus,
plate 306 is supported by four support rollers 308 so as to be 50 the positioning of the chin rest 12 for the partial X-ray CT
movable in the right and left directions in FIG. 21. A driving imaging may be conducted by using an X-ray panoramic
screw shaft 310 is screwed with the shield plate 306. One image obtained in the X-ray panoramic imaging.
end portion of the driving screw shaft 310 is drivingly An X-ray imaging apparatus shown in FIG. 23 is Sub
coupled with a slit control motor 312. In the shield plate 306, Stantially identical in fundamental configuration with the
formed are two slits which are separated from each other in 55 apparatuses shown in FIGS. 1 to 20 except the manner of
the moving direction (the rightward and leftward direction in positioning the chin rest 12 at a predetermined position. In
FIG. 21), i.e., a primary (or Secondary) panorama slit 316 the panoramic imaging in the X-ray imaging apparatus, as
which is in the left portion of FIG. 21 and a primary (or shown in FIG. 24, a panoramic image is displayed on the
secondary) CT slit 318 which is in the right portion. Accord displaying means 248 (see FIG. 9) for displaying an X-ray
ing to this configuration, the Slit opening of the primary (or 60 image. In the image Signal processing means 236, position
secondary) slit means 302 (or 304) can be switched by information 502 is added to the image signal which is to be
rotating the slit control motor 312 so as to move the shield output from the processing means 236. The panoramic
plate 306 in the rightward direction indicated by an arrow image containing the position information 502 is displayed
320 or the leftward direction indicated by an arrow 322. As on the displaying means 248. In the embodiment, the
understood from the above description, when the panorama 65 position information 502 includes scale marks 503 which are
mode is selected, the primary (or Secondary) panorama slit arranged from the left Side of the display Screen to the right
316 is positioned in front of the X-ray source 28 (or the side at substantially equal intervals. Numerals 504 from “1”
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to “21' are added to the scale marks 503. The numbers moving table 116 and the third moving table 144 in the
correspond to positions in the curve of dental arch. In the object position adjusting mechanism 10 of FIG. 6. In this
position information 502, the symbol “R” indicates the right case, the first moving table 98 constitutes the object position
side and the symbol “L” the left side. The position infor adjusting mechanism, and the plane moving mechanism 20
mation 502 includes scale marks 505 which are arranged constitutes the Supporting means position adjusting mecha
from the upper Side of the display Screen to the lower side nism which relatively moves the X-ray source 28 and the
at Substantially equal intervals. Symbols 507 from “A” to image sensor 38 with respect to the object. For an alternative
“J” are added to the Scale marks 505. to above constitutions, the Supporting means 18 may be
In the case where Such a panoramic image is observed and made movable in the vertical direction by using the elevat
a partial X-ray CT image of, for example, a molar tooth ing mechanism of the elevator frame 8, and in the antero
indicated by a numeral 506 is requested, operation key posterior and lateral directions by using the plane moving
means 508 disposed on the elevator frame 8 of the apparatus mechanism 20 while omitting the first to third moving tables
frame 2 shown in FIG. 23 is operated for specification. The 98, 116, 144. In this case, a vertical moving mechanism
operation key means 508 has keys 510 including operation including the elevator frame 8 and the plane moving mecha
keys for designating the maxillary teeth and the mandibular 15 nism 20 constitute the Supporting means position adjusting
teeth, ten keys for designating a number and a Symbol, and mechanism. According to this configuration, positioning of
the like, and a display device 512. When one of the keys 510 the object into the imaging region is enabled by using the
is pressed, the contents of the pressed key 510 and X-ray moving mechanisms equipped in the X-ray imaging
image are displayed on the display device 512. When the apparatus, that is the elevating mechanism of the elevator
molar tooth 506 is to be designated, for example, “3,” “-.” frame 8 and the plane moving mechanism 20. In that case,
and “E” of the keys 510 are pressed in accordance with the a detection Sensor consisting of a combination of a light
coordinates 3-E displayed on the display Screen 248. AS a emitting device, and a noncontact optical ranging Sensor
result of this pressing operations, "3-E is displayed on the which is called a PSD element and detects reflected light
display device 512. In relation to the operation key means from the diseased part may be used. In the detection Sensor,
508, position information storing means (not shown) for 25 the optical ranging Sensor measures a distance of antero
Storing position information of the curve of dental arch is posterior direction between the apparatus frame 2 and the
disposed. The chin rest 12 is positioned at the predetermined patient. On the basis of the measurement result, the motors
position on the basis of the position information Stored in the of the plane moving mechanism 20 and the elevator frame
Storing means. 8 may be controlled So as to conduct the positioning. This
In the same manner as described above, this positioning System has a merit that the Supporting means is moved and
is conducted by controlling the X-, Y-, and Z-axis control the patient is not required to be moved.
motors 142, 158, and 114 of the object position adjusting In the dual-purpose X-ray imaging apparatus comprising
mechanism 10 (FIG. 1) on the basis of the read out position Such a Supporting means position adjusting mechanism,
information. In the positioning, both the operation key when the partial X-ray CT imaging is to be conducted in the
means 508 and the operation panel 176 shown in FIG.8 may 35 CT mode, the imaging is executed in accordance with the
be used. flowchart of FIG. 25. In this case, as easily understood from
Also in this configuration, in the partial X-ray CT a comparison between the flowcharts of FIGS. 16 and 25, the
imaging, the object can be automatically positioned in the object is relatively positioned in the imaging region by, in
predetermined imaging region. Particularly in an apparatus place of the positioning of the chin rest, the positioning of
such as the embodiment in which both the partial X-ray CT 40 the Supporting means 18, i.e., the positioning of the X-ray
imaging and the X-ray panoramic imaging are enabled, a Source 28 and the image sensor 38. The positioning of the
panoramic image can be easily obtained, and hence the Supporting means 18 can be conducted by controlling the
positioning of the object in the partial X-ray CT imaging can operations of the elevation control motor 15 (see FIG. 2)
be conducted easily and correctly by using the panoramic which vertically moves the elevator frame 8, and the X- and
image. 45 Y-axis control motors 42 and 44 of the plane moving
In the dual-purpose X-ray imaging apparatus described mechanism 20.
above, the object positioning means (in the embodiment, the In the dual-purpose X-ray imaging apparatus, the posi
chin rest 12) is mounted on the elevator frame 8 via the tioning of the object positioning means may be conducted by
object position adjusting mechanism 10 So that the position the vertical movement of the chin rest 12 with respect to the
of the means is adjustable in the anteroposterior, lateral, and 50 elevator frame 8, and the anteroposterior and lateral move
Vertical directions, and the position of the object positioning ments of the Supporting means 18 with respect to the
means is adjusted in accordance with the object. In these elevator frame 8 by means of the plane moving mechanism
X-ray imaging apparatuses, the object position adjusting 2O.
mechanism 10 may be configured in the following manner, Referring to FIGS. 26 and 27, in the embodiment, in the
for example. That is, in the object position adjusting mecha 55 same manner as the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 20, the
nism 10 shown in FIG. 6, the first moving table 98 (the table elevator frame 8 is mounted on the column 6 of the appa
which is moved in the vertical direction) may be omitted, ratus frame 2 So as to be movable in Vertical direction, and
and the position of the object positioning means may be the Supporting means 18 is mounted on the elevator frame 8
adjusted by vertically moving the elevator frame 8 (FIG. 1). via the plane moving mechanism 20 So as to be movable in
In this case, the second moving table 116 (the table which is 60 anteroposterior and lateral directions.
moved in the anteroposterior direction), the third moving In the embodiment, a support frame 605 is mounted on the
table 144 (the table which is moved in the lateral direction), elevator frame 8 via an object position adjusting mechanism
and the Vertical moving mechanism including the elevator 602 (FIG. 27) so as to be movable in vertical direction, and
frame 8 constitute the object position adjusting mechanism. the chin rest 12 is mounted on the support frame 605 via the
Alternatively, the Supporting means 18 may be made mov 65 support rod 160. A pair of temporal press members 631 (only
able in the anteroposterior and lateral directions by using the one of the members is shown in FIG. 26) are disposed on the
plane moving mechanism 20 while omitting the Second Sides of the chin rest 12, respectively. The temporal press
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members 631 are attached to the Support frame 605 So as to stopper shaft 655. When the handle 656 is rotated, the
be positionally adjustable. The pair of temporal press mem stopper shaft 655 is projected or retracted with respect to the
bers 631 are caused to approach/separate each other by guide piece 605a. Under the projection State, the Stopper
rotating a dial 639. Ear rods 637 (only one of the rods is shaft is frictionally pressingly contacted with the Side face
shown in FIG. 26) are attached to the tip ends of the 6d of the column 6, so as to stop the vertical movement of
members, respectively. the Support frame 605 with respect to the column 6, whereby
As shown in FIG. 27, the elevator frame 8 comprises a the Support frame 605 is positioned and fixed at a predeter
frame body 641, a case 642, two pairs of right and left guide mined position.
wheels 643 respectively disposed on the right and left sides, According to this configuration, the pair of guide shafts
running blockS 644, motorS 645, and constant force Springs 652, the positioning recesses 662 of the support frame 605,
646. The frame body 641 is formed so as to surround the the positioning projections 661 of the support frame 605,
column 6. The horizontal arm 16 (FIG. 26) elongates from and the like function as the object position adjusting mecha
the upper end portion of the frame body 641. Two guide nism. The position adjusting mechanism enables the Support
wheels 643 are attached to each of inner faces of the frame
body 641 which respectively oppose the side faces 6c and 6d frame 605 to be vertically moved with respect to the elevator
of the column 6 so that the guide wheels 643 are slidable on
15 frame 8. According to the above configuration, Vertical
the side faces 6c and 6d, whereby the elevator frame 8 is positioning of the first movement table 98 of the object
Supported So as to be movable along the column 6 in Vertical position adjusting mechanism 10 in FIG. 6 can be replaced
direction. by the elevating mechanism of the supporting arm 605. The
The running blocks 644 are disposed on the inner faces of plane moving mechanism 20 functions as position adjusting
the upper portion of the frame body 641, respectively. A wire mechanism for Supporting means. The plane moving mecha
647 one end of which is fixed to the top of the column 6 is nism 20 can positionally adjust the Supporting means 18,
wound on each of the running blocks 644. Each wire 647 is i.e., the X-ray source 28 and the image sensor 38 with
wound on a standing block 648 disposed on the top of the respect to the Support frame 605 in anteroposterior and
column 6, via the running block 644. The other ends of the lateral directions. In Such a positioning mechanism, the
25 object can be positioned at a predetermined position by a
wires are connected to a balance weight 649. The balance relatively simple configuration using the plane moving
weight 649 is disposed so as to be movable in the column 6 mechanism 20 of the dual-purpose X-ray imaging apparatus.
in vertical direction. The running blocks 644 mesh with
gears 650 attached to the output shafts of the motors 645, In the embodiment of FIGS. 26 and 27, the supporting
respectively. Therefore, the elevator frame 8 is vertically means 18 may be vertically moved instead of vertical
moved by the rotation drive of the motors 645. When the movement of the chin rest 12. In Such a case, either between
frame reaches a desired vertical position, an electromagnetic the elevator frame 8 and the plane moving mechanism 20, or
brake 651 which is disposed in relation to one of the between the plane moving mechanism 20 and the Supporting
standing blocks 648 stops the rotation of the standing block means 18, the vertical moving mechanism may be inter
648, thereby enabling the elevator frame 8 to be stably held 35
posed for relative moving the two components.
at a predetermined position. In the above description, although explanation was made
A pair of guide shafts 652 elongate in the lower portion of for a dual-purpose X-ray imaging apparatus capable of
the frame body 641 of the elevator frame 8, in parallel with conducting a partial X-ray CT imaging and an X-ray pan
the direction of the vertical movement of the elevator frame oramic imaging, it is also possible to construct a dedicated
8. The guide shafts 652 are fitted into guide holes which are 40 partial X-ray CT imaging apparatus by omitting function of
formed in a pair of guide pieces 605a of the support frame conducting the X-ray panoramic imaging in the dual
605, respectively. In this way, the support frame 605 is purpose X-ray imaging apparatus. In Such a partial X-ray CT
Supported So as to be movable in Vertical direction with imaging apparatus, instead of the chin rest 12 functioning as
respect to the elevator frame 8. Free ends of the constant the positioning means, known memberS Such as a bite
force springs 646 attached to the frame body 641 are 45 Sensor, a bite block, ear rods, or a forehead presser may be
connected to the upper ends of the corresponding guide used singly or combinedly.
pieces 605a. The number of the constant force springs 646 FIGS. 28 and 29 show another embodiment which uses a
is adequately Selected in accordance with the weight of the combination of a bite block having an impression and ear
support frame 605 to be hung. Therefore, it is easy for the rods. In FIGS. 28 and 29, components which are identical
operator to manually move the support frame 605 in vertical 50 with those of the embodiment described above are desig
direction. The chin rest 12 and the temporal preSS members nated by the same reference numerals and their description
631 are moved in vertical direction integrally with the is omitted.
support frame 605. Referring to FIGS. 28 and 29, in an embodiment of a
A positioning projection 661 opposing the inner face of Specific-purpose apparatus of partial X-ray CT imaging
the frame body 641 is attached to each of the guide pieces 55 apparatus, a bite block 372 is attached to the third moving
605a. During the X-ray imaging process, the projections 661 table 144 which is Supported on the apparatus frame 2 via
are respectively fitted into positioning recesses 662 of the the object position adjusting mechanism 10 having Substan
frame body 641, thereby positioning the support frame 605 tially Same configuration as that shown in FIG. 6 So as to be
with respect to the elevator frame 8. An abutting piece 663 movable in the anteroposterior, lateral, and vertical direc
is disposed on one of the guide pieces 605a. A pair of limit 60 tions. A light beam indicator 373 is disposed on the Support
Switches 653 and 654 are disposed on the frame body 641 so arm 24 which Supports the X-ray Source 28 and the image
as to correspond to the abutting piece 663 and with being sensor 38 (FIG. 2). More specifically, an attachment projec
vertically separated from each other. The elevator frame 8 is tion 374 which is projected in the forward direction as
vertically movable with respect to the support frame 605 shown FIG. 29 is formed integrally with the front end
within the range between the limit switches 653 and 654. 65 portion of the table main unit 152 of the third moving table
A stopper shaft 655 is also attached to the guide piece 144 (see FIG. 6) of the object position adjusting mechanism
605a of the support frame 605. A handle 656 is fixed to the 10. The bite block 372 which uses an impression is mounted
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on the tip end portion of the attachment projection 374. 378 may be used. A forehead presser is a member which
When the patient bites the bite block 372, the tooth form of restricts the position of the forehead of the patient biting the
the patient is formed. The bite block 372 may be combinedly bite block 372, and may be disposed on, for example, the
used with ear rods 376 and 378 as required. In the same plane moving mechanism 20 (FIG. 1). Specifically, a Support
manner as the bite block 372, for example, the ear rods 376 rod may elongate from the plane moving mechanism 20 So
and 378 may be disposed on the table main unit 152 in a as to pass through an opening formed in the Support arm 24,
foldable manner. In the illustrated embodiment, rod attach and an attachment member may be mounted on the tip end
ment members 380 and 382 are mounted on the side faces of the rod. The forehead presser may be attached to the
of the table main unit 152, and ends of the ear rods 376 and attachment member So that the rods elongate above the bite
378 in one side are fixed to the rod attachment members 380 block 372.
and 382, respectively. The other ends of the ear rods 376 and In the embodiment, the combination of the bite block 372
378 obliquely upwardly elongate, and are respectively put and the light beam indicator 373 is used. In place of this
on the ears of the patient, whereby the head of the patient can combination, for example, a combination of a chin rest and
be positioned more correctly at the predetermined position two light beam indicators may be used as shown in FIG. 30.
with respect to the apparatus frame 2 (FIG. 1). 15 Referring to FIG. 30 which shows another embodiment of
The light beam indicator 373 is disposed on the rotation the partial X-ray CT imaging apparatus, one light beam
axis of the Support arm 24 which constitutes the Supporting indicator 402 is disposed on the front face (the left face in
means 18. The light beam indicator 373 may be configured FIG. 30) of the elevator frame 8, and the other light beam
by, for example, a light projecting device. AS shown by a indicator 404 is disposed on the Support arm 24 which
one-dot chain line in FIG. 29, a light beam from the light constitutes the Supporting means 18. In the same manner as
beam indicator 373 is projected toward the bite block 372 in the embodiment of FIGS. 28 and 29, the other light beam
a perpendicularly downward direction with Substantially indicator 404 is disposed on the rotation axis of the Sup
coinciding with the rotation axis. porting means 18 and projects a light beam toward the chin
rest 12 in a approximately perpendicularly downward direc
In the embodiment in which the bite block 372, the ear 25 tion which substantially coincides with the rotation axis. The
rods 376 and 378, and the light beam indicator 373 are light beam indicator 402 forward projects a light beam from
combinedly used, the positioning of the object is conducted a substantially median line of the front face toward the chin
in the following manner. First, the patient bites the bite block rest 12.
372 to form the bite block into a shape corresponding to the When the two light beam indicators 402 and 404 are used
tooth form of the patient. Next, the object position adjusting in this way, the region where the light beams from the light
mechanism 10 is operated so that the light beam from the beam indicators 402 and 404 cross each other serves as the
light beam indicator 373 is projected onto the site of the bite imaging region. Therefore, the object can be positioned in
block 372 corresponding to the patient site to be partial the imaging region by means of a noncontact measurement
X-ray CT imaged, thereby positioning the bite block 372 to by positioning the region where the light beams from the
a predetermined position. AS easily understood, the region 35 light beam indicators 402 and 404 cross each other, at the
onto which the light beam from the light beam indicator 373 Site of the patient to be imaged under the State in which the
is projected corresponds to the imaging region in the X-ray chin is placed on the chin rest 12. In the same manner as
CT imaging. This positioning of the bite block 372 enables described above, the positioning of the chin rest 12 can be
the Site to be imaged to be correctly positioned in the conducted by controlling the X-, Y-, and Z-axis control
imaging region. The positioning of the bite block 372 can be 40 motors 142, 158, and 114 of the object position adjusting
conducted by, for example, pressing Switches which are to mechanism 10 as required. For example, the positioning
be manually operated, So that the X-, Y-, and Z-axis control may be conducted by pressing Switches which are to be
motors 142, 158, and 114 are operated as required. manually operated.
Alternatively, the X-, Y-, and Z-axis control motors 142, In the above dual-purpose X-ray imaging apparatus and
158, and 114 may be operated automatically. 45 partial X-ray CT imaging apparatus having object position
Thereafter, the patient bites the bite block 372 which has adjusting mechanisms and/or Supporting means position
been positioned. Since the site of the bite block 372 corre adjusting mechanisms of various types are described. The
sponding to the Site to be imaged is at the imaging position, dual-purpose X-ray imaging apparatus and partial X-ray CT
the operation of biting the block allows the site to be imaged imaging apparatus, however, are preferably constituted Such
to be correctly positioned in the imaging region. Then, the 50 that relative positions between the object positioning means
ear rods 376 and 378 are put on the ears of the patient so that (e.g. chin rest), and the X-ray Source and the image Sensor
the Site is positioned more correctly at the position. In this are adjusted as follows in View of functional characteristics
way, in the configuration in which the bite block 372 and the and manufacturing cost of respective apparatuses.
light beam indicator 373 are used, the positioning can be In the dual-purpose X-ray imaging apparatus, Since the
conducted manually, easily, and correctly. 55 plane moving mechanism is required for conducting the
In a dedicated partial X-ray CT imaging apparatus, as X-ray panoramic imaging, a most preferable positioning
easily understood, the X-ray Source 28 and the image Sensor mechanism is of a type that the Supporting means is moved
38 are required only to be rotated about the imaging region in the anteroposterior and vertical directions by means of the
262 (FIG. 18). As shown in FIG. 28, therefore, the plane plane moving mechanism while the object positioning
moving mechanism may be omitted, and the Support arm 24 60 means is moved in the vertical direction by means of the
of the Supporting means 18 may be rotatably Supported by object position adjusting mechanism (the same mechanism
the horizontal arm 16. According to this configuration, the as the object position adjusting mechanism of FIG. 6 except
apparatus can be simplified. that the Second and third moving tables are omitted). A
In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 28 and 29, the Second-preferable positioning mechanism is of a type that,
combination of the bite block 372 and the ear rods 376 and 65 as shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, the Supporting means is moved
378 is used. Alternatively, a combination in which a fore in the anteroposterior and lateral directions by means of the
head presser is employed in place of the ear rods 376 and plane moving mechanism while the Support frame provided
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6,118,842
33 34
with the object positioning means is moved in the Vertical Supporting means for Supporting the X-ray Source and the
direction by means of the object position adjusting mecha X-ray imaging means So that the X-ray Source and the
nism. A third-preferable positioning mechanism is of a type X-ray imaging means are opposed to each other acroSS
that, in the case of applying as the plane moving mechanism the object;
a laminate forming mechanism using well known curved an apparatus frame for Supporting the Supporting means
slot or the like other than the X-Y table, the supporting is So as to be rotatable about a rotation axis, and
moved in the anteroposterior and lateral directions during rotation driving means for rotating the Supporting means
the panoramic imaging process, while the object positioning
means is moved in the anteroposterior, lateral, and vertical with respect to the apparatus frame; and wherein
directions by means of the object position adjusting mecha 1O
an image region according to the X-ray Source and the
nism shown in FIG. 6 without using the plane moving X-ray imaging means is Substantially positioned on an
mechanism during the CT imaging process. Among other extension line of the rotation axis of the Supporting
preferable positioning mechanisms, there is a mechanism of means,
Such a type that the Z-axis table and the Z-axis control motor during a partial X-ray CT imaging process, the rotation
is added to the plane moving mechanism, for example. 15 driving means rotates the Supporting means in a pre
On the other hand, Since the partial X-ray CT imaging determined direction about the rotation axis, and the
apparatus essentially requires no the plane moving X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means are
mechanism, a most preferable positioning mechanism is of revolved about the imaging region, thereby conducting
a type that the object positioning means is moved in the a partial CT imaging of the object;
anteroposterior, lateral, and vertical directions by means of the Supporting means comprises a light beam indicator for
the object position adjusting mechanism shown in FIG. 6. A projecting a light beam toward the object positioning
Second-preferable positioning mechanism is of a type that means, and
the partial X-ray CT imaging apparatus is additionally the light beam indicator is disposed on the rotation axis
provided with a plane moving mechanism, and the Support for the Supporting means.
ing means is moved in the anteroposterior and lateral 25 2. An X-ray imaging apparatus comprising:
directions by using the plane moving mechanism, while the an X-ray Source for generating X-rays,
object positioning means is moved in the vertical direction X-ray imaging means for detecting X-rays having passed
by means of object position adjusting mechanism (the same through an object;
mechanism as the object position adjusting mechanism of
FIG. 6 except that the second and third moving tables are Supporting means for Supporting the X-ray Source and the
omitted). A third-preferable mechanism is of a type that, as X-ray imaging means So that the X-ray Source and the
shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, the supporting means is moved X-ray imaging means are opposed to each other acroSS
by means of the plane moving mechanism, while the Support the object;
frame is moved by means of the object position adjusting an apparatus frame for Supporting the Supporting means;
mechanism. and
35
In the embodiments of the dual-purpose X-ray imaging moving means moving the Supporting means with respect
apparatus and dedicated X-ray imaging apparatus described to the apparatus frame;
above, a MOS sensor is used as the image sensor 38 which the X-ray imaging apparatus further comprising mode
is one kind of the X-ray imaging means. In place of the MOS Switching means for Switching between a CT mode in
Sensor, a Sensor of another kind Such as a CCD Sensor, an 40 which a partial CT image is generated, and a panorama
X.I.I. (X-ray image intensifier), an X.I. CCD camera (X-ray mode in which a panoramic tomographic image is
intensified CCD camera), an X-ray Solid State device con generated; and wherein
sisting of thin film field effect transistors (FETs) or the like when the CT mode is selected by the mode Switching
may be used. means, the moving means moves the X-ray Source and
In the embodiments described above, a sensor which 45 the X-ray imaging means along a CT image formation
obtains X-ray image information in the form of an electric locus during a partial CT imaging process, and when
Signal, or the like is used as the X-ray imaging means. For the panorama mode is Selected by the mode Switching
the panoramic imaging, a conventional X-ray film may be means, the moving means moves the X-ray Source and
used. In the case where an X-ray film is used, the X-ray the X-ray imaging means along a panoramic image
imaging means further comprises an X-ray film cassette 50 formation locus during a panoramic imaging process,
which houses an X-ray film, and a film transporting motor and
which transports the film cassette in a direction perpendicu the CT image formation locus is a locus in which the
lar to X-ray beams. Supporting means is rotated about a rotation axis of the
The invention may be embodied in other specific forms Supporting means without moving the rotation axis, the
without departing from the Spirit or essential characteristics 55 panoramic image formation locus is a locus in which
thereof. The present embodiments are therefore to be con the rotation axis of the Supporting means is moved
sidered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the along an envelope and the Supporting means is rotated
Scope of the invention being indicated by the appended about the rotation axis as required, and, when the X-ray
claims rather than by the foregoing description and all Source and the X-ray imaging means are moved along
changes which come within the meaning and the range of 60 the panoramic image formation locus, X-rays emitted
equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be from the X-ray Source toward the X-ray imaging means
embraced therein. are irradiated along a dental arch.
What is claimed is: 3. The X-ray imaging apparatus of claim 2 further com
1. A partial X-ray CT imaging apparatus comprising: prising movement controlling means for controlling the
an X-ray Source for generating X-rays, 65 moving means,
X-ray imaging means for detecting X-rays having passed wherein the movement controlling means controls an
through an object; operation of the moving means So that in the CT mode
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the X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means are primary Slit means for restricting a range of X-rays
moved along the CT image formation locus, and in the emitted from the X-ray source toward the object, the
panorama mode the X-ray Source and the X-ray imag primary Slit means having primary Slit Switching means
ing means are moved along the panoramic image for Switching between a primary CT Slit and a primary
formation locus. panorama slit, and
4. The X-ray imaging apparatus of claim 3, wherein the Secondary Slit means for restricting a range of X-rays
moving means comprises: entering the X-ray imaging means, the Secondary Slit
an X-axis control motor for moving the Supporting means means having Secondary Slit Switching means for
in an anteroposterior direction; Switching between a Secondary CT slit and a Secondary
a Y-axis control motor for moving the Supporting means 1O panorama slit,
in a lateral direction; and mode Switching means for Switching between a CT mode
a rotation control motor for rotating the Supporting means in which a partial CT image is generated, and a
about a rotation axis, panorama mode in which a panoramic tomographic
wherein the movement controlling means, controls an image is generated; and wherein
operation of the rotation control motor in the CT mode, 15
when the CT mode is selected by the mode Switching
and Simultaneously controls operations of the X-axis means, the moving means moves the X-ray Source and
control motor, the Y-axis control motor, and the rotation the X-ray imaging means along a CT image formation
control motor in the panorama mode. locus during a partial CT imaging process, and when
5. The X-ray imaging apparatus of claim 3, wherein the the panorama mode is Selected by the mode Switching
X-ray imaging means detects the X-rays from the X-ray means, the moving means moves the X-ray Source and
Source and outputs an image Signal, the X-ray imaging the X-ray imaging means along a panoramic image
apparatus further comprising, in relation to the X-ray imag formation locus during a panoramic imaging process,
ing means, image Signal processing means for forming a when the CT mode is selected by the mode Switching
tomographic image on the basis of the image Signal, means, the primary CT Slit is Selected by the primary
wherein the image Signal processing means generates, in 25
slit Switching means and the Secondary CT slit is
the CT mode, a partial CT image on the basis of the Selected by the Secondary-slit Switching means, and
image Signal from the X-ray imaging means, and, in the when the panorama mode is Selected by the mode Switch
panorama mode, a panoramic tomographic image on ing means, the primary panorama Slit is Selected by the
the basis of the image Signal from the X-ray imaging primary-slit Switching means and the Secondary pan
CS.
orama slit is Selected by the Secondary-slit means.
6. The X-ray imaging apparatus of claim 5 further 8. The X-ray imaging apparatus of claim 2 further com
comprising, in relation to the movement controlling means prising object positioning means for positioning the object in
and the image signal processing means, process information an imaging region which is between the X-ray Source and
Storing means for Storing CT proceSS information for obtain 35 the X-ray imaging means,
ing the partial CT image and panorama process information wherein positional relationships between the object posi
for obtaining the panoramic tomographic image, tioning means, and the X-ray Source and the X-ray
wherein when the CT mode is selected by the mode imaging means are relatively adjustable in
Switching means, the CT proceSS information of the anteroposterior, lateral, and vertical directions.
process information Storing means is Selected, the 40 9. The X-ray imaging apparatus of claim 8, wherein the
movement controlling means moves the X-ray Source moving means includes a plane moving mechanism for
and the X-ray imaging means along the CT image Supporting the Supporting means in a manner that the
formation locus on the basis of the CT process Supporting means is movable with respect to the apparatus
information, and the image Signal processing means frame in anteroposterior and lateral directions, the object
generates the partial CT image on the basis of the image 45 positioning means is mounted on the apparatus frame via an
Signal from the X-ray imaging means, and, object position adjusting mechanism for Supporting the
when the panorama mode is Selected by the mode Switch object positioning means in a manner that the object posi
ing means, the panorama proceSS information of the tioning means is movable in Vertical directions, and posi
process information Storing means is Selected, the tional relationships between the object positioning means,
movement controlling means moves the X-ray Source 50 and the X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means are
and the X-ray imaging means along the panoramic adjusted by the plane moving mechanism and the object
image formation locus on the basis of the panorama position adjusting mechanism in anteroposterior, lateral, and
process information, and the image Signal processing Vertical directions.
means generates the panoramic tomographic image on 10. The X-ray imaging apparatus of claim 8, wherein
the basis of the image Signal from the X-ray imaging 55 positional relationships between the object positioning
CS. means, and the X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means
7. An X-ray imaging apparatus comprising: in the CT mode are set on the basis of position information
an X-ray Source for generating X-rays, obtained from the panoramic tomographic image which is
X-ray imaging means for detecting X-rays having passed obtained in the panorama mode.
through an object; 60 11. An X-ray imaging apparatus comprising:
Supporting means for Supporting the X-ray Source and the an X-ray Source for generating X-rays,
X-ray imaging means So that the X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means for detecting X-rays having passed
X-ray imaging means are opposed to each other acroSS through an object;
the object; Supporting means for Supporting the X-ray Source and the
an apparatus frame for Supporting the Supporting means, 65 X-ray imaging means So that the X-ray Source and the
moving means moving the Supporting means with respect X-ray imaging means are opposed to each other acroSS
to the apparatus frame; the object;
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an apparatus frame for Supporting the Supporting means, position Selecting means for Selecting object position
and information Stored in the position Storing means,
moving means moving the Supporting means with respect wherein the X-ray Source, the X-ray imaging means, and
to the apparatus frame; the object positioning means are held in Selected posi
the X-ray imaging apparatus further comprising mode tional relationships on the basis of the object position
Switching means for Switching between a CT mode in information Selected by the position Selecting means.
which a partial CT image is generated, and a panorama 14. A partial X-ray CT imaging apparatus comprising:
mode in which a panoramic tomographic image is an X-ray Source for generating X-rays,
generated; and wherein X-ray imaging means for detecting X-rays having passed
when the CT mode is selected by the mode Switching through an object;
means, the moving means moves the X-ray Source and
the X-ray imaging means along a CT image formation Supporting means for Supporting the X-ray Source and the
locus during a partial CT imaging process, and when X-ray imaging means So that the X-ray Source and the
the panorama mode is Selected by the mode Switching 15
X-ray imaging means are opposed to each other acroSS
means, the moving means moves the X-ray Source and the object;
the X-ray imaging means along a panoramic image an apparatus frame for Supporting the Supporting means
formation locus during a panoramic imaging process, So as to be rotatable about a rotation axis, and
and
rotation driving means for rotating the Supporting means
before and after the partial CT imaging process, the with respect to the apparatus frame; and wherein
Supporting means is positioned at a specific angular an image region according to the X-ray Source and the
position where a line connecting the X-ray Source and X-ray imaging means is Substantially positioned on an
the X-ray imaging means laterally elongates. extension line of the rotation axis of the Supporting
12. A partial X-ray CT imaging apparatus comprising: means,
an X-ray Source for generating X-rays, 25
during a partial X-ray CT imaging process, the rotation
X-ray imaging means for detecting X-rays having passed driving means rotates the Supporting means in a pre
through an object; determined direction about the rotation axis, and the
Supporting means for Supporting the X-ray Source and the X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means are
X-ray imaging means So that the X-ray Source and the revolved about the imaging region, thereby conducting
X-ray imaging means are opposed to each other acroSS a partial CT imaging of the object;
the object; the Supporting means comprises:
an apparatus frame for Supporting the Supporting means a Support arm which is Supported by the apparatus
So as to be rotatable about a rotation axis, frame So as to be rotatable about the rotation axis
rotation driving means for rotating the Supporting means 35 extending in a vertical direction;
with respect to the apparatus frame; a first attaching portion which downwardly elongates is
object positioning means for positioning the object in the disposed at one end portion of the Support arm, and
imaging region, disposed between the X-ray Source and a Second attaching portion which downwardly elon
the X-ray imaging means, and wherein gates is disposed at another end portion of the
Support arm;
an image region according to the X-ray Source and the 40
the X-ray Source is attached to the first attaching
X-ray imaging means is Substantially positioned on an portion;
extension line of the rotation axis of the Supporting the X-ray imaging means is attached to the Second
means, attaching portion; and
during a partial X-ray CT imaging process, the rotation 45 the image region is placed between the first attaching
driving means rotates the Supporting means in a pre portion and the Second attaching portion of the
determined direction about the rotation axis, and the Supporting arm; and
X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means are before and after the partial CT imaging process, the
revolved about the imaging region, thereby conducting Support arm is positioned at a specific angular posi
a partial CT imaging of the object; 50 tion where a line connecting the X-ray Source and the
the object positioning means is mounted on the apparatus X-ray imaging means laterally elongates.
frame via an object position adjusting mechanism; and 15. The partial X-ray CT imaging apparatus of claim 14,
the object positioning means is made positionally adjust wherein the X-ray source is provided with primary slit
able with respect to the apparatus frame by the object means, X-rays emitted from the X-ray Source are
position adjusting mechanism in anteroposterior, 55 irradiated in a cone-like shape or a pyramid-like Shape
lateral, and Vertical directions. through the primary slit means toward the imaging
13. The partial X-ray CT imaging apparatus of claim 12 region, and
further comprising: the imaging region has a spherical or cylindrical shape
position Storing means for Storing object position infor which is Substantially centered at the rotation axis of
mation relating to positional relationships between the 60 the Supporting means.
X-ray Source and the X-ray imaging means, and the
object positioning means, and k k k k k
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 1 of 53

USOO6289074B1

(12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 6,289,074 B1

Arai et al. (45) Date of Patent: Sep. 11, 2001

(54) X-RAY COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY 5,511,106 4/1996 Doebert et al. ...................... 378/146
METHOD AND SYSTEM 6,018,563 1/2000 Arai et al. .............................. 378/39
6,118,842 9/2000 Arai et al. .............................. 378/39
(75) Inventors: Yoshinori Arai, Tokyo; Masakazu
Suzuki; Akifumi Tachibana, both of
Kyoto, all of (JP) * cited by examiner
(73) Assignee: J. Morita Manufacturing
Corporation, Kyoto (JP) Primary Examiner David V. Bruce
(74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm-Koda & Androlia
* Y Not
Otice: Subj
ubject to anyy disclaimer,
disclai h term off this
the thi
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 (57) ABSTRACT
U.S.C. 154(b) by 0 days.
An X-ray computed tomography (CT) method of producing
(21) Appl. No.: 09/388,282 Sectional images and panoramic imageS while reducing the
(22) Filed: Sep. 1, 1999 exposure dose and time. The method includes producing an
X-ray projection image on a two-demensional X-ray image
(30) Foreign Application Priority Data Sensor by turning a rotary arm within a Scope of angle
Sep. 2, 1998 (JP) ................................................. 10-265667 according to the projection conditions, while locally radiat
Sep. 28, 1998 (JP) ................................................. 10-29.1416 ing conical X-ray beams, with a Small width in the rotating
(51) Int. Cl." .................................................... A61B 6/03 direction of the beams, with the rotating center of the rotary
(52) U.S. Cl. ................................................... 378/4; 378/38 arm fixed at the center position of the region to be X-rayed
(58) Field of Search .................................... 378/4, 20, 38, and the X-ray projection images are processed using specific
378/39 equation as previously prepared by a computer to extract
(56) References Cited
image information, and thereby to produce a Sectional image
of the local region of the object to be examined.
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
5,214,686 5/1993 Webber .................................. 378/38 24 Claims, 34 Drawing Sheets

S.
selection of projection mode
local CT or panorama

S3

S4
set of rotary hight

start of projection
S5
arin rotation.

S7
backprojection according to
S8

the selected projection mode

S9

SO
print out or storing in a
storage means if requried
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 2 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 1 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 3 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 2 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

Fig.2
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 4 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 3 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

Fig.3(b)
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 5 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 4 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

Fig.4
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 6 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 5 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

{2 N

/
& a 1-1
NS 1b N N N
NYN N
2 1é . 1b NY, N Sk 3d 1
SSX-S
zzzzzzzzzzzlz-z-z-z-z-z/A T
72 release==

C)) al NN th
N

El h-1
-1

Fig.5
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 7 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 6 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

ig.6
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 8 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 7 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

--------------

---- - -- - - -- -
Va

Fig. 70a)
Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 9 of 53
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 10 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 9 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

Fig.9
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 11 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 10 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 12 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 11 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

projection mode
object

position of tooth
up or down
right or left
position

adjustment
rotary arm /
supporting means
up or down
right or left

back or forth

electric power

Fig.11
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 13 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 12 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

S1

local CT or panorama
S2

S3

S4

S5

S6
arm rotation

S7

selected projection mode

S8

the selected projection mode

S9
display on the display
SO
print out or storing in a
storage means if requried

Fig.12
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 14 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 13 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

Fig.13
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 15 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 14 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

Fig. 14(a)
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 16 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 15 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

X-ray beam controller

8b.

Fig.15
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 17 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 16 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

two-dimensional image processor

X-ray image sensor
Da
control means
X-ray generator Db
frame memory
2
Dc
control panel
Dd
operational memory

auxiliary storage

Fig.16
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 18 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 17 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

R
SW
RDL > V3
V2 C1 Y Q1
PO

Fig. 17(a) Fig. 17(b)

X-ray

23 ZZZZYZ
22
21E -

Fig. 17(c)
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 19 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 18 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

CuooroqeIa/rVea
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 20 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 19 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

1 display
- - --
start pulse

RD1
-

RD2
-

ROn — al
output of Q1 NN N NN N
s"
1 scanline

Fig.19
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 21 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 20 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

from image
processor D

video line -

to image
processor D

to image
processor D

Fig.20
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 22 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 21 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

Fig.21
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 23 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 22 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

Fig.22
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 24 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 23 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

loe Od o
Fig.23
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 25 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 24 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

Fig.24(b) Fig.24(c)
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 26 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 25 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

Fig.25
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 27 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 26 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

Fig.26
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 28 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 27 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

(dh)

(b)

(C)

Fig.27
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 29 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 28 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

Y y
project surface

Q W N 1 b

Fig.28(b)
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 30 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 29 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

Fig.29(a)

Fig.29(b)
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 31 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 30 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

start radiating projection image finish radiating

t or 6

Fig.30(b)
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 32 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 31 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 33 of 53

U.S. Patent Sep. 11, 2001 Sheet 32 of 34 US 6,289,074 B1

conditional functions of conventional X-ray CT

X=xcos0 + ysine, Y=-xsine - yoos0 coorinate Conversion

formula

p(x,0)=f(x,y)dy see formula 1

1 ?o . - -- -
g(x,0)-?p(x,0)h(x-xxx ''' formula 2

1. 2.
f(x,y)= q(x,0)de ''' formula 3

1 (2 x 1 o - ---

Fig.32
Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 34 of 53
Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 35 of 53
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-2 Filed 02/12/21 Page 36 of 53

US 6,289,074 B1
1 2
X-RAY COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY arm fixed to irradiate the conical X-ray beam only on the
METHOD AND SYSTEM local region of the object to be examined, the exposure dose
of radiation is remarkably reduced from 2 to /100 that of the
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION prior art X-ray CT examination.
1. Field of the Invention And Since the image information is obtained by analyzing
The present invention relates to an X-ray computed absorption coefficient distribution information, the method
tomography (CT) method and System for producing Sec of the present invention has no problem of being adversely
tional images of local region and panoramic images of an affected by bones or the like of the object. And therefore, it
object by radiating Specific conical X-ray beam to the object is possible to reduce the whole size of the System. In
to be examined. addition, it may be also possible to design Such a vertical
2. Description of the Prior Art type X-ray CT System as can rotate and irradiate the X-ray
in the horizontal direction with the patient in a Standing or
A method of obtaining a Sectional image known as X-ray Sitting position. That is, the present invention can provide a
computer tomography (CT) has been widely used in medical small-size X-ray CT system suitable for use in Such dentists
practice as for diagnosis. This method involves radiating 15 as to have only a limited floor space.
X-rays on the object from all around, followed by analyzing It is another object of the present invention to provide an
three-dimensional absorption coefficient distribution infor X-ray CT method that can produce panoramic imageSjust by
mation on the X-rayed object from the projection data by the putting the rotary arm in a circular motion unlike the prior
Radon theory as widely known, thereby obtaining a Sec art panoramic image X-ray method in which the rotary arm
tional image of object. had to be rotated while Swing back and forth, right and left
The prior art X-ray CT is a technique in which a fan the center thereof and to provide an System for the method.
shaped X-ray beam relatively wide in the direction of It is still another object of the present invention to provide
rotation and thin is radiated on the object from around at a an X-ray method that can produce panoramic images by
depth and this is repeated at different depths. Substantially reducing the exposure dose of radiation to the
Accordingly, in the event that only a part inside the object 25
object to be examined and to provide an X-ray System for the
is to be put to tomography examination, the fan-shaped wide method.
X-ray beam is radiated over the whole object to obtain an After intensive researches, the inventorS Succeeded in
absorption coefficient distribution information from which developing this X-ray CT method and the System. According
the coefficient distribution information on that part or region to the present invention, desired local radiated Surface
is taken out for analysis. That is, the object is exposed to a images and panoramic images can be obtained just by
substantial dose of the X-ray beam. radiating the conical X-ray beam-row in the rotating
In addition, it takes long to radiograph and analyze the test direction and having a certain thickness in the vertical
data. In the light of high dose of radiation, the CT exami direction-as if wrapping Such parts as the intended local
nation is limited to Some once a year. 35
region of the object and a specific region about in the center
In the prior art panoramic X-ray System, the X-ray beam of the dental arch. The method and System according to the
is Scanned over the dental arch from behind roughly croSS present invention is Suitable for X-ray examination of Such
wise in relation to the dental arch. The rotary arm is So local regions as the denture and maxillofacial areas and
designed that the X-ray generator is moved continually nondestructive examination of Small Structures.
around three different centers a, b and c in the front tooth 40 The X-ray CT method according to the present invention
area of the dental arch, on the right and left of the molar involves locally radiating the conical X-ray beam to only the
tooth area as shown in FIGS. 24(a) to (c). That requires a local region of the object by rotating the rotary arm with the
complicated mechanism and control of the rotary arm (not X-ray generator and the two-dimensional X-ray image Sen
shown) to rotate the X-ray generator 101. Sor disposed opposed to each other. This radiographing is
FIG. 25 shows loci of the rotary arm of another prior art 45 performed with the X-ray generator radiating the conical
panoramic X-ray System during the X-ray examination. The X-ray beam on only the local region to X-ray and with the
letter Lo designates the axis of Symmetry and is the median rotary arm fixed with its rotation center on the central
line of the axial symmetry of a dental arch. The letter L is position of the local region to radiograph.
the X-ray beam bundle roughly perpendicular to the radia The rotary arm does not always have to be rotated around
tion area of the dental arch. The letter La is an envelope line 50 the local region but the circle to be covered may be from
formed by the bundle L of the X-ray beams. In this case, too, Some 5 degrees to the full circle, that is, 360 degrees as
the rotary arm has to be So moved as to form an envelope necessary. This may be called an improvement on the prior
line as shown in the figure. That makes moving mechanism art the present inventors disclosed in Japanese patent appli
and control complicated. cation laid on unexamined under No. H10-225455.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 55 The prior art was a panoramic tomography and local CT
technique and its feature included the fixing of the rotation
The present invention has been developed to solve those center and partial CT of the local region. But that did not
problems of the prior art X-ray CT technique. describe specifically the local radiation or the feature of the
Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to present invention. Also, the prior art called for the full
provide an X-ray CT method that substantially shortens the 60 circumferential radiation as the conventional CT Systems.
time required for tomography as compared with the prior art By contrast, the present invention is characterized in that
X-ray CT and which greatly reduces the exposure dose of local radiation is Specifically described and the Scope to be
X-ray radiation to the object and permits size reduction of covered by radiation is not limited to the full circle of 360
the X-ray System and to provide an X-ray System for the degrees but may be Selected depending on the needs.
method. 65 After extensive study, the inventors found that radiation of
According to the X-ray method of the present invention, the conical X-ray beam in a Scope of angle depending on the
Since the rotary arm is rotated with the center of the rotary kind of required CT images could produce coefficient dis
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US 6,289,074 B1
3 4
tribution information from which desired images could be coefficient distribution information is produced the pan
obtained. The present invention is based on that discovery. oramic images of the dental arch. That way, the same
According to the present invention, radiation covering panoramic images of the dental arch as that by the conical
only 5 to 90 degrees will do in the radiographing in the X-ray beam in the prior art can be obtained by the X-ray CT
direction perpendicular to the denture of the front teeth. method.
Also, to produce panoramic images of the whole jaw of the The principle of that idea is a further development to an
dental arch, radiation should cover just the angular Scope X-ray CT method from the X-ray CT requiring radiation of
perpendicular to the dental arch, that is, about 180 degrees. the conical X-ray beam to the whole of the object. If a virtual
This idea has been further developed into the X-ray CT local region is Selected that way, the radiation of the conical
method to obtain panoramic images of the dental arch. X-ray beam is limited to a specific Scope of angle. But if care
In the present invention, furthermore, X-ray projection is taken to pick out only the partial X-ray projection images
imageS produced on the two-dimensional image Sensor is exposed to the conical X-ray beam at the Scope of angle,
processed and reconstructed by a computer. That is, if an then image data can be obtained that are good enough for
X-ray projection image is backprojected and put to a specific panoramic images. That is, absorption coefficient distribu
arithmetic processing, a three-dimensional absorption coef 15 tion is obtained from the partial X-ray projection images to
ficient distribution information on the inside of the X-rayed produce panoramic images.
local region can be taken out as an image information. If a The virtual local region to obtain panoramic images of the
Specific object Section is designated or a specific body dental arch are often located in or near the center of the
Section is set up before hand, its Sectional image can be dental arch or at a Suitable point between the dental arch and
produced. the cervical vertebra area on the axis of Symmetry of the
The radiographic method of the present invention is based dental arch. That point is advantageous in that few obstacles
on this idea. While projection data can always be obtained are present there.
on the local region eXposed to local radiation of the conical The X-ray CT method can produce panoramic images
X-ray beam, the other part of the object Surrounding the 25 without the rotary arm following complicate loci to form an
local region has less effect on projection data than the local envelopment (as in FIG.25) as in the prior art. In the present
region because the conical X-ray beam passes through it invention, radiographing is performed with the center of
transiently as the arm rotates. In backprojection, therefore, rotation fixed at a specific point. Therefore, the System for
the effect on other than the local region can be largely that can be configured almost the same way.
ignored. In case much difference is observed in coefficient The present invention also proposes a method of produc
distribution information on the object between the local ing panoramic images of the dental arch by taking out
region to be X-rayed and the Surrounding parts, that is, in three-dimensional absorption coefficient distribution infor
case there are teeth, bone implant or the like in the local mation of the dental arch as image information this way.
region, the Sectional image obtained is good enough in When a specific width of the conical X-ray beam is radiated
contrast for examination of the form of those objects. 35 on the local region by rotating the rotary arm with the X-ray
Therefore, the projection image obtained by local radiation generator and the two-dimensional image Sensor faced to
of the conical X-ray beam only on the local region can be each other, the rotation center of the rotary arm is fixed at
well used for diagnosis in practice after being analyzed. Such a center position of the Virtual local region as includes
The present invention also includes an X-ray CT method the loci of the conical X-ray beam needed to obtain pan
in which the analysis technique to practice the X-ray CT 40 oramic images of the dental arch, or part of the object. This
method is shown in Specific operation expressions. rotary arm is rotated only for the Scope of angle for the
That analysis technique is to work out approximately the radiographing requirements to radiate the conical X-ray
X-ray absorption coefficient distribution. That is, the back beam from the X-ray generator to the Virtual local region
projection data of the projection data is integrated only on only. Thus are produced the X-ray projection images one
the local region eXposed to local radiation by the widely 45 after another on the two-dimensional image Sensor. From the
used convolution method. Two-dimensional absorption X-ray projection imageS produced one after another on the
coefficient distribution is worked out into images. Practical two-dimensional image Sensor is picked out the partial
three-dimensional distribution information can be calculated X-ray projection images only that are produced by the
by adding two-dimensional distributions. This analysis tech conical X-ray beam roughly perpendicular to the dental arch.
nique will be described later. 50 The picked out partial X-ray projection images are arith
Also proposed is an X-ray CT method used to produce metically processed to extract the three-dimensional absorp
panoramic images of the dental arch. tion coefficient distribution information of the dental arch as
This method is to produce panoramic images of the dental image information to form panoramic images of the dental
arch from three-dimensional absorption coefficient distribu arch.
tion information this way. A virtual local region is worked 55 It is understood that the conical X-ray beam is a conical
out that is always exposed to a conical X-ray beam in X-ray beam that is locally radiated to produce panoramic
Specific loci that was needed to produce panoramic images images of the dental arch and which is roughly perpendicu
in the prior art. With the rotation center of the conical X-ray lar to the dental arch. The reason why that conical X-ray
beam fixed at the center position of that Virtual local region, beam alone is extracted is this. The partial X-ray projection
the conical X-ray beam is locally radiated in Such a way to 60 images by the conical X-ray beam contain projection data
cover only the Virtual local region. Only partial X-ray most Suitable for formation of panoramic images of the
projection images by the conical X-ray beam is taken out dental arch, that is, projection data in which teeth are leSS
from the X-ray projection images of the dental arch overlapped.
obtained. On the basis of the partial X-ray projection This radiographing method is based on the afore the the
images, a backprojection is conducted to obtain three 65 local X-ray methods. In this method, however, to be always
dimensional absorption coefficient distribution information exposed to the conical X-ray beam are not only the dental
of the dental arch. From the three-dimensional absorption arch or the object for producing panoramic images but also
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US 6,289,074 B1
S 6
an area which is always radiated by rotating the conical restriction means for restricting the width at least in the
X-ray beam with a specific width with a specific point Scanning direction of the conical X-ray beam radiated from
roughly in the center of the dental arch, preferably inside of the X-ray generator; rotary arm drive control means that
the dental arch, as center-the area called the Virtual local makes it possible to move and Set up the rotation center of
region. That is, the feature of this method is that the dental the rotary arm before the X-raying or to move and Set up the
arch or the region to be X-rayed to produce images is the object before the X-raying and rotates the rotary arm with
Virtual local region which is always exposed to local radia the rotation center of the rotary arm fixed during X-ray
tion of the conical X-ray beam. projection; and an image processing unit for arithmetically
processing the X-ray projection data and taking out a
While the projection data is small that can be obtained three-dimensional absorption coefficient distribution
with the conical X-ray beam locally radiated to the dental information-on the inside of the object through which the
arch to produce panoramic images, panoramic imageS clear X-ray is passed-as image information. The rotary arm does
enough for use in practice can be obtained. That is because not necessarily have to be rotated all around the local region
the Virtual local region Selected is the area about in the center but may be half or 180 degrees rotated.
of the dental arch where there are less obstacles and, in The image processing unit reconstructs images of the
addition, the partial X-ray projection images only by the 15
X-ray projection data-obtained by X-raying the local
conical X-ray beam are picked out. region or the partial X-ray projection images of the object
The rotation center of the rotary arm is fixed at a specific by a known arithmetic operation Such as the backprojection.
point roughly in the center of the dental arch, preferably The projection data produced on the two-dimensional image
inside the dental arch. The exact point of the rotation center Sensor by the rotary arm one after another are inputted into
of the rotary arm is Selected in consideration of the pojecting the image processing unit for image processing. And the
conditions as in the orthogonal projection panoramic radio three-dimensional absorption coefficient distribution infor
graphing and Standard panoramic radiographing and radia mation on the inside of the object can be taken out as an
tion exposure dose. image information. Therefore, a specific object Section is
In orthogonal projection panoramic radiographing, the 25 designated or Set up beforehand, then the image on that
bundle of X-ray beams is radiated on the dental arch in a Section can be produced.
direction about perpendicular to the dental arch. That is, a Furthermore, the present invention provides an X-ray CT
Specific width of the conical X-ray beam is locally radiated System to practice the X-ray CT method used to produce
in Such a way that the inscribed circle on the envelope panoramic images.
formed by the loci of the rotary arm moved in practicing the The X-ray CT System proposed here comprising:
conventional radiographing method is the Virtual local X-raying means having a rotary arm with an X-ray generator
region.
Furthermore, the present invention provides an X-ray CT and a two-dimensional X-ray image Sensor faced to each
method in which concrete operational expressions represent other; X-ray beam width restriction means for restricting the
an analysis technique for carrying out the X-ray CT method width at least in the Scanning direction of a conical X-ray
used to produce panoramic images. 35 beam radiated from the X-ray generator; rotary arm drive
control means that makes it possible to move and Set up the
The analysis technique is different in this way. When rotation center of the rotary arm before X-raying or to move
X-ray absorption coefficient distribution is worked out from and Set up the object before X-raying and rotates the rotary
the backprojection data of the dental arch with the width of arm with the rotation center of the rotary arm fixed during
the conical X-ray beam in the rotating direction as 2r, the 40 projection; and an image processing unit for arithmetically
following two radiation angles are used: the radiation angle processing the X-ray projection data and taking out a
(p (x, y) of the conical X-ray beam when the conical X-ray three-dimensional absorption coefficient distribution
beam begins to radiate that point and the radiation angle (p information-on the inside of the object through which the
(x, y) when the radiation of that point ends. In addition, the X-ray is passed-as image information, wherein the three
integration Scope is limited to that range. The principle of 45 dimensional absorption coefficient distribution information
this analysis technique will be described later. on the dental arch is picked out as an image information this
Also, the present invention calls for Selective radiation of way. The rotation center of the rotary arm is fixed at Such a
the conical X-ray beam by moving a slit before the X-ray center position of the Virtual local region as includes the loci
generator in the X-ray Scanning direction during projection of the conical X-ray beam needed to obtain panoramic
this way. Out of the conical X-ray beam radiated on the 50 images of the dental arch, or part of the object. The rotary
dental arch by the X-ray generator, the aforesaid conical arm is rotated only for the Scope of angle for the radio
X-ray beam only is Selectively shed Synchronizing with the graphing requirements to radiate the conical X-ray beam
rotation of the rotary arm during projection, thus forming the from the X-ray generator to the Virtual local region only.
aforesaid X-ray projection images of the dental arch on the Thus are produced the X-ray projection images one after
two-dimensional image Sensor. That way, the conical X-ray 55 another on the two-dimensional image Sensor. From the
beam is selectively radiated by moving a slit before the X-ray projection imageS produced one after another on the
X-ray generator in the X-ray Scanning direction during two-dimensional image Sensor is picked out the partial
projection. X-ray projection images only that are produced by the
That reduces the X-ray exposure dose of the object by the conical X-ray beam. The picked out partial X-ray projection
difference resulted from Switching from the conical X-ray 60 images are arithmetically processed to extract the three
beam to the conical X-ray beam. dimensional absorption coefficient distribution information
By the way, there will be described the X-ray CT systems of the dental arch as image information to form panoramic
to practice the X-ray CT methods using a conical X-ray images of the dental arch. The Scope of angle for the
beam. radiographing requirements is between 180 and 240 for
The X-ray CT System comprises: X-raying means having 65 the radiographing of the whole jaw.
a rotary arm with an X-ray generator and a two-dimensional The X-ray CT System proposed has the X-ray generator
X-ray image Sensor faced to each other, X-ray beam width provided with a radiation control Slit for Selectively radiating
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the conical X-ray beam only out of the specific width of the Yet another variation is proposed that has object vertical
conical X-ray beam by Synchronizing with the rotation of position adjusting means that can position the object at least
the rotary arm. And partial X-ray projection images of the in the vertical direction and optical beam radiation means for
dental arch on the two-dimensional image Sensor are pro Shedding optical beams to optically Specify the rotation
duced by the conical X-ray beam radiated through the center of the rotary arm and the radiation axis of the conical
radiation control Slit. X-ray beam. That is, this system is provided with optical
The X-ray CT system has the X-ray generator provided beam radiation means for indicating the horizontal position
with a radiation control Slit for Selectively radiating the and vertical position of the rotation center of the rotary arm
conical X-ray beam only out of the specific width of the and if the object holding means is Set along with the
conical X-ray beam by moving the slit before the X-ray 1O
Specifying of the position of the object to the optical beam
generator in the X-ray Scanning direction Synchronizing radiation means, then the position of the object can be put in
with the rotation of the rotary arm during projection. And position to practice the X-ray CT method.
partial X-ray projection images of the dental arch on the A still further variation is proposed from a different
two-dimensional image Sensor are produced by the conical approach. Proposed is So configured that the rotation center
X-ray beam radiated through the radiation control Slit. 15 of the rotary arm is fixed at the center position of the local
That way, the X-ray exposure dose of the object is region or the center position of the Virtual local region this
reduced by the difference between the conical X-ray beam way. A dental articulation model taken from the object is
and the conical X-ray beam. Secured to the object holding means, followed by moving a
The X-ray CT system has a selection switch that permits local region or a virtual local region of the object that is to
selection between the ordinary X-ray CT mode and another be X-rayed-indicated by the dental articulation model-to
mode to produce panoramic images of the dental arch. That the position specified by the optical beam radiation means
is, one System can produce both ordinary Sectional images by the object horizontal position adjusting means or object
and panoramic images. Vertical position adjusting means and then Setting the object
To further illustrate, the proposed X-ray CT system has a on the dental articulation model, thereby fixing the rotation
Selection Switch that is set to the local CT mode when
Sectional images of the local region is to be produced and to 25 center of the rotary arm in the center position of the local
the panoramic radiographic mode when panoramic images region or the center position of the Virtual local position. The
of the dental arch are to be obtained. expression “dental articulation model” as used generally in
Furthermore, different variations are proposed. practice denotes a model copied from the patient's teeth
One of them is characterized in that the conical X-ray showing the occlusion. The model is prepared for each
beam from the X-ray generator is locally radiated to the patient and used for treatment at the dentists. The expres
two-dimensional image Sensor horizontally with the axis of Sion as used herein has a broader meaning, referring to a
rotation of the rotary arm in the vertical direction. In this model copied from part of the outside form of an object in
System, the rotary arm rotates horizontally with the axis of a specific shape. If this dental articulation model is
rotation of the rotary arm held vertically. And the conical positioned, it is possible to determine the position of an
X-ray beam is radiated locally and horizontally. Therefore, 35 internal point of the object in a Specific shape modeled after.
it is possible to reduce the Space for installation of the In this System, the positioning is effected not on the outside
System. of the object but with that dental articulation model. That
Another variation has a two-dimensional image Sensor not makes it possible to fix the rotation center of the rotary arm
longer than 30 cm in length and not longer than 30 cm in at the center position of the local region of the object or at
width which can detect not smaller than 30 pieces of X-ray 40 the center position of the virtual local region more accu
projection image data or partial X-ray projection image data. rately.
In the ortho X-ray CT method, only the X-ray projection Still another variation uses a direct driven rotation control
images on the local region alone are needed. In this System, motor provided on the rotation center as rotation control
therefore, the two-dimensional image Sensor can also be means for the rotary arm. The expression "rotation control
reduced in size. And the amount of the X-ray projection 45 motor” as used herein refers to a motor that permits free
images obtained is decreased. In turn, the processing time is control of the rotating Speed and the rotation position.
Shortened, and the amount of the X-ray projection images Direct-driven, the system has no axial vibration. Driven
that can be detected in a Specific time increases. That is, the by Such a rotation control motor, the rotary arm can be
System can be reduced in size and the radiographing work rotated accurately at a desired Speed and can be stopped at
will be sped up. 50 a desired position, which helps carry out the X-ray CT
Still another variation is that the main frame rotating and method efficiently.
holding at least the rotary arm has arm vertical position Yet a further variation is provided with a hollow in the
adjusting means for adjusting and Setting the position of the rotation center of the rotary arm. In this System, the neces
arm in the vertical direction. In this variation, the vertical Sary wiring or the like can be led to the X-ray generator and
position of the rotating plane of the rotary arm can be 55 the two-dimensional image Sensor can be led through that
adjusted to the height of the object. hollow provided in the rotation center of the rotary arm. That
A further variation is provided with means for holding the can minimize the interference with the wiring of the rotary
object and this object holding means is equipped with object arm and adds up the aesthetics of the wiring.
horizontal position adjusting means that permits position the Another variation uses either TFT, MOS, CCD, XII or
object at least in the horizontal direction. The rotation center 60 XICCD as the two-dimensional image sensor. A still further
of the rotary arm has to be adjusted to the center position of variation is that the Standby position of the rotary arm is
the local region or a specific position roughly in center of the provided at a Such point as not to Stand in the way of the
dental arch. In this System, instead of moving the rotary arm, object coming in and going out when the object is set up for
the object is moved horizontally by the object holding means an X-ray CT Session or released after the X-raying. Those
which has object horizontal position adjusting means that 65 Systems are convenient in that the rotary arm waits at a
permits position the object at least in the horizontal direc Standby position that obstructs the object coming in and
tion. going out.
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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 23 is a plane view showing a standby position of a
FIG. 1 illustrates a basic principle of an X-ray CT method rotary arm according to the present invention.
of the present invention. (when cheek teeth is projected) FIG. 24(a), FIG. 24(b), and FIG. 24(c) explain the opera
FIG. 2 illustrates a basic principle of another X-ray CT tion of a rotary arm when a conventional X-ray panorama
method of the present invention. (when front teeth is projection method is executed.
projected) FIG. 25 illustrates operational excursion of a rotary arm
FIG.3(a) and FIG.3(b) are explanatory view comparing of a conventional X-ray panorama projection System.
a conical X-ray beam and a fan shaped X-ray beam. FIG. 26 illustrates a projection data of an X-ray CT
FIG. 4 illustrates a Setting position of a center of a rotary 1O
method of the present invention.
arm for executing an X-ray CT method for producing a FIG. 27 illustrates conditional functions used in an X-ray
panorama image of a dental arch. CT method of the present invention.
FIG. 5 shows an X-ray CT projection method for pro FIG. 28(a) and FIG. 28(b) explains the fundamental
ducing a panorama image according to the present inven principle of an X-ray CT method for producing a panorama
tion. 15 image according to the present invention.
FIG. 6 shows an X-ray CT projection method for pro FIG. 29(a) and FIG. 29(b) explain the fundamental prin
ducing a panorama image using a radiation control slit ciple of an X-ray CT method for producing a panorama
according to the present invention. image according to the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a partial X-ray image of a dental arch and FIG. 30(a) and FIG.30(b) explain an artifact measure for
FIG. 7(b) explains a panorama image of a dental arch. an X-ray CT method of the present invention.
FIG. 8 shows basic construction of an X-ray CT system of FIG. 31 shows a projection data analyzed by a conven
the present invention. tional X-ray CT.
FIG. 9 is an external front view of an example of an X-ray FIG. 32 shows conditional expressions (formula 1) to
CT system of the present invention. 25
(formula 4) used for analyzing the basic principle of an
X-ray CT.
FIG. 10 is a external side view of an example of an X-ray FIG. 33 shows conditional expressions (formula 5) to
CT system of the present invention. (formula 8) used for analyzing the basic principle of an
FIG. 11 is a front view showing a control panel of an X-ray CT.
X-ray CT system of the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing projection procedures of FIG. 34 shows conditional expressions (formula 9) to
an X-ray CT system of the present invention. (formula 12) used for analyzing the basic principle of an
X-ray CT for producing a panorama image.
FIG. 13 is a front view of a substantial part of one
embodiment of an X-ray beam width restriction means. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE
INVENTION
FIG. 14 is a front view of a substantial part showing 35
restriction condition of an X-ray beam width restriction The present invention will be described referring to the
CS. attached drawings hereinafter wherein the embodiment is
FIG. 15 is a partial front view showing one embodiment described as an X-ray computed tomography which is
of a radiation control Slit according to the present invention. representatively used as X-ray computed tomography,
FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing the image processing 40 however, the present invention should not be limited to such
System of an X-ray CT System according to the present an X-ray computed tomography.
invention. FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 show a basic principle of an X-ray
FIG. 17 illustrates one embodiment of MOS used for a computed tomography (CT) method of the present inven
two-dimensional X-ray image Sensor according to the tion.
present invention, 45 In these figures, the reference numeral 1 shows an X-ray
FIG. 17(a) is its circuit, generator and 2 shows a two-dimensional image Sensor.
FIG. 17(b) is its timing chart, and They are faced to each other and provided for a rotary arm
3 which will be explained referring to FIG. 8 and FIG. 9
FIG. 17(c) is a sectional view showing the construction of hereinafter. The reference characters P and PI show cheek
a two-dimensional X-ray image Sensor using MOS. 50 teeth and front teeth, which are local regions to be projected,
FIG. 18 shows a drive circuit for a MOS image sensor respectively and S shows a dental arch.
used for a two-dimensional X-ray image Sensor according to According to the projection method of the present
the present invention. invention, as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the rotary arm 3
FIG. 19 is a timing chart showing the operation of a drive is rotated at a constant Velocity around center positions Pa,
circuit of a MOS image Sensor used for a two-dimensional 55 Pa' of the local regions P, P on a center 3a thereof. In this
X-ray image Sensor according to the present invention. case, the X-ray generator 1 emits a conical X-ray beam 1 a
FIG. 20 shows a circuit diagram of an example wherein having a beam width to include only the local regions P. P.
a MOS image sensor used for a two-dimensional X-ray Therefore, an X-ray projection image of the local regions P.
image Sensor of the present invention is connected in P" having a fixed pace of expansion is Sequentially generated
two-stage. 60 at a projection Surface 2a of the two-dimensional X-ray
FIG. 21 is an explanatory view of a positioning method of image Sensor 2.
the object for an X-ray CT using a dental articulation model As a two-dimensional an X-ray image Sensor, an X-ray
and an optical beam radiation means according to the TFT (Thin Film Transistor) sensor, an X-ray MOS (Metal
present invention. Oxide Semiconductor) sensor, an X-ray II (Image
FIG. 22 is an explanatory view of the object positioning 65 Intensifier) camera, an X-ray amorphous Serene Sensor, an
method for an X-ray CT System according to the present X-ray CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor, and an X-ray
invention. CCD sensor (XICCD) with an amplifier are used.
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Thus projected X-ray projection image is processed Such Generally, when a normal panorama projection is
as a backprojection by a computer and an X-ray absorption executed, it is required to be the X-ray beam bundle approxi
coefficient distribution in the local regions P, P can be taken mately orthogonal for all tooth of the dental arch S. Such an
out as an image information. Therefore, when an optional X-ray beam bundle is shown as L in FIG. 4.
section of the local regions P, P' is specified or When an orthogonal X-ray beam bundle L. . . for all the
predetermined, the Sectional image can be obtained. tooth of the dental arch S is drawn, an envelope curve La
The rotary arm 3 is rotated holding the center 3a at the of these X-ray beam bundles L. . . . is formed. Then an
centers Pa, Pa' of the local regions P. P. In this case, the encircle G which touches internally to the envelope curve La
conical X-ray beam 1a is locally radiated So as to always is considered, all the X-ray beam bundles L for the dental
include only the local regions P. P. According to the arch Spasses through the encircle G. Therefore, the conical
projection condition, at least the local regions P, P are X-ray beam 1a having a fixed width is locally radiated from
radiated half cycle, an optional Sectional image of the region circumference So as to locally radiate the encircle G, with a
can be produced. center Ga of the encircle G as the center 3a of the rotary arm
FIG.3(a) is a detailed view of the conical X-ray beam 3, the conical X-ray beam 1a always include X-ray beam
radiated from the X-ray generator 1 and FIG. 3(b) is a 15 orthogonal to the dental arch S. That is, in this example, the
conventional fan Shaped X-ray beam la'. encircle G becomes the above-mentioned virtual local
The conical X-ray beam 1a has a Small angle 0 enlarging region as shown in FIG. 5 and the region is represented by
in a Scanning direction and has a fixed thickness vertically the reference character Q. The X-ray beam bundle orthogo
comparing to that the conventional fan shaped X-ray beam nal to the dental arch S is the above-mentioned conical X-ray
1a" has a large angle 0" enlarging in a Scanning direction and beam and is represented by the reference number 1b.
has Small vertical Spreading. The conical X-ray beam 1a is When the conical X-ray beam 1a is locally radiated so as
a beam bundle which can pass the X-ray out of the whole to form the virtual local region Q, the partial X-ray projec
local region P to be projected at one beam radiation. tion image formed by the conical X-ray beam 1b approxi
The conical X-ray beam 1a can be formed at an optional 25
mately orthogonal to the dental arch S is extracted from the
Sectional shape. When the Sectional shape is rectangular and X-ray projection images of the dental arch S Sequentially
the conical X-ray beam 1a is radiated from all the circum produced on the two-dimensional X-ray image Sensor 2.
ference at only one part of an object to be projected (called Then a three-dimensional X-ray absorption coefficient dis
an object hereinafter), the local region P to which the conical tribution information of the dental arch S is taken out as an
X-ray beam 1a is commonly and locally radiated becomes image information by processing the image and a continuous
cylindrical as shown in FIG. 3(a). Therefore, the inside orthodox projection panorama image of the dental arch S
distribution of the X-ray absorption coefficient can be cal can be produced.
culated and the Sectional image of the optional Section inside The X-ray CT method of the present invention to produce
the cylinder area can be obtained. When the section is made a panorama image of the dental arch S is based on Such a
circular and the conical X-ray beam 1a is locally radiated 35
theory. The position of the center 3a of the rotary arm 3 and
only at a part of the object, the part where the conical X-ray the width of the conical X-ray beam 1a, namely the position
beam 1a is commonly radiated becomes Spherical. and dimension of the vertical region Q, are properly Set
Therefore, the inside X-ray absorption coefficient distribu according to the mode of the image to be produced finally.
tion can be calculated and the Sectional image of the optional In a word, the conical X-ray beam complying with the mode
Section in the Sphere can be obtained. 40
of the image is designed to be included in the conical X-ray
When the X-ray CT method is used for dental care, a beam.
two-dimensional X-ray image Sensor with 10 cm height and For example, the position of the center 3a of the rotary
10 cm width is used. In Such a case, the cylinder, namely a arm 3 and the width of the conical X-ray beam which are set
local region, becomes 5 cm diameter and 5 cm height. at projection, namely the Virtual local region Q, arent
The rotary angle of the rotary arm 3 can be set accordingly 45 limited in the encircle G which touches internally to the
from 5 to 360. When the arm 3 is rotated at least 5 around above-mentioned envelope curve La. They may be a circle
the direction vertical to the Section to be projected, the including the encircle G shown as G' or G" in FIG. 4. If such
Sectional image can be produced from the X-ray projection a circle is defined as the Virtual local region Q, the area
data. On the other hand, the arm 3 should be rotated from center is always positioned on the axis of Symmetry Lo
180 to 240 in order to produce all the optional section of 50
inside of the dental arch S.
the local region P. If it is rotated 360, the resolution can be AS a panorama image, it isn't limited to an orthodox
made all around. However, pictures from 360 isn't always projection panorama image and there are a Standard pan
required. orama image, and a jawbone panorama image. So, a conical
Then the X-ray CT method for producing a panorama X-ray beam isn't necessarily Orthogonalized against a dental
image of a dental arch will be explained hereinafter. 55 arch S. Therefore, when a panorama image by Such a
FIG. 4 explains a setting position of the center 3a of the projection method is produced, the position of the center 3a
rotary arm 3 which is set for executing an X-ray CT for of the rotary arm 3 on the axis of symmetry Lo of the dental
producing a panorama image. arch S and the width of a conical X-ray beam 1a, namely the
In the X-ray CT method for producing a panorama image Virtual local region Q, is required to be positioned So as to
of the dental arch S according to the present invention, the 60 include these all conical X-ray beam 1b. One of the example
center 3a of the rotary arm 3 is fixed at a fixed position is the abovementioned encircles G, G".
(preferably inside of the dental arch S) on the axis of The virtual local region Q for producing the panorama
symmetry Lo at the center of the dental arch S. And while image is decided corresponding to the panorama image to be
the arm 3 is rotated at a constant Velocity within a rotary produced. In View of abatement of an X-ray exposed dose,
angle according to the projection condition, the conical 65 it goes without Saying that the area Q is preferably Small.
X-ray beam 1a of a fixed width is locally radiated and the As shown in FIG. 4, the rotary arm 3 isn't required to be
X-ray projection image of the dental arch S is obtained. rotated 360° and may be rotated about from 180° to 240° to
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picture an image. Therefore, an X-ray exposed dose and a The X-ray generator 1 is provided with the X-ray beam
projection time can be reduced at the rate of the reduced width restriction means B having the radiation control slit 8
angle. and an X-ray beam controller 8b. The X-ray beam projected
FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 show an ortho X-ray CT method for from an X-ray tube is adjusted by the X-ray beam width
producing a panorama image of the present invention. restriction means B and a conical X-ray beam 1a or a conical
In FIG. 5 the center 3a of the rotary arm 3 and the width X-ray beam 1b with a desired beam width is designed to be
of the conical X-ray beam are fixedly Supported So as to radiated. It will be detailed hereinafter.
form the virtual local region Q shown in the figure and the A well-known two-dimensional X-ray image Sensor 2 is
rotary arm 3 is rotated at a constant velocity. While the X-ray used wherein an optical fiber element for transmitting an
generator 1 radiates a conical X-ray beam 1a having a fixed optical image is provided on a MOS image Sensor arranging
width in a Scanning direction according to rotation of the a photodiode two dimensionally and further a Scintillator
arm 3, an X-ray projection image of the dental arch S is layer for converting an X-ray to a visible ray is formed
Sequentially produced on the two-dimensional X-ray image thereon. It will be also detailed hereinafter.
sensor 2 by the conical X-ray beam 1a. Thus produced X-ray
projection image extracts only a partial X-ray projection 15
The rotary arm 3 is provided with an XY table 31, a climb
image produced by the conical X-ray beam 1b approxi control motor 32, and a rotation control motor 33. The center
mately orthogonal to the dental arch S among the radiation 3a of the arm 3 can be set in X, Y direction by controlling
bundle of the conical X-ray beam 1a. The extracted partial an X-axis control motor 31a and a Y-axis control motor 31b.
X-ray projection image is processed and the three The arm 3 is designed to go up and down by driving the
dimensional X-ray absorption coefficient distribution infor climb control motor 32 and to be rotated around the object
mation is taken out as an image information, thereby the O by driving the rotation control motor 33 at a constant
panorama image of the dental arch S is produced. Velocity in case of roentgenography. The climb control
Accordingly, a basic X-ray CT is executed wherein the motor 32 comprises an adjusting means of up and down
rotary arm 3 is rotated with its center 3a fixed, simulta position of the arm 3.
neously conical X-ray beam 1a with a fixed width is locally The center 3a of the rotary arm 3, namely a rotary axis,
radiated, and a panorama image can be also produced. 25
is provided vertically, the arm 3 is rotated horizontally, and
In FIG. 6, like FIG. 5, the rotary arm 3 is rotated at a the conical X-ray beam 1a is horizontally and locally
constant velocity with its center 3a and the width of the radiated. Therefore, the System can be constructed as a
conical X-ray beam 1a fixedly Supported So as to form the Vertical type which requires a little occupied floor area.
Virtual local region Q. The X-ray generator 1 radiates only
the conical X-ray beam 1b orthogonal to the dental arch S The rotation control motor 33 is comprised as a rotation
through a slit window 8a by controlling Synchronous trans driving means of the rotary arm 3, uses a motor freely
ferring of a radiation control Slit 8 in the direction orthogonal controllable its rotary Speed and rotary position, and is
to the conical X-ray beam 1a depending on the change of positioned so as to be directly connected to the center 3a of
rotational angle of the arm 3. Accordingly only the partial the rotary arm 3 by the axis.
X-ray projection image projected on the two-dimensional 35 Therefore, the arm 3 can be rotated at a constant Velocity
X-ray image Sensor 2 is extracted, the extracted image is and its position can be known along a time axis. It is
processed, three-dimensional X-ray absorption coefficient preferable to take out an X-ray projection image by the
distribution information of the dental arch S is taken out as
a image information, and the panorama image of the dental two-dimensional X-ray image Sensor 2 at an exact timing,
arch S is produced. there is no core deflection, thereby the X-ray CT method of
Thus, in addition to the effect of FIG. 5, X-ray exposed
40 the present invention can be effectively executed.
dose of the object can be reduced as the rate that a conical The center 3a of the rotary arm 3 is provided with a
X-ray beam is changed to a conical X-ray beam. hollow 3b. All the associated parts provided for the center 3a
FIG. 7(a) shows an X-ray partial panorama image Va should be hollow aperture respectively So as to provide the
produced from a partial X-ray projection image further hollow 3b. For example, a servo motor with a hollow axis
45 can be used as the rotation control motor 33 for this purpose.
extracted from the X-ray projection image produced on the
two-dimensional X-ray image Sensor 2 or from the partial The hollow 3b is formed for disposing a connecting line
X-ray projection image directly projected on the two between the X-ray generator 1 and the two-dimensional
dimensional X-ray image Sensor 2 after backprojection X-ray image Sensor 2 both Suspending from the rotary arm
processing and extracting the X-ray absorption coefficient 50
3 and the operation console 11 provided at the main frame
distribution information according to the present invention. 10 side.
FIG. 7(b) shows an example of a panorama image V When an electrical wiring is connected for a rotation part,
produced by aligning and combining the X-ray partial its wiring method becomes a problem. However, when the
panorama image Va. electrical wire is disposed through the center 3a of the rotary
Next, the X-ray CT system of the present invention will 55 arm 3, affect Such as twisting caused by rotation can be
be described hereinafter. minimized and further Such an arrangement has anaesthetic
FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a rough construction preferable effect.
of the X-ray CT system of the present invention. The driving and controlling means for a rotary arm C is
The X-ray CT system 20 is comprised of projection means constructed by combining the XY table 31, the climb control
A, an X-ray beam width restriction means B, a drive and 60 motor 32 and the rotation control motor 33 in this embodi
control means for a rotary arm C, an image processor D, a ment. However, the invention isn't limited to Such a con
display E, an object holding means 4, a main frame 10, an Struction. As a most Simple construction, the center 3a of the
operation console 11, a control panel 12 and So on. rotary arm 3 can be set at an optional position by operating
The projection means A is provided with a rotary arm 3 a manual handle.
and the arm 3 is located Such that the X-ray generator 1 and 65 The XY table 31 for horizontally moving and setting the
the two-dimensional X-ray image Sensor 2 are opposing and center 3a of the rotary arm 3 is provided for positioning the
Suspending. center 3a at the center Pa of the local region P in the object
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O by an X-ray CT. When the object holding means 4 with X-ray projection image produced on the two-dimensional
a holding means adjusting mechanism 41, will be described X-ray image Sensor 2. Then an optional Sectional image and
hereinafter, is provided, Such an arrangement can be done at a panorama image of the projected local region Pare shown
the object side. Therefore, such an XY table 31 isn't always by the display E and they are Stored in a necessary Storage
required. 5 medium as a image information.
When only a panorama X-ray projection is executed, the On the display E a three-dimensional perspective View of
center 3a of the rotary arm 3 is simply fixed around the the local region P is shown in advance So as to be rotatable
center of the dental arch S, therefore, the XY table 31 isn't in X, Y and Z directions respectively and it is designed that
required. Further, the holding means adjusting mechanism the Sectional image is displayed by Specifying the Section on
41 isn't required for the object holding means 4. Accord the display where a doctor or an operator want to diagnose.
ingly the System can be constructed Simply. Therefore, it is convenient for Selecting a desired Section and
The object O (here a human head is used as an example) the internal condition of the front jaw, the back jaw, and
places his lower jaw on a chin rest 4a of the object holding tooth projected as the local region P of the object O can be
means 4, inserts the tips of ear rods 4b in both conchae, judged accurately.
thereby the head is properly positioned. The object holding 15
The main frame 10 is a structure supporting the whole
means 4 is provided with the holding means adjusting system 20 and will be detailed hereinafter. The operation
mechanism 41 having an X-axis control motor 41a, a Y-axis console 11 controls the whole system 20 and executes
control motor 41b, and a Z-axis control motor 41c. The Several controls and commands receiving an input from the
Vertical position is adjusted according to the height of the control panel 12.
object O and the longitudinal position is Set So as to locate The control panel 12 is provided for inputting necessary
the object O at an appropriate position for projection. data for the System 20 and operating procedures and will be
The object holding means 4 is placed on the combined detailed hereinafter.
table (not shown) of an X-axis linear movable table, a Y-axis FIG. 9 is an external front view of an example of an ortho
linear movable table, and a Z-axis linear movable table 25 X-ray CT of the present invention. FIG. 10 is its external
provided with the X-axis control motor 41a, a Y-axis control Side view. The members already explained are referenced as
motor 41b, and a Z-axis control motor 41c respectively. the same reference numbers and characters and their expla
These linear movable tables are comprised of a well known nations are omitted hereinafter.
croSS roller guide and a combination of a regular bearing and The X-ray CT system 20 is provided with the main frame
a guide respectively and can linearly move accurately. 10 which is a highly rigid structure like a gate as a Support
Although rack and pinion System, a ball Screw System, and for the whole System. The main frame is comprised of an
a normal Screw axis System can be used to move these tables, arm 10a rotationally Supporting the rotary arm 3 Suspending
accurately positioning System is desirable.
An object horizontal position adjustment means 42 is the X-ray generator 1 and the two-dimensional X-ray image
comprised of the X-axis control motor 41a and the Y-axis Sensor 2 opposing each other, a pair of lateral beams 10b for
control motor 41b with Such linear movable tables and
35 fixing the both sides around the rotary arm Supporting area
driving Systems and an object vertical position adjustment of the arm 10a to prevent deflection caused by rotation of the
means 43 is comprised of the Z-axis control motor 41c. arm 3, a pair of Vertical beams 10c for Supporting the lateral
beams 10b, a column 10d for fixedly placing the arm 10a,
Thus, the object horizontal position adjustment means 42 and a base 10e on which the column 10d and the pair of
for freely setting the horizontal position of the object O and 40 vertical beams 10c are placed and is a base of the system 20.
the object vertical position adjustment means 43 provided These members comprising the main frame 10 are made
for freely setting the vertical position of the object O are of highly rigid Steel and are Strong for deformation by
provided. The height of the object holding means 4 can be appropriately providing a diagonal brace and a reinforcing
adjusted at the height of the object O. Further, it is advan material for angles. Especially the arm 10a for rotationally
tageous to adjust the center Pa of the local region P in the 45 Supporting the rotary arm 3 is a highly rigid structure by
object O to the center 3a of the rotary arm 3. itself, further, the pair of lateral beams 10b, the pair of
As mentioned above, if the rotary arm 3 is provided with Vertical beams 10c are provided at the rotary Support So as
the XY table 31 for moving the center 3a thereof and the to prevent rotary deflection. Therefore, the center 3a of the
climb control motor 32, the object horizontal position rotary arm 3 doesn't move when rotating.
adjustment means 42 isn't always required. However, Some 50
times it may be advantageous that the rough position of the Thus, the main frame 10 is preferable for an ortho X-ray
object O is adjusted by the object horizontal position adjust CT System especially requiring no deflection because it is a
ment means 42 and the object position adjustment means 43 Structure without causing deflection caused by the rotary
arm 3.
and then fine adjustments are done by the XY table 31 and
the climb control motor 32 provided for the rotary arm 3, 55 The main frame 10 may not be provided with the lateral
thereby both may be provided. beam 10b and the vertical beam 10c if it is a rigid structure.
AS an adjusting means for the object O, other than the The control panel 12 is provided at the surface of anti
above-mentioned, a chair on which the object O (here it is column 10d side of one of the vertical beams 10c of the main
a patient having the head) and together the object holding frame 10 and where the operator can easily operate while
means 4 may be moved So as to be positioned. In Such a case, 60 Standing.
the position of the patient can be gently positioned while FIG. 11 is a front view showing the control panel of the
Sitting on a chair. X-ray CT system of the present invention.
The image processor D includes an arithmetic processor The control panel 12 is provided with a selection Switch
operating an image process analysis at high Speed and the 9 for selecting the projection mode of the X-ray CT system.
absorption coefficient distribution information in the object 65 The Switch 9 is comprised of a partial CT projection mode
through which an X-ray passes is calculated by executing a Switch 9a and a panorama projection mode switch 9b for
predetermined arithmetic operation after pre-processing the exclusively switching each other. When the partial CT
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projection mode Switch 9a is operated, an optical Sectional holding means 4 moves laterally. When the Switches 12r and
image of the local region is produced by a normal X-ray CT. 12S are operated together with the Switch 12m, the Y-axis
When the panorama projection mode switch 9b is operated, control motor 41b is driven and the object holding means 4
a panorama image of the dental arch S is produced by the moves back and forth.
X-ray CT for producing a panorama image. An electric power Switch 12t provided at the bottom is for
As mentioned above, according to the X-ray CT of the turning on and off the electric power of the whole system 20.
present invention, when a panorama image is produced, the A start Switch 12u is for Starting projection.
center 3a of the rotary arm 3 may be fixed at a predetermined Thus, the X-ray CT system 20 can be set and operated by
position as it is and its rotary angle and the width of a conical the control panel 12.
X-ray beam are changed and Slit control is executed. FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing projection procedures of
Therefore, the X-ray CT system which can produce both the ortho X-ray CT system of the present invention. Refer
panorama image and a Sectional image can be simply ring to the flow chart, projection procedures will be
constructed. explained.
The local CT projection mode or the panorama projection
In Stead of providing Such a Selection Switch 9, the Sensor 15 mode is selected by the selection switch 9 of the control
used for the two-dimensional X-ray image Sensor 2 may be panel 12 (S1). The object O is placed on the chin rest 4a of
a cassette type and a different cassette is prepared for a the object holding means 4 (S2). The center 3a of the rotary
normal X-ray CT and for a panorama image producing arm 3 is set at the center Pa of the local region P of the object
X-ray CT. And the partial CT projection mode and the O at the local CT projection mode, and the center 3a is set
panorama projection mode may be changed by exchanging at the center Qa of the virtual local region Q of the object O
the cassettes. at a panorama projection mode (S3).
Selection Switches for an object 12a, 12b, 12c are pro Then the height of the rotary arm 3 is adjusted so that the
vided under the selection Switch 9. These Switches 12a, 12b, Vertical height of the conical X-ray beam 1a locally radiated
12c are used by combining with selection Switches for from the X-ray generator 1 is Set in the local region P or the
positioning a tooth 12d-12g provided thereunder and used 25
virtual local region Q (S4). Projection is started and the
for positioning the object holding means 4 at an appropriate conical X-ray beam 1a is locally radiated according to the
position (see FIG. 8) according to the projection mode. The projection mode while the rotary arm 3 is rotated within a
Switch 12a is operated when the object O is a small child, the fixed angle area corresponding to the projection mode (S5,
Switch 12b is operated for an average child, and the Switch S6, S7)
12c is operated for an adult. AS explained in the X-ray CT method, an image process
The Switches 12d, 12e are used for selecting whether the ing including backprojection is executed according to the
local region P to be projected is an upper jaw or a lower jaw. projection mode (S7), a Sectional image or a panorama
When the Switch 12d is operated, an upper jaw is Selected image is produced (S8), the image is displayed on the
and the Switch 12e is operated, a lower jaw is selected. The display E (S9), the image is printed out or stored in the
Switches 12f and 12g are for selecting right or left of the 35
Storing means if necessary (S10), and the procedure finishes.
local region P. When the Switch 12f is operated, a left jaw is Next an X-ray beam width restriction means will be
Selected and when the Switch 12g is operated, a right jaw is described.
Selected. According to the X-ray CT method of the present
The Switches 12h-12k thereunder are for selecting further invention, when the local region to be projected is specified,
detailed position of the local region P to be projected. When 40 it is required that the beam width of the conical X-ray beam
the Switch 12h is operated, the first tooth and the second 1a radiated from the X-ray generator 1 is adjusted and
tooth on the basis of the axis of symmetry Lo of the dental further the center 3a of the rotary arm 3 is set at a position
arch S are selected. The third and the fourth teeth are corresponding to the position of the local region.
Selected when the Switch 12i is selected, the fifth and the The X-ray beam width restriction means B is provided for
Sixth teeth are Selected when the Switch 12i is operated, and 45 the above-mentioned purpose and the Vertical and lateral
the seventh and the eighth teeth are selected when the Switch dimensions of the X-ray bundle radiated from an X-ray
12k is operated. Source of the X-ray generator 1 at a fixed radiation angle are
The adjustment Switches 121-12s are for adjusting the restricted. This adjustment can be made manually or auto
position of the rotary arm 3 or the position of the object matically by operating Setting Switches.
holding means 4. 50 AS Such an X-ray beam width restriction means B, there
The rotary arm 3 is Selected as an adjustment object when is a System or means wherein a slit control plate (not shown)
the Switch 12l is operated, the Supporting means for the with a plural window Slits is Set before the X-ray generator
object 4 is selected when the Switch 12m is operated. 1 and the slit control plate is slid or a plurality of a first slit
When the Switch 12l is operated and also switches 12n with different window openings are prepared and the conical
and 12O are operated, the climb control motor 32 is driven 55 X-ray beam completely including only the local region to be
and the rotary arm 3 goes up and down. When the Switches projected is defined from them. If the window opening is
12p and 12q are operated together with the Switch 12i, the formed with a plural members independently movable each
X-axis control motor 31a is driven and the rotary arm 3 other, an optional window opening can be formed by adjust
moves laterally. When the Switches 12r, 12S are operated ing these members.
together with the Switch 12l, the Y-axis control motor 31b is 60 FIG. 13 is a front view of a substantial part of one
driven and the rotary arm 3 moves back and forth. embodiment of the X-ray beam width restriction means.
When the Switch 12m is operated and Switches 12n and FIG. 14 is a front view of a substantial part showing a
12O are also operated, the Z-axis control motor 41c of the restriction condition of the X-ray beam width restriction
holding means adjusting mechanism 41 is driven and the CS.
object holding means 4 goes up and down. When the 65 The X-ray beam width restriction means B is comprised
Switches 12p and 12q are operated together with the Switch of a lateral direction restriction means 81, Vertical direction
12m, the X-axis control motor 41a is driven and the object restriction means 82, and a slit hole 83.
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The lateral direction restriction means 81 is comprised of Thus, as explained in FIG. 6, only the conical X-ray beam
a pair of right and left slit plates 81a, 81b, female screws 1b can be radiated.
81c, 81d provided for each slit plate, a screw axis 81e for FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing image processing of
screwing these female screws 81c, 81d, and a lateral motor the ortho X-ray CT system of the present invention.
81f for rotatably driving the screw axis 81e. The female The process is executed by an image processor D as a
ScrewS 81c, 81d are comprised of a pair of a right Screw and main construction, the X-ray generator 1, the two
a left Screw respectively and correspondingly a male Screw dimensional X-ray image Sensor 2, the control panel 12, the
comprised of a right Screw and a left Screw is formed at the display E, and an auxiliary Storage means F. The image
Screw axis 81e for parting from the center of the longitudinal processor D is provided with a control means Da, a frame
direction.
memory Db, and an A/D (analog to digital) converter Dc.
Therefore, when the lateral motor 81 f is driven and Such an image processor D may be comprised of a micro
rotated, the right and left slit plates 81a, 81b are approached processor for image processing.
or departed each other at the Same distance and the lateral The image data received from the two-dimensional X-ray
width of the slit hole 83 is restricted centrosymmetrically. image Sensor 2 is converted to a digital signal by the A/D
15
The vertical direction restriction means 82 is comprised of converter Dc and the converted data is stored in the frame
a pair of a upper and lower slit plates 82a, 82b, female memory Db. A plural image data Stored in the frame memory
screws 82c, 82d provided for each slit plate, a screw axis 82e Db are Stored in an arithmetic memory Dd, and a predeter
for screwing the female screws 82c, 82d, and a vertical mined processing is executed for the Stored image data
motor 82f for driving and rotating the screw axis 82e and is corresponding to the Selected projection mode. Then a
positioned So as to be orthogonal with the lateral direction Sectional image or a panorama image is produced, displayed
restriction means 81. The female Screws 82c, 82d are on the display E, and Stored in the auxiliary Storing means
comprised of a pair of a right Screw and a left Screw F if required.
respectively and correspondingly a male Screw comprised of
a right Screw and a left Screw is formed at the Screw axis 82e Ahard disc, a magnetic optical disc, and So on can be used
for parting from the center of the longitudinal direction. 25 as the auxiliary Storing means F.
Therefore, when the vertical motor 82f is driven and A MOS image sensor can be preferably used as the
rotated, the upper and lower slit plates 82a, 82b are two-dimensional X-ray image Sensor 2 and will be detailed
hereinafter.
approached or departed each other at the same distance and
the vertical width of the slit hole 83 is restricted centrosym Referring to FIG. 17, the operational principle of the
metrically. MOS image sensor and the construction of the two
Thus, the width of the slit hole 83, namely the vertical and dimensional X-ray image Sensor using the MOS image
sensor will be described.
lateral widths of the conical X-ray beam, can be restricted by
the X-ray beam width restriction means B. In FIG. 17(a) a photodiode PD constructing a photo
In FIG. 14(a) the vertical width and the lateral width of 35 acceptance pixel converts the inserted light into an electrical
the slit hole 83 are made small and in FIG. 14(b) the slit hole signal. The photodiode PD is seriously connected by a
83 is made rectangular. switch SW comprised of MOSFET (metal-oxide semicon
FIG. 15 is a substantial front view showing one embodi ductor field-effect transistor) and is further connected to a
reverse terminal of an operational amplifier Q1. The opera
ment of a radiation control slit according to the present tional amplifier Q1 is connected to a feedback resistance R1,
invention. 40
thereby comprising a current and Voltage converter circuit
The radiation control slit 8 is controlled by the X-ray from which an inputted current is outputted as a voltage
beam controller 8b. The slit 8 is used by overlapping on the Signal. A voltage V1 is applied against the grand (GND) for
X-ray beam width restriction means B so that only the an non-reverse terminal of the operational amplifier Q1.
conical X-ray beam 1b is radiated from the conical X-ray 45 In FIG. 17(b) when a positive reading pulse RD comes to
beam 1a with its vertical and lateral width defined by the a gate of the Switch SW, the Switch SW is opened, the
X-ray beam width restriction means B. photodiode PD becomes anti-bias, and a fixed amount of
The radiation control slit 8 is comprised of a slit plate 8c electricity is charged at a junction capacity C1. Then the
having the slit window 8a and an open window 8a', four Switch SW is closed and the charged electricity is discharged
guide rollers 8d for reciprocating the Slit plate 8c linearly, a 50 by the electricity of the projected light when a light is
Screw axis 8e for Screwing a female Screw (not shown) projected during charge time, and a cathode electric poten
provided for the slit plate 8c, and a control motor 8f for tial of the photodiode PD approaches a grand electric
driving and rotating the Screw axis 8e. Therefore, the posi potential. The discharged electric charge amount increases
tion of the slit window 8a and the open window 8a can be in proportion to the inserted light amount.
freely controlled by controlling the control motor 8f by 55 When the reading pulse RD comes to the gate of the
means of the X-ray beam controller 8b. Switch SW and the Switch SW is opened, the electric charge
In normal X-ray CT, the slit plate 8c is moved so that the corresponding to the discharged electricity during charge
open window 8a' is overlapped on the slit hole 83 of the time is Supplied via the feedback resistance R1 and Simul
X-ray beam width restriction means B and the conical X-ray taneously the photodiode PD becomes anti-bias again to be
beam 1a produced by the X-ray beam width restriction 60 initialized. In this time an electric potential difference is
means B is locally radiated. caused by the charged current at both ends of the feedback
In the X-ray CT for producing a panorama image, the slit resistance R1 and outputted as a Voltage Signal from the
window 8a is moved so as to overlap on the slit hole 83 of operational amplifier Q1. The charged current corresponds
the X-ray beam width restriction means B and is controlled to the discharged current by the inserted light So that the
synchronizing with the rotation of the rotary arm 3 by the 65 projected light amount is detected by the output Voltage.
X-ray beam controller 8b so that only conical X-ray beam 1b FIG. 17(c) is a sectional view showing a construction of
among the conical X-ray beam 1a is radiated. the two-dimensional X-ray image Sensor 2 using the MOS
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21 22
image sensor. An optical fiber element (FOP) 22 for trans prising the address Selection circuit SL is driven at the same
mitting an optical image is provided on the MOS image column. A signal is read out from 2m-pieces of photodiodes
Sensor 21 two-dimensionally arranging the photodiode PD by a reading pulse and inputted into 2m-pieces of opera
to be a photo acceptance pixel, and further the Scintillator tional amplifiers Q1 and Sample hold circuits corresponding
layer 23 for converting an X-ray into a visible ray is to each column.
provided thereon. The X-ray image passed through the Two shift registers SRa, SRb are disposed corresponding
object is converted to a visible light image, further trans to the two MOS image sensor 21a, 21b and transfers the
mitted by the optical fiber element 22, and photoelectrically output from each Sample hold circuit to the image processor
converted by the MOS image sensor 21. D as a time Serious signal by operating 2m-pieces of Switch
FIG. 18 is a driving circuit for the MOS image sensor 21. SWb in order. The signal Supplied to the image processor D
The photodiode PD to be a photo acceptance pixel is is converted to a digital signal by the A/D converter Dc and
then stored in the frame memory Db.
arranged in a matrix of m-rows by n-columns, the junction In FIG. 20 two MOS image sensor 21a and 21b are used,
capacity C1 is connected in parallel to each photodiode PD, however more than 3 stages of MOS image sensor may be
and the reading Switch SW is Seriously connected. The gate connected.
of the Switch SW is connected by an address selection circuit 15
The two-dimensional X-ray image Sensors 2 used for the
SL and the photodiode PD to be read out is selected based X-ray CT method for producing a panorama image of the
on the Signal from the image processor D. dental arch S has a detecting Surface, for example, about 30
The output of the Switch SW is commonly connected per cm long and about 10-30 cm wide. It preferably detects
a column and inputted to the operational amplifier Q1 more than 30 pieces of X-ray projection image data or local
comprising the current and Voltage convert circuit. The X-ray projection image data per Second.
output of the operational amplifier Q1 is Sampled by a AS only a local X-ray projection image of the local region
sample hold circuit (S/H). Each sample hold circuit is is preferably obtained when an X-ray CT method is used, the
connected to a Switch SWb operated by a shift register SR two-dimensional X-ray image Sensor 2 can be minimized.
at m-step. 25
Further, as the obtained X-ray projection image data is
As each Switch SWb is opened and closed in order, the reduced, its processing Speed becomes fast and the number
sampled signal is outputted to the A/D converter DC of the of the X-ray projection image data detected in a fixed time
image processor D as a time Series signal. In Such a case, a is increased. Therefore, the whole System can be downsized
lag network may be provided between each arithmetic and Simultaneously projection Speed can be fast.
circuit Q1 and each Sample hold circuit. The lag network FIG. 21 is an explanatory view of the positioning method
integrates the current (or Voltage) and the sample hold of the object for the X-ray CT using a dental articulation
circuit Samples the integrated amount. model and a light beam irradiating means according to the
If the lag network is provided, the output includes an present invention.
integration time and the Sensitivity of the detected Signal can In the figure, the reference numeral 6a indicates a light
be increased. 35 beam irradiating means for a rotary center showing the
FIG. 19 is a timing chart showing the operation of the center 3a of the rotary arm 3 as a beam 6b and 6c indicates
driving circuit of FIG. 18. a light beam irradiating means for an X-ray showing the
Here an example using a shift register as the address irradiating axial core of a conical X-ray beam as a light beam
selection circuit SL will be explained. 6d. Each of them is shown overlapping the center 3a or the
40 irradiating axial core of the conical X-ray beam. The light
The address selection circuit SL is activated by a start beam irradiating means for a rotary center 6a and the light
pulse from the image processor D and Sequentially output a beam irradiating means for an X-ray 6b comprise an optical
reading pulse RD1 of the first column, a reading pulse RD2 beam radiation means 6.
of the Second column, ..., a reading pulse Rdn of the n-th A fixing plate for the dental articulation model 44 is
column in Synchronized with a reading clock from the image 45 provided for the object holding means 4 instead of the chin
processor D. rest 4a and the dental articulation model M is set at the tip
For example, when the reading pulse RD1 of the first of the Support means 4.
column is inputted into each gate of the Switch SW of the The dental articulation model M is placed at the fixing
first column, the electric charge corresponding to the pro plate for the dental articulation model 44 as shown in the
jected light amount into each photodiode PD of the first 50 figure, then the model M is positioned at an appropriate
column is read out and a Voltage Signal is outputted from the height by the Z-axis control motor 41c of the holding means
operational amplifier Q1. Then a Sampling pulse SP is adjusting mechanism 41 provided for the object holding
inputted into each Sample hold circuit So as to Sample a peak means 4 Supporting the model M So that the patient can fit
point of the output of the operational amplifier Q. the model M. Then the teeth of the dental articulation model
The sampled signal is transferred by a shift rock CK 55 M to be projected are positioned where the light beam 6b
comprised of m-pieces of pulse before a next Sampling pulse showing the center 3a of the optical beam radiation means
SP is inputted from the shift register SR and outputted 6 intersects the light beam 6d showing the irradiation axial
outside as an image Signal of one Scanning line. AS for other core of the conical X-ray beam by adjusting the horizontal
columns, a signal of m-rows is paratactic read out by one position by means of both or one of the object horizontal
reading pulse and a time Series signal of one Scan-line is 60 position adjustment means 42 of the holding means adjust
constructed by the shift register SR. ing mechanism 41 and the XY table 31 at rotary arm side,
FIG.20 is an example of a circuit wherein the MOS image thereby the position of the local region P is determined.
Sensor is connected in multi Stage. Thereafter, when the patient is going to bite the dental
Two MOS image Sensors 21a, 21b having a photo accep articulation model M, positioning of the local region P can
tance pixel of m-rows and n-columns are continuously 65 be made accurately.
arranged in a row direction and connected So that each When the dental articulation model M isn't used, the chin
reading pulse RD1-RDn from the shift register SLa com rest 4a is provided for the object holding means 4 as shown
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in FIG. 10. In such a case positioning of the patient or the Explanation of Fundamental Principle of X-ray CT
object O can be easily determined by means of the optical Method
beam radiation means 6. FIG. 26 explains a projection data of the ortho X-ray CT
FIG.22 is an explanatory view of another embodiment of method of the present invention. FIG. 27(a), FIG. 27(b), and
the positioning method of the object for the X-ray CT system 5 FIG. 27(c) explain conditional functions used in the ortho
according to the present invention. X-ray CT method of the present invention. FIG. 28(a), FIG.
The figure shows a panorama image of the dental arch 28(b), FIG. 29(a), and FIG. 29(b) explain the fundamental
produced by the X-ray CT system of the present invention. principle of the X-ray CT method for producing a panorama
This panorama image is displayed on the display E of the image according to the present invention. FIG. 30(a) and
X-ray CT system and a positional information 71 added by FIG. 30(b) explain an artifact measure of the X-ray CT
the image processor D is also shown. method of the present invention. FIG. 31 explains a projec
The positional information 71 is comprised of a lateral tion data analyzed by a conventional X-ray CT FIG. 32
gage 72 provided at practically regular intervals in direction shows conditional expressions used for a conventional X-ray
of the circumference of the dental arch of the panorama CT method. FIG. 33 shows conditional expressions used for
image, a numerals 73 showing its position, a longitudinal 15 the X-ray CT method of the present invention. FIG. 34
gauge 74 vertical to the dental arch, and numerals 75 shows conditional expressions used for the X-ray CT
showing its position. method for producing a panorama image according to the
When the X-ray CT of a specific tooth comprising the present invention. From these figures an X-ray CT method
dental arch is executed, a panorama image of the dental arch using a conical X-ray beam will be considered.
is projected as shown in the figure at first, then the local Conventional X-ray CT Method
region P is preferably Specified on the image. For example, When an object O is positioned on an x, y coordinate
when the X-ray CT of the tooth 76, a molar at left in a low System, an X-ray beam is irradiated on all around the object
arch as shown in the figure, is desired to be projected, “3' O from an inclined angle 0, and a projection data is
of the numerals 73 of the lateral gauge 72 and “E” of the generated on an XY coordinate system (FIG. 31), the
numerals 75 of the longitudinal gauge 74 by means of an 25 projection data is shown as a (formula 1) of FIG.32 and the
input means (not shown) provided for the display E are backprojected data is shown as a (formula 2) of FIG. 32 by
inputted. the convolution method. It has been well known in the
Then positioning of the rotary arm 3 and the object O is conventional analysis method.
carried out by means of the XY table 31, the climb control A fixed coordinate System XOy is defined on a flat Surface
motor 32 of the rotary arm 3, and the object holding means including the Sectional image of the object O, the two
adjustment mechanism 41 of the object holding means 4. dimensional distribution information of the X-ray absorp
According to the X-ray CT method, an X-ray absorption tion coefficient at the coordinate (x, y) is expressed as an
coefficient at an optional point of the local region can be original image in the form of a continuous two-dimensional
obtained. When such a coefficient is processed to be pro function f A parallel X-ray beam is irradiated from every
duced as a panorama image or a Sectional image, the image 35 angle direction 0, 0<0<IL, and the intensity of the X-ray
proportional to the actual object can be obtained. Therefore, passed out of the object O is detected as a projection data.
an optional position in the dental arch or teeth can be In this case, as the two-dimensional distribution informa
quantitatively represented as a position information by tion f(x, y) of the absorption coefficient in the object O
marking the image with degrees. It means the position of passed an X-ray beam can be obtained by the (formula 3),
Specific tooth or an implanted tooth can be quantitatively 40 the integration is calculated and repeated at Z-axis direction,
comprehended and it is a great help in a dental care. namely vertical direction, So that the three-dimensional
FIG. 23 is a plane view showing a standby position of the X-ray absorption coefficient distribution information of the
rotary arm according to the present invention. object can be obtained.
The operation called as a data reconstruction by CT
The standby position O is set so that the patient enters or 45 includes a two-dimensional Fourier transform method, one
leaves under the rotary arm 3 of the system 20. In the figure, and two dimensional Fourier transform method, one dimen
the rotary arm S is almost at right angle of the projected Sional Fourier transform method, and a convolution method.
direction of the arm 10a of the main frame 10 at the standby The above-mentioned convolution method is widely adapted
position O. these days to cut operation time drastically. According to the
The standby position O is provided so that the patient 50 convolution method, only a convolution integral which is a
who is the object O comes in and out the X-ray CT system Simple Sum of products and the backprojection operation are
20 as shown in the outline arrow from upward of the figure. executed So that the calculation can be executed Simply and
The rotary arm 3 is designed to wait ready at the Standby at high Speed.
position O. Therefore, the system 20 is convenient because According to the (formula 4) of FIG. 32, f(x, y) is
the rotary arm 3 doesn't hinder the patient from coming in 55 obtained by a convolution method. The coordinate transfor
and out. mation formula in FIG. 32 is a transformation formula
According to the installation Site of the System 20, it is between x, y coordinate of the XOy coordinate and X, Y
Sometimes preferable to come in and out from other direc coordinate of an XOY coordinate.
tion. In Such a case, the stand-by position O of the figure Normal X-ray CT Method of the Present Invention
can be positioned at Substantially right angle against the 60 According to the normal X-ray CT method of the present
access direction of the patient shown as a dashed line in the invention, comparing to the conventional method, the coni
figure. cal X-ray beam is locally irradiated only on the local region
An embodiment of an X-ray CT method and system for a P of the object O as shown in FIG. 26, and its radiant beam
medical practice Such as dental care is explained above, width 2r is shown in FIG. 27 and the conditional function as
however, Such a method and System can be used for not only 65 shown in (formula 5) of FIG.33 is used.
a medical field but also a nondestructive test for detecting an When the conditional function (formula 5) is used, the
alien object in a structure. relation of the (formula 6) in FIG.33 is formed between the
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relation of a backprojection data qs (X, 0) of the local region panorama image of the dental arch which has been in heavily
P of the object, a backprojection data qn(X,0) other than the used in dental Surgery.
local region P of the object O and a whole backprojection Conventionally the dental arch should be irradiated while
data q(X,0) of the object O. In (formula 6-1) the second term transferring the rotary center of the X-ray beam bundle So
becomes about O almost all the area between the interval that the X-ray beam bundle draws a complicated excursion
-r, r according to the panorama image condition in order to
Namely, the whole projection data of the object O equals produce a panorama image. On the other hand, in the X-ray
to the integration of the projection data of the local region P CT, the conical X-ray beam is rotated with the rotary center
and the projection data passing through the other area which fixed at a predetermined position. Therefore, it has been a
is an anteroposterior passage of the local region P. So that the problem how to obtain a panorama image by utilizing the
relation; q(X,0)=qs(X,0)--qn(X,0) . . . FIG.33 (formula 7); System only by achieving rotation with its center fixed, as it
is formed between each backprojection data and as a result S.
(formula 8) in FIG.33 is derived. In the CT wherein an fan shaped X-ray is irradiated on the
Therefore, the two-dimensional distribution information dental arch from 360 all around and the rotary center is
fs(x, y) of the X-ray absorption coefficient of the local region 15 fixed at one position during projection, it has been known
P can be obtained when the two-dimensional distribution that only the X-ray projection data of the dental arch is
information fin(x, y) of the X-ray absorption coefficient other extracted and reconstructed. However in this method,
than the local region P is subtracted from the two because the X-ray exposed dose has been large and the
dimensional distribution information f(x, y) of the X-ray imaging System has been large-sized, Such a problem has
absorption coefficient of the whole object O. been desired to be solved.
According to the characteristic of the present invention, According to the X-ray CT for producing a panorama
comparing to the conventional X-ray CT method using a image according to the present invention, in order to produce
conical X-ray beam, the beam width in rotary direction of a panorama image of the dental arch, a virtual local region
the conical X-ray beam is further minimized than the is calculated So as to always pass the conical X-ray beam
conventional beam width for radiating the whole object and 25 irradiated by a fixed excursion which has been required to
only the local region which is a part of the object of the produce a panorama image conventionally. The conical
conical X-ray beam is irradiated. Such an idea can change X-ray beam is locally irradiated So as to include only the
the conventional idea wherein X-ray beam is irradiated on Virtual local region while fixing the rotary center of the
the whole object for X-ray CT projection. conical X-ray beam at the center of the Virtual local region
The present projection method is based on the idea that and only the partial X-ray projection image by the conical
the projection data can be always obtained from the local X-ray beam is extracted from the obtained X-ray projection
region irradiated by the conical X-ray beam, but the conical image of the dental arch. Based on the partial X-ray pro
X-ray beam temporarily passes out the other area of the jection image, backprojection is executed to obtain the
object around the local region according to rotation com three-dimensional absorption coefficient distribution infor
paring to the local region So that the projection data isn't 35 mation and the panorama image of the dental arch is
affected, and in case of backprojection, affect on the pro produced by the obtained three-dimensional absorption
jection data other than the local region can be almost coefficient distribution information.
ignored. The above-mentioned conditional function Accordingly, the panorama image of the dental arch using
(formula 5) expresses Such an idea as a formula. the conical X-ray beam like conventional one can be
In other words, the two-dimensional distribution infor 40 obtained using the X-ray CT method.
mation finCX, y) is an error element and indicates a signal of This basic idea is a developed one from the X-ray CT
a rectn function outside of a rects function. While Studying method for irradiating a conical X-ray beam on the whole
the present invention, the inventors of the present invention object down to the X-ray CT method. When the virtual local
have found that the two-dimensional distribution informa region is Selected as above mentioned, the locally projected
tion fin(x, y) indicating the error element becomes almost 45 conical X-ray beam is limitedly radiated on only a pre
O). Accordingly, in the present invention, the error element Scribed angle area of the dental arch for obtaining a pan
can be almost disregarded and an image reconstruction can orama image. Adequate image data for a panorama image
be clearly produced only at a desired local reagion P. can be obtained by extracting the partial X-ray projection
In case of applying dental projection, the main point is to image only on the irradiated angle area of the conical X-ray
analyze the shape of a tooth or an implanted tooth as a 50 beam. The absorption coefficient distribution information is
diagnosis object. Such parts have higher X-ray absorption obtained from the partial projection image data and a
coefficient than the other tissue, therefore, the two panorama image is produced.
dimensional distribution information fs(x, y) of the X-ray The Virtual local region to obtain the panorama image of
absorption coefficient of Such a part becomes larger than the the dental arch is located around the center of the dental
two-dimensional distribution information fn(x, y) of the 55 arch, namely at the axis of Symmetry of the dental arch and
X-ray absorption coefficient of the other tissue. Conse also an appropriate position between the cervical vertebrae
quently more clear Sectional image can be produced. and the dental arch. Such an area is advantageous because it
X-ray CT Method for Producing Panorama Image of the has little obstacle.
Present Invention The formulas used for the X-ray CT for producing a
Next, the ortho X-ray CT method for producing a pan 60 panorama image are almost the same, however, a little
orama image according to the present invention will be consideration is required for an integration range, a filter
Studied. function for backprojection, and a filter function used for an
AS mentioned above, according to the X-ray CT method X-ray projection data.
of the present invention, it is characterized in that only the According to the method, the center of XOy coordinate
local region of the object is locally projected and the 65 and XOY coordinate become the center of the virtual local
Sectional image of the local region is obtained. In the present region and become the center of the dental arch when an
invention, this method is skillfully utilized to produce the orthodox projected panorama image of the dental arch is
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produced. Here such an example is explained. FIG. 28(a) Blackman function: Blackman (t, X)=0.42-0.5*cos(2JX/2t)+
explains such a projection method and FIG. 28(b) explains 0.08*COS(4t X/2t)
an integration range.
The (formula 9) and (formula 10) in FIG. 34 used in this
method are the same as the (formula 5) and (formula 6) in These functions are used for excluding the artifact at both
FIG. 33 for the above-mentioned X-ray CT method. terminals at the relation in FIG. 30(a).
However, the value of “2r is the beam width in rotary
direction of a conical X-ray beam, not a conical X-ray beam.
The qS(X,0) is a backprojection data from the partial The functions arent limited in the above-mentioned and
X-ray projection image data by an actually projected conical any function of which terminals Smoothly approach O may
X-ray beam. The qn(X,0) is a backprojection data from the be used.
X-ray projection image data by the X-ray beam bundle
which hasn't been actually radiated but exists in the con
ventional X-ray CT method. In the above formula, indicates multiplication.
According to the method, because the irradiation area of 15
the conical X-ray beam is limited, only qS(X,0) relating to <Artifact Measure 2>
rects(X) is actually obtained, thereby qn(X,0)=0. Therefore,
backprojection is executed using qS(X,0) and (formula 11) is
derived from (formula 10). Another artifact element which is generated at Starting
According to a normal ortho X-ray CT method of the and finishing of the conical X-ray beam irradiation as shown
present invention, the integration range of 0 is 0, 21 or
0.71 when fis(x, y) is obtained. The integration range is in FIG.30(b) can be considered. The filter function the same
further limited in this method. as the above artifact measure 1 can be used for Such an
FIG. 28(b) shows the integration range. As shown the element.
figure, the integration range of this method is, when the point 25
(x, y) of the dental arch S is considered, from the angleq (x, What is claimed is:
y) starting projection of the conical X-ray beam on the point
(x, y) to the angle)(x, y) finishing projection. 1. An X-ray computed tomography method of the local
The meaning of Starting and finishing is that they are region of the object in which X-rays are radiated locally on
design value for calculation and the value Smaller than the part of the object, by turning a rotary arm with an X-ray
angle which the conical X-ray beam actually irradiates the generator and a two-dimensional image Sensor faced to each
point (x, y), namely an optional integration range from the other, the method comprising:
angle (p(x, y) to the angle p(x, y), can be Selected. Because
the angle (p(x, y) and the angle p(x, y) can be determined as
design values at an optional point of the dental arch, they 35
producing an X-ray projection image of a local region on
become the function of X and y.
Using the angle (p(x, y) and the angle p(x, y), the the two-dimensional X-ray image Sensor by turning the
backprojection formula of the present invention is shown in rotary arm within a Scope of angle according to pro
(formula 12) in FIG. 32. jection conditions, while locally radiating conical
The range for calculating fis(x, y) of the (formula 12) may 40 X-ray beams from the X-ray generator covering only
be the required range of the dental arch S shown in FIG. the local region of the object, with a rotating center of
29(a). The sectional image of the dental arch represented by the rotary arm fixed at a center position of the local
the formula, y=fp(x), is determined in advance as shown in region, the local region being a part of the object to be
FIG.29(b) and fs(x, y) of the (formula 12) may be calculated examined, and
only about the point (X, fp(x)) on the Surface. 45
arithmetically processing the X-ray projection image thus
Artifact Measure produced and extracting a three-dimensional X-ray
Next an artifact measure caused by operating the fS(x, y) absorption coefficient distribution information on the
will be described. The artifact is, also called a false image, local region and thereby producing a Sectional image of
a discordance of data produced where the values of the
conditional expressions are rapidly changed in image pro 50 the local region of the object to be examined.
cessing. Following artifact measure may be taken in order to 2. An X-ray computed tomography method according to
eliminate Such an artifact. claim 1, wherein the X-ray projection image of the local
<Artifact Measure 1> region is formed by using a conical X-ray beam defined as
AS the terminal of the above-mentioned conditional func 2r in width in rotating direction of the beam from the X-ray
tions rects(X) is rapidly changed from 0 to 1, an artifact is 55 generator, and wherein a two-dimensional distribution infor
apt to be caused at the point on the beam passing the point mation fs(x, y) of the X-ray absorption coefficient of the
(x, y) at the finishing angle (p(x, y) and the angle p(x, y) at local region is calculated by using the following equations
which the conical X-ray beam Starts or finishes radiating. when extracting the three-dimensional X-ray absorption
The filter function changing more Smoothly at the terminal coefficient distribution information on the local region as
is preferably used for calculating the (formula 10) instead of 60
image information:
rects(X) to eliminate the artifact.
Following Hamming function, Hanning function or
Blackman function may be used for the filter function.
Hamming function: Hamming (t, X)=0.54-0.46*cos(2*X/2t) 65
p(X, f) = f(x, y)d Y wherein integration scope: - co, co
Hanning function: Hanning (t, X)=0.5*(1.0-cos(2*X/2t)
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-continued qn(X, 0) is a backprojection data on the X, Y coordinate
System when the X-ray is radiated only on other than
the local region of the object, and
the symbol? indicates integration, the letters “s”, and “n”
wherein integration scope: -oxo, co in rects, rectn, qS, qn, fs and fin are Suffixes and the
Symbol (used only when necessary) indicates multi
plication.
3. An X-ray computed tomography method in which
X-rays are radiated locally on part of an object by turning a
rotary arm with an X-ray generator and a two-dimensional
wherein integration scope: -oxo, co image Sensor faced to each other, the method comprising:
Successively producing X-ray projection images of a
dental arch on the two-dimensional X-ray image Sensor
by radiating a conical X-ray beam covering only a
wherein integration scope: 0, 27t 15 Virtual local region from the X-ray generator while
turning the rotary arm within a Scope of angle accord
ing to projection conditions with a rotating center of the
rotary arm fixed at a center position of Such a virtual
wherein r: re X : X + y : y local region as containing an orbit of the conical X-ray
beam required to obtain a panoramic image of the
in which:
dental arch, or part of the object, and
taking out only partial X-ray projection imageS produced
X, y are coordinates X, y on an X, y coordinate System Set by the conical X-ray beam out of the X-ray projection
and fixed on the plane over which a horizontal conical images of the dental arch Successively formed on the
X-ray beam from the X-ray generator passes with a 25 two-dimensional image Sensor and then arithmetically
center of the local region of the object as origin, processing the X-ray projection images thus picked out
X, Y are coordinates X, Y on an X, Y coordinate system So as to extract a three-dimensional X-ray absorption
defined in relation to turning of the conical X-ray beam coefficient distribution information on the dental arch
where X, Y coordinate System has the same origin that as image information and thereby producing a pan
of the X, y coordinate System and has turned relation oramic image of the dental arch.
with respect to the fixed x, y coordinate System on the 4. An X-ray computed tomography method according to
Same plane, claim 3, wherein the partial X-ray projection image is
0 is a gradient of the X, Y coordinate System in relation formed by using a conical X-ray beam defined as 2r in width
to the X, y coordinate System, in a rotating direction of the beam from the X-ray generator,
X is a variable of the coordinate X to obtain a back 35 and wherein a two-dimensional distribution information fs
projection data in relation to a point (X, 0) in the X, Y (x, y) of the X-ray absorption coefficient of the dental arch
coordinate System, is calculated by using the following equations when extract
rects and rectn are conditional functions of the conical ing the three-dimensional X-ray absorption coefficient dis
X-ray beam which is defined from the following val tribution information on the dental arch as image informa
UCS 40 tion:
If Xsr, then rects (X)=1
If X>r, then rects (X)=0
If Xsr, then rectn (X)=0 p(X, f) = frts, y)d Y wherein integration scope: - co, co
If X>r, then rectn (X)=1 45
rects (X)+rectn (X)=1
wherein any of those equations is applicable when the
conical X-ray beam is radiated on the local region of
the object,
wherein integration scope: -oxo, co
f(x, y) is a two-dimensional distribution information of 50
the X-ray absorption coefficient when the X-ray is
radiated on the whole object,
fS(x, y) is a two-dimensional distribution information on
the X-ray absorption coefficient on the X, y coordinate
System when the X-ray is locally radiated only on the 55 wherein integration scope: -oxo, co
local region of the object, = qs(X, f) + gn(X, 6)
fn(x, y) is a two-dimensional distribution information of = qs(X, 6) '.' qn(X, 8) & O
the X-ray absorption coefficient on the X, y coordinate
System when the X-ray is locally radiated only on other
than the local region of the object, 60 wherein integration scope: d(x, y), f(x, y)
p(X, 0) is a whole projection data on the X, Y coordinate
System,
q(X, 0) is a whole backprojection data on the object on the in which:
X, Y coordinate System, X, y are coordinates X, y on an X, y coordinate System Set
qs (X, 0) is a backprojection data on the X, Y coordinate 65 and fixed on the plane over which a horizontal conical
System when the X-ray is locally radiated only on the X-ray beam from the X-ray generator passes with a
local region of the object, center position of a virtual local region as origin,
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X, Y are coordinates X, Y on an X, Y coordinate system 7. An X-ray computed tomography System comprising:
defined in relation to turning of the conical X-ray beam an X-raying means having a rotary arm with an X-ray
where the X, Y coordinate System has the same origin generator and a two-dimensional X-ray image Sensor
that of the X, y coordinate System and has turned faced to each other,
relation with respect to the fixed x,y coordinate System an X-ray beam width restriction means for restricting a
on the same plane, width of a conical X-ray beam radiated from the X-ray
0 is a gradient of the X, Y coordinate System in relation generator at least in a Scanning direction,
to the X, y coordinate System, a rotary arm drive control means for rotating the rotary
arm with a rotation center of the rotary arm fixed during
(p(x, y)is a radiation angle at which radiation of a conical 1O projection, the means being So designed to move and
X-ray beam begins on a point of the dental arch (x, y), preset at least one of a rotation center of the rotary arm
or a value of the angle 0, and an object to be X-rayed before projection, and
up(x, y) is a radiation angle at which radiation of the an image processing unit for arithmetically processing an
conical X-ray beam ends on the point of the dental arch X-ray projection data and extracting a three
(x, y), or the value of the angle 0, 15 dimensional absorption coefficient distribution infor
X is a variable of the coordinate X to obtain a back mation of the object through which the X-ray is passed
projection data in relation to a point (X, 0) in the X, Y as image information,
coordinate System, wherein the rotary arm is turned in order to form an X-ray
rects and rectn are conditional functions of the conical projection image of the two-dimensional image Sensor
within a Scope of angle according to projecting
X-ray beam which is defined by the following values: conditions, while controlling a beam width of the
If Xsr, then rects (X)=1 conical X-ray beam from the X-ray generator which
If X>r, then rects (X)=0 contain a local region of the object, or a part of the
If Xsr, then rectn (X)=0 object and widens in X-ray Scanning direction and the
X-ray projection image thus formed is arithmetically
If X>r, then rectn (X)=1 25
processed to produce a Sectional image of the local
rects (X)+rectn (X)=1 region of the object.
wherein any of those equations is applicable when the 8. An X-ray computed tomography System comprising:
conical X-ray beam is radiated on the Virtual local an X-raying means having a rotary arm with an X-ray
region of the object to gain the X-ray projection image generator and a two-dimensional X-ray image Sensor
extracted by using the conical X-ray beam, faced to each other,
f(x, y) is a two-dimensional distribution information of an X-ray beam width restriction means for restricting a
the X-ray absorption coefficient when the X-ray is width of a conical X-ray beam radiated from the X-ray
radiated on the whole object, generator at least in a Scanning direction,
fS(x, y) is a two-dimensional distribution information of 35 a rotary arm drive control means for rotating the rotary
the X-ray absorption coefficient on the X, y coordinate arm, and
System when the X-ray is locally radiated only on the an image processing unit for arithmetically processing an
Virtual local region of the object, X-ray projection data and extracting a three
fn(x, y) is a two-dimensional distribution information of dimensional absorption coefficient distribution infor
the X-ray absorption coefficient on the X, y coordinate 40 mation of an object through which the X-ray is passed
System when the X-ray is locally radiated only on other as image information,
than the Virtual local region of the object, wherein the conical X-ray beam containing only a virtual
p(X, 0) is a whole projection data on the X, Y coordinate local region is radiated from the X-ray generator So as
System, to Successively form an X-ray projection image of a
q(X, 0) is a whole backprojection data on the object on the 45 dental arch on the two-dimensional Sensor, while turn
X, Y coordinate System, ing the rotary arm within a Scope of angle according to
pojecting conditions, with a center of the rotary arm
qs (X, 0) is a backprojection data on the X, Y coordinate fixed at a center of the virtual local region containing an
System when an X-ray is locally radiated only on the orbit of the conical X-ray beam required to obtain a
Virtual local region of the object, 50 panoramic image of the dental arch, or a part of the
qn (X, 0) is a backprojection data on the X, Y coordinate object, and only partial X-ray projection image of the
System when the X-ray is radiated only on other than dental arch formed by radiation of the conical X-ray
the Vitual local region of the object, and beam is taken out of the X-ray projection image of the
the symbol? indicates integration, the letters “s” and “n” dental arch Successively formed on the two
in rects, rectn, qS, qn, fs and fin are Suffixes. 55 dimensional Sensor and then the partial X-ray projec
5. The X-ray computed tomography method according to tion image of the dental arch is arithmetically processed
claim 3, wherein the X-ray generator is designed Such that So as to extract the three-dimensional absorption coef
only the conical X-ray beam is Selectively radiated on the ficient distribution information of the dental arch as
Virtual local region out of the conical X-ray beam radiated image information and thereby producing a panorama
from the X-ray generator in Synchronism with rotation of the 60 image of the dental arch.
rotary arm during projection, thereby producing a partial 9. The X-ray computed tomography System according to
X-ray projection image of the dental arch on the two claim 8, wherein the X-ray generator is provided with an
dimensional X-ray image Sensor. radiation control Slit for Selectively permitting emission of
6. The X-ray computed tomography method according to only the conical X-ray beam out of a specific width of
claim 5, wherein only the conical X-ray beam is selectively 65 conical X-ray beam from the X-ray generator Synchronizing
radiated by moving a slit in an X-ray Scanning direction in with rotation of the rotary arm and wherein the partial X-ray
front of the X-ray generator during projection. projection images of the dental arch are formed on the
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US 6,289,074 B1
33 34
two-dimensional image Sensor by emission of the conical 13. The X-ray computed tomography System according to
X-ray beam through the radiation control slit. one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the conical X-ray beam from
10. The X-ray computed tomography System according to the X-ray generator is horizontally radiated to the two
claim 8, wherein the X-ray generator is provided with an dimensional X-ray image Sensor and wherein the rotating
radiation control Slit for Selectively permitting of emission axis of the rotary arm is vertically provided.
of only the conical X-ray beam out of a specific width of the 14. The X-ray computed tomography System according to
conical X-ray beam from the X-ray generator by moving the one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the two-dimensional X-ray
Slit in front of the X-ray generator in an X-ray Scanning image Sensor has a detection face not longer than 30 cm in
direction, Synchronizing with rotation of the rotary arm length and not longer than 30 cm in width and is capable of
during projection and wherein the partial X-ray projection detecting more than 30 pieces of X-ray projection image
images of the dental arch are formed on the two-dimensional data or partial X-ray projection image data per a Second.
image Sensor by emission of the conical X-ray beam through 15. The X-ray computed tomography System according to
the radiation control slit. one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the system is provided with
11. An X-ray computed tomography System comprising: a main frame for rotatably holding the rotary arm, the frame
an X-raying means having a rotary arm with an X-ray 15 having an arm Vertical position adjusting means for adjust
generator and a two-dimensional X-ray image Sensor ing and Setting the arm in a vertical direction.
faced to each other, 16. The X-ray computed tomography System according to
an X-ray beam width restriction means for restricting a one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the system is provided with
width of a conical X-ray beam radiated from the X-ray an object holding means for holding an object, the object
generator at least in a Scanning direction, holding means having an object horizontal position adjust
a rotary arm drive control means for rotating the rotary ing means for adjusting and Setting the object in a horizontal
arm with a rotation center of the rotary arm fixed during direction.
projection, the means being So designed to move and 17. The X-ray computed tomography System according to
preset one of a rotation center of the rotary arm and an claim 16, wherein the object holding means is provided with
object to be X-rayed before projection, and 25 an object vertical position adjusting means for adjusting and
an image processing unit for arithmetically processing an Setting the object in a vertical direction.
X-ray projection data and extracting a three 18. The X-ray computed tomography System according to
dimensional absorption coefficient distribution infor one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the system is provided with
mation of the object through which the X-ray is passed an optical beam radiation means for emitting optical beam
as image information, So as to point out the rotation center of the rotary arm and
wherein the X-ray generator is further provided with a a radiation axis of the conical X-ray beam.
Selection Switch for Selectively Setting a local computed 19. The X-ray computed tomography System according to
tomography mode where a sectional image of the local claim 7, wherein the System is further comprised of an object
region is produced according to claim 7, or a panoramic holding means which is So constructed as to movably Secure
radiographic mode where a panoramic image of the 35 a dental articulation model for Setting the object thereon, the
dental arch is produced according to claim 8. dental articulation model being previously made with
12. An X-ray computed tomography System comprising: respect to the object to be examined and positioning the
an X-raying means having a rotary arm with an X-ray rotation center of the rotary arm to the center of the local
generator and a two-dimensional X-ray image Sensor region of the object defined by the dental articulation model
40 for an X-ray computed tomography, by moving the dental
faced to each other, articulation model to the position on the object holding
an X-ray beam width restriction means for restricting a means pointed out by the optical beam from the optical beam
width of a conical X-ray beam radiated from the X-ray radiation means by using the object horizontal position
generator at least in the Scanning direction, adjusting means or the object vertical position adjusting
a rotary arm drive control means for rotating the rotary 45 means provided on the object holding means.
arm with a rotation center of the rotary arm fixed during 20. The X-ray computed tomography System according to
projection, the means being So designed to move and one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the system is further
preset one of the rotation center of the rotary arm and comprised of an object holding means which is So con
an object to be X-rayed before projection, and an image Structed as to movably Secure a dental articulation model for
processing unit for arithmetically processing 50 Setting the object thereon, the dental articulation model
an X-ray projection data and taking out a three being previously made with respect to the object to be
dimensional absorption coefficient distribution infor examined and positioning the rotation center of the rotary
mation of the object through which the X-ray is passed arm to the center of the virtual local region defined by the
as image information, dental articulation model for a panorama X-raying computer
wherein the X-ray generator is provided with a radiation 55 tomography, by moving the dental articulation model to the
control Slit for permitting radiation of only the conical position on the object holding means pointed out by the
X-ray beam out of a specific width of the conical X-ray optical beam from the optical beam radiation means by
beam from the X-ray generator by moving the Slit using the object horizontal position adjusting means or the
before the X-ray generator in an X-ray Scanning direc object vertical position adjusting means provided on the
tion Synchronizing with a rotation of the rotary arm 60 object holding means.
during projection through the Slit, and wherein the 21. The X-ray computed tomography System according to
System is further provided a Selection Switch for Selec one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the rotary arm drive control
tively Setting a local computed tomography mode means is composed of a direct driven rotation control motor
where a Sectional image of the local region is produced provided on the rotation center of the rotary arm.
according to claim 7 or a panoramic radiographic mode 65 22. The X-ray computed tomography System according to
where a panoramic image of the dental arch is produced claim 21, wherein the rotary arm is formed with a hollow in
according to claim 9 or 10. the rotation center thereof.
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US 6,289,074 B1
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23. The X-ray computed tomography System according to Such that it moves to Such a Standby position as previously
one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the two-dimensional X-ray Set as not Stand in the way of the object to come in and go
image sensor is composed of either TFT, MOS, CCD, XII, out when the object is set up for Starting or finishing an
or XICCD X-ray computer tomography.
24. The X-ray computed tomography System according to 5
one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the rotary arm is designed k . . . .
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USOO7347622B2

(12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 7,347,622 B2

Sadakane et al. (45) Date of Patent: Mar. 25, 2008
(54) X-RAY CT SCANNER AND SCAN METHOD (56) References Cited
(75) Inventors: Tomoyuki Sadakane, Kyoto (JP); U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
Masakazu Suzuki, Kyoto (JP) 2001/0036246 A1 * 1 1/2001 Graumann ................... 378,39
2002/O122537 A1* 9, 2002 Yoshimura .................. 378,208
(73) Assignee: J. Morita Manufacturing
Corporation, Kyoto (JP) * cited by examiner
(*) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this Primary Examiner Courtney Thomas
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 (74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm—William L. Androlia; H.
U.S.C. 154(b) by 0 days. Henry Koda
(57) ABSTRACT
(21) Appl. No.: 11/491,354
(22) Filed: Jul. 21, 2006 In an X-ray CT scan, a distance between an X-ray generator
and a rotation center and/or a distance between a X-ray
(65) Prior Publication Data detector and the rotation center can be changed according to
a magnification of an image. A rotary device has an X-ray
US 2007/OO41491 A1 Feb. 22, 2007 generator and an X-ray detector opposing to each other,
provided to interpose an object between them. A rotary
(30) Foreign Application Priority Data mechanism rotates the rotary device around a rotary axis,
Jul. 22, 2005 (JP) ........................... P2005-213057 and a movement mechanism moves the rotary axis or the
object in a plane perpendicular to the rotary axis. The
(51) Int. C. rotation center in a viewpoint of CT scan different from the
H05G I/02 (2006.01) rotary axis is always kept at a point in a region of interest in
(52) U.S. Cl. ......................................... 378/197; 378/39 the object according to a motion synthesized from the
(58) Field of Classification Search .................... 378/4, rotation of the rotary device and the movement of the rotary
378/10, 20, 38–40, 11, 15, 19, 193, 195, 196, axis or the object.
378/197
See application file for complete search history. 12 Claims, 15 Drawing Sheets

1 Oc 1 Oc
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Alg. 72
INSTRUCTION

CACULATE DISTANCE
S10 TO BE MOVED

S12 MOVE

CALCULATE
S14 A CRCULARORBIT

CONTROL
S16 ROTAftNGNOTION

END
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1. 2
X-RAY CT SCANNER AND SCAN METHOD is arranged between them. The X-ray planar detector is
mounted to a ring arm with an extensible arm, and the
FIELD OF THE INVENTION detector can be set nearer or farther from the object so that
a magnification of an image can be changed. However, a
The invention relates to X-ray computer tomography for 5 mechanism for moving the X-ray detector relative to the
reconstructing an image in a three-dimensional region. rotation device or for moving the rotation device relative to
BACKGROUND ART
the X-ray device is necessary to change the magnification.
Medical devices are used widely for panorama X-ray imag
In an X-ray computer tomography (CT) scanner, an object 10
ing or for X-ray CT scan wherein an X-ray generator and an
is positioned between an X-ray generator and an X-ray X-ray detector are provided at two ends of a rotary arm, and
detector. The X-ray generator and the X-ray detector are it is desirable to modify them.
rotated around the object, and the object is exposed to an SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
X-ray beam generated by the X-ray generator beam in many
directions. The X-ray intensity distribution transmitting the 15
object (or a projection of the object) is measured with the An object of the invention is to change a field of view of
X-ray detector. Based on the X-ray projection data acquired CT scan (or a size of a region of interest) more easily.
in one rotation, a distribution of linear absorption coeffi A first X-ray CT scanner according to the invention has a
cients (or an image) inside the object is reconstructed rotary device comprising an X-ray generator and an X-ray
two-dimensionally to create a slice image of the object. The detector opposing to each other and interposing an object
reconstruction calculation is performed on a plurality of between them, a rotary mechanism for rotating the rotary
planes perpendicular to the rotary axis, to create a three device around a rotary axis, a mechanism for moving the
dimensional image based on the slice images. rotary axis of the rotary mechanism in two-dimensional
If a magnification of an image can be changed in a CT directions crossing the rotary axis, and a controller which
Scan, a field of view (a size of a region of interest) can be 25 controls the rotary mechanism and the mechanism for mov
changed, and a resolution of the image can be changed. In ing the rotary axis, to rotate the rotary device so as to keep
an X-ray CT scanner having an X-ray generator and an a center of a region of interest in the object always at a
X-ray detector fixed to a rotary arm or a gantry, the X-ray rotation center in a viewpoint of CT scan due to a synthe
generator and the X-ray detector are rotated around an object sized motion of the rotation of the rotary device by the rotary
while keeping the distances among the X-ray generator, the 30 mechanism and the movement of the rotary axis by the
object and the X-ray detector constant. The magnification of mechanism for moving the rotary axis. A distance between
an image can be increased or decreased according to the the X-ray generator and the rotation center and/or a distance
relative distance between the X-ray generator or X-ray between the X-ray detector and the rotation center can be
detector and the object. changed so that magnification can be changed.
As will be explained later, a distance between the X-ray 35 According to the first X-ray CT scanner and according to
generator and a rotation center for CT scan and/or a distance second and third X-ray CT scanners and an X-ray CT scan
between the X-ray detector and the rotation center can be method to be explained later, a field of view (or a magni
changed relatively in this invention. This is relevant to some fication of a region of interest) can be changed easily by
prior art documents. In a CT scanner described in Japanese using the X-ray generator and the X-ray detector in the
Patent laid open Publication 2004-329293, transmission still 40 relative positional relationship in a CT Scan. Especially,
images (called as Scout images) are taken in two positional when the X-ray detector has a detection area with a limited
relationships between the X-ray generator and the X-ray area, if the region of interest as a magnification is too large
detector before starting a CT scan, in order to determine a for the detection area or the entire region of interest cannot
three-dimensional position of a region to be scanned. When be imaged, the magnification can be decreased so that the
the size of a Scout image is changed, the position of a chair 45 entire region of interest fits the detection area.
is moved relative to the X-ray detector. However, though the Further, the magnification can be changed without using
size of a Scout image can be changed, a structure for a mechanism for moving the X-ray detector or the X-ray
changing the magnification of an image is not described. In generator relative to the rotary device.
a CT scanner described in Japanese Patent laid open Pub
lication H5-322802/1993 to be used for an object in indus 50 Further, when the rotary device is moved around the
trial fields, the positions of the X-ray generator and the rotary axis, even if a deviation of the position of the axis
X-ray detector are fixed. On the other hand, an object is put happens due to a mechanical malfunction, it can be corrected
on a table, and a projection image of the object is taken while easily by setting the rotation center different from the rotary
aX1S.
the table is rotated. The magnification of the image is
changed according to the positions of the X-ray generator 55 Preferably, in the X-ray CT scanner, the mechanism for
and the X-ray detector relative to the rotating table. How moving the rotary axis comprises a first moving device
ever, the rotation of the object is possible because the object which moves the rotary axis of the rotary mechanism in a
is a matter. When the object is a person, problems such as first direction different from the rotary axis, and a second
artifacts due to his or her motions and dizziness caused by moving device which moves the rotary axis in a second
the rotation occur. Therefore, it cannot be adopted practi 60 direction different from the first direction and from the rotary
cally for CT scan of a person, especially for medical areas. axis. Thus, two-dimensional movement of the object can be
Further, even when the object is a matter, the CT scanner controlled easily.
cannot be used if the object has a structure so precise as not Preferably, in the X-ray CT scanner, the mechanism for
to be subjected to continuous rotation. In an X-ray CT moving the rotary axis and the rotary device are mounted in
scanner described in Japanese Patent laid open Publication 65 the same housing. Thus, a rotary mechanism can be set in a
2001-37747, a rotary arm has an X-ray generator and an space which is rather wide two-dimensionally for containing
X-ray planar detector opposing to each other, and an object the mechanism for moving the rotary axis. Further, because
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the rotary mechanism is not needed to be provided in the mechanism and the mechanism for moving the rotary axis,
rotary device, the structure of the rotary device can be to rotate the rotary device so as to keep a point in a region
simplified. of interest in the object always at a rotation center in a
Preferably, in the X-ray CT scanner, the mechanism for viewpoint of CT scan due to a synthesized motion of the
moving the rotary axis comprises one link member or a rotation of the rotary device by the rotary mechanism and the
plurality of link members connected in series connected to movement of the rotary axis by the mechanism for moving
a bearing of the rotary mechanism, whereby the rotation the rotary axis.
center can be moved in two-dimensional directions crossing
the rotary axis. Then, the two-dimensional movement of the BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
rotary axis can be controlled with a simple structure. 10
A second X-ray CT scanner according to the invention has These and other objects and features of the present
a rotary device comprising an X-ray generator and an X-ray invention will become clear from the following description
detector opposing to each other and interposing an object taken in conjunction with the preferred embodiments thereof
between them, a rotary mechanism for rotating the rotary with reference to the accompanying drawings, and in which:
device around a rotary axis, a mechanism for moving the 15 FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C are sectional views for illustrating
object around the rotary axis in two-dimensional directions a structure of a recording medium of an embodiment of the
crossing the rotary axis, and a controller which controls the invention,
rotary mechanism and the mechanism for moving the object, FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram for explaining a situation
to rotate the rotary device so as to keep a point in a region wherein a magnification is changed while a rotary device is
of interest in the object always at a rotation center in a rotated circularly,
viewpoint of CT scan due to a synthesized motion of the FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram for explaining a situation
rotation of the rotary device by the rotary mechanism and the wherein the magnification is changed while an object is
movement of the object. Thus, a distance between the X-ray rotated circularly,
generator and the rotation center and/or a distance between FIGS. 4A and 4B are schematic diagrams for a first X-ray
the X-ray detector and the rotation center can be changed so 25 CT scanner (a) and for a second X-ray CT scanner (b),
that magnification can be changed. FIGS. 5A and 5B are diagrams for explaining the first
Preferably, in the second X-ray CT scanner, the mecha X-ray Scanner for enlargement and for reduction,
nism for moving the object has a first moving device which FIGS. 6A and 6B are diagrams for explaining the second
moves the object in a first direction different from the rotary X-ray Scanner for enlargement and for reduction,
axis, and a second moving device which moves the object in 30 FIGS. 7A and 7B are diagrams of a basic structure of the
a second direction different from the first direction and from first X-ray CT scanner,
the rotary axis. Then, two-dimensional movement of the FIG. 8 is a diagram of a controller system of the first
object can be controlled easily. X-ray CT scanner,
Preferably, in the second X-ray CT scanner, the rotary axis FIG. 9 is a diagram of a rotation system of the first X-ray
of the rotary mechanism extends vertically. Then, if the 35 CT Scanner,
object is a human body, it can be put in a standing position FIG. 10 is a diagram of a part related to the up-and-down
or in a sitting position, and the scanner can be installed in a control of the rotary arm,
Small space. FIG. 11 is a diagram of a part related to the control of the
Preferably, in the first and second X-ray CT scanner, the position of the rotary arm and the rotation,
rotary axis is a rotary arm. Then, the rotary axis can be 40 FIG. 12 is a flowchart of rotation control,
provided in a mechanically simple structure. FIG. 13 is a diagram of a modified example of a rotation
A third X-ray CT scanner according to the invention has system,
a rotary device comprising an X-ray generator and an X-ray FIGS. 14A and 14B are diagrams of a basic structure of
detector opposing to each other and interposing an object the second X-ray CT scanner,
between them, a rotary mechanism for rotating the rotary 45 FIG. 15 is a diagram of a controller system of the second
device around a rotary axis, a mechanism for moving the X-ray CT scanner,
rotary axis of the rotary mechanism and/or the object in FIG. 16 is a diagram of a modified example of the
two-dimensional directions crossing the rotary axis, and a two-dimensional movement mechanism, and
controller which controls the rotary mechanism and the FIG. 17 is a diagram of another modified example of the
mechanism for moving the rotary axis and/or the object, to 50 two-dimensional movement mechanism.
rotate the rotary device so as to keep a point in a region of
interest in the object always at a rotation center in a DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED
viewpoint of CT scan due to a synthesized motion of the EMBODIMENTS
rotation of the rotary device by the rotary mechanism and the
movement of the rotary axis and/or the object by the 55 Embodiments of the invention are explained below with
mechanism for moving the rotary axis and/or the object. reference to the appended drawings, wherein like reference
In an X-ray CT scan method according to the invention, characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout
a distance between the X-ray generator and the rotation the several views.
center and/or a distance between the X-ray detector and the In an X-ray CT scanner, a rotary device such as a rotary
rotation center to change magnification is changed in an 60 arm has an X-ray generator 1 and an X-ray detector 2
X-ray CT scanner having a rotary device comprising an opposing to each other while interposing an object between
X-ray generator and an X-ray detector opposing to each them. The distance between the X-ray generator 1 and the
other and interposing an object between them, a rotary X-ray detector 2 is constant. A rotary mechanism Supports
mechanism for rotating the rotary device around a rotary the rotary device so as to be rotatable around a rotary axis
axis, a mechanism for moving the rotary axis of the rotary 65 in the rotary mechanism. The rotary axis is referred to as
mechanism in two-dimensional directions crossing the "mechanical rotary axis' or simply as "rotary axis. The
rotary axis, and a controller which controls the rotary mechanical rotary axis or rotary axis can be set, for example,
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by use of a rotary shaft because a rotary shaft having the by distance C. (>0) before an X-ray CT scan. Next, as will be
rotary axis is used for rotation by the rotary mechanism. Any explained later with reference to FIG. 2, the rotary device 3
rotary mechanism can be used to rotate at least an X-ray is rotated, while the rotation center of the rotary mechanism
generator 1 and an X-ray detector 2. Even if the rotary or the rotary shaft 3a is moved along a circular orbit of a
mechanism has no mechanical shaft, it has a rotary axis radius a having its center at the point 3X in the region of
around which the X-ray generator 1 and the X-ray detector interest in the object 1 (strictly speaking, the position at the
2 are rotated. For example, a ring shaped rotary device rotation center in FIG. 1A). Alternatively, as will be
having an X-ray generator 1 and an X-ray detector 2 explained later with reference to FIG. 3, the object O is
opposing each other and driven by a motor through a rotor moved along a circular orbit of a radius a having its center
or gears, without a rotary shaft, can be used, and it has a 10
at the rotation center of the rotary mechanism. The center of
rotary axis. When the rotary device is rotated around the the rotation of the rotary mechanism is at the rotary shaft3a,
mechanical rotary axis, the X-ray generator 1 and the X-ray and the magnification of the object O imaged in the X-ray
detector 2 are rotated around the object. It is preferable that
the mechanical rotary axis is perpendicular or Substantially detector 2 is FS/(FB+C) (FS/FC).
perpendicular to the center line of an X-ray beam emitted by 15 On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 1B, when the position
the X-ray generator 1. In this case, if the object is a human C in the object O is changed relative to the rotary shaft 3a
body, it can be in a standing position or in a sitting position, in the rotary mechanism towards the X-ray generator 1, the
and the scanner can be installed in a small space. magnification becomes larger, and a smaller region can be
A magnification (or a magnifying power) of an image imaged. In this situation, the object O is moved towards the
acquired in an X-ray CT scan is explained here. In FIG. 1, X-ray generator 1 by distance C. (>0) before an X-ray CT
F is a position of the X-ray generator 1 (precisely a position scan. Next, as will be explained later with reference to FIG.
of a focal point of X-ray beam in the X-ray generator 1), S 2, the rotary device 3 is rotated, and the rotation center of the
is a position of the X-ray detector 2 (precisely a position of rotary mechanism or the rotary shaft 3a is moved along a
an X-ray detection plane in the X-ray detector 2), B is a circular orbit of a radius a having its center at the point in the
position of the rotary shaft 3a in the rotary mechanism, and 25 region of interest in the object O, or, as will be explained
C is a position of the object O (precisely a position of a point later with reference to FIG. 3, the object O is moved along
in a region of interest in the object). a circular orbit of a radius a having its center at the rotation
In the cases to be mentioned below, a region in a cylin center of the rotary mechanism. The center of the rotation of
drical or almost cylindrical form always irradiated by the the rotary mechanism is at the rotary shaft 3a, and the
X-ray cone beam is regarded as a region of interest. (The 30 magnification of the object O imaged in the X-ray detector
region in a cylindrical or almost cylindrical form is, for 2 is FS/(FB-C) (=FS/FC).
example, region B in FIG. 5A or region A in FIG.SB which In the situations shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the rotary
can be scanned in CT scan by rotation of the X-ray cone shaft 3a in the rotary mechanism (position B) does not
beam.) A position of the center of the rotation of the X-ray coincide with the point in the region of interest in the object
cone beam can be regarded as the center of the region of 35 O (position C). Therefore, when the rotary mechanism
interest observed from the viewpoint in direction of the makes the rotary device 3 rotate around the rotary shaft 3a,
rotary axis, and a point namely the center of the region of the position of the rotary shaft 3a in the rotary mechanism
interest can be chosen as the position C. However, there is or an object O has to be moved circularly according to the
a case in that the form of the region of interest is not fixed. rotation angle of the rotary mechanism. If this circular
In this case, a point at will in the region of interest in a 40 motion is realized, the magnification in a CT scan can be
non-fixed form can be chosen as position C. In another case changed. Then, the entire rotary mechanism should be
in that a size of the region to be scanned is so Small as Subjected to a circular rotation according to the rotation
enclosed enough in the region in cylindrical or almost angle of the rotary mechanism. Thus, the relative positional
cylindrical form mentioned above, the region which can at relationship among the X-ray generator 1, an orbitO and the
least enclose the region to be scanned can be regarded as a 45 X-ray detector 2 is kept constant. Such a CT scan has
region of interest. In this case a position of the center of the following advantages. By using the X-ray generator 1 and
rotation of the X-ray cone beam can be chosen as position the X-ray detector 2 in the relative positional relationship, a
C, and of course a position of the center of the rotation of the field of view or a magnification of a region of interest can be
X-ray cone beam can be chosen as the position C. changed easily. Especially, when the X-ray detector 2 has a
As shown in FIG. 1C, if the position B of the rotary shaft 50 detection area with a limited size, if the region of interest at
3a in the rotary mechanism coincides with the position C of a magnification is too large for the detection volume or the
the point in the region of interest in the object O, the entire region of interest to be imaged, the magnification can
magnification of the object in an imaging plane of the X-ray be decreased so that the entire region of interest fits the
detector 2 is expressed as FS/FB (FS/FC) with use of detection area. Further, the magnification can be changed
distance FS between the X-ray generator 1 and the X-ray 55 without using a mechanism for moving the X-ray detector 2
detector 2 and distance FB between the X-ray detector 1 and or the X-ray generator 1 relative to the rotary device. Even
the rotary shaft 3a. (In FIG. 1C, distance FB-distance FC if a deviation of the position of the rotary axis arises due to
between the X-ray detector 1 and the object O.) a mechanical malfunction or the like when the rotary device
The magnification can be changed by changing the dis is moved around the rotary shaft, it can be corrected easily
tance FC between the X-ray generator 1 and the object O 60 by setting a rotation center in a viewpoint of CT scan
and/or the distance CS between the object O and the X-ray different from the mechanical rotary axis. The viewpoint of
detector 2. For example, as shown in FIG. 1A, when the CT scan may also be called as a viewpoint of taking a
position C of the object O is changed relative to the rotary photograph of the object with the detector 2, and the rotation
shaft 3a in the rotary mechanism towards the X-ray detector center in a viewpoint of taking a photograph is different from
2, the magnification becomes Smaller, and a larger region 65 the mechanical rotary axis, as mentioned above on the
can be imaged. In this situation, the object O is moved rotation center in a viewpoint of CT. The rotation center in
towards the X-ray detector 2 relative to the X-ray detector 2 the viewpoint of CT scan is also explained later.
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First, a first X-ray CT scanner is explained. In the first interest and the X-ray generator 1 and the distance between
X-ray CT scanner, a mechanism 31, which will be explained the center 3X and the X-ray generator 1 are always kept
later in detail, is provided for moving the rotary shaft 3a of constant due to the synthetic motion by Synchronizing the
the rotary mechanism in two-dimensional directions cross rotation of the rotary device 3 with the rotary movement of
ing the rotary shaft 3a. FIG. 2 shows a situation of the the object with the movement mechanism 5 by a controller.
control. This mechanism 31 moves the rotary shaft 3a. The That is, the rotation center 3X in a viewpoint of CT scan
rotary device 3 rotates the X-ray generator 1 and the X-ray different from the rotary shaft3a is set, and the rotary device
detector 2 around the rotary shaft 3a, while the rotary shaft 3 is rotated always around the point 3X in the region of
3a is moved by the mechanism 31. The two types of motions interest in the object O.
are synchronized so that the distance FC between the X-ray 10 The above-mentioned "rotation center 3X different from
generator 1 and the point 3X in the region of interest and the the rotary shaft 3a' means a rotation center in a viewpoint
distance CS between the X-ray detector 2 and the center 3X of CT scan defined independently of the mechanical rotary
are always kept constant. In the synthesized motion due to axis 3a, similarly to the case shown in FIG. 2, and it is
the two types of motion, a rotation center 3X in a viewpoint realized by the mechanism for rotating the object. The
of CT scan is at the point 3X in the region of interest in the 15 rotation center 3X may be coincident with the position of the
object O, and the X-ray generator 1 and the X-ray detector rotary shaft 3a (or the mechanical rotary axis). The rotary
2 are rotated around the center 3X to keep the distance to the device is rotated by the rotary mechanism, while the point
center 3X always constant. When the X-ray generator 1 and 3X in the region of interest in the object is rotated according
the X-ray detector 2 are rotated by an angle around the rotary to the rotation angle of the rotary device relatively to the
shaft 3a, the rotary shaft3a is also rotated by the same angle rotation center of the rotary mechanism (the rotary shaft 3a)
around the point 3X in the region of interest. Then, when while the relative positional relationship among the X-ray
viewed from the point 3X in the region of interest, the X-ray generator 1, the object O and the X-ray detector 2 is kept
generator 1 and the X-ray detector 2 are rotated around the COnStant.
center 3X, similarly to a conventional CT scan shown in The embodiments shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 are explained
FIG. 1C though the position of the object is different from 25
below in detail.
the rotary shaft. Thus, even when the rotary shaft 3a of the
rotary mechanism has a position different from the point 3X FIG. 4A shows the first X-ray CT scanner shown in FIG.
in the region of interest in the object O, the rotation center 2 schematically. The rotary device 3 is a rotary arm in this
3X different from the rotary shaft 3a is always set to the embodiment having an X-ray detector 1 and an X-ray
point 3X of the region of interest, and the rotary device 3 is 30 detector 2 opposing to each other while interposing an object
always rotated around the point 3X in the region of interest O between them. By using the rotary arm, a rotary shaft 3a
in the object O, due to the synthesized motion which links is set with a mechanically simple structure. The rotary
the rotation of the rotary device 3a of the rotary mechanism device 3 is rotated around the rotary shaft 3a with a motor
with the movement of the rotary shaft by the mechanism 31 33 for controlling the rotation. The rotary shaft 3a extends
for moving the rotary shaft. 35 along the vertical direction. The rotary shaft 3a and the
The above-mentioned "rotation center 3X in a viewpoint motor 33 are parts in the rotary mechanism. An XY table 31
of CT scan different from the rotary shaft 3a represents a is a mechanism for moving the rotary shaft 3a in two
rotation center defined independently of the rotary shaft 3a dimensions crossing the rotary shaft 3a or in a plane
in a viewpoint of CT scan, and it is realized by the mecha perpendicular to the rotary shaft 3a in this example. The XY
nism 31 which moves the position of the rotary shaft3a. The 40 table as a mechanism for moving the object has devices for
rotation center 3X in a viewpoint of CT scan may be moving an object in two crossing directions, and the moving
coincident with the position of the rotary shaft. The rotary of the object in two dimensions is controlled easily. The
device 3a having the X-ray generator 1 and the X-ray object O is fixed in the mechanism, and it has region B at and
detector 2 opposed to each other is rotated by a rotation around the center and region A except region B.
angle B by the rotary mechanism around the rotary shaft 3a, 45 FIG. 4B shows the second X-ray CT scanner shown in
while the center of the rotary mechanism or the rotary shaft FIG. 3 schematically. In this embodiment the rotary device
3a in correspondence to the rotation center moved is rotated 3 is a rotary arm having an X-ray detector 1 and an X-ray
relatively to the point 3X in the region of interest (in detector 2 opposing to each other while interposing an object
correspondence to the initial rotation center) according to O between them. The rotary device 3 is rotated around the
the rotation angle B of the circular rotation, so that the 50 rotary shaft 3a similarly to the example shown in FIG. 4A.
relative positional relationship among the X-ray generator 1, The object O is fixed in the mechanism, and it has region B
the object O and the X-ray detector 2 are kept constant. around the center and region A except region B. It is moved
FIGS. 2 and 3 show situations wherein the magnification is in to-and-fro, left-and-right and up-and-down directions
set Smaller, but when the magnification is set larger, the point with the device 5 (not shown) for moving the object. The
3X in the region of interest is located nearer to the X-ray 55 device 5 is a mechanism for moving the object O in two
generator 1. dimensions crossing the rotary shaft 3a or in a plane
On the other hand, in a second X-ray CT scanner wherein perpendicular to the rotary shaft 3a in this example.
an object is encircled according to a rotation angle of the The mechanism for moving the rotary shaft shown in FIG.
rotation mechanism, a holder mechanism is provided for 4A is a mechanism for moving the rotary shaft 3a in
holding an object O between the X-ray generator 1 and the 60 two-dimensional directions crossing the rotary shaft 3a,
X-ray detector 2, and a movement mechanism, which will be while the mechanism for moving the object O shown in FIG.
explained later in detail, moves the holder mechanism in 4B is a mechanism for moving the object O in two
two-dimensional directions crossing the rotary shaft 3a in dimensional directions crossing the rotary shaft 3a. One of
the rotary mechanism. FIG. 3 shows a situation of this the two mechanisms may be provided so as to move one of
control. Even when the position of the rotary shaft 3a is 65 the rotary shaft 3a and the object O. Alternatively, both of
different from the point 3X in a region of interest in the the two mechanisms may be provided for moving the rotary
object O, the distance between the point 3X in the region of shaft 3a and the object O simultaneously.
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FIGS.5A and SB show the embodiment shown in FIG. 4A O is moved synchronously according to the rotation angle by
in a plane. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5A, the object the mechanism 5 for moving the object O. According to the
O is imaged by moving the object O by distance C. from the synthesized motion of the rotary device 3 and the object O.
rotary shaft 3a towards the X-ray generator 1, while in the the relative positional relationship among the X-ray detector
embodiment shown in FIG. 5B, the object O is imaged by 1, the object and the X-ray generator 2 is kept constant.
moving the object O by distance C. from the rotary shaft 3a Thus, the rotary mechanism rotates the rotary device, while
towards the X-ray detector 2. The rotary device 3 is rotated the rotation center 3X different from the rotary shaft 3a in
by the above-mentioned mechanism, while the rotary shaft the rotary mechanism is always located at the point 3X in the
3a is moved synchronously according to the rotation angle region of interest in the object.
of the rotary device 3. According to the synthesized motion 10 In FIG. 6A, the point 3X in the region of interest far from
of the rotary device 3 and the rotary shaft 3a, the rotary axis the rotary shaft3a by distance C. towards the X-ray generator
3a is rotated and moved relative to the point 3X in the region 1 is moved relative to the rotary shaft 3a along a circular
of interest, and the relative positional relationship among the orbit of radius a routing positions LC10, LC20 and LC30.
X-ray generator 1, the object O and the X-ray detector 2 is The object is rotated by the mechanism 5 for moving the
kept constant. The rotary device 3 is rotated while the 15 object, but the direction of the front of the object is not
rotation center 3X in a viewpoint of CT scan different from changed in a scan. For example, if the object is a human
the rotary shaft 3a in the rotation mechanism is always kept head, the head is rotated along the positions LC10, LC20 and
at the point 3X in the region of interest in the object. LC30, while the head facing the same direction. The object
In FIG. 5A, the rotary shaft3a is rotated and moved along O is moved by distance C. in a direction to leave from the
a circle with a radius a (or along positions X-ray detector 2, and the X-ray detector 2 detects only the
LC1->LC2->LC3) relative to the point 3X in the region of region B to reconstruct an image in the region B. The region
interest separated by the distance C. from the rotary shaft 3a A is outside the region detectable by the X-ray detector 2.
towards the X-ray generator 1. The object O is moved from In FIG. 6B, the point 3X in the region of interest far from
the X-ray detector 2 by distance C, and the X-ray detector 2 the rotary shaft 3a by distance C. towards the X-ray detector
only detects the region B for reconstructing the region B. 25 2 is moved relative to the rotary shaft 3a along a circular
The region A is outside the detectable region. On the other orbit of radius a routing positions LC10'. LC20' and LC30'.
hand, in FIG. 5B, the rotary shaft 3a is rotated and moved The object O is moved by distance C. towards the X-ray
along a circle with radius a (or along positions detector 2, and the X-ray detector 2 detects not only the
LC1'->LC2'->LC3") relative to the point 3X in the region of region B but also the region A. Thus, an image of the two
interest separated by distance C. from the rotary shaft 3a 30 regions A and B can be reconstructed. Here, in FIGS. 6A and
towards the X-ray detector 2. The object O is moved from 6B, a rotation center 3X in the viewpoint of CT scan is set
the X-ray detector 2 by distance C, and the X-ray detector 2 to the point 3X.
detects not only the region B, but also the region A entirely. In the examples shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the rotation
Thus, images of the regions A and B can be reconstructed. center 3X in a viewpoint of CT scan is controlled to be
As can be understood with reference to FIGS. 5A and 5B, 35 present always in the point 3X in the region of interest. That
the magnification can be changed by changing the distance is, the first and second X-ray CT scanners have the rotary
between the X-ray generator 1 and the rotation center 3X device 3 having the X-ray generator 1 and the X-ray detector
and/or the distance between the X-ray detector 2 and the 2 opposing to each other, the rotary mechanism for rotating
rotation center 3X relatively to the distance between the the rotary device 3 around the rotary shaft 3a extending
X-ray generator 1 and the X-ray detector 2. Here, in FIGS. 40 vertically to an X-ray beam generated by the X-ray genera
5A and 5B, a rotation center 3X in the viewpoint of CT scan tor 1, and the mechanism for moving the rotary shaft 3a
is set to the point 3X. and/or the object O in a plane perpendicular to the rotary
By moving only the rotary device without moving an shaft 3a. The mechanism for moving the rotary shaft 3a
object, it is possible to change the magnification for a scan and/or the object O is the mechanism 3a for moving the
from a value to another value. For example, at the start, the 45 rotary shaft in the first X-ray CT scanner or the mechanism
rotary shaft 3a is set to coincide with the point in the region 5 for moving the object in the second X-ray CT scanner. A
of interest, and a scan is performed. Then, if it is desired to controller to be explained later controls to set the rotation
increase the magnification, the rotary shaft 3a is moved to center 3X different from the rotary shaft 3a and to keep the
the position LC1 shown in FIG. 5A, and a scan is performed distances of the X-ray generator 1 and the X-ray detector 2
wherein the rotary shaft 3a is rotated relative to the center 50 relative to the point in the region of interest in the object O
3X of the imaging region from the position LC1, along a always constant, according to the synthesized and synchro
circular orbit routing positions LC1, LC2 and LC3, as nized motion of the rotation of the rotary device 3 and the
explained above. If it is desired to decrease the magnifica movement of the rotary shaft 3a and/or the object O.
tion, the rotary shaft3a is moved to the position LC1' shown Because the magnification can be changed easily as
in FIG. 5B, and a scan is performed wherein the rotary shaft 55 explained above, a user can set a magnification according to
3a is rotated relative to the center 3X of the imaging region a purpose of a scan. For example, when a Volume rendering
from the position LC1', along a circular orbit routing posi image for an entire jaw of a person is needed for a dental
tions LC1'. LC2' and LC3", as explained above. Thus, the X-ray CT scanner, the magnification is decreased to image
magnification for a scan can be changed freely without a larger region. On the other hand, when a detailed image on
moving the object. 60 a few teeth is needed, the magnification is decreased to
FIGS. 6A and 6B shows the examples shown in FIG. 4B image a smaller region in detail.
as plan views. In FIG. 6A, the object O is moved from the Next, an example of the first X-ray CT scanner is
rotary shaft of the rotary mechanism towards the X-ray explained in detail. FIGS. 7 and 8 show an example of the
generator 1 by distance C, while in FIG. 6B the object O is first X-ray CT scanner shown in FIGS. 2, 4A, and 5A and
moved from the rotary shaft of the rotary mechanism 65 5B. A main frame 10 has a gate-type very hard structure
towards the X-ray detector 2 by distance C. The rotary which supports the entire scanner. The main frame 10
device 3 is rotated around the rotary shaft 3a, and the object consists of a top frame 10a for Supporting the rotary arm 3
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rotatably, a pair of lateral beams 10b for holding the ends of bearing 3c, the belt 34 and the motor 33 are components of
the top frame 10a, a pair of vertical beams 10c supporting an example of the rotary mechanism for rotating the rotary
the lateral beams 10b, and a base 10d for mounting the device 3. By driving the three motors according to a prede
vertical beams 10c as a base for the entire scanner. The termined program, the XY table can be moved in to-and-fro
mechanism 5 for moving the object is mounted on the base direction (Y direction) and in left-and-right direction (X
10d, and it has a chair 4b as a device 4 for holding the object. direction) while the rotary arm 3 is rotated.
An operation panel 10e is provided on one of the vertical FIG. 10 shows an example of a part of the CT scanner
beams 10C. related to the up-and-down control of the rotary arm 3. The
The rotary device 3 is a U-like rotary arm with the X-ray lateral beam 10b can be moved up and down relative to the
generator for emitting an X-ray corn beam and an X-ray 10 vertical beam 10c. A protrusion 10b1 extends from an end of
detector 2 (a two-dimensional X-ray image sensor) opposing the lateral beam 10b and penetrates a hole 10c1 in the
to each other. In a CT scan, while the rotary device 3 is vertical beam 10c. The protrusion 10b1 has a threaded hole
rotated around an object, the object is exposed to the X-ray (not shown), and a threaded shaft 32a of the motor fixed to
corn beam, and the X-rays transmitting the object are the vertical beam 10c is engaged with the threaded hole of
detected with the X-ray detector 2 as projection data. A 15 the protrusion 10b 1. The threaded shaft 32a is extended in
three-dimensional image of the object is reconstructed from a direction perpendicular to the X and Y directions. The
the projection data. protrusion 10b1, the hole 10c1, the threaded hole, the motor
The XY table 31 is fixed on the top frame 10a, supporting 32 and the threaded shaft 32a are provided for the two ends
the rotary device 3 rotatably. The XY table 41 is an example of the lateral beam 10a and for the vertical beams 10C. The
of the mechanism for moving the rotary shaft 3a extending threaded shaft 32a is rotated by the motor 32 to move the
vertically in a plane perpendicular to the rotary shaft 3a. As protrusion 10b1 up or down. Thus the entire lateral beam
will be explained later, the XY table 31 can be moved in a 10b is moved up or down so that the rotary arm 3 is also
horizontal plane in directions perpendicular to each other. moved up or down.
The XY table 31 has a Y table for movement in Y direction FIG. 11 shows a part of the CT scanner for the control on
as a first direction and an X table supported by the Y table 25 the position of the rotary arm 3 and the rotation as a plan
for movement in X direction as a second direction perpen view, having the table 54Y (Y table) for to-and-fro direction,
dicular to Y direction. (X direction is the left-and-right the table 54X (X table) supported by the table 54Y for a
direction in FIG. 7A, and Y direction is a direction perpen lateral direction, the motor 31a for moving the Y table in Y
dicular to X direction.) Further, a motor 31a for moving the direction and the motor 31b for moving the X table in X
XY table 31 in X direction, a motor 31b for moving the XY 30 direction. The table 54X is an example of a first moving
table 31 in Y direction, a motor 32 for moving the rotary device which moves the rotary shaft 3a in a first direction,
device in a direction perpendicular to the XY table 31 and the table 54Y is an example of a second moving device
(up-and-down direction in FIG. 7A), and a motor 33 for which moves the rotary shaft 3a in a second direction
rotating the rotary device 3 are provided for the XY table. different from the first direction. In the above-mentioned
The motor 33 rotates the rotary shaft (rotation center) 3a 35 example, X direction is perpendicular to Y direction for the
provided in a cavity 3b in the rotary device 3. By controlling convenience of the calculation of coordinates. However, the
the motors 31a and 31b for the movements in X-axis and in first and second directions may cross at an arbitrary angle as
Y-axis, the rotary shaft 3a of the rotary device 3 can be far as the two dimensional control is possible.
moved up and down, and by driving the motor 32, the rotary Next, rotation control by the controller 7 is explained for
device 3 can be moved up and down. When an object is 40 changing a magnification in the CT scan control. A case is
scanned, the motor 33 is driven at a constant speed to rotate explained where the rotation center is moved along a cir
the rotary device 3 around the object. In this example, the cular orbit. First an operator sets a magnification with the
XY table 31 is used to move the rotary shaft 3a in the first magnification changer 12 provided in the operation device
direction (for example, X direction) different from the rotary 11, and the control as shown in FIG. 12 is evoked. First, the
axis and in the second direction (for example, Y direction) 45 distance to be moved of the rotation center is calculated
perpendicular to the first direction. In general, the second according to the magnification (S10), and the motors 31b
direction may not be perpendicular to the first direction, or and 31a for movement in X axis and in Y axis are activated
the rotary shaft 3a is moved in the first direction and in the to move the rotary shaft 3a by the calculated distance (S12).
second direction different from the first direction. Further, in Further, the circular orbit of the rotation center is calculated
this example, the rotary shaft 3a extends vertically. How 50 (S14). In a CT scan, the motor 33 for rotating the rotary arm
ever, the rotary shaft3a may extend in a horizontal direction. 3 is activated, while the motors 31b and 31a are activated to
For example, a patient lying in a horizontal direction can be move the rotary shaft 3a along a circle with radius a having
imaged. its center at an object (S16). That is, in the CT scan control,
FIG. 9 shows a part in the CT scanner for the control of the rotation conditions of the motor 33 for rotation and the
the position of the rotary arm 3 and the rotation. The top 55 orbit of movement of the motors 31b and 31a in X and Y
frame 10a has the table 54Y (Y table) for moving in directions are calculated according to the magnification, and
to-and-fro direction (Y direction), the other table 54X (X the motors 33, 31b and 31a are controlled according to the
table) supported by the table 54Y for moving in lateral rotation conditions and the calculated orbit. Thus, according
direction (X direction), the Y-axis control motor 31a for to the synthesized movement due to the rotation and the
moving the Y table in Y direction, the X-axis control motor 60 movement, the rotary arm 3 is rotated by setting the point in
31b (not shown) for moving the X table in X direction, and the region of interest in the object O as the rotation center 3X
the motor 33 for rotating the rotary arm 3 around a verti in a viewpoint of CT scan different from the rotary shaft3a.
cally-extending rotary axis 62 of the rotary shaft 3a which In the example shown in FIG. 9, the motor 33 for
connects the X table 54X with the rotary arm 3. The rotary controlling the rotation is arranged in the rotary arm 3.
arm 3 has a bearing 3c. The motor 33 is mounted inside the 65 However, as shown in FIG. 13, a motor 33' for controlling
rotary arm 3, and it drives the bearing 3c with a belt 34 so the rotation may be provided in the same housing as the top
as to rotate the rotary shaft 3a. The rotary shaft 3a, the frame 10a. In the example shown in FIG. 13, the motor 33
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is not provided in the rotary arm2, in contrast to the example the object O is moved relatively by the distance C. (>0)
shown in FIG. 9, and the motor 33' is mounted on a table towards the X-ray detector 2, the motors 51 and 52 are
54X (X table) in a housing of the top frame 10a. A rotary activated to move the chair 4b by the distances in X and Y
shaft 3a' of the rotary arm 3 supported rotatably with a directions in correspondence to distance C. to make the
bearing 3c' with the table 54X is driven by the motor 33'. object O nearer to the X-ray detector 2. In a CT scan, the
Because the XY table (or a mechanism for moving the rotary motor 33 is activated to rotate the rotary arm 3, while the
shaft) is provided in the same housing as the motor 33' for motors 31b and 31a are activated to move the rotary shaft 3a
controlling the rotation (or a rotary mechanism), a rotary around the object along a circular orbit with radius C. The
mechanism can be set in a space rather wide two-dimen principle of scan is explained above with reference to FIGS.
sionally for the mechanism for moving the rotary shaft. 10 6A and 6B.
Further, because they are set in the same housing, the rotary Next, CT scan control of the X-ray CT scanner is
mechanism is not needed to be provided in the rotary device, explained. As shown in FIG. 8, the X-ray CT scanner 20 as
and the structure of the rotary device can be simplified. an example of the first X-ray CT scanner has the controller
When the position of the rotation center is changed in 7 including a computer. The controller 7 has the computer
order to change the magnification as explained above, for 15 including a central processing unit (CPU), a storage device
example, when an object is moved relatively by distance C. and an input/output interface, and it is connected to a data
(>0) towards the X-ray detector 2, the motors 31b and 31a processor including a coprocessor, a keyboard 8, a mouse 9.
are activated to move the X table 54X and the Y table 54Y a display monitor 10 such as a liquid crystal display, and an
by distance C. to make the X-ray detector 2 nearer to the operation device including an operation panel 10e. The
object O. In a CT scan, the motor 33 is activated to rotate the operation device 7 includes a magnification changer 12 for
rotary arm 3, while the motors 31b and 31a are activated to an operator to set a magnification value. The controller 7 is
move the rotary shaft 3a around the object along a circular also connected to the X-ray generator 1 and the X-ray
orbit with radius C. The principle of scan is explained above detector 2, and controls the motors 31a, 31b, 32 and 33. The
with reference to FIG. 5. storage device includes a control program for a CT scan and
Next, an example of the second X-ray CT scanner is 25 a processing program for calculating a three-dimensional CT
explained in detail. FIGS. 14 and 15 show an example of the data from the projection data.
second X-ray CT scanner shown in FIGS. 3, 4B, 6A and 6B. As shown in FIG. 15, the X-ray CT scanner 20 as an
Its basic structure is similar to that of the first X-ray CT example of the second X-ray CT scanner has a controller 7
scanner shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, except that the device 5 for including a computer. The controller 7 has the computer
moving the object in X and Y directions is used instead of 30 including a central processing unit (CPU), a storage device
the XY table as the mechanism for moving the rotary shaft. and an input/output interface, and it is connected to a data
The device 5 for moving the object is set on the base 10d of processor including a coprocessor, a keyboard 8, a mouse 9.
the main frame 10, and a chair 4b is mounted thereon to hold a display monitor 10 such as a liquid crystal display, and an
the object (or a patient) in a sitting posture. A mechanism 4 operation device including an operation panel 10e. The
for holding the object has the chair 4b and a head fixing 35 operation device 7 includes a magnification changer 12 for
device 4a provided at the back of the chair 4b. The mecha an operator to set the magnification. The controller 7 is
nism 4 for holding the object is not limited to the above connected to the X-ray generator 1 and the X-ray detector 2.
mentioned chair 4b and the head fixing device 4a. For and it controls to drive the motors 51, 52 and 53 for moving
example, it may be any device for holding an object Such as the object's position. The storage device includes a control
a chin rest for setting the object’s chin or ear rods for fixing 40 program for a CT scan and a processing program for
ears’ positions of the patient. The device for moving the calculating a three-dimensional CT data from the projection
object's position can move the chair 4b in X, Y and Z data. As shown in FIG. 15, the second X-ray CT scanner
directions, or in to-and-fro direction, in left-and-right direc may have an XY table 31 used in the above-mentioned first
tion and in up-and-down direction. The device for moving X-ray CT scanner.
the objects position in X direction is the first moving 45 When the object is moved along a circular orbit in the
device, and the device for moving the objects position in Y second X-ray CT scanner shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the
direction is the second moving device. rotation control for changing the magnification is similar to
The device 5 for moving the object has a motor 51 for the counterpart in the first X-ray CT scanner explained
moving the chair 4b in X direction, a motor 52 for moving above with reference to FIG. 12. However, because the chair
the chair 4b in Y direction, and a motor 53 for moving the 50 is moved in the second X-ray CT scanner whereas the rotary
chair 4b in Z direction as a device for movement in up-and shaft is moved in the first X-ray CT scanner, the rotation
down direction. The movement of tables in X-, Y- and control is different in this point. At step S10 the distance for
Z-axes with the motors 51, 52 and 53 may be realized with the chair 4b to be moved is calculated, and the orbit is
use of a rack and pinion, a ball screw or a conventional calculated according to the magnification, and at step S12
thread. It is desirable that the positioning is precise. The 55 the motors 51 and 52 are activated to move the chair 4b by
device 5 for moving the object is an example of the the calculated distance. Further, at step S14 the circular orbit
mechanism for moving the object in a plane perpendicularly of the chair 4b is calculated. In a CT scan, at step S16, the
to the rotary shaft 3a of the rotary mechanism explained motor 33 is activated to rotate the rotary arm 3, while the
above with reference to FIG. 4B. In this embodiment, the motors 51 and 52 are activated to move the chair 4e around
mechanism 5 for moving the object moves the chair 4b in a 60 the rotation center along a circle of radius C.
first direction (for example, X direction) and in a second In the above-mentioned first X-ray CT scanner, the XY
direction perpendicular to the first direction (for example, Y table 31 is used as the mechanism for moving the rotary
direction). However, the chair 4b may be moved in a second shaft 3a in a plane perpendicular to the rotary shaft 3a. For
direction, not perpendicular to, but different from the first example, as shown in FIG. 16 schematically, a position of
direction. 65 the rotary arm may be changed by using link members
When the position of an object O is changed in order to connected to each other rotatably. In an example shown in
set a magnification as explained above, for example, when FIG. 16, two link members 80 and 81 are connected in
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series. The first link member 80 is connected to the top shaft By using the patterns (e) and (f), it is advantageous to
10a with a shaft 82 rotatably, and the second link member decrease the displacements of both of the rotary device and
81 is connected rotatably to the first link member 80 with a the mechanism for holding the object Smaller.
shaft 83. Further, the second link member 81 is connected The magnification can be changed in the above-men
rotatably to a bearing of the rotary shaft 3a. The shafts 82. tioned embodiments. However, needless to say, even when
83 and the rotary shaft3a are moved with the motors 84, 85 the magnification is fixed or it cannot be changed, an X-ray
and 86. The controller 7 controls the motors 84, 85 and 86 CT scan is possible by changing the position of the rotary
to move the position of the rotary shaft 3a in a two shaft of the rotary mechanism and the position of the rotation
dimensional plane perpendicular to the rotary shaft 3a. center in a viewpoint of CT scan and by rotating the rotary
10 device always around the point in the region of interest in an
FIG. 17 shows another modified example of the mecha object as the rotation center different from the rotary shaft of
nism for moving the rotary shaft. In this example, an the rotary mechanism, according to the synthesis of the
extensible member 90 as a link device is used. One end of rotation of the rotary device 3 and the movement of the
the extensible member 90 is connected rotatably with a shaft rotary shaft 3a and/or the object O.
91 to the top frame 10a, while the other end thereof is 15 The rotary device 4 may be the above-mentioned U-like
connected rotatably to a bearing of the rotary shaft 3a of the rotary arm, but it may also be a known gantry used for a scan
rotary arm 3. The extensible member 90 and the rotary shaft for a patient lying on a bed. Further, any structure which can
3a are moved with motors 92 and 93 for driving them. The rotate an X-ray generator and an X-ray detector opposing
controller 7 controls the extensible member 90 and the each other may be used.
motors 92.93 to move the position of the rotary shaft 3a in The applicant of this invention already disclosed a radi
a two-dimensional plane perpendicular to the rotary shaft ography apparatus which can be used both for CT mode and
3a. Because the mechanisms for moving the rotary shaft as panorama mode, as disclosed in Japanese patent laid open
shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 are constructed with one or more Publication H10-225455/1998. It is possible to add the
connection members connected in series, the movement of radiography apparatus to the structure of this invention.
the rotary shaft in a two-dimensional plane can be controlled 25 Thus, a panoramic tomography image can be acquired in the
with a simple structure. X-ray CT scanner according to the invention.
Though this invention can be applied to a dental X-ray CT
In the above-mentioned embodiments, an X-ray CT scan scanner, it can also be applied to an X-ray CT scanner for
ner has one of a mechanism for moving the rotary shaft or otolaryngology wherein the object is, for example, a very
a mechanism for moving an object. However, if an X-ray CT 30 Small part such as stapes or a large part of a head.
scanner has both of the mechanism for moving the rotary Although embodiments have been disclosed and
shaft and the mechanism for moving an object, as mentioned described, it is apparent that other embodiments and modi
above with reference to FIG. 15, the rotation can be con fication of the invention are possible.
trolled by using a various combination of the two mecha
nisms. In this case, it is possible to select one of the The invention claimed is:
35
mechanism for moving the rotary shaft and the mechanism 1. An X-ray CT scanner comprising:
for moving an object. It is also possible to use the two a rotary device comprising an X-ray generator and an
mechanisms simultaneously so that the rotation center in X-ray detector opposing to each other, to be provided
viewpoint of CT scan different from the mechanical rotary for interposing an object between them;
axis is always kept at the point in the region of interest in an 40 a rotary mechanism for rotating the rotary device around
object. Thus, the magnification can be changed according to a rotary axis;
the distance between the X-ray generator and the rotation a mechanism for moving the rotary axis of the rotary
center and/or the distance between the X-ray detector and mechanism in a two-dimensional direction crossing the
the rotation center, relative to the distance between the X-ray rotary axis; and
generator and the rotation center. 45 a controller which controls the rotary mechanism and the
Examples of various patterns for the movement of the mechanism for moving the rotary axis, wherein rotation
rotary shaft or the object are listed below. of the rotary device by the rotary mechanism and
movement of the rotary axis by the mechanism for
(a) Control in all the X, Y and Z directions with use of the moving the rotary axis are synchronized so as to set a
mechanism for moving the rotary axis. 50 rotation center of a synthesized motion of the rotation
(b) Control in all the X, Y and Z directions with use of the of the rotary device and the movement of the rotary axis
mechanism for moving an object. at a point in a region of interest during a CT scan, the
rotation center being different from and defined inde
(c) Control in all the X and Y directions with use of the pendently of the rotary axis;
mechanism for moving the rotary axis, and control in the Z 55 whereby a magnification is changed by setting a distance
directions with use of the mechanism for moving an object. between the X-ray generator and the rotation center
(d) Control in the X and Y directions with use of the and/or a distance between the X-ray generator and the
mechanism for moving an object, and control in the Z rotation center.
directions with use of the mechanism for moving the rotary 2. The X-ray CT scanner according to claim 1, wherein
axis. 60 the mechanism for moving the rotary axis comprises:
a first moving device which moves the rotary axis of the
(e) Control in the X and Y directions with use of both of the rotary mechanism in a first direction; and
mechanism for moving the rotary axis and the mechanism a second moving device which moves the rotary axis in a
for moving an object. second direction different from the first direction.
(f) Control in all the X, Y and Z directions with use of both 65 3. The X-ray CT scanner according to claim 1, wherein
of the mechanism for moving the rotary axis and the the mechanism for moving the rotary axis and the rotary
mechanism for moving an object. device are mounted in the same housing.
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4. The X-ray CT scanner according to claim 1, wherein 11. An X-ray CT scanner comprising:
the mechanism for moving the rotary axis comprises a link a rotary device comprising an X-ray generator and an
member or a plurality of link members connected in series X-ray detector opposing to each other, to be provided
connected to a bearing of the rotary mechanism, whereby the for interposing an object between them;
rotation center can be moved in a two-dimensional direction 5 a rotary mechanism for rotating the rotary device around
crossing the rotary axis. a rotary axis;
5. The X-ray CT scanner according to claim 1, wherein a mechanism for moving the rotary axis of the rotary
the rotary axis of the rotary mechanism extends vertically. mechanism and/or the object in two-dimensional direc
6. The X-ray CT scanner according to claim 1, wherein tions crossing the rotary axis; and
the rotary device is comprised of rotary arm. 10 a controller which controls the rotary mechanism and the
7. An X-ray CT scanner comprising: mechanism for moving the rotary axis and/or the
a rotary device comprising an X-ray generator and an object, wherein rotation of the rotary device by the
X-ray detector opposing to each other, to be provided rotary mechanism and movement of the rotary axis
for interposing an object between them; and/or the object by the mechanism for moving the
a rotary mechanism for rotating the rotary device around 15 rotary axis and/or the object are synchronized so as to
a rotary axis; set a rotation center of a synthesized motion of the
a mechanism for moving the object around the rotary axis rotation of the rotary device and the movement of the
in two-dimensional directions crossing the rotary axis; rotary axis and/or the object at a point in a region of
and interest during a CT scan, the rotation center being
a controller which controls the rotary mechanism and the different from and defined independently of the rotary
axis.
mechanism for moving the object, wherein rotation of 12. An X-ray CT scanning method comprising:
the rotary device by the rotary mechanism and move providing an X-ray CT scanner comprising: a rotary
ment of the object by the mechanism for moving the device comprising an X-ray generator and an X-ray
object are synchronized so as to set a rotation center of 25 detector opposing to each other, to be provided for
a synthesized motion of the rotation of the rotary device interposing an object between them; a rotary mecha
and the movement of the object at a point in a region nism for rotating the rotary device around a rotary axis;
of interest during a CT scan, the rotation center being a mechanism for moving the rotary axis of the rotary
different from and defined independently of the rotary
axis; mechanism in two-dimensional directions crossing the
whereby a magnification is changed by setting a distance 30 rotary axis; and a controller which controls the rotary
between the X-ray generator and the rotation center mechanism and the mechanism for moving the rotary
and/or a distance between the X-ray detector and the axis, to rotate the rotary device so as to keep a point in
rotation center. a region of interest in the object always at a rotation
8. The X-ray CT scanner according to claim 7, wherein center in a viewpoint of CT scan different from the
the mechanism for moving the object comprises:
35 rotary axis due to a synthesized motion of the rotation
of the rotary device by the rotary mechanism and the
a first moving device which moves the object in a first movement of the rotary axis by the mechanism for
direction; and moving the rotary axis; and
a second moving device which moves the object in a changing a distance between the X-ray generator and the
second direction different from the first direction. 40 rotation center and/or a distance between the X-ray
9. The X-ray CT scanner according to claim 7, wherein detector and the rotation center to change a magnifi
the rotary axis of the rotary mechanism extends vertically. cation.
10. The X-ray CT scanner according to claim 7, wherein
the rotary device is comprised of rotary arm.
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-4 Filed 02/12/21 Page 1 of 26

USOO7486759B2

(12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 7486,759 B2

Suzuki et al. (45) Date of Patent: Feb. 3, 2009

(54) X-RAY COMPUTER TOMOGRAPHY 7,197,109 B2 * 3/2007 Rotondo et al. ............... 378,39
APPARATUS 7.269,242 B2 * 9/2007 Tanaka et al. ................. 378, 16
7.315,608 B2 1/2008 Sa et al. ........................ 378,38
(75) Inventors: Masakazu Suzuki, Kyoto (JP): 2003/0235265 A1 12/2003 Clinthorne et al. ............. 378/4
Takahiro Yoshimura, Kyoto (JP); FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
Makoto Honjo, Kyoto (JP) JP 10-225455 8, 1998
(73) Assignee: J. Morita Manufacturing Corporation, JP 354O916 1, 1999
Kyoto (JP) * cited by examiner
(*) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this Primary Examiner Irakli Kiknadze
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 (74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm William L. Androlia; H.
U.S.C. 154(b) by 0 days. Henry Koda
(21) Appl. No.: 11/974,049 (57) ABSTRACT
1-1. There is provided a new X-ray imaging apparatus by the use
(22) Filed: Oct. 11, 2007 of which X-ray CT and panoramic imaging can be effectively
(65) Prior Publication Data performed. In an X-ray imaging apparatus which rotates an
X-ray generating section and an X-ray detecting section
US 2008/O1378O2A1 Jun. 12, 2008 around an imaging object arranged between these X-ray gen
O O erating section and the X-ray detecting section and also
(30) Foreign Application Priority Data detects in the X-ray detecting section X-rays having been
Oct. 12, 2006 (JP) ............................. 2006-278,615 radiated from the X-ray generating section and transmitted
s through the imaging object to form an X-ray image, a pan
(51) Int. Cl. oramic imaging mode in which the X-ray generating section
A6 IB 6/00 (2006.01) and the X-ray detecting section are driven to form a pan
A6 IB 6/4 (2006.01) oramic image of the imaging object and an offset scan/CT
(52) U.S. Cl. ................................ 378/4; 37.8/38: 378/39 mode in which the X-ray generating section and the X-ray
(58) Field of Classification Search s s 378/4 detecting section are driven to form a tomographic image of
378/15,938.39.988,193.97 the imaging object are set, so as to selectively execute these
S lication file f let: - - - - h- historv.
- - --- two imaging
glng modes. Consequentlv,
quently, the
the ppanoramic imagin
glng
ee appl1cauon Ille Ior complete searcn n1Story mode and the offset scan/CT mode can be arbitrarily selected,
56 References Cited therebyy allowing9. formation of an X-ravy 1mag
imaged image
9. that is
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS optimum for treatment.
6,493.415 B1 12/2002 Arai et al. ...................... 378.4 6 Claims, 17 Drawing Sheets

s
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 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-4 Filed 02/12/21 Page 4 of 26

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 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-4 Filed 02/12/21 Page 19 of 26

US 7,486,759 B2
1. 2
X-RAY COMPUTER TOMOGRAPHY ing panoramic X-ray imaging, and to provide a new X-ray
APPARATUS imaging apparatus capable of Switching the method to a nor
mal scan/CT method in the case of the region of interest being
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Smaller than a visual field angle of the X-ray two-dimensional
SSO.
1. Field of the Invention In order to achieve Such an object, the present invention is
The present invention relates to an X-ray computer tomog an X-ray CT apparatus, which comprises an X-ray generating
raphy (CT) apparatus for dentistry or a jaw/face region. In section that applies X-rays and an X-ray detecting section in
particular, the present invention relates to an X-ray CT appa opposing positions, and which rotates said X-ray generating
ratus capable of performing local X-ray CT on a certain tooth 10 section and X-ray detecting section with an imaging object
or the like as an region of interest in dentistry or the jaw/face arranged between said X-ray generating section and X-ray
region, and performing panoramic X-ray imaging on a curved detecting section and also detects X-rays having been radi
cross section of a dental arch, a jaw joint, and the like. ated from said X-ray generating section and transmitted
2. Description of the Related Art through said imaging object in said X-ray detecting section to
The Japanese Patent Publication No. 10-225455 (A) dis 15 back-project X-ray CT data, so as to form a CT image,
closes an X-ray CT apparatus for dental diagnosis. This X-ray wherein said apparatus comprises an imaging mode select
CT apparatus is one having a local X-ray computer tomogra ing device for selecting:
phy (hereinafter referred to as “CT) along with a panoramic a panoramic imaging mode in which, during imaging, a
X-ray imaging mode. This X-ray CT apparatus is capable of rotational arm having said X-ray generating section and
selecting the X-ray CT mode and the panoramic X-ray imag X-ray detecting section is rotationally driven while a rota
ing mode, and characterized as follows: when the X-ray CT tional central axis of the rotational arm is moved, to form a
mode is selected, a rotational central axis is fixed onto a panoramic image of said imaging object; and
central axis of an region of interest, and when the panoramic an offset scan/CT mode in which a CT image of said
X-ray imaging mode is selected, a rotational arm having an imaging object is constructed on the basis of X-ray CT data
X-ray generator and an X-ray detector is rotationally moved 25 obtained by rotating the rotational arm around a rotational
while the rotational central axis moves along a locus for the central axis wherein the rotational arm is set in Such a position
panoramic X-ray imaging during imaging. as a part of a region of interest of said imaging object is
The Japanese Patent No. 3540916 (B) discloses a three constantly irradiated with a cone beam radiated from said
dimensional X-ray CT scanner, having in a hollow rotating X-ray generating section and detected in said X-ray detecting
body an X-ray generator and an X-ray detector which are 30 section.
opposed to each other with a horizontal central axis (rota An X-ray imaging apparatus in another aspect of the
tional axis) provided therebetween. In this apparatus, while present invention including the imaging mode selecting
these X-ray generator and X-ray detector are rotated with means has a normal scan/CT mode in which a CT image of the
respect to an imaging object positioned inside the rotating imaging object is constructed on the basis of X-ray CT data
body, X-rays having been radiated from the X-ray generator 35 obtained by rotating the rotational central axis of the rota
and transmitted through the imaging objectare detected in the tional arm as the center that is provided in Such a position as
X-ray detector, and using the X-ray image detected in the to constantly irradiate an region of interest of the imaging
X-ray detector, a three-dimensional tomographic image can object with a cone beam radiated from the X-ray generating
be reconstructed, so that an offset scan/CT method by which section and detected in the X-ray detecting section.
a three-dimensional CT image in a larger range than a visual 40 An X-ray imaging apparatus in another aspect of the
field angle of a two-dimensional X-ray detector is obtained in present invention including a first slit which forms an X-ray
addition to a so-called normal scan/CT method by which a CT beam, radiated from the X-ray generating section, into narrow
image is obtained by irradiating the whole of the imaging strip shape to rotate a narrow beam toward said imaging
object with X-rays. object in accordance with said panoramic imaging mode;
This offset scan/CT method has the advantage of being 45 a second slit which forms an X-ray beam, radiated from the
capable of performing X-ray CT in a larger range than the X-ray generating section toward said imaging object, into a
visual field angle of the two-dimensional X-ray detector since conebeam in accordance with at least either one of said offset
part of the region of interest of the imaging object may be scan/CT mode and said normal scan/CT mode; and
irradiated with X-rays at each time point during imaging, as a slit moving device for selectively arranging said first slit
compared with the normal scan/CT method of constantly 50 and said second slit in said X-ray generating section.
irradiating the whole of the region of interest of the imaging An X-ray imaging apparatus in another aspect of the
object with X-rays at each time point during imaging. present invention is provided with a means of moving the first
slit or the second slit arranged in the X-ray generating section
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION to a direction orthogonal to the X-ray beam in accordance
55 with a signal from the imaging mode selecting means.
There has been a problem with a conventional X-ray CT An X-ray imaging apparatus in another aspect of the
apparatus for jaw/face imaging in dentistry and the like in present invention includes a driving device for moving the
that, since the normal scan/CT method is a dominant method, rotational central axis of the rotational arm against the rota
in the case of performing CT by detecting a range not smaller tional arm to set in Such a position as to constantly irradiate a
than a visual field detectable by a two-dimensional X-ray 60 part or the whole of a region of interest of said imaging object
sensor, a large-sized two-dimensional X-ray sensor is with said cone beam in accordance with at least one of said
required, which causes a cost increase. offset scan/CT mode and said normal scan/CT mode.
In view of the above situation, an object of the present An X-ray imaging apparatus in another aspect of the
invention is to provide a new X-ray imaging apparatus present invention includes a driving device for moving said
capable of performing CT on an region of interest Such as a 65 rotational central axis in accordance with a rotational angle of
jaw/face by an offset scan/CT method using a relatively small the rotational arm that holds said X-ray generating section
two-dimensional X-ray sensor and also capable of perform and said X-ray detecting section.
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US 7,486,759 B2
3 4
According to the X-ray imaging apparatus (claim 1) of the FIG. 12 is a front view of a part cut out from the rotational
present invention, a panoramic imaging mode or an offset arm has been cut out;
scan/CT mode can be arbitrarily selected by the imaging FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an X-ray detector;
mode selecting means of selecting the panoramic imaging FIG. 14 is a control block diagram for the X-ray imaging
mode or the offset scan/CT mode. It is thereby possible to apparatus;
perform panoramic imaging and offset scan/CT using a cost FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a control program for the
less Small two-dimensional X-ray sensor, and as necessary or X-ray imaging apparatus;
upon request, it is possible to continuously acquire a pan FIG. 16 is a pattern view explaining an initial setting pro
oramic image and an offset scan/CT image which are opti cess for a reduced CT mode:
mum for treatment. Accordingly, when an approximate posi 10 FIG. 17 is a pattern view showing an operation of the
tion of an region of interest is obtained by panoramic imaging rotational arm in the reduced CT mode;
having a large imaging region and an imaging position is then FIG. 18 is a pattern view explaining an initial setting pro
set to perform the offset scan/CT on the region of interest, it cess for an enlarged CT mode; and
is possible to perform CT in a larger range than a conventional FIG. 19 is a pattern view showing an operation of the
range. So as to perform CT in a large range while holding 15 rotational arm in the enlarged CT mode.
down cost.
According to the X-ray imaging apparatus (claim2) of the DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED
present invention, since the offset scan/CT mode and the EMBODIMENTS
normal scan/CT mode are selected as necessary, the conve
nience in CT increases, and hence with the use of CT, it is With reference to the attached drawings, several embodi
possible to acquire a CT image with even higher resolution. ments of the X-ray imaging apparatus according to the
According to the X-ray imaging apparatus (claim3) of the present invention will be described below. It is to be noted
present invention, a slit corresponding to the panoramic imag that, although terms that mean a specific direction or a place
ing mode or the CT mode is selectively arranged, and it is (e.g. “upper”, “lower”, “left”, “right' and other terms includ
thereby possible to obtain the optimum X-ray beam required 25 ing those terms) are used in the following description, these
for each imaging mode. terms are used for the purpose of facilitating visual under
According to the X-ray imaging apparatus (claim 4) of the standing of configurations represented in the drawings, and
present invention, the first or the second slit is adjusted to use should not be used for defining a technical range of the inven
only an X-ray inclined at a certain angle from the X-ray tion.
irradiation central axis, and it is thereby possible to efficiently 30 FIGS. 1 to 5 show respective appearances of an X-ray CT
obtain clear X-ray image data. apparatus according to one embodiment of the present inven
According to the X-ray imaging apparatus (claim 5, 6) of tion. The X-ray CT apparatus is capable of performing three
the present invention, the driving means is provided which dimensional computer X-ray tomography (Computer
moves the rotational central axis of the central arm in accor Tomography: hereinafter referred to as “CT) in addition to a
dance with either the panoramic imaging mode or the CT 35 variety of imaging which are conventionally widely known in
mode selected by the imaging mode selecting means of the dentistry field (e.g. panoramic imaging, linear tomogra
selecting either mode, and it is thereby possible to obtain an phy, linear Scan imaging, Scanogram imaging). It is to be
arbitrary locus of the rotating means that is optimum for noted that, although the X-ray CT apparatus of the embodi
imaging. ment is an X-ray CT apparatus for dentistry, application of the
40 present invention is not restricted to the X-ray CT apparatus
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS for dentistry, but the present invention is equally applicable to
an X-ray CT apparatus for another sort of medical use. For
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an X-ray imaging apparatus example, although the X-ray CT apparatus shown in the fig
of a first example according to the present invention; ures is a vertical X-ray imaging apparatus and used with a test
FIG. 2 is a front view of the X-ray imaging apparatus of the 45 object in a standing state, the present invention is also appli
first example according to the present invention; cable to a so-called lateral X-ray imaging apparatus which is
FIG. 3 is a right side view of the X-ray imaging apparatus used with a test object held in a horizontally lying state.
of the first example according to the present invention; As apparent from the figures, an X-ray CT apparatus (here
FIG. 4 is a left side view of the X-ray imaging apparatus of inafter simply referred to as "imaging apparatus') 1 generally
the first example according to the present invention; 50 has a vertical column 2 fixed to a floor face; a lifting arm (first
FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the X-ray imaging frame) 3 lifiably provided along the vertical column 2 and a
apparatus of the first example according to the present inven rotational arm (second frame) 4 rotatably coupled to the lift
tion and a test object positioned therein; ing arm 3 with a vertical rotational central axis (described
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a part cutting out from a later with reference to FIGS. 6 to 8) as the center.
rotational arm of the X-ray imaging apparatus of the first 55 As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the lifting arm 3 as a whole has
example shown in FIG. 1; a Substantially Ushape, and roughly has a vertical arm section
FIG. 7 is a sectional view showing an XY movement 5 liftably coupled to the vertical column 2, and an upper arm
mechanism of the rotational arm of the first example; section 6 and a lower arm section 7 respectively extending
FIG. 8 is a view, seen from the below, of the XY movement forward (toward the left side of FIG.3 and the right side of the
mechanism of the rotational arm of the first example; 60 FIG. 4) from an upper end and a lower end of the vertical arm
FIG. 9 is a sectional view showing an XY movement section5. As described later, the upper arm section 6 rotatably
mechanism of an imaging object of a second example accord Supports the rotational arm 4 arranged between the upperarm
ing to the present invention; section 6 and the lower arm section 7. As shown in FIG. 5, the
FIG. 10 is a sectional view of an X-ray generating section; lower arm section 7 has thereon a positioning mechanism 8
FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a beam formation 65 which positions a head of a person as an imaging object. For
plate and the like which are built in the X-ray generating example, the positioning mechanism 8 of the X-ray CT appa
section; ratus 1 of the embodiment has a chin rest 9 which supports a
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US 7,486,759 B2
5 6
jaw therefrom, a pair of lateral direction control member 10 coupling means) built in the rotational arm 4. Further, a belt
which Support the head of the test object as the imaging object winding section32 having a circular shape in its cross section
from the right and left side thereof, and a pair of handles 11 is formed at a lower end of the rotational central axis 29, and
held by the positioned person with his or her both hands so as a belt 33 is wound around this belt winding section (pulley)
to be kept stable. 5 32. The belt 33 is also drivingly coupled to another belt
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the rotational arm 4 as a whole winding section 32 to which a rotational motor 34 built in the
has a Substantially inverted U shape, and roughly has: a hori rotational arm 4 is drivingly coupled, so that the rotational
Zontal arm section 12 which is rotatably Suspendedly Sup central axis 29 and the rotational arm 4 fixed thereto are
ported by the upper arm section 6 through a later-described rotated on the basis of drive of the rotational motor 34. These
coupling mechanism while Suspendedly arranged under the 10 configurations are those having been used basically in the
upper arm section 6; and first and second Suspending section X-ray CT apparatus for dentistry.
13 and 14 respectively extending downward from a right and Further, as shown in FIG.9, in a second example according
left end of the horizontal arm section 12. The first suspending to the present invention, the rotational arm 4 is Supported by
section 13 shown on a right side of FIG. 2 has an X-ray columns 2a, 2a having high rigidity and an upper frame 2b.
generating section 15, and the second Suspending section 14 15 The rotational arm 4 is uniaxially rotated, and the rotational
shown on a left side of FIG. 2 has an X-ray detecting section central axis 29 is fixed. An region of interest is positioned by
16. The X-ray generating section 15 and the X-ray detecting the positioning mechanism 8 having the XY movement
section 16 are opposed to each other with a prescribed spac mechanism 18.
ing. A horizontal direction in which the X-ray generating The XY movement mechanism 18 has the pair of Y-direc
section 15 and the X-ray detecting section 16 are opposed to tion guide rails 19Y fixed to a seat 8aa of a chair 8a and
each other is referred to as an “X-direction', a horizontal extending in the Y-direction, the Y-direction moving frame
direction orthogonal thereto is referred to as a “Y-direction'. 20Y capable of reciprocating in the Y-direction along those
and a height direction is referred to as a “Z-direction'. Y-direction guide rails 19Y, the pair of X-direction guide rails
The coupling mechanism (second coupling means) that 19X fixed to a base 8ab of the chair 8a and extending in the
couples the lifting arm 3 and the rotational arm 4 is described 25 X-direction, and the X-direction moving frame 20X capable
with reference to FIGS. 6 to 8. The coupling mechanism has of reciprocating in the X-direction along those X-direction
an XY movement mechanism (first and second movement guide rails 19X. The Y-direction moving frame 20Y is
mechanisms) 18 housed in a rotational arm housing 17. The coupled to the Y-direction moving motor 23Y fixed to the
XY movement mechanism 18 has a pair of Y-direction guide chair 8a through an appropriate drive transmission mecha
rails 19Y fixed to the rotational armhousing 17 and extending 30 nism (e.g., mechanism including the screw 24Y drivingly
in the Y-direction, a Y-direction moving frame 20Y capable of coupled to the motor 23Y and the nut 25Y engaged therein
reciprocating in the Y-direction along those Y-direction guide and fixed to frame 20Y), so that the Y-direction moving frame
rails 19Y, a pair of X-direction guide rails 20X fixed to the 20Y moves in the Y-direction on the basis of drive of the
Y-direction moving frames 20Y and extending in the X-di Y-direction moving motor 23Y. Similarly, the X-direction
rection, and an X-direction moving frame 20X capable of 35 moving frame 20X is coupled to the X-direction moving
reciprocating in the X-direction along those X-direction motor 23X fixed to the chair 8a through an appropriate drive
guide rails 19X. The Y-direction moving frame 20Y is transmission mechanism (e.g., mechanism including the
coupled to a Y-direction moving motor 23Y fixed to the rota screw 24X drivingly coupled to the motor 23X and the nut
tional arm housing 17 through an appropriate drive transmis 25X engaged therein and fixed to the X-direction moving
sion mechanism (e.g. mechanism including a screw 24Y driv 40 frame 20X), so that the X-direction moving frame 20X moves
ingly coupled to the motor 23Y and a nut 25Y engaged therein in the X-direction on the basis of drive of the X-direction
and fixed to the frame 20Y), so that the Y-direction moving moving motor 23X. As thus described, in the XY movement
frame 20Y moves in theY-direction on the basis of drive of the mechanism 18, the pair of Y-direction guide rails 19Y, the
Y-direction moving motor 23Y. Similarly, the X-direction Y-direction moving frame 20Y, the Y-direction moving motor
moving frame 20X is coupled to the X-direction moving 45 23Y, and the drive transmission mechanism therefor (screw
motor 23X fixed to the Y-direction moving frame 20Y 24Y, nut 25Y) constitute the Y-direction movement mecha
through an appropriate drive transmission mechanism (e.g., nism, and the pair of X-direction guide rails 19X, the X-di
mechanism including a screw 24X drivingly coupled to the rection moving frame 20X, the X-direction moving motor
motor 23X and a nut 25X engaged therein and fixed to the 23X, and the drive transmission mechanism therefor (screw
X-direction moving frame 20X), so that the X-direction mov 50 24X, nut 25X) constitute the X-direction movement mecha
ing frame 20X moves in the X-direction on the basis of drive nism. Therefore, driving the moving motors 23X and 23Y can
of the X-direction moving motor 23X. As thus described, in lead to arbitrary movement of the rotational central axis of the
the XY movement mechanism 18, the pair of Y-direction central axis.
guide rails 19Y, the Y-direction moving frame 20Y, the Y-di It is to be noted that in the second example, the height
rection moving motor 23Y, and the drive transmission mecha 55 (Z-direction) can also be adjusted by the chair 8a. Similarly to
nism therefor (screw 24Y, nut 25Y) constitute the Y-direction the X-direction movement mechanism and the Y-direction
movement mechanism, and the pair of X-direction guide rails movement mechanism, a Z-direction movement mechanism
19X, the X-direction moving frame 20X, the X-direction is made up of a Z-direction moving motor 23Z and its drive
moving motor 23X, and the drive transmission mechanism transmission mechanism (nut 24Z, the nut 25Z), and capable
therefor (screw 24X, nut 25X) constitute the X-direction 60 of arbitrarily moving the height of the region of interest of the
movement mechanism. Therefore, driving the moving motors imaging object.
23X and 23Y can lead to arbitrary movement of the rotational Further, the first example and the second example may be
central axis of the rotational arm. combined so as to provide respective XY movement mecha
A rotational central axis 29 in a cylindrical shape or a nisms on the sides adjacent the rotational arm 4 and the chair
columnar shape coupling the lifting arm 3 and the rotational 65 8a.
arm 4 is fixed to the X-direction moving frame 20X at its As shown in FIG. 10, the X-ray generating section 15 has
upper end and rotatably Supported by an axis bearing 31 (first an X-ray generating section housing 35 having various sorts
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of configurations described below. The X-ray generating sec panoramic imaging which is vertically oriented (e.g. 150 mm
tion housing 35 is coupled to the rotational arm housing 17 in length and 6 mm in breadth), and a beam forming trans
through the X-ray generating section rotating mechanism 36. mission aperture 58 for cephalometric imaging which is also
Specifically, in the X-ray imaging apparatus of the embodi Vertically oriented (e.g. 22 mm in length and 6 mm in
ment, an X-ray generating section rotating mechanism 36 has breadth). Therefore, in a state where the beam forming trans
an X-ray generating section rotating motor 37 fixed to the mission aperture 56 for CT is opposed to the X-ray tube 41
inside of the rotational arm housing 17, a vertical axis 38 through the X-ray passage aperture 48, an X-ray cone beam
rotatably attached to the rotational arm housing 17, a gear extending in a pyramid shape is radiated from the X-ray
mechanism 39 drivingly coupling the X-ray generating sec generating section 15 toward the X-ray detecting section 16.
tion rotating motor 37 and the vertical axis 38, and a fixed 10 In the case of using Such a cone beam for CT, it is possible to
member 40 fixed to the X-ray generating section housing 35 perform CT for example in a range with a diameter of the
and the vertical axis 38, Such that the X-ray generating section order of 60 mm and a height of the order of 60 mm as an
housing 35 rotates with the vertical axis 38 as the center on the imaging region.
basis of drive of the X-ray generating section rotating motor In the embodiment, since the length and breadth of the
37. The X-ray generating section housing 35 is horizontally 15 beam forming transmission aperture 56 for CT are the same,
rotated for turning the X-ray generating section toward ahead the cross section of the X-ray beam which is orthogonal to a
fixing apparatus for cephalometric imaging, not shown, in traveling direction has a square shape. In a state where the
cephalometric imaging. beam forming transmission aperture 57 for panoramic imag
An X-ray tube (X-rays generator) 41 as an X-ray generat ing or the beam forming transmission aperture 58 for cepha
ing source is housed inside the X-ray generating section hous lometric imaging is opposed to the X-ray tube 41 through the
ing 35. The X-ray tube 41 is surrounded by an X-ray blocking X-ray passage aperture 48, an X-ray narrow beam is radiated
case 42 except for a region (region on the left side of FIG.9) from the X-ray generating section 15 toward the X-ray detect
opposed to the X-ray detecting section 16. The X-ray block ing section 16 in a long flat plate shape having a cross section
ing case 42 has a beam formation plate 50 in the region with its longitudinal length larger than its lateral length,
opposed to the X-ray detecting section 16, and a beam form 25 though strictly in the pyramid shape.
ing mechanism 44 is arranged on this beam formation plate As shown in FIG. 12, the X-ray detecting section 16 has an
50. As shown in FIG. 11, the beam forming mechanism 44 has X-ray detecting section housing 59 surrounding a variety of
a support frame or a block 47 which is liftably supported configurations which are described below.
along a plurality of vertical guide rails 46 through the plural In the inside of the X-ray detecting section housing 59, a
ity of guide rollers 45. The block 47 has an X-ray passage 30 detector holder 65 is provided for housing an X-ray detector
aperture 48 (see FIG. 10) which guides X-rays radiated from (X-ray detecting section) 64 having a solid-state image sens
the X-ray tube 41 toward the X-ray detecting section 16, and ing device (CCD) configured by arranging semiconductor
is coupled to a block lifting motor 49 fixed to the X-ray image pickup devices in the longitudinal and lateral direc
generating section housing 35 through, for example, a spring tions. The detector holder 65 is movably supported in the
mechanism, to allow up and down movement of an irradiation 35 horizontal direction along a holder guide rail 66 and coupled
angle of X-rays on the basis of drive of the block lifting motor to the X-ray detecting section moving motor 67 fixed to the
49 so that a variety of angles and places can be imaged. It is X-ray detecting section housing 59, so as to move in the
thereby possible to move the irradiation angle of the X-rays horizontal direction on the basis of drive of the X-ray detect
up and down without up and down movement of the X-ray ing section moving motor 67. The CCD is not necessarily
generating section 15. 40 applied to the X-ray detecting section, but a flat panel detector
At this time, imaging can be performed by enlarging an (FPD) such as a MOS sensor, and an X-ray fluorescent mul
X-ray detecting device 71 shown in FIG. 13. Further, though tiplier tube (XII) may be applied.
not shown, with the use of a mechanism of moving the X-ray As shown in FIG. 13, the detector holder 65 has a plurality
detecting device 71 up and down inside the X-ray detector 64. of beam formation slits (slit for secondary formation) 68, 69.
imaging can be performed even with a small X-ray detecting 45 70 in shapes corresponding to the forgoing plurality of beam
device. forming transmission apertures 56, 57, 58 in the X-ray gen
A beam formation plate 50, having a plurality of beam erating section 15, and on the basis of drive of the X-ray
formation slits as beam forming means of forming an X-ray detecting section moving motor 67 according to the imaging
beam radiated from the X-ray tube 41, is arranged in front of mode, the beam formation slit 68, 69 or 70 in the X-ray
the block 47 and in particular, the outside of the X-ray passage 50 detecting section 16 which correspond to the beam forming
aperture 48. The beam formation plate 50 is supported by a transmission aperture in the X-ray generating section 15 is
slit moving means which is horizontally movable by a plural positioned in extension of the X-ray tube 41 and the beam
ity of guiding roller 51 fixed to the front face of the block 47. forming transmission apertures 56, 57 or 58 in the X-ray
The slit moving means has a coupling arm 52 coupled to a generating section 15 in accordance with a selection signal of
beam formation plate 50, a nut 53 fixed to the coupling arm 52 55 the imaging mode selecting means. The X-ray detector 64
is engaged in a horizontal screw axis 54 rotatably Supported has: an X-ray detecting device 71 obtained by arranging
by the block 47, and further, the horizontal screw axis 54 is image pickup devices in almost square shape corresponding
coupled to a beam formation plate moving motor 55 fixed to to the beam formation slit 68 in almost square shape; and an
the block 47. Therefore, the beam formation plate 50 is X-ray detecting device 72 obtained by arranging image
capable of moving the front of the block 47 right and left, so 60 pickup devices in a shape Vertically oriented corresponding to
as to apply a desired X-ray beam. the vertically oriented beam formation slits 69 and 70. The
In the embodiment, the beam formation plate 50 has three X-ray detector 64 is inserted into a slot 73 formed in the
beam forming slits (slit for primary formation). Specifically, detector holder 65. The X-ray detecting device 71 is arranged
these three beam forming slits include a beam forming trans behind the beam formation slit 68 in X-ray CT, and the X-ray
mission aperture 56 (first slit) for CT in a rectangular or a 65 detecting device 72 is arranged behind the beam formation
square shape (e.g. 120 mm in length and 120 mm in breadth), slits 69 and 70 in panoramic imaging or in cephalometric
a beam forming transmission aperture 57 (second slit) for imaging.
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FIG. 14 is a control block diagram of a plurality of motors movement of his or her head is in the state of being restricted
and the like included in the X-ray CT apparatus 1. As shown by the right and left lateral direction control member 10.
in the figure, the X-ray imaging apparatus has a controller Further, in the second example shown in FIG. 9, the imaging
(CPU) 94. The CPU 94 is connected with the foregoing plu object sits on the chair 8a while his or her head is in the state
rality of motors, namely, the Y-direction moving motor, the of being restricted so as to remain still by a head fixing
X-direction moving motor 26, the rotational motor 34, the apparatus 8b.
X-ray generating section rotating motor 37, the block lifting An operator operates the imaging mode selecting Switch91
motor 49, the beam formation plate moving motor 55, and the to select an imaging mode (panoramic imaging, CT or the
X-ray detecting section moving motor 67. These motors are like). Further, when the CT mode has been selected, a normal
connected to corresponding rotational amount detecting sen 10 scan/CT-offset scan/CT mode selecting switch92 is operated
sors (e.g. encoder) 81 to 88 for the purpose of detecting to select either the normal scan/CT mode or the offset scan/
rotational amounts thereofand controlling drive of the motors CT mode. It is to be noted that the normal scan/CT mode is a
on the basis of the detected rotational amounts, and outputs of mode in which the rotational arm 4 is rotated with the rota
these sensors 81 to 88 are connected to the CPU 94. tional central axis 29 as the center, and X-rays having been
The CPU 94 is also connected with the X-ray tube 41 and 15 radiated from the X-ray generating section 15 and transmitted
a plurality of storage sections. The storage sections have through the whole of the region of interest 105 of the imaging
movement locus data (Read Only Memory: ROM) 95, and an object are detected in the X-ray detecting section 16, and on
X-ray image storing section (Random Access Memory: the basis of information included in the X-rays having trans
RAM) 96. The ROM 95 stores the following information mitted through the whole of the region of interest 105 of the
during imaging (including processes before and after imag imaging object and been detected in the X-ray detecting sec
ing) in accordance with each image mode described later, a tion 16, a tomographic image of an imaging object arranged
movement amount in an XY direction of the rotational central between the X-ray generating section 15 and the X-ray
axis 29, rotation of the rotational central axis 29 (rotational detecting section 16 is constructed. Further, the offset scan/
angle of the rotational arm 4), rotational angles of the X-ray CT mode is a mode in which the rotational arm 4 is rotated
generating section housing 35 and the X-ray detecting section 25 with the rotational central axis 29 as the center, and X-rays
housing 59 against the rotational arm 4, a moving amount in having been radiated from the X-ray generating section 15
the up-and-down direction and the horizontal direction of the and transmitted through part of the region of interest 105 of
block 47 and a movement amount in the horizontal direction the imaging object are detected in the X-ray detecting section
of the beam formation plate 50 in the X-ray generating section 16, and on the basis of information included in the X-rays
15, and movement amounts in the horizontal direction of the 30 having transmitted through the part of the region of interest
X-ray detector 64 and the detector holder 65 in the X-ray 105 of the imaging object and been detected in the X-ray
detecting section 16. In particular, the movement amount of detecting section 16, a tomographic image of the imaging
the rotational central axis 29 and the movement amount of the object arranged between the X-ray generating section 15 and
rotational arm 4 are defined by data with parameters being the X-ray detecting section 16 is constructed. In the present
time and a coordinate value of an XY coordinate system made 35 embodiment, in the normal scan/CT mode, a CT image of the
up of axes in two orthogonal directions (e.g., a back and forth imaging object is constructed on the basis of X-ray imaging
direction in which the upper and lower arm sections 6 and 7 data obtained by arranging a center 100 of the region of
project in the lifting arm 3 and a horizontal direction orthogo interest 105 of the imaging object which radiated from the
nal thereto) on the horizontal plane. The coordinate value may X-ray generating section 15 and detected in the X-ray detect
be given by a polar coordinate instead of the XY coordinate 40 ing section 16 on the same axis as the rotational central axis
system. 29 and rotating the center.
The RAM 96 temporarily stores necessary information. In the normal scan/CT mode, since imaging is performed
For example, as shown in the figure, the X-ray detector 64 is while the region of interest 105 is constantly present in a cone
electrically connected to the CPU 94 while being in the state beam 104 irrespective of the rotational angle of the rotational
of being mounted on the X-ray detecting section 16, and 45 arm 4, an image can be reconstructed on the basis of X-ray
image data acquired in the X-ray detector 64 by X-ray imag transmission information obtained during rotation of the rota
ing is temporarily stored into the RAM 96. tional arm of 180 degrees. Further, the rotational arm is more
The CPU 94 is further connected with an imaging start favorably rotated 360 degrees for reconstitution of a fine
Switch 90 for starting X-ray imaging, an imaging mode image. Imaging can be performed in a wide area in the offset
selecting Switch 91 for Switching an imaging mode, such as 50 scan/CT mode as compared with the normal scan/CT mode.
the normal scan/CT mode, the offset scan/CT mode, the pan Moreover, according to the offset scan/CT mode, for
oramic X-ray imaging mode, and the cephalometric imaging example when an FPD with a size of 120 mmx120mm of the
mode, a changing-over Switch 93 for making Switching present example is used, imaging can be performed in a range
between a reduced (wide area) imaging mode in which a wide with a diameter of the order of 120 mm and a height of the
area of an imaging object is imaged and an enlarged (narrow) 55 order of 60mm, whereas in the normal scan/CT mode, imag
imaging mode in which a narrow area of the imaging object is ing can be performed only in a range with a diameter of the
enlarged and imaged, and a communication section 97 for order of 60 mm and a height of the order of 60 mm.
performing communication with a computer, not shown. When the panoramic imaging mode has been selected, the
A basic operation of the X-ray imaging apparatus having CPU94 reads a program (not shown) in accordance with the
such a configuration is described with reference to the block 60 panoramic imaging mode from the ROM 95, and drives, if
diagram of FIG. 14 and a flowchart of FIG. 15. First, as shown necessary, one or more than one of the Y-direction moving
in FIGS.5 and 9, the imaging object is positioned in the X-ray motor 23Y, the X-direction moving motor 23X and the rota
CT apparatus 1 by the positioning mechanism 8 prior to tional motor 34 simultaneously or sequentially on the basis of
imaging. At this time, in the first example shown in FIG. 5, the the read program, to move the rotational arm 4, the X-ray
imaging object stands in front of the lower arm section 7 of the 65 generating section 15 and the X-ray detecting section 16 to
lifting arm 3, holds the handles 11 with his or her both hands, initial imaging positions (Step #2). Further, the CPU94 drives
and puts his or her jaw on the chin rest 9 while a right-and-left the beam formation plate moving motor 55, to make the beam
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forming transmission aperture 57 for panoramic imaging in detecting section 16 stores data corresponding to the detected
accordance with the selected panoramic imaging mode X-ray image into the RAM 96 at regular time intervals. The
opposed to the X-ray tube 41. image data stored in the RAM 96 is transmitted to the com
After completion of the above-mentioned preparation, puter through the communication section 97, and objected to
when a command to start panoramic imaging is inputted by a necessary process therein, to be displayed on the display, not
operation of the imaging start switch90 (Step #3), the CPU94 shown. At this time, a necessary image is reconstructed
drives the Y-direction moving motor 23Y, the X-direction through the use of image data obtained by detecting X-rays
moving motor 23X, the rotational motor 34 and the like on the having transmitted through both side regions sandwiching the
basis of a program read from the ROM 95, and also activates rotational central axis 29.
the X-ray tube 41 to generate X-rays (Step #5). As a result, 10 When the offset scan/CT mode has been selected, the CPU
while the rotational arm 4, the X-ray generating section 15 94 drives the beam formation plate moving motor 55 to make
and the X-ray detecting section 16 move along loci indicated the beam forming transmission aperture 56 for CT in accor
by the program, the X-rays radiated from the X-ray tube 41 dance with the selected CT mode opposed to the X-ray tube
are applied to the imaging object through the X-ray passage 41. At this time, if necessary, the block 47 is moved in a
aperture 48 of the block 47 and the beam forming transmis 15 rotational direction relatively to the beam formation plate 50
sion aperture 57 for panoramic imaging of the beam forma in the X-ray generating section 15, and meanwhile, the detec
tion plate 50. The X-rays having transmitted through the tor holder 65 is moved in the rotational direction in the X-ray
imaging object are detected by the X-ray detector 64 through detecting section 16. Further, the CPU 94 reads a program
the beam formation slit for panoramic imaging of the X-ray (not shown) in accordance with the selected offset scan/CT
detector 64 in the X-ray detecting section 16. The X-ray mode from the ROM 95, and drives, if necessary, one or more
detecting section 16 transmits data corresponding to the than one of the Y-direction moving motor 23Y, the X-direc
detected X-ray image to the RAM 96 at regular time intervals tion moving motor 23X and the rotational motor 34 simulta
or after completion of imaging. The image data stored in the neously or sequentially on the basis of the read program, to
RAM 96 is transmitted to a computer through the communi move the rotational arm 4 to the initial imaging position (Step
cation section.97, and objected to a necessary process therein, 25 #10).
to be displayed on a display, not shown. A typical imaging Subsequently, when a command to start imaging is input
process in panoramic X-ray imaging is a known process, ted by operation of the imaging start switch90 (Step #11), the
namely an imaging process of laminating frame images with CPU94 activates the X-ray tube 41 to generate the X-ray tube
displacement of a prescribed amount. Further, panoramic 41, and also drives a necessary motor in accordance with the
X-ray imaging can be performed prior to CT, to set an region 30 foregoing program (Step #12). At this time, the rotational
of interest to be objected to CT. amount of each motor is detected by the corresponding sen
When the CT mode has been selected by the imaging mode sors 81 to 88, and on the basis of this detection result, the
selecting switch91, the CPU 94 determines either the normal rotational amount of each motor is feedback-controlled. The
scan/CT mode (first imaging mode) or the offset scan/CT X-rays radiated from the X-ray tube 41 are applied to the
mode (second imaging mode) has been selected on the basis 35 imaging object through the X-ray passage aperture 48 of the
of a signal from the normal scan/CT-offset scan/CT mode block 47 and the beam forming transmission aperture 56 for
selecting switch 93 (Step #6). CT of the beam formation plate 50. The X-rays having trans
When the normal scan/CT mode has been selected, the mitted through the imaging object are detected by the X-ray
CPU94 drives the beam formation plate moving motor 55 to detector 64 through the beam formation slit for CT of the
make the beam forming transmission aperture 56 for CT in 40 X-ray detector 64 in the X-ray detecting section 16. The X-ray
accordance with the selected CT mode opposed to the X-ray detecting section 16 stores data corresponding to the detected
tube 41. Next, the CPU 94 reads a program (not shown) in X-ray image to the RAM 96 at regular time intervals. The
accordance with the selected normal scan/CT mode from the image data stored in the RAM 96 is transmitted to the com
ROM 95, and drives, if necessary, one or more than one of the puter through the communication section 97, and objected to
Y-direction moving motor 23Y, the X-direction moving 45 a necessary process therein, to be displayed on the display, not
motor 23X and the rotational motor 34 simultaneously or shown. At this time, a necessary image is reconstructed
sequentially on the basis of the read program, to move the through the use of image data obtained by detecting X-rays
rotational arm 4 to the initial imaging position (Step #7). having transmitted through one of both side regions sand
Typically, in this state, the center of the driving axis 30 is wiching the rotational central axis 29.
placed on a line linking the X-ray generating section 15 50 An initial setting process in the case where the offset scan/
(center of the X-ray tube 41) and the X-ray detecting section CT mode has been selected is described with reference to
16 (center of the X-ray detecting device 71). FIG. 15. It is assumed here that in the state prior to the initial
Subsequently, when a command to start imaging is input setting process, the rotational central axis 29 of the X-ray CT
ted by operation of the imaging start switch90 (Step #8), the apparatus 1 is located at a center 100 of animaging region 101
CPU94 activates the X-ray tube 41 to generate X-rays, also 55 (region surrounded by an outer circle out of double circles) of
drives a necessary motor in accordance with the foregoing the imaging object which is positioned by the positioning
program (Step #9). At this time, the rotational amount of each mechanism 8 of the imaging object. As shown in the figure, in
motor is detected by the corresponding sensors 81 to 88, and this state, the imaging region 101 of the imaging object is not
using this detection result, the rotational amount of each completely included in an X-ray irradiating region (region
motor is feedback-controlled. The X-rays radiated from the 60 surrounded by outer edges 102 and 103 indicated by the two
X-ray tube 41 are applied to the imaging object through the dotted lines) 104 detected in the X-ray detecting section 16
X-ray passage aperture 48 of the block 47 and the beam out of X-rays radiated from the X-ray generating section 15,
forming transmission aperture 56 for CT of the beam forma and only an region of interest (region Surrounded by an inner
tion plate 50. The X-rays having transmitted through the circle out of the double circles) 105 inside the imaging region
imaging object are detected by the X-ray detector 64 through 65 101 of the imaging object can be imaged.
the beam formation slit for panoramic imaging of the X-ray From this state, with the position of the imaging object in a
detector 64 in the X-ray detecting section 16. The X-ray fixed state, the CPU 94 drives the X-direction moving motor
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23X of the XY movement mechanism 18 to move the rota 101 needs to be located inside the cone beam 104. As shown
tional arm 4 in the X-direction (direction to the right, direc in the figure, in this state, half of the imaging region 101 of the
tion of the arrow in the shown example) by a prescribed imaging object is completely included in the cone beam 104.
distance from the position of FIG. 16A, while locating the Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 19, the CPU 94 drives the
rotational central axis 29 at the center of the imaging region rotational motor 34 to rotate the rotational arm 4 in a clock
101 of the imaging object from the position of FIG. 16A (see wise direction as indicated by the arrows. As a result, although
FIG.16B). Subsequently, while keeping the rotational central the cone beam 104 covers only half of the imaging region 101
axis 29 located at the center of the imaging region 101 of the of the imaging object at each time point during imaging, when
imaging object, the CPU 94 moves the rotational arm 4 in the the rotational arm 4 rotates 360 degrees, the imaging region
Y-direction (direction upward, direction of the arrow in the 10 101 of the imaging object is entirely scanned by the cone
shown example) to bring the X-ray detecting section 16 closer beam 104. This can result in subsequent reconstruction of
to the imaging region 101 of the imaging object So as to locate X-ray imaged image data detected in the X-ray detecting
the outer edge 102 or 103 of the cone beam 104 at the center section 16, thereby allowing reconstruction of a desired
of the imaging region 101 (see FIG. 16C). At this time, the image of the entire imaging region 101 of the imaging object.
outer edge 102 or 103 of the cone beam 104 is not necessarily 15 By performing imaging in Such a manner, a projected image
at the center of the imaging region 101 of the imaging object, can be enlarged and imaged since the distance between the
but at least the center of the imaging region 101 needs to be X-ray source and the imaging object is shorter than in the case
located inside the cone beam 104. As shown in the figure, in of FIG. 16.
this state, half of the imaging region 101 of the imaging object In these preferred embodiments. An imaging region at
is completely included in the cone beam 104. normal scan/CT mode is defined as a region of interest as an
Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 17, the CPU 94 drives the example.
rotational motor 34 to rotate the rotational arm 4 in a clock The imaging region at normal scan/CT mode is a region
wise direction as indicated by the arrows. As a result, like the region of circle 105 in FIG. 16A or FIG. 18A.
although the cone beam 104 covers only half of the imaging And an imaging region at offset scan/CT mode is for
region 101 of the imaging object at each time point during 25 example an region includes the imaging region at normal
imaging, when the rotational arm 4 rotates completely (360 scan/CT mode and the region around the imaging region at
degrees), the imaging region 101 of the imaging object is normal scan/CT mode like the region of circle 101 in FIG.
entirely scanned by the cone beam 104. This can result in 16A or FIG. 18A.
Subsequent reconstruction of X-ray imaged image data Therefore the maximum region of the imaging region at
detected in the X-ray detecting section 16, thereby allowing 30 offset scan/CT mode is defined by outer edges 102 or 103 of
reconstruction of a desired image of the entire imaging region conebeam 104.
101 of the imaging object. Such imaging is called offset In FIG.16A to C, FIG. 18A to Cthe imaging region 101 is
scan/CT, which can be performed in a wider range than the indicated as an example Smaller than the maximum region of
normal scan/CT. the imaging region above mentioned considering the conve
The initial setting process in a case where the enlarged 35 nience for understanding.
(narrow) mode has been selected is described with reference It is to be noted that, although the rotational arm 4 was first
to FIG. 18. Similarly to what was described above, it is moved in the X-direction and then moved in theY-direction in
assumed that in the state prior to the initial setting process, the the above description, this order may be reversed, or the
rotational central axis 29 of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 is rotational arm 4 may be moved all at once in an oblique
located at the center of the imaging region 101 (region Sur 40 direction obtained by synthesizing those movements in the
rounded by an outer circle out of double circles) of the imag two directions.
ing object which is positioned by the positioning mechanism The X-direction movement mechanism provided in the
8 of the imaging object. As shown in the figure, in this state, rotational arm 4 is particularly effective in the X-ray imaging
the imaging region 101 of the imaging object is not com apparatus having the offset scan/CT mode, as described
pletely included in the X-ray irradiating region (region Sur 45 above. For example, the cone beam need to be moved to the
rounded by the outer edges 102 and 103 indicated by the two direction orthogonal to the X-ray applying direction in the
dotted lines) 104 detected in the X-ray detecting section 16 offset scan/CT method, but the movement amount thereof can
out of X-rays radiated from the X-ray generating section 15, be adjusted in a wider range. Further, an enlargement ratio of
and only the region of interest (region Surrounded by an inner animage imaged in the X-ray detecting section of limited size
circle out of the double circles) 105 inside the imaging region 50 can be adjusted in a large scale as compared with a constitu
101 of the imaging object can be imaged. tion where the rotational arm is simply moved in the Y-direc
From this state, the CPU 94 drives the X-direction moving tion.
motor 23X of the XY movement mechanism 18 to move the In addition, the cone beam refers to an X-ray beam that
rotational arm 4 in the X-direction (direction to the right, narrows X-rays so as to apply X-rays within a certain region.
direction of the arrow in the shown example) by a prescribed 55 In the above examples, the beam forming transmission aper
distance, while locating the rotational central axis 29 at the ture for CT was in almost square shape and the cone beam in
center of the imaging region 101. Subsequently, while keep the pyramid shape was applied from the X-ray generating
ing the rotational central axis 100 located at the center of the section toward the X-ray detecting section. However, a shape
imaging region 101 of the imaging object, the CPU 94 moves of the beam forming transmission aperture for CT is not
the rotational arm 4 in the Y-direction (direction downward, 60 restricted to this, but a cone beam in cone shape can beformed
direction of the arrow in the shown example) to bring the when the beam forming transmission aperture is formed into
imaging region 101 of the imaging object closer to the X-ray circular or oval shape.
generating section 15 so as to locate the outer edge 102 or 103 What is claimed is:
of the cone beam 104 at the center of the imaging region 101. 1. An X-ray CT apparatus, which comprises an X-ray gen
At this time, the outer edge 102 or 103 of the cone beam 104 65 erating section that applies X-rays and an X-ray detecting
is not necessarily at the center of the imaging region 101 of the section in opposing positions, and which rotates said X-ray
imaging object, but at least the center of the imaging region generating section and X-ray detecting section with an imag
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ing object arranged between said X-ray generating section 3. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 2, wherein
and X-ray detecting section and also detects X-rays having said X-ray generating section has:
been radiated from said X-ray generating section and trans a first slit which forms an X-ray beam, radiated from the
mitted through said imaging object in said X-ray detecting X-ray generating section, into narrow strip shape to
section to back-project X-ray CT data, so as to form a CT 5 rotate a narrow beam toward said imaging object in
image, accordance with said panoramic imaging mode;
wherein said apparatus comprises an imaging mode select a second slit which forms an X-ray beam, radiated from the
ing device for selecting: X-ray generating section toward said imaging object,
into a cone beam in accordance with at least either one of
a panoramic imaging mode in which, during imaging, a 10 said offset scan/CT mode and said normal scan/CT
rotational arm having said X-ray generating section and mode; and
X-ray detecting section is rotationally driven while a a slit moving device for selectively arranging said first slit
rotational central axis of the rotational arm is moved, to and said second slit in said X-ray generating section.
form a panoramic image of said imaging object; and 4. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 3, wherein
an offset scan/CT mode in which a CT image of said 15 said apparatus is provided with a device for moving the first
imaging object is constructed on the basis of X-ray CT slit or the second slit arranged in said X-ray generating sec
data obtained by rotating the rotational arm around a tion to a direction orthogonal to said X-ray beam in accor
rotational central axis wherein the rotational arm is set in dance with a signal from said imaging mode selecting device.
Such a position as a part of a region of interest of said 5. The X-ray CT apparatus according to any one of claims
imaging object is constantly irradiated with a cone beam 2 to 4, comprising a driving device for moving the rotational
radiated from said X-ray generating section and detected central axis of the rotational arm against the rotational arm to
in said X-ray detecting section. set in Such a position as to constantly irradiate a part or the
2. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1, wherein whole of a region of interest of said imaging object with said
cone beam in accordance with at least one of said offset
said imaging mode selecting device has a normal scan/CT 25 scan/CT mode and said normal scan/CT mode.
mode in which a CT image of said imaging object is con 6. The X-ray CT apparatus according to any one of claims
structed on the basis of X-ray CT data obtained by rotating the 1 to 4, comprising a driving device for moving said rotational
rotational central axis of the rotational arm as the center that
is provided in Such a position as to constantly irradiate a central axis in accordance with a rotational angle of the rota
region of interest of said imaging object with a cone beam tional arm that holds said X-ray generating section and said
radiated from said X-ray generating section and detected in
30 X-ray detecting section.
said X-ray detecting section. k k k k k
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 1 of 40

US0083.00762B2

(12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 8,300,762 B2

Suzuki et al. (45) Date of Patent: Oct. 30, 2012

(54) X-RAY CT IMAGINGAPPARATUS (56) References Cited

(75) Inventors: Masakazu Suzuki, Kyoto (JP); U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
Takahiro Yoshimura, Kyoto (JP); 4,501,011 A * 2/1985 Haucket al. .................. 378,196
Makoto Honjo, Kyoto (JP) 5,598,453 A 1/1997 Baba et al.
6,118,842 A 9, 2000 Arai et al.
(73) Assignee: J. Morita Manufacturing Corporation, 6,381,299 B1 4/2002 Baba et al.
Kyoto (JP) 6,493.415 B1 12/2002 Arai et al.
6,582,121 B2 * 6/2003 Crain et al. ................... 378/197
*) Notice: Subject to anyy disclaimer, the term of this 7,197,109 B2 3/2007 Rotondo et al.
7,269,242 B2 9, 2007 Tanaka et al.
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 7,315,608 B2 1/2008 Sa et al.
U.S.C. 154(b) by 95 days. 7,347,622 B2 3/2008 Sadakane et al.
(21) Appl. No.: 12/734,656 (Continued)
(22) PCT Filed: Nov. 14, 2008 FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
JP HO8-117220 A 5, 1996
(86). PCT No.: PCT/UP2008/070760 (Continued)
S371 (c)(1),
(2), (4) Date: May 14, 2010 Primary Examiner — Anastasia Midkiff
(74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm — DLA Piper LLP (US)
(87) PCT Pub. No.: WO2009/063974
(57) ABSTRACT
PCT Pub. Date: May 22, 2009
In an X-ray CT imaging, an X-ray generator (11) and a
(65) Prior Publication Data two-dimensional X-ray detector (21) are opposed to each
US 2010/O246755A1 Sep. 30, 2010 other between an object and are rotated by a rotary shaft (32)
around the object. At least one of the rotary shaft supporter
(30) Foreign Application Priority Data (61) and an object holder (40) includes a movement mecha
nism (42, 65) for moving a supporter (30) for the X-ray
Nov. 16, 2007 (JP) ................................. 2007-2981.83 generator and the X-ray detector relative to the object. In
offset scan CT imaging, the rotation of the Supporter by the
(51) Int. Cl. rotary shaft is performed simultaneously with the relative
A6 IB 6/14 (2006.01) two-dimensional movement of the rotary shaft by the move
GOIN 23/083 (2006.01) ment mechanism. In the relative two-dimensional movement,
H05G L/60 (2006.01) the position of the rotary shaft is moved according to the
H05G I/02 (2006.01) rotary angle of the Supporter along a circular orbit around the
(52) U.S. Cl. ............................. 378/39, 378/15: 378/197 center of a CT imaging region in a plane crossing the rotary
(58) Field of Classification Search ................ 378/4 20, shaft. Thus, it becomes possible to image a larger region of
378/38, 39, 193, 195-198, 204, 205, 208, interest of the object.
378/210
See application file for complete search history. 8 Claims, 29 Drawing Sheets
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 2 of 40

US 8,300,762 B2
Page 2

U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS JP H11-226004 A 8, 1999

7,486,759 B2 2/2009 Suzuki et al. E 399397. A 39:
2003/01 12926 A1* 6/2003 Atzinger ....................... 378/196 2004-45212 A 2, 2004
2003/0235265 A1 12/2003 Clinthorne et al. JP 3540916 B 4, 2004
2004/0258195 A1 12, 2004 Hara JP 2005-6772 A 1/2005
2005/0265523 A1 12, 2005 Strobel JP 2006-34670 A 2, 2006
2007/0041491 A1 2/2007 Sadakane et al. JP 2007-29168 A 2, 2007
2007/0268994 A1* 11/2007 Chen ................................. 3784 2007-143948 A 6, 2007
2008/0317216 A1* 12/2008 Lifshitz et al. ................ 378/209 2007-159.987 A 8, 2007
2009/0041191 A1 2/2009 Suzuki et al. JP 2008-114056. A 5,2008
FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS W. wo.8%E. A g28.
E. Eg: A 38 WO WO 2006,1098O8 A 10, 2006
WO WO 200804035.6 A1 * 4, 2008
JP H10-225455. A 8, 1998
JP H11-9583. A 1, 1999 * cited by examiner
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 3 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 1 of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

Fig. 1
POSITION OF X-RAY DETECTOR: 21 p 1-21 p2-21 p3-21 p.4-21 p1
CENTER OF REVOLUTION + (--): FIXED
CENTER POSITION OF IMAGING REGION X (X) : FIXED
1101
21 p3 O
MAGING REGION 51A1

11p4 21 p4

11 p2
21 p2

21 p1
11 p3
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 4 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 2 of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

Fig. 2A
POSITION OF X-RAY DETECTOR: 21 p1-21 p2-21 p3-21 p.4-21 p1
CENTER OF REVOLUTION + (--): 31 p1-31 p2-31p3-31 p4-31 p1
(CIRCULAR MOVEMENT)
CENTER POSITION OF IMAGING REGION X (X) : FIXED

21 p3 11 p.1
IMAGING REGION 51B1

21 p4
11p4

33

11p2
21 p2
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 5 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 3 of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

Fig.2B
POSITION OF X-RAY DETECTOR: 21 p 1-21 p2-21 p3-21 p.4-21 p1
CENTER OF REVOLUTION + (--): 31 p1-31p2-31 p3-31 p4-31 p1
(CIRCULAR MOVEMENT)
CENTER POSITION OF IMAGING REGION X (X) : FIXED
11p1
21 p3
IMAGING REGION 51C1

21 p4
11 p4

11p2

11p3
CENTER
OF 51C1
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U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 4 of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 7 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 5 Of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

Fig. 4A
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 8 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 6 of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

Fig. 4B
(c) 31 p3

21 p3 21

(d)

21 p4
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 9 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 7 of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

Fig.5A
POSITION OF X-RAY DETECTOR: 21 p1-21 p2-21 p3-21 p4-21 p1
CENTER POSITION OF IMAGING REGION X (X) : 51 p1-51p2-51 p3-51p4-51 p5
(CIRCULAR MOVEMENT)

MAGING REGION 51B2

11 p4 21 p4

aw 1 "
... r.

21 p2

11 p3
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 10 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 8 of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

Fig.5B
POSITION OF X-RAY DETECTOR: 21 p1-21p2-21 p3-21 p4-21 p1
CENTER POSITION OF IMAGING REGIONX (X) : 51p1-51 p2-51p3-51p4-51 p5
(CIRCULAR MOVEMENT)

MAGING REGION 51 C2

11p4 s 21 p4

" " ... .

11 p2
21 p2

11 p3
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 11 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 9 Of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

Fig.6A
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U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 10 of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 13 of 40

U.S. Patent US 8,300,762 B2

 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 14 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 12 of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

Fig.8
POSITION OF X-RAY DETECTOR: 21 p1-21 p2-21 p3-21 p.4-21 p1
CENTER POSITION OF REVOLUTION (-): 31 p1'-31p2'-31p3'-31 p4'-31 p1'
(LINEAR MOVEMENT
CENTER POSITION OF IMAGING REGION X (X) : 51 p1'-51p2'-51 p3'-51p4'-51p1'
(LINEAR MOVEMENT)
11 p1
IMAGING REGION 51B3

11 p4 21 p4

11p2
21 p2

21 p1
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 15 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 13 Of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

Fig.9
POSITION OF X-RAY DETECTOR: 21 p1-21 p2-21 p3-21 p.4-21 p1
CENTER POSITION OF REVOLUTION (--) : 31 p1'-31p2'-31 p3'-31p4'-31p1
(LINEAR MOVEMENT)

21 p4

11 p2

11 p3 21 p1
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 16 of 40

U.S. Patent Sheet 14 of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

Fig. 10A
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 17 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 15 Of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

Fig. 10B
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 18 of 40

U.S. Patent US 8,300,762 B2

 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 19 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 17 Of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 20 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 18 Of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

09 19
7
d
were on a one on to one in a

s.
Y f
k. } | | } | | | | | | 2----P
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 21 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 19 of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

to
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 22 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 20 Of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 23 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 21 of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

|?
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 24 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 22 of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

Fig. 17

~*

X w. W. 888 .'' was a

 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 25 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 23 of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

CN
S.
C
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 26 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 24 of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 27 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 25 Of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

Fig.20

2
25b

21b
2a
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 28 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 26 of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

SHIOXLW-X SHIOXLW-k,

NIV[/lc|W]ON83
HZW(NOIVSM)AJO
Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 29 of 40
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 30 of 40

U.S. Patent US 8,300,762 B2

Jo?Alga~4-5'i
!WWOOBNIV/W

/9

HZW(NOIVS)XHOM
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 31 of 40

U.S. Patent Oct. 30, 2012 Sheet 29 of 29 US 8,300,762 B2

Fig.22

S101
PANORAMA CT
OR
CT?
S102 PANORAMA S201
PANORAMA MODE CT MODE
S103
S2O2
S104 YES

S105

S106 SET MAGNIFYING FACTOR

Display A PANORAMA IMAGE S204 S302
S2O5 S303

S2O6 S304

S2O7 S305
DISPLAY ACT IMAGE DISPLAY ACT IMAGE
 Case 2:21-cv-00663-KSM Document 43-5 Filed 02/12/21 Page 32 of 40

US 8,300,762 B2
1. 2
X-RAY CT MAGINGAPPARATUS a tomographic section in an X-ray CT image can be enlarged.
However, the apparatus cannot perform panorama imaging.
TECHNICAL FIELD As explained above, the size of a reconstructed image can
be changed largely by shifting the position of the X-ray gen
The invention relates to an X-ray computerized tomogra erator relatively to that for the normal CT imaging. However,
phy (CT) imaging apparatus, in particular, a head X-ray CT it is desirable to image a still larger region of interest of an
imaging apparatus using an X-ray cone beam, Suitable for object.
dentistry, oral Surgery, opthalmology, otolaryngology and the DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
like.
10
BACKGROUND ART Problem to be Solved
It is a problem of the invention to image a still larger region
In an X-ray computer tomography apparatus using an of interest of an object.
Solutions
X-ray cone beam, an X-ray generator and an X-ray detector 15 A first X-ray CT imaging apparatus according to the inven
interposing an object is rotated around the object relative to tion includes a first Supporter for Supporting an X-ray gen
the object. During the rotation, the X-ray generator generates erator generating an X-ray cone beam and a two-dimensional
an X-ray cone beam having a cone or pyramid shape to X-ray detector, the X-ray generator and the X-ray detector
irradiate the object in various directions, and the X-ray detec being arranged to interpose an object, a rotary shaft for
tor having a two-dimensional detection plane measures an revolving the Supporter around the object, and a second Sup
intensity distribution of X-rays transmitting the object or a porter Supporting the rotary shaft. At least one of the second
projection of the object. The acquired projection data is back Supporter and an object holder for holding the object has a
projected to reconstruct the distribution of X-ray absorption movement mechanism for moving the first Supporter relative
coefficients and to create a two-dimensional tomographic to the object. In CT imaging with offset scan, the revolution of
view or a three-dimensional Stereoscopic view. 25 the supporter by the rotary shaft is performed at the same time
An X-ray detector for a wider imaging area is generally as relative two-dimensional displacement of the rotary shaft
more expensive. Therefore, it is proposed to image a wider by the movement mechanism. In the relative two-dimensional
area with a less-expensive X-ray detector having a smaller movement of the rotary shaft, a position of the rotary shaft is
detection area. In a normal X-ray cone beam CT imaging the moved according to a rotary angle of the first Supporter in two
entire imaging area is always included in an X-ray irradiation 30 dimensions in a plane crossing the rotary shaft along a circu
field, and the projection in the entire imaging area is detected. lar orbit around a center of a CT imaging region (offset from
The image reconstruction can be carried out by using projec the center of the CT imaging region).
tion data obtained during a rotation of 180 degrees. On the A second X-ray CT imaging apparatus according to the
other hand, X-ray cone-beam CT imaging apparatuses invention includes a first Supporter for Supporting an X-ray
described in JP-A 2002-204796 and 2005-6772 shift detec 35 generator generating an X-ray cone beam and a two-dimen
tion center in the X-ray detector in a direction perpendicular sional X-ray detector, the X-ray generator and the X-ray
to a line connecting the X-ray detector and an axis of the detector being arranged to interpose an object, a rotary shaft
object (or rotation center) for CT imaging. When the shift for revolving the first supporter around the object; and a
becomes larger, the X-ray detector detects, in each instant, not second Supporter Supporting the rotary shaft. At least one of
the entire area to be imaged, but a part thereof. However, by 40 the second Supporter and an object holder for holding the
using projection data obtained during a rotation of 360 object has a movement mechanism for moving the first Sup
degrees, an image of an area wider by the offset of the detec porter relative to the object. In a CT imaging with offset scan,
tion center can be reconstructed. If the position of the X-ray the revolution of the supporter by the rotary shaft is performed
detector is shifted so that the line connecting the X-ray detec at the same time as relative two-dimensional movement of the
tor and the rotation center reaches to an edge of the detection 45 rotary shaft by the movement mechanism. In the relative
plane, the X-ray detector detects, in each instant, the X-rays two-dimensional movement of the rotary shaft, a position of
transmitting a half of the area of interest to be imaged, while the rotary shaft is moved along a circular orbit in a plane
the width of the imaged area during the rotation of 360 intersecting the rotary shaft, and a center of revolution of the
degrees become twice in contrast to the normal CT imaging. X-ray cone beam around the object according to the rotation
In an X-ray CT imaging apparatus described in JP-A 2007 50 of the Supporter is set to a position different from a symmetri
29168, a distance between an X-ray generator (and/or an cal axis of the broadening X-ray cone beam.
X-ray detector) and the revolution center is changed relatively A third X-ray CT imaging apparatus according to the
in order to change the magnification factor. Because the revo invention includes a first Supporter for Supporting an X-ray
lution center of the X-ray generator and the X-ray detector is generator generating an X-ray cone beam and a two-dimen
different from the center of a region of interest in an object, 55 sional X-ray detector, the X-ray generator and the X-ray
the positions of the X-ray generator and the X-ray detector are detector being arranged to interpose an object; a rotary shaft
controlled so that the relative position relationship between for revolving the Supporter around the object; a second Sup
the X-ray generator, the object and the X-ray detector is kept porter Supporting the rotary shaft; and a mode changer for
constant. In a X-ray cone-beam CT imaging apparatus changing between normal CT imaging mode and offset CT
described in JP-A 2007-143948, one rotation driver can be 60 imaging mode. At least one of the second Supporter and an
used for CT and panorama imaging. However, CT imaging object holder for holding the object has a movement mecha
with an offset scan cannot be performed. In the apparatus, the nism for moving the first supporter relative to the object. In
rotary arm is set below a patient. Further. In an X-ray cone the normal CT imaging mode, the position of the rotary shaft
beam CT imaging apparatus described in JP-AHO9-327453, is fixed at a center of a region to be imaged in a plane perpen
an X-ray tube and an X-ray image intensifier (X-ray detector) 65 dicular to the rotary shaft, and the first supporter is revolved.
are mounted opposing to each other in a gantry, and they can In the offset CT imaging mode, the revolution of the first
be moved in the gantry along an arc. Thus, the field of view of Supporter by the rotary shaft is performed at the same time as
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US 8,300,762 B2
3 4
relative two-dimensional movement of the rotary shaft by the In the X-ray imaging apparatus, for example, the rotary
movement mechanism, and in the relative two-dimensional shaft or the object can be moved in a plane by moving the
movement of the rotary shaft, a position of the rotary shaft is rotary shaft or the object in the first and second directions.
moved along a circular orbit, and a revolution center of the In the X-ray imaging apparatus, preferably, an X-ray nar
X-ray cone beam around the object according to the rotation row beam can be irradiated so that at least one of panorama
of the first supporter is set to a position different from a imaging and cephalometric X-ray imaging becomes possible.
symmetrical axis of the broadening X-ray cone beam (offset
from the center of the CT imaging region). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In any of the X-ray CT imaging apparatuses, for example, 10
a displacement device is provided in the Supporter, and it FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining position relationship
displaces the rotary shaft held by a Supporting frame relative between an X-ray generator, an X-ray detector and an object
to the center axis of the imaging region. in a normal X-ray CT imaging.
In any of the X-ray CT imaging apparatuses, for example, FIG. 2A is a diagram for explaining position relationship
the displacement device has a first moving device mounted to 15
between an X-ray generator, an X-ray detector, an object and
the Supporting frame and displacing the rotary shaft in a plane a rotary shaft at four phases in an embodiment of the inven
crossing the center axis so as to move the center axis in the tion.
first direction, and a second moving device mounted to the FIG. 2B is a diagram of another example of X-ray CT
object holder and displacing the object in the second direction imaging with a magnifying factor larger than the counterpart
different from the first direction. In CT imaging, the simulta used in FIG. 2A.
neous displacement of the center axis in the first direction and FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining offset scan imaging.
the object in the second direction creates a synthesized FIG. 4A is a schematic diagram at two positions shown in
motion, to move the center axis while keeping the center of FIGS. 2A and 2B.
the irradiated region at the center of a circular orbit. FIG. 4B is a schematic diagram at the other two positions
In any of the X-ray CT imaging apparatuses, for example, 25 shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B.
the circular orbit is a true circle. FIG. 5A is a diagram of explaining a position relationship
In any of the X-ray CT imaging apparatuses, for example, between the X-ray generator, the X-ray detector, the object
the movement mechanism is set in the second Supporter or in and a rotary shaft at four phases in an embodiment of the
the object holder. invention.
In any of the X-ray CT imaging apparatuses, for example, 30 FIG. 5B is a diagram of another example X-ray imaging
the movement mechanism includes a first part in the second with a magnifying factor different from the counterpart used
in FIG.S.A.
Supporter for moving the position of the rotary shaft along a FIG. 6A is a schematic diagram at two positions shown in
first direction in a plane crossing the rotary shaft, and a second FIGS 5A and 5B.
part in the object holder for moving the position of the rotary 35 FIG. 6B is a schematic diagram at the other two positions
shaft in a second direction different from the first direction. shown in FIGS.5A and 5B.
Any of the X-ray CT imaging apparatuses, for example, FIG. 7 is a sectional view at the four positions shown in
has a device for restricting an irradiation field, wherein the FIGS 5A and 5B.
device restricts the X-ray beam generated by the X-ray gen FIG. 8 is a diagram on the movement of the position of the
erator to a narrow width beam having a width narrower in an 40 rotary shaft in a different embodiment.
axial direction of the rotary shaft than in a direction in parallel FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining an embodiment for
to the axial direction, and at least one of panorama imaging imaging an elliptical imaging region.
and cephalometric X-ray imaging is possible by irradiating FIG. 10A is a schematic diagram at two positions in the
the narrow width beam. embodiment shown in FIG. 9.
Advantages of The Invention 45 FIG. 10B is a schematic diagram at the other two positions
In an X-ray imaging apparatus of the invention, because an in the embodiment shown in FIG. 9.
X-ray cone beam irradiating a part of a region of an object to FIG. 11 is a sectional view at the four positions in the
be imaged is incident onto the X-ray detector, the region to be embodiment shown in FIG. 9.
imaged can be enlarged, in contrast to a case wherein the FIG. 12 is a diagram on an embodiment wherein an object
X-ray transmitting the entire region of interest is incident onto 50 is rotated.
the X-ray detector. Further, because the rotary shaft is moved FIG. 13 is a front view and a side view of an embodiment
relative to the center of the region to be imaged, the magni of an X-ray CT imaging apparatus.
fying factor of the reconstructed image can be changed. Thus, FIG. 14 is a partially broken top view of a plane movement
CT imaging can be performed in a larger region of interest. mechanism.
For example, if the supporter is revolved while shifted relative 55 FIG. 15 is a partially broken side view of the plane move
to the rotary shaft, CT imaging can be performed in a larger ment mechanism.
region of interest. Further, the X-ray generator and the object FIG.16 is a partially broken top view of another example of
are moved around the object while moving the rotary shaft a plane movement mechanism.
and the object, CT imaging can be performed in a larger FIG. 17 is a diagram of a different embodiment of an X-ray
region of interest. If the supporter is rotated while the object 60 CT imaging apparatus.
is fixed, CT imaging can be performed in a larger region of FIG. 18 is a diagram of a structure of a modified example of
interest. a rotary system.
In the X-ray imaging apparatus, for example, CT imaging FIG. 19 is a diagram for explaining a double-purpose appa
can be performed in a larger region of interest by rotating the ratus used for CT and panorama imaging.
center position of the rotary shaft of the supporter relative to 65 FIG. 20 is a diagram of an example of the X-ray detector.
a region to be imaged along a circular orbit having a center in FIG. 21A is a diagram of a control system of an X-ray
a region of interest while rotating the Supporter. imaging apparatus.
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US 8,300,762 B2
5 6
FIG. 21B is a diagram of another example of a control For comparison, a normal X-ray CT imaging, without
system of an X-ray imaging apparatus. using offset scan is explained with reference to FIG. 1 on the
FIG. 21C is a diagram of a further example of a control positions of the X-ray generator, an object and the X-ray
system of an X-ray imaging apparatus. detector. (In the appended drawings, p1, p.2, p3 and p4 added
FIG. 22 is a flowchart for controlling revolution. to the reference numerals represent four phases of Successive
rotation by 90 degrees.) An X-ray generator 11 and an X-ray
EXPLANATION OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS detector 21 are attached to the two ends of a supporter (not
shown), opposing to each other and interposing an imaging
11: X-ray generator. 21: X-ray detector. 30: Rotary arm. region 51A1 of an object between them. The X-ray generator
(supporter). 31: Rotation center. 32 Rotary shaft. 40: Chair 10 11 and the X-ray detector 21 are circled around the imaging
(Object holder). 51: Imaging region. 60: Controller. 60x: region 51A1. The revolution center (+) of mechanical move
X-axis control motor. 60y: Y-axis control motor. 60Z: Z-axis ment of the Supporter Supporting the X-ray generator 11 and
control motor. 60r: Rotation control motor. 61: Top frame the X-ray detector 21 coincides with the center position (x) of
(rotary shaft supporter). 41,65: XY table (Movement mecha the imaging region 51A1 during a CT imaging process.
15 The center axis of an X-ray cone beam generated by the
nism). X-ray generator 11 passes the center X of the imaging region
Preferred Embodiments
Explanation of Reference Symbols 51A1 and is detected by the X-ray detector 21. In the imaging,
the X-ray generator 11 and the X-ray detector 21 are circled
Embodiments the invention are explained below, referring around the object in a certain direction. In the drawings, the
to the appended drawings. positions of the X-ray generator 11 and the X-ray detector 21
In CT imaging, an X-ray generator and an X-ray detector are shown at four phases p1, p.2, p3 and p4 in one circulation.
are circled around an object relative to the object. The X-ray Next, various embodiments of offset scan X-ray CT imag
generator exposes the object to an X-ray cone beam, and the ing of the invention are explained.
X-ray detector having a two-dimensional detection plane FIGS. 2A and 2B schematically show the relative positions
detects X-rays transmitting the object. A larger object is desir 25 of the X-ray generator, an object and the X-ray detector in
able to be imaged in CT imaging. In the invention, in order to offset scan CT imaging in an embodiment of the invention at
image a larger region, the center axis 34 of X-rays (or the the four phases p1, p.2, p3 and p4 of successive rotation by 90
symmetrical axis of an X-ray cone beam) does pass the center degrees. The width of the imaging region becomes about
position (X) of the imaging region of an object and the center twice and thrice in FIGS. 2 and 3 respectively, in contrast to
axis becomes tangent to an arc 33 having its center at the 30 that in the normal CT imaging shown in FIG. 1. The X-ray
center position (X). Preferably, X-rays passing through the generator 11 generates an X-ray cone beam, and the X-ray
center of a region of interest of the object enter an edge of the detector 21 receives the X-ray cone beam transmitting the
two-dimensional detection plane of the X-ray detector. (A object.
Scan for imaging a larger imaging region with an X-ray cone In the offset scan imaging, the revolution center 31 (+) of
beam by irradiating a part of the imaging region is referred to 35 the X-ray generator 11 and the X-ray detector 21 is offset
as offset scan.) relative to the center (x) of the imaging region 51B1, 51C of
In the offset Scan, a region imaged in each instant by the the object, and it is moved continuously as shown in the
X-ray detector does not include the larger entire region to be drawing with 31p1=>31p2=>31p3=>31p4=>31p1. The cen
imaged, but data necessary for image reconstruction on the ter position (X) of the imaging region 51 is fixed at the center
entire region larger than the region imaged in each instant can 40 of a region of interest. The X-ray generator 11 and the X-ray
be acquired. The imaging operation may be continued beyond detector 21 Supported by the Supporter so as to oppose to each
360 degrees. In order to enlarge an imaging region by setting other are circled around the object by a rotary shaft 32 (FIG.
a variable magnifying factor in CT imaging, the center (the 3) supporting the supporter. Therefore, the revolution center
rotary shaft) of the revolving motion of the X-ray generator 31 agrees with the position of the rotary shaft 32. The revo
and the X-ray detector is moved in two dimensions relative to 45 lution center 31 (+) for the X-ray generator 11 and the X-ray
the object to circle around the object. detector 21 is separated from the center position (x) of the
The above-mentioned phrase of “relative to” means that imaging region 51, and it is circled around the center position
various situations mentioned below are allowed. For (X) of the imaging region. The circular trajectory of the revo
example, the Supporter Supporting the X-ray generator and lution center 31 is shown with a dashed line.
the X-ray detector is rotated, while the object is fixed, and the 50 The revolution period of the revolution center 31 agrees
rotary shaft of the supporter is rotated. Alternatively, the with that of the revolution of the X-ray generator 11 and the
supporter may be rotated, while the object is moved with a X-ray detector 21. A plane movement mechanism for moving
movement mechanism, and the position of the rotary shaft the rotary shaft 32 or the revolution center 31 for the X-ray
which Supports the Supporter Supporting the X-ray generator generator 11 and the X-ray detector 21 makes the revolution
and the X-ray detector is fixed. Alternatively, both the object 55 center 31 circle around the center position (X) of the imaging
and the Supporter are moved. In the relative two-dimensional region 51 as shown in the drawings as
displacement of the rotary shaft, it is moved offset from the 31p1=>31p2=>31p3=>31p4=>31p1. The position of the
center of the imaging region in a plane crossing the rotary rotary shaft 32 or the revolution center 31 is offset from the
shaft along a circular orbit around the center of the imaging center position (X) of the imaging region in a plane crossing
region. In CT imaging, a position relationship is required that 60 the rotary shaft 32. The trajectory of the circular motion is a
the X-ray generator and the X-ray detector are revolved true circle having a center thereof at the center (x) of the CT
around an object while keeping the distances between the imaging region. The period of the circular motion agrees with
X-ray generator, the object and the X-ray detector constant. the rotation of the supporter (rotary arm 30 in FIG. 3) by the
Therefore, in order to change the magnifying factor, the field rotary shaft 32. That is, in synchronization with one rotation
of view in CT imaging has to be changed under the require 65 of the Supporter Supporting the X-ray generator 11 and the
ment on the position relationship. Such X-ray CT imaging is X-ray detector 21 around the imaging region 51, the circular
explained below. trajectory of the rotary shaft 31 revolves around the imaging
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region 51. Thus, the position of the X-ray generator 11 is Situations of the relative rotation are shown schematically
moved as shown in the drawing with in FIGS. 4A and 4B as perspective views at the four phases
11p1=>11p2=>11p3=>11p4=>11p1, while that of the X-ray p1, p.2, p3 and p4 shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. In the offset scan
detector 21 is moved as shown similarly in the drawing with imaging, the object 50 is fixed at a predetermined position,
21p1=>21p2=>21p3=>21p4=>21p1. 5 and the rotary shaft 32 is rotated along a circular orbit by the
When an image of the object is taken in the imaging plane plane movement mechanism such as the XY table 65 while
of the X-ray detector 21, the magnifying factor is FS/FB the X-ray generator 11 and the X-ray detector 21 are revolved
wherein FS is distance between the X-ray generator 11 and around the object 50 by the rotary shaft 32.
the X-ray detector 21 and FB is distance between the X-ray On the other hand, the X-ray generator and the X-ray
generator and the center of the imaging region of the object. 10 detector are also moved or revolved around an object relative
The magnifying factor can be changed by setting the dis to the object even when the position of the rotary shaft is fixed
tances FS, FB appropriately. Because the X-ray cone beam and only rotation is allowed. FIGS.5A and 5B show relative
broadens as it propagates, the imaging region extends also in positions in Such cases between the X-ray generator, the
object and the X-ray detector at the four phases p1, p.2, p3 and
a direction vertical to the rotation plane. In the case of FIG. 15 p4 in one revolution. In FIGS.5A and 5B, the width of the
2B, the magnifying factor becomes Smaller by setting the imaging regions 51B2 and 51C2 is about double and twice as
center position (X) of the imaging region 51 nearer to the wide as that in the normal CT imaging shown in FIG. 1.
X-ray detector, relative to the case of FIG. 2A, and the imag The revolution center (+) of the X-ray generator and the
ing region becomes nearer to the X-ray detector and extends X-ray detector is set at a predetermined position, and the
more in the horizontal and vertical directions. center position (X) of the imaging region 51 is offset from the
In the offset scan imaging, X-rays along the symmetrical revolution center (+) and is moved in a circle relative to the
axis 34 of a broadening X-ray cone beam enter a position center position of the imaging region 51. The trajectory of the
offset from the center (x) of the imaging region 5181,51C1. center of the imaging region 51 is shown with dashed lines.
In the examples shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the position of the The symmetrical axis of the X-ray cone beam passes a posi
X-ray generator 11 is offset, as shown schematically in FIG. 25 tion crossing the rotary shaft 32. The relative movement of the
3, so that the X-rays passing the center of the imaging region object can be performed, for example, by moving the object
51 pass an edge 21a of the detection plane of the X-ray with the XY table 65 provided in a mechanism for holding the
detector 21. In each instant, the X-ray cone beam irradiates a object while rotating the rotary shaft. This situation is shown
part (a half in the examples) of the imaging region 51, and the in FIGS. 6A, 6B and 7 at the four phases p1, p.2, p3 and p4
X-rays transmitting the part of the imaging region 51 strike on 30 schematically. An object 50 is placed on a supporter 40, and
the X-ray detector 21. Thus, by a revolution by 360 degrees the object 50 is moved by a movement mechanism such as a
around the object, the entire imaging region is imaged, and a triaxial movement mechanism 41 provided in a chair for
three-dimensional image of the object is reconstructed based Supporting the object or a plane movement mechanism 46.
on the projection data acquired above. Further, the above-mentioned movement of the revolution
Next, the position relationship between the X-ray genera 35 center can be combined with the movement of the center of
tor, the object and the X-ray detector is explained. The X-ray the imaging region. For example, the revolution center of the
generator 11 and the X-ray detector 21 are rotated, while the X-ray generator and the X-ray detector is moved linearly in a
rotary shaft 32 is moved in two dimensions by a movement first direction, and simultaneously the center of the imaging
mechanism such as an XY table 65. The supporter such as a region 51 is moved linearly in a second direction crossing the
rotary arm 30 for supporting the X-ray generator 11 and the 40 first direction. In an example shown in FIG. 8, the relationship
X-ray detector 21 is supported by the rotary shaft32, which is between the X-ray generator, the X-ray detector, the object
supported by the XY table 65. The XY table 65 includes a and the rotary shaft is shown at the four phases p1, p2, p3 and
motor (not shown) for movement in X-axis and another motor p4. The rotary shaft 32 is moved linearly as shown in the
(not shown) for movement in Y-axis. The movement mecha drawing with 31p1'=>31p2=>31p3'=>31p4'=>31p1', while
nism shifts the X-ray generator 11 and the X-ray detector 21 45 the center (X) of the imaging region 51 is moved linearly as
by moving the rotary shaft 32 relative to the object 50. Fur shown in the drawing with
ther, while the Supporter which Supports the X-ray generator 51p1'=>51p2'=>51p3'=>51p4'=>51p1'. For example, by
11 and the X-ray detector 21 is shifted in a plane perpendicu driving the X table in the supporting frame and the Y table in
lar to the rotary shaft 32, it is rotated by a motor (not shown) the object holder simultaneously, a synthesized motion is
around the rotary shaft being displaced by the movement 50 created wherein the revolution center is moved along a circu
mechanism by driving the motors (not shown) incorporated in lar orbit relative to the object. Thus, the rotary shaft 32 is
the XY table 65. moved in a plane while it rotates. Alternatively, non-linear
Then, the trajectory of the X-ray generator 11 and the motions can be used instead of the linear motions.
X-ray detector 21 relative to the object 50 is obtained as a The position of the rotary center 31 is not necessarily
synthesized motion resulting from the simultaneous driving 55 limited to that of the rotary shaft 32. For example, the rotary
of the movement and revolution (first revolution) of the rotary shaft 32 is revolved in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 4A
shaft 32 around the object by a movement mechanism such as and 4B, but the object may be revolved further. In medical
an XY table and the revolution (second revolution) of the cases wherein the object is a patient, it is desirable generally
X-ray generator 11 and the X-ray detector 21 around the that the position of a patient is fixed and that the Supporter is
rotary shaft 32 being displaced by the first revolution. The 60 moved by a movement mechanism while revolved around the
movement mechanism makes the first revolution synchronize rotary shaft because a patient feels fear or bad when he or she
with the second revolution. In concrete, the angular velocity is moved or revolved.
of the second revolution is set to the same as the first revolu Next, an embodiment for imaging an elliptical region is
tion. Thus, the X-ray generator 11 and the X-ray detector 21 explained. In an example shown in FIGS. 9, 10A, 10B and 11,
are revolved around the object 50 while the distance of the 65 a supporting frame 61 supports the rotary shaft 32 which
X-ray generator 11 and the X-ray detector 21 relative to the rotatably Supports the rotary arm 30 having the X-ray gen
object is kept constant. erator 11 and the X-ray detector 21. An X table 65c provided
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in the supporting frame 61 moves the rotary shaft 32 for the frame 61, a pair of vertical beams 63 supporting the lateral
rotary arm 30 in X direction, while the position of the object beams 61, and a base 64 fixing the pair of vertical beams 63.
50 is fixed. Thus, an elliptical region 51 is imaged. Alterna The base 64 is also a base of the entire apparatus.
tively, the rotary shaft 32 can be moved linearly by the Sup An XY table (movement mechanism) 65 is provided inside
porting frame in a direction, while the imaging region is the top frame 61, and the rotary shaft 32 for the rotary arm 30
revolved. Such an elliptical imaging region can be effectively is fixed to the XY table 65. The XY table 65 rotatably supports
used, particularly for a dental arch in dentistry. As mentioned and displaces the rotary shaft 32. The rotary arm 30 is driven
above, the pattern of the trajectory of the rotary shaft 32 is not by a motor 60r (not shown) on imaging at a constant revolu
necessarily a circle, and an appropriate shape Such as an tion speed around an object. The lateral beams 62 are moved
ellipse can be adopted according to the purpose of the imag 10 up and down by a lift mechanism 66 provided in the vertical
1ng. beam 63.
Further, as shown in FIG. 12 schematically, an object 50 is On the other hand, a triaxial movement mechanism 41 is
placed on a table 45. The object 50 is rotated by rotating the provided on the base 63, and a chair 40 as a part of a device for
table 45, while the positions of an X-ray generator 11 and an holding an object is placed thereon. A device for fixing the
X-ray detector 21 are fixed. Such an apparatus can be applied 15 patient’s head is provided above the back of the chair 40. A
for nondestructive testing to an object Such as a semiconduc triaxial movement mechanism is provided inside the chair 40,
tor component other thana person. In this case, too, the X-ray and an object sitting on the chair 40 is moved by the triaxial
generator 11 and the X-ray detector 21 are revolved relative to movement mechanism 41 in X,Y and Z directions or front and
the object 50. A rotary arm 30 holds the X-ray generator 11 back, left and right, and up and down directions. X, Y and Z
and the X-ray detector 21 at both ends thereof, while oppos tables (not shown) for linear translation provided inside the
ing them to each other. The X-rays passing the center of the triaxial movement mechanism 41 perform precise linear
imaging region of the object 50 strike the two-dimensional movement with a known cross roller guide, a conventional
detection plane of the X-ray detector 21 at points offset from combinations of a bearing and a guide or the like.
the center of the detection plane in the rotation direction. In The movement of the X, Y and Z tables for linear move
this example, the X-ray passing the center of the imaging 25 ment may have a mechanism such as a rack-and-pinion, a ball
region of the object is arranged to strike an edge 21a of the screw or a screwed shaft, and it is desirable that the position
two-dimensional detection plane of the X-ray detector 21. can be set precisely. The triaxial movement mechanism 41 is
A rotary shaft 32 for rotating the rotary arm 30 is supported an example of a movement mechanism for moving an object
rotatably by a Supporting frame (shown with dashed lines), in a plane perpendicular to the rotary shaft32. In this embodi
and the frame is fixed to a base (not shown). On the other 30 ment, the triaxial movement mechanism 41 moves the chair
hand, the object 50 is placed on the table 45, and a movement 40 in a first direction such as X direction, in a second direction
mechanism 46 moves the table 45 in the two-dimensional perpendicular to the first direction such as Y direction and in
plane. The movement mechanism 46 is fixed to a base (not a third direction perpendicular to the first and second direc
shown). Thus, the distances of the X-ray generator 11 and the tions such as Z direction. However, the chair 40 is moved
X-ray detector 21 relative to the object 50 can be changed, and 35 generally in a first direction and a second direction different
the magnifying factor can be changed. The movement mecha from the first direction. In this example, a movement mecha
nism 46 changes the position of the object 50 in a plane so as nism is provided both in the top frame and in the chair.
to revolve the object 50 around the rotary shaft 32. On the Alternatively, it may be provided only in one of them. It is also
other hand, the rotary shaft 32 makes the X-ray generator 11 possible that the movement mechanisms in the top frame and
and the X-ray detector 21 revolve around the object 50 in a 40 in the chair have different functions. For example, one of
horizontal plane. them has a mechanism for moving only in X direction and the
Therefore, the trajectory of the X-ray generator 11 and the other has a mechanism for moving only in Y direction.
X-ray detector 21 relative to the object 50 is obtained, if An operational panel 67 used by an operator for instructing
viewed from the object 50, as a result of synthesis of two operations is provided at a surface of one of the vertical beams
motions driven simultaneously, that is, a revolution (first 45 63. The operational panel 67 has a display screen 68 for
revolution) of the rotary shaft 32 around the object by the inputting and displaying instructions for various operations.
movement mechanism 46 Such as an XY table, and a revolu The operational panel 67 also plays a role as a mode switch
tion (second revolution) of the X-ray generator 11 and the for changing between normal CT imaging mode and offset
X-ray detector 21 around the rotary shaft 32 being displaced CT imaging mode. X-rays transmitting an object are detected
by the first revolution. The movement mechanism 46 syn 50 as projection data by the X-ray detector 21, and the data is sent
chronizes the first revolution with the second revolution. In to the computer M2 having a main body 70', a keyboard 71 for
concrete, the angular velocity of the first revolution is the receiving key-inputs and a display device 72.
same as that of the second revolution. Thus, the relative posi Next, examples of the movement mechanism provided in
tion relationship of the X-ray generator 11 and the X-ray the rotary arm 3 are explained. They can be applied to a gate
detector 21 relative to the object 50 is kept constant, while the 55 type apparatus shown in FIG. 13 and to an apparatus shown in
X-ray generator 11 and the X-ray detector 21 revolves around FIG. 17. A portion on the control of the position and rotation
the object 50. of the rotary arm (supporter) 30 is shown in a partially broken
Next, the structure of the X-ray CT imaging apparatus is top view shown in FIG. 14 and in a partially broken top view
explained in detail. shown in FIG. 15. Inside the top frame (rotary shaft sup
FIG. 13 shows (a) a front view and (b) a side view of a cone 60 porter) 61, a movement mechanism is provided for displacing
beam X-ray CT imaging apparatus according to an embodi the position of the rotary shaft 32 for the rotary arm 30 in two
ment. The X-ray CT imaging apparatus has a main body M1 dimensions. An XY table is used as the movement mecha
and a computer M2. In the main body M1, a main frame 60 nism which can move front and back and left and right in two
having a very rigid structure has a top frame 61 (a device for dimensions. The XY table has an X table 35X and a Y table
rotatably Supporting the rotary shaft) supporting a rotary arm 65 35Y. The Y table 35Y is moved by a motor 60y in the front
(supporter) 30 at a lower side with a rotary shaft 32, a pair of and-back direction (Y direction), and the X table 35X. Sup
lateral beams 62 fixing and holding the two ends of the top ported by the Y table 35Y and supporting the rotary shaft 32
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extending vertically, is moved by a motor 60 x in a lateral exposed to an X-ray cone beam, while X-rays transmitting the
direction (X direction) to move the rotary shaft 32. The object are detected by the X-ray detection section 20 as pro
motors 60x and 60y can be controlled independently of each jection data. The detected projection data is sent to a computer
other. The tables 35X, 35Y and the motors 60x, 60y are M2, similarly to the X-ray CT imaging apparatus shown in
components of an example of the moving mechanism driven 5 FIG. 13, but the detailed explanation is omitted here. In the
to move the rotary shaft 32 relative to the object 50 in two X-ray CT imaging apparatus, an X-ray CT imaging which
dimensions and to rotates the rotary shaft 32 to revolve the does not need to move an object is possible among various
X-ray generator 11 and the X-ray detector 21 relative to the embodiments of CT imaging explained with reference to
object at the same time. FIGS 2 to 11.
The longitudinal direction of the rotary arm is denoted as Y 10 In order to move the rotary shaft, a different rotary shaft
direction, and a direction perpendicular to the Y direction is movement mechanism can be used instead of the above
denoted as X direction in the position shown in FIG. 15. mentioned bearing or XY table. For example, a connection
(Needless to say, two shafts movable in two dimensions can member or a plurality of connection members connected in
also be used, as will be explained later on FIG. 18 and the series may be used to move the rotary shaft in a plane per
like.) The rotary shaft 32 is connected to a rotation table, 15 pendicular to the rotary shaft. For example, the connection
which is connected to a rotary arm 30 via a bearing 37. A member is a member which can be extended freely.
motor 60r transmits a rotation force with a belt 38 to the FIG. 18 shows another example of a plane movement
bearing 36 in order to rotate the rotary arm 30. The rotary mechanism controlled with polar coordinates Schematically.
shaft 32, the bearing 36, the belt 38 and the motor 60r are The plane movement mechanism has two arms AM1 and
components of an example of a rotary mechanism for rotating AM2. A reference point PT1 is fixed relative to the main body
the rotary arm 30. By driving a motor 60x for driving the X of the X-ray imaging apparatus, and a first arm AM1 is Sup
table 35X and another motor 60y for driving the Y table 35Y ported at the point PT1 rotatably. Further, the other end of the
according to a predetermined program, the rotary shaft 32 can first arm AM1 is connected rotatably to en end of the second
be moved front and back (Y direction) and right and left (X arm AM2, and the other end of the second arm supports the
direction) while the rotary arm 30 is rotated. 25 rotary shaft (+) of the rotary arm rotatably.
In the XY table shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the motor 60r The two arms AM1, AM2 and the rotary shaft 32 are
for controlling the rotation is provided at the side of the rotary controlled by motors (not shown) provided for controlling the
arm 30. However, as shown in FIG.16, X,Y tables 35X, 35Y rotation angles. The rotation angle 01 of the first arm AM1
and a motor 60r for controlling the rotation may be arranged relative to the main body of the X-ray imaging apparatus and
in the same housing of the top frame 61. In the example shown 30 the relative rotation angle 02 of the second arm AM2 relative
in FIG. 16, the motor 60y for controlling Y axis drives the Y to the first arm AM1 are controlled by the motors for control
table35y inY direction in the housing of the top frame 61. The ling the rotation angles so as to move the rotary shaft 32 in the
rotary shaft 32 for the rotary arm 30 is supported by the X two dimensional plane perpendicular to the rotary shaft. In
table35X supported by theY table 35Y rotatably via a bearing the upper side in FIG. 18, the positions of the X-ray generator
37". The X table 35X is driven in X direction by a motor 60x 35 11, the rotary shaft (+) and the X-ray detector 21 are shown at
for control in X axis. A belt for driving the bearing 37" is also the four phases of successive rotation by 90 degrees as shown
arranged in the same housing though not shown in FIG. 16. with arrows.
In the X-ray CT imaging apparatus shown in FIGS. 13 to As explained above, the first part for moving the position of
16, various types of CT imaging explained above with refer the rotary shaft in a first direction in the plane perpendicular
ence to FIGS. 2 to 16 can be performed. Needless to say, the 40 to the rotary shaft may be an X table 35x in an XY table or a
structure of the X-ray CT imaging apparatus can be modified first arm AM1 in a plane movement mechanism controlled
or simplified according to the type of CT imaging. with the polar coordinates. Further, the second part for mov
FIG. 17 shows another embodiment of the X-ray CT imag ing the position of the rotary shaft in a second direction
ing apparatus. A main body M1 of the X-ray CT imaging different from the first direction may be a Y table 35Y in the
apparatus has a base 80 placed on a base floor, an upright 45 XY table or a secondarm AM2 in the plane movement mecha
support 81 extending from the base 80, and a lift frame 82. nism. The rotary shaft held at the end of the second arm AM2
while it does not include a chair. The lift frame 82 is attached is moved easily by the rotations by the motors.
to the upright Support 81 so as to be moved up and down by a Further, when the irradiation field of X-ray beam is limited
motor 60Z (not shown) for controlling the up and down move to create an X-ray narrow beam, at least one of panorama
ment. The lift frame 82 has a bottom frame 83 extending 50 X-ray imaging and cephalometric imaging can be performed.
horizontally from the lower end thereof, and the bottom frame For example, a dual-purpose apparatus can be realized by
83 has a chin rest 84 so that the position of a patient can be adding a panorama imaging function to an X-ray CT imaging
adjusted easily. A patient as an object 50 stands before the apparatus by making it possible for panorama imaging to
base 80 and places his or her chin on the chin rest 84. The create a narrow beam and to limit an area in a sensor from
patient’s head is interposed and immobilized by side holders 55 which data are read. For example, as shown in FIG. 19, a
(not shown) extending from the two sides of the chin rest 84. primary slit mechanism 12 is arranged near the X-ray gen
Thus, the object is positioned so that a region of interest to be erator 11 at the front side thereof. It can set a plurality of slit
imaged is located at an imaging region. Further, a top frame openings (irradiation fields) for applications such as CT
60 extends forward from a top end of the lift frame 82, and it imaging, panorama imaging and the like.
supports the rotary arm 30 rotatably. 60 The primary slit mechanism 12 is an example of a device
The rotary arm (supporter) 30 has a U-character shape, and for limiting an irradiation field for limiting an X-ray beam
it has an X-ray generation section 10 and an X-ray detection generated by the X-ray generator to an X-ray narrow beam
section 20, opposing to each other. A plane movement mecha extending in a direction in parallel to axial direction of the
nism as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 is arranged inside the top rotary shaft. Alternatively, a mechanism made of a pair of
frame 61, but the explanation on the plane movement mecha 65 shielding members for controlling the width of an opening
nism is omitted here for the brevity of explanation. In CT and another pair of shielding members for controlling the
imaging, the rotary arm 30 is rotated, and the object 50 is height of the opening is provided. The slit opening is adjusted
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by moving each of the shielding members in the two pairs by A controller 67 provided in the main body M1 of X-ray
motors to set the distances between the pairs of the shielding imaging apparatus has a central processing unit (CPU) 67a
members, as desired, in correspondence to the width and the for controlling the entire main body, and the CPU 67a con
height of the slit opening. FIG. 19 shows a case (a) of CT trols the X-ray generation section 10 and the X-ray detection
X-ray imaging and a case (b) of panorama X-ray imaging. For section 20 with control devices 73 and 74 controlling the
CT imaging, the primary slit mechanism 12 is activated by a X-ray generation section and the X-ray detection section
motor (not shown) so that a rectangular slit opening for CT respectively. The controller 67 is further connected to an
imaging is moved before the X-ray generator 11. For pan operation device 67 to be operated by an operator for input
orama imaging, the primary slit mechanism 12 is activated so 10
ting an instruction and a display device 68 for displaying
that an opening with a narrow slit is moved before the X-ray information to the operator.
generator 11. Further, the controller 70' in the computer M2 has a central
In the X-ray detection section 20, a second slit mechanism processing unit (CPU) 70a for controlling the entire com
may be arranged before the X-ray detector 21 in order to limit puter, and the CPU 70a is connected to a storage device 75a,
the irradiation field to the X-ray detector 21. In an example 15 an image processor 76 and a coordinate calculator 77. The
shown in FIG. 20, an X-ray detector 21 having an X-ray controller 70' is further connected to an operation device 71 to
sensor 21a for CT imaging and an X-ray sensor 21b for be operated by an operator for inputting an instruction and a
panorama imaging can be inserted in a cassette 25. The cas display device 72 for displaying information to the operator.
sette 25 as a secondary slit mechanism has a slit opening 25a In CT imaging, if a magnifying factor is set with the opera
for CT imaging and another slit opening 25b for panorama tion panel 67 before starting CT imaging, the controller 67
imaging. When the type of imaging is selected, the slit open activates the motors 60x and 60y for moving in the X-axis and
ing in correspondence to the selected type is positioned in the Y-axis so as to move the object relative to the X-ray
before the relevant X-ray sensor used for the selected type in detector 21 towards the X-ray detector 21 and vise versa.
the X-ray detector 21. Further, the motor 60Z for moving in the Z-axis is activated to
In panorama imaging, the X-ray generator 11 has to project 25 adjust the height of the X-ray generator 11 and the X-ray
a narrow beam along the dental arch generally in frontward detector 21 relative to the object 50. When CT imaging is
direction. Then, when panorama imaging is instructed, a con started, the controller 67" activates the motor 60r to rotate the
trol section 70 sets a narrow irradiation field such as 10 mm rotary arm (supporter) 30 and controls the motors 60x and 60y
times 60 mm to generate a narrow beam and limits an area to move the revolution center along a circle having a prede
from which data is read in the two-dimensional dental X-ray 30 termined radius. The principle of the imaging has already
detector 21. Then, the XY table 65 is controlled while the been explained with reference to FIG. 2 and the like.
rotary arm 30 is rotated by the rotary shaft32, so as to move The storage device 75 in the controller 70' stores a control
the X-ray generator 11 and the X-ray detector 21 in corre program for controlling CT imaging and a calculation pro
spondence to the trajectory for panorama imaging. Thus, the gram for calculating three-dimensional CT data from the
rotary shaft 32 is rotated, while the revolution center is moved 35 projection data. With the operation panel 67, an operator sets
continuously along the trajectory of panorama imaging for the type of imaging (for example, CT imaging or panorama
projecting the narrow beam in the frontward direction in the imaging), irradiation field and the like. Based on the opera
course of rotation. Then, a panorama image is reconstructed tor's instructions received from the operation panel 67, the
by placing image data side by side in lateral direction in the controller 67 in the main body M1 controls the X-ray imag
sequence of imaging operation. 40 ing apparatus by activating the programs for various controls
Next, control systems for the X-ray CT imaging appara and data processing. The controller 67 moves the rotary shaft
tuses are explained. 32 for the rotary arm 30 in X and Y directions by controlling
A control system for an X-ray CT imaging apparatus the motors 60x and 60y and moves up and down the rotary arm
shown in FIG. 21A is applied to an X-ray CT imaging appa 30 by activating the motor 60Z.
ratus wherein an object is fixed while CT imaging is per 45 The controller 67 controls the primary slit mechanism 12
formed. The X-ray CT imaging apparatus has a main body at the side of the X-ray generator 11 and the secondary slit
M1 and a computer (or a workstation) M2. An X-ray genera mechanism 25 at the side of the X-ray detector 21 so as to
tor 11 in an X-ray generation section 10 for generating an change the irradiation fields for the X-ray generator 11 and
X-ray cone beam and a two-dimensional X-ray detector 21 in the X-ray detector 21. Further, the controller 73 controls the
a cassette 22 in an X-ray detection section 20 are Supported at 50 X-ray detector 21 to read X-ray image data. On imaging, the
two ends of a supporter (such as a rotary arm 30) while rotary shaft 32 is revolved around the object with the XY table
opposing to each other, and they are rotated around an object and at the same time the motor 60r is driven at a constant
50 held by an object holder 40. The position of the X-ray speed to rotate the rotary shaft 32 so as to rotate the rotary arm
detector 21 is shifted so that the X-ray beam does not pass the 30 around the object. Thus, an X-ray cone beam is irradiated
center of an imaging region 51 of the object 50, while the 55 to the object 50 and the X-ray transmitting the object is
revolution center 32 is moved along a circle 33 around the detected by the X-ray detector 21, while the X-ray generator
center position (X) of the imaging region of the object. Thus a 11 and the X-ray detector 21 are revolved, and the X-ray
wider region can be imaged. image data acquired with the X-ray detector 21 are stored in
As shown in FIG. 16, the top frame Supporting the Sup the storage device 75.
porter 30 includes the motor 60x and the motor 60y for mov 60 The image reconstruction program in the image processor
ing along X-axis and along Y axis, respectively, and the motor 76 reconstructs an image with the coordinate calculator 77
60r for rotation, and the motor 60Z for lifting the top frame based on the X-ray image data at the pixels acquired in the
along Z-axis. The X-axis motor 60x, the Y-axis motor 60y and storage device 75. The reconstruction calculation may be
the Z-axis motor 60Z move the XY table for supporting the performed similarly to the case of half-scan disclosed in JP-A
rotary shaft in X, Y and Z directions. Further, the motor 60r 65 2002-204796. It is different from a calculation for a normal
provided for rotation rotates the supporter 30 via the rotary CT imaging, for example, on a horizontal table on correspon
shaft. dence between a pixel in the two dimensional detection plane
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of the X-ray detector 21 and a Voxel in the imaging region. It selected imaging configuration. The rotation of the Supporter
may be prepared only on a part of the imaging region. and the two-dimensional relative movement of the rotary
A control system for an X-ray CT imaging apparatus shaft by the movement mechanism are performed simulta
shown in FIG. 21B is applied to a XT imaging apparatus neously. Next, a CT image is reconstructed based on the
wherein an object is moved. It is different from the control acquired projection data (S304), and the obtained CT image is
system shown in FIG. 21A in a point that a driversection 55 displayed (S305).
for the triaxial movement mechanism is provided for driving In the above-mentioned embodiments, the magnifying fac
the object holder 40. In the driversection 55, the X-axis motor tor can be changed. However, needless to say, X-ray CT
55.x, the Y-axis motor 55y and the Z-axis motor 55z are driven. imaging can be performed even when the magnifying factoris
The motor 60r for rotating the supporter 30 is provided in the 10 fixed, by displacing the rotary shaft 32 of the rotary mecha
Supporting frame, similarly to the control system shown in nism from the revolution center (X) of imaging region and by
FIG. 21A. Except the above point, the control system shown simultaneously driving the rotation of the rotary arm 30 and
in FIG.21B is similar to that shown in FIG.21A, and detailed the movement of the rotary shaft 32 and/or the imaging region
explanation is omitted here. 51. Then, according to the synthesized motion, the center of
A control system for an X-ray CT imaging apparatus 15 the imaging region 51 of an object can always be set to the
shown in FIG. 21C is used for a CT imaging apparatus revolution center (X) of imaging region on imaging different
wherein an object is moved while the rotary shaft is also from the rotary shaft of the rotation mechanism.
moved in CT imaging. In contrast to the control system for an The rotary arm does not necessarily Support the X-ray
X-ray CT imaging apparatus shown in FIG. 21A, the Y-axis generator and the X-ray detector extending vertically above
motor 60y for the Y table is provided besides the motor 60r for patient’s head. As shown in an example shown in JP-A 2007
rotation, while an XZ table is provided in the side of the object 143948, the rotary arm may be positioned below a patient,
holder 40 including the X-axis motor 60x for driving the X and the X-ray generator and the X-ray detector may be
table and the Z-axis motor 60Z for driving the Z table. Except attached to supports extending upward from the lower side.
the above points, the control system is similar to that shown in The rotary shaft 32 is arranged vertically in the embodi
FIG. 21A, and detailed explanation is omitted here. 25 ment. However, it may be arranged in a horizontal direction as
FIG.22 shows a flowchart of imaging control by the CPU a so-called C-arm, and, for example, a patient lying on his or
67a in the controller 67 in the double-purpose apparatus for her back is imaged. In this case, the X-Y table moves the
CT and panorama imaging for controlling imaging opera rotary shaft in a plane extending vertically.
tions. First, it is decided whether the imaging type instructed The invention can be applied not only to an X-ray CT
by an operator is panorama imaging or CT imaging. (S101). 30 imaging apparatus for dentistry, but also generally to an X-ray
If the imaging type is panorama imaging, panorama mode is CT apparatus for imaging an object with a relatively small
set to the apparatus (S102), and imaging conditions for pan imaging region, such as an X-ray CT apparatus for otolaryn
orama imaging are set to the apparatus (S103). For example, gology.
a slit for panorama imaging is selected, an X-ray beam orbit The invention claimed is:
for panorama imaging is selected, the object and the rotary 35 1. An X-ray CT imaging apparatus comprising:
arm are positioned relative to each other, parameters for the a first Supporter for Supporting an X-ray generator gener
rotation of the rotary arm 30 and the movement of the rotary ating an X-ray cone beam and a two-dimensional X-ray
shaft 32 are set, and a range from which data is read is set to detector, the X-ray generator and the X-ray detector
the X-ray detector 21. Then, panorama imaging is performed being arranged to interpose an object, the X-ray detector
with the imaging conditions mentioned above (S104). Next, a 40 being adapted to generate a data of animage of the object
panorama image is reconstructed (S105), and the obtained to be processed for calculating a three dimensional CT
panorama image is displayed (S106). In the case of the CT data of the object;
imaging apparatus which does not perform panorama imag a rotary shaft extending vertically for rotating the first
ing, steps S101 to S106 are omitted. supporter around the rotary shaft to revolve the X-ray
On the other hand, if CT imaging is instructed at S101, CT 45 generator and the X-ray detector around the object;
mode is set to the apparatus (S201). Next, it is decided a second Supporter Supporting the rotary shaft;
whether offset scan imaging is selected or not (S202). If offset a movement mechanism for moving the first Supporter
scan is not selected or normal scan is instructed, magnifying relative to the object; and
factor for CT imaging is set (S203), and a slit for CT scan is a plane movement mechanism for moving the rotary shaft
selected, the orbit of X-ray beam for normal CT imaging is 50 relative to the object in the movement mechanism;
selected, the rotary arm 30 is positioned relative to the object wherein in an offset scan CT imaging the revolution of the
for positioning the object (S204). Then, normal CT imaging is first supporter around the rotary shaft is performed at the
performed with the imaging conditions set as explained above same time as a relative two-dimensional movement of
(S205), wherein the center of the revolution is fixed at the the rotary shaft by the plane movement mechanism; and
center of the CT imaging region in a plane crossing the rotary 55 wherein in the relative two-dimensional movement of the
shaft, and the Supporter is rotated. Next, a CT image is recon rotary shaft, a position of the rotary shaft is moved
structed based on the acquired projection data (S206), and the according to a rotary angle of the first Supporter in two
obtained CT image is displayed (S207). dimensions in a plane crossing the rotary shaft along a
On the other hand, if offset scan imaging is selected for CT circular orbit around a center of a CT imaging region, the
imaging (NO at S202), magnifying factor is set to the appa 60 rotary angle of the first supporter being 360 degrees or
ratus (S301), and a slit for CT imaging is selected, the orbit of O.
X-ray beam for offset CT imaging is selected, the rotary arm 2. The X-ray CT imaging apparatus according to claim 1,
is positioned relative to the object (S302). If necessary, a step wherein in the relative two-dimensional movement of the
for selecting a slit is added, and a slit is selected according to rotary shaft in the offset scan CT imaging, a center of revo
the selection. Then, offset CT imaging is performed with the 65 lution of the X-ray cone beam around the object according to
imaging conditions set as explained above (S303), wherein the rotation of the first supporter is set to a position different
necessary imaging conditions are set according to the from a symmetrical axis of the broadening X-ray cone beam.
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3. The X-ray CT imaging apparatus according to claim 1, 7. The X-ray CT imaging apparatus according to claim 6.
further comprising a mode changer for changing between wherein a first part of the movement mechanism for moving
normal CT imaging mode and offset CT imaging mode; the position of the rotary shaft along a first direction in the
wherein in the normal CT imaging mode, the position of plane crossing the rotary shaft is set in the second Supporter,
the rotary shaft is fixedata center of a CT imaging region 5 and a second part of the movement mechanism for moving the
to be imaged in the plane crossing the rotary shaft, and position of the rotary shaft in a second direction different
the first supporter is revolved, and from the first direction is set in the object holder.
wherein in the offset CT imaging mode, said offset scan CT 8. The X-ray CT imaging apparatus according to claim 1,
imaging is executed. further comprising a device for restricting an irradiation field,
4. The X-ray CT imaging apparatus according to claim 1, 10 wherein the device restricts the X-ray beam generated by the
wherein the circular orbit is a true circle. X-ray generator to a narrow width beam having a width
5. The X-ray CT imaging apparatus according to claim 1, narrower in a direction crossing an axial direction of the
rotary shaft than in a direction in parallel to the axial direction,
wherein the movement mechanism is set in the second Sup and at least one of panorama imaging and cephalometric
porter. 15 X-ray imaging is possible by irradiating the narrow width
6. The X-ray CT imaging apparatus according to claim 1, beam.
further comprising an object holder for holding the object,
wherein the movement mechanism is set in the object holder.
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