JP4241753B2 - X-ray sensor cassette and X-ray imaging apparatus - Google Patents

Description

    The present invention is used in dental practice, oral surgery, otolaryngology, and the like, and is used for both panoramic X-ray photography and X-ray photography of the head, that is, X-ray transmission images of the entire jaw. The present invention relates to a line sensor cassette and an X-ray imaging apparatus using the X-ray sensor cassette.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, dental X-ray imaging apparatuses that can perform not only panoramic X-ray imaging but also cephalo X-ray imaging using the same X-ray generator have been used.

  For example, in the following Patent Document 1 and the following Patent Document 2 relating to the application of the present applicant, such an X-ray imaging apparatus is proposed, but these all use a film-type cassette.

On the other hand, an X-ray sensor cassette having a function of generating and outputting an X-ray transmission image in the form of an electric signal with respect to a film-type cassette allows an image to be obtained immediately, and enables image processing. It has advantages not found in conventional film-type cassettes, such as the ability to reduce the X-ray exposure due to sensitivity, and the present applicant uses the X-ray sensor cassette in order to take advantage of this advantage. For example, Patent Document 3 below proposes an X-ray imaging apparatus capable of performing not only panoramic X-ray imaging but also cephalo X-ray imaging.
JP-A-3-73306 No. 7-15524 JP-A-8-19534

  However, in panoramic X-ray photography, the vertical length of a required image is usually 15 cm, whereas in Cephalo X-ray photography, usually 25 cm is required, and X-rays for taking both images using a film cassette are used. The photographing apparatus uses film cassettes dedicated to panorama and cephalo, respectively, and it has not been considered to share these.

  On the other hand, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 7-143981 proposes to use an X-ray sensor shared by both panorama and cephalo even in an X-ray imaging apparatus that takes over this flow and performs both imaging using an X-ray sensor. However, since the sensor having a length of about 15 cm for panoramic X-ray photography is also used for the cephalometer, in cephalometric photography, the sensor is mounted horizontally on the cephalometric head fixing device, and the sensor and the X-ray It was necessary to move the generator up and down in synchronization.

  For this reason, a large-scale mechanism for moving the X-ray generator up and down is necessary, and the apparatus is expensive. Further, since the sensor does not include a TDI clock signal generator, the X-ray imaging apparatus cannot be controlled from the sensor side.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and can be used for both panoramic imaging and cephalometric X-ray imaging. The cost of the X-ray imaging apparatus is reduced, and X-rays are detected from the X-ray sensor cassette side. An object of the present invention is to provide an X-ray sensor cassette capable of controlling an imaging apparatus and an X-ray imaging apparatus using the X-ray sensor cassette.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present applicant has proposed an X-ray sensor cassette and an X-ray imaging apparatus using the X-ray sensor cassette.

  The X-ray sensor cassette according to claim 1 is used in an X-ray imaging apparatus capable of both panoramic X-ray imaging and cephalo X-ray imaging, and generates and outputs an X-ray transmission image in the form of an electric signal. An X-ray sensor cassette having a function to detachably attachable to both a panoramic X-ray imaging cassette holder and a Cephalo X-ray imaging cassette holder. The TDI clock generator generates a TDI clock signal for generating a TDI clock signal, a TDI clock generator for generating a TDI clock signal, and a TDI frequency control information for controlling the frequency of the TDI clock signal. TDI clock control means for generating a clock signal and controlling the time delay integration of the charge image generated on the image sensor in response to the TDI clock signal. , Characterized by switching and setting the control mode of the TDI clock control means panoramic X-ray photographing mode, any of the cephalometric X-ray imaging mode.

  This X-ray sensor cassette is used in an X-ray imaging apparatus capable of both panoramic X-ray imaging and cephalo X-ray imaging, and can be mounted on both panoramic and cephalo cassette holders. The length is such that shooting is possible, and a panoramic shooting is sufficiently possible with an image sensor of this length.

  Therefore, this cassette can be mounted on the panorama cassette holder to perform panoramic X-ray imaging, and can be mounted on the cephalo cassette holder to perform cephalo X-ray imaging. Since the rotation mechanism for horizontally rotating the X-ray generator with respect to the swing arm is used at the time of cephalometric imaging, the structure becomes simple and the cost can be reduced.

  Further, this X-ray sensor cassette can be shared for panorama and cephalo and is self-propelled with a TDI clock generator necessary for TDI imaging. In other words, when an X-ray sensor cassette is used, it is necessary to perform TDI (time delay integration) imaging in which the charge image generated and accumulated on the imaging device is transferred in the same manner as imaging with a film cassette. Circuit components are provided on the cassette side.

  Therefore, even if the TDI imaging function is not provided on the imaging apparatus side, panoramic X-ray imaging and cephalo X-ray imaging with an X-ray sensor cassette can be performed by simply mounting this cassette on each cassette holder. .

  The X-ray sensor cassette according to claim 2 is the X-ray sensor cassette according to claim 1, wherein the X-ray sensor cassette is either a panoramic X-ray imaging cassette holder or a cephalo X-ray imaging cassette holder. A detecting means for detecting whether the X-ray sensor cassette is mounted is provided. The detecting means is an electrical connection or mechanical connection of an X-ray sensor cassette with the X-ray imaging apparatus, and a cassette holder and a Cephalo X-ray for panoramic X-ray imaging. It is characterized by detecting which one of the cassette holders for photography is mounted.

  This X-ray sensor cassette specifically defines the detection means, and detection by electrical connection means that, for example, on the imaging apparatus side, an electrical connection terminal for panoramic X-ray imaging and an electrical for cephalo X-ray imaging A different resistor or the like is connected to the free terminal of the connection terminal, and this is detected when an electrical connection is made on the X-ray sensor cassette side.

  Here, the detection by mechanical connection means that, for example, limit switches are provided at different positions on the cassette side, and a panoramic X-ray imaging cassette holder is provided with ON means for one of the limit switches, and a Cephalo X-ray imaging cassette. The holder is provided with an ON means for the other limit switch, and when the sensor cassette is mounted, it is determined which of the limit switches is turned on.

  An X-ray sensor cassette according to a third aspect of the present invention is the X-ray sensor cassette according to the first or second aspect, wherein the imaging element is configured by connecting a plurality of partial imaging elements, and is an imaging mode of panoramic X-ray imaging or cephalo X-ray imaging. Only the necessary partial image pickup device is selectively driven corresponding to the above.

  According to such a configuration, only the partial image sensor necessary for the panoramic X-ray imaging mode or the cephalo X-ray imaging mode is selectively driven, so that power consumption is reduced, element control is simplified, and the control burden is reduced. The transmission X-ray image data obtained can be adjusted to a required size.

  An X-ray imaging apparatus according to a fourth aspect includes the X-ray sensor cassette according to the first aspect, and the X-ray generator receives an X-ray beam necessary for panoramic X-ray imaging and cephalometric X-ray imaging. The X-ray imaging apparatus main body has detection means for detecting whether the X-ray sensor cassette is mounted on a panoramic X-ray imaging cassette holder or a cephalo X-ray imaging cassette holder. The X-ray slit means is characterized in that the slit is formed for panoramic X-ray imaging and cephalo X-ray imaging in response to a discrimination signal from the detection means.

  When this X-ray imaging apparatus uses a self-propelled X-ray sensor cassette that can be shared, a detection signal for panoramic X-ray imaging or cephalo X-ray imaging is obtained from the cassette side, Since the slit of the slit means is switched, even in the case of the self-propelled type, it is necessary to mount the X-ray sensor cassette on the desired cassette holder, and the X required for panoramic X-ray imaging and Cephalo X-ray imaging. A line beam is irradiated.

  An X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 5 includes the X-ray sensor cassette according to any one of claims 2 and transmits X-ray beams necessary for panoramic X-ray imaging and cephalometric X-ray imaging. An X-ray generator is provided with slit means, and the X-ray slit means is formed for panoramic X-ray photography and cephalometric X-ray photography in response to a discrimination signal from the detection means of the X-ray sensor cassette. It was made to do.

  The X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 6 is the X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the X-ray sensor cassette generates an X-ray transmission image and includes an imaging element having a length necessary for cephalometric X-ray imaging. The image sensor is configured by connecting a plurality of partial image sensors, and only a necessary partial image sensor is selectively driven corresponding to an imaging mode of panoramic X-ray imaging or cephalo X-ray imaging. It is characterized by that.

  An X-ray imaging apparatus according to a seventh aspect of the present invention is the X-ray imaging apparatus according to any one of the fourth to sixth aspects, wherein an X-ray tube for generating the X-ray beam is fixed inside the X-ray generator, and the X-ray slit means is a cephalometer. A slit formed for X-ray imaging, a secondary slit provided on the X-ray generator side of the cephalo X-ray imaging head fixing device, and the X-ray sensor cassette are synchronously moved in the same direction. However, the X-ray beam is scanned on a subject fixed to the cephalo X-ray imaging head fixing device to perform cephalo X-ray imaging.

  In this X-ray imaging apparatus, the X-ray tube provided in the X-ray generator is fixed without being moved and rotated. Instead, the X-ray beam from the X-ray tube is set within a certain range at the emission portion. Cefalo X-rays are generated by synchronously moving a slit to be limited (primary slit), a secondary slit to be further limited before being irradiated to the subject, and an X-ray sensor cassette that receives the X-ray beam transmitted through the subject in the same direction. Since the X-ray tube that is the center of irradiation is fixed, the irradiation scan of the X-ray beam without the center shake can be performed, and the X-ray imaging can be performed more clearly.

    According to the X-ray sensor cassette of claim 1, since it can be used for both panorama and cephalo, it is a self-propelled type equipped with a TDI clock generator necessary for TDI imaging. Even if the TDI imaging function is not provided on the side, panoramic X-ray imaging and cephalo X-ray imaging with an X-ray sensor cassette can be performed by simply mounting this cassette on each cassette holder.

  According to the X-ray sensor cassette of the second aspect, in addition to the configuration of the first aspect, the detection means is specifically detected by electrical connection or mechanical connection. It can be easily configured.

  According to the X-ray sensor cassette of claim 3, in addition to the configuration of claim 1, only the partial image sensor required for the imaging mode of panoramic X-ray imaging or cephalo X-ray imaging is selected as the imaging device. Since it is driven, power consumption can be reduced, element control can be simplified, control burden can be reduced, and the size of the obtained transmission X-ray image data can be adjusted to a required size.

  According to the X-ray imaging apparatus of the fourth aspect, when a self-propelled X-ray sensor cassette that can be shared is used, a detection signal for panoramic X-ray imaging or cephalo X-ray imaging is transmitted to the cassette. The X-ray slit means is switched from the side, so even in the case of the self-propelled type, simply mount the X-ray sensor cassette in the desired cassette holder, An X-ray beam necessary for X-ray imaging is irradiated.

  According to the X-ray imaging apparatus of claim 5, the X-ray slit means receives a discrimination signal from the detection means of the X-ray sensor cassette, and the slit means is used for panoramic X-ray imaging and cephalometric X-ray imaging. Therefore, the X-ray beam necessary for panoramic X-ray imaging and cephalo X-ray imaging can be irradiated simply by mounting the X-ray sensor cassette in a desired cassette holder.

  According to the X-ray imaging apparatus of the sixth aspect, since the X-ray sensor cassette used in the apparatus includes the same imaging device as any one of the first to third aspects, the same effect as the third aspect can be obtained. Demonstrate as.

  According to the X-ray imaging apparatus of claim 7, in any one of claims 4 to 6, the X-ray tube provided in the X-ray generator is fixed without moving and rotating, instead. A slit (primary slit) that limits the X-ray beam from the X-ray tube to a certain range at the emission part, a secondary slit that further limits the X-ray beam before being irradiated to the subject, and an X-ray beam that has passed through the subject. X-ray imaging is performed by synchronously moving the receiving X-ray sensor cassette in the same direction, and the X-ray tube that is the irradiation center is fixed, so that irradiation scanning of the X-ray beam without the center shake is performed. X-ray imaging can be performed more clearly.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  FIG. 1 shows an external front view of an example of the X-ray sensor cassette of the present invention and an X-ray imaging apparatus using the same.

  The X-ray imaging apparatus 50 is an imaging apparatus that can perform panoramic X-ray imaging and cephalometric X-ray imaging. The X-ray sensor cassette 1 used for the X-ray imaging apparatus 50 is also used for both panoramic X-ray imaging and cephalo X-ray imaging. It is something that can be done.

  A support column 3 is erected on the base 2 of the apparatus main body, and a support body 4 is attached to the support body 3 so as to be movable up and down. A swing arm 5 is attached to the support body 4 so as to be capable of turning. A support arm 4a and a patient frame 4b extending substantially horizontally are provided at the upper and lower ends of the support body 4, respectively, and a chin rest 4c is provided on the patient frame 4b.

  The support arm 4a has a built-in XY table that can be moved freely in the front-rear direction and the left-right direction by a step motor. The swivel arm 5 is suspended via the XY table so that it can freely move in the horizontal plane. It has become. Reference numeral 4d denotes a patient head presser fixed to the lower surface of the support arm 4a so that the position can be adjusted so as not to move with respect to the horizontal movement and rotation of the swivel arm 5.

  The revolving arm 5 is provided with a revolving mechanism for revolving the revolving arm 5 with respect to the support arm 4a by a step motor. The revolving arm 5 moves the revolving center position by the above XY table every time during panoramic photography. It is configured to be able to swivel about a vertical axis.

  Both ends of the swivel arm 5 hang down, and an X-ray generator 6 is disposed at one end 5a, and an X-ray detector 7 is disposed at the other end 5b. The X-ray generator 6 is provided with an X-ray tube, an X-ray slit means, which will be described later, and the like, and the whole can be rotated with respect to the end portion 5b for cephalometric X-ray imaging. .

  The X-ray detection unit 7 is provided with a panorama cassette holder 7a, to which the X-ray sensor cassette 1 can be detachably mounted.

  The X-ray imaging apparatus 50 further includes a cephalometric apparatus 8 for enabling cephalometric X-ray imaging. The cephalo device 8 includes a cephalo arm 8a extending from the back surface of the support 4, a cephalo head fixing device 8b provided at the tip of the arm 8a, and the cephalo head at the tip of the arm 8a. The cephalo cassette holder 8c is provided so as to be movable in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the arm 8a with respect to the fixing device 8b. The above-described X-ray sensor cassette 1 is also provided in the cephalo cassette holder 8c. It can be detachably attached.

  A remote control box 13 is operated outside the X-ray protection room (not shown) in which the X-ray imaging apparatus 50 is housed so that it can be used for both panoramic X-ray imaging and cephalo X-ray imaging. It is installed in an easy-to-use position.

  In this X-ray imaging apparatus 50, when the X-ray sensor cassette 1 is mounted on the panorama cassette holder 7a provided in the X-ray detection unit 7 of the swivel arm 5, this mounting is detected and the panorama imaging mode is set, and the patient frame The X-ray generator 6 and the X-ray detector 7 are rotated while maintaining the opposed state by the revolving arm 5 with the subject fixed by the chin rest 4c of 4b and the patient head presser 4d, that is, the patient's head interposed therebetween. Perform panoramic X-ray photography.

  On the other hand, when the X-ray sensor cassette 1 is mounted on the cephalo cassette holder 8c of the cephalo device 8, this attachment is detected, and the cephalometric mode is set, and the turning arm 5 has the turning center of the turning arm 5 and the cephalo head. The X-ray generator 6 rotates with respect to the end 5a so that the X-ray detector 7 does not interfere with the straight line connecting the fixing device 8b, while the cephalo head fixing device 8b. The X-ray sensor cassette 1 is opposed to the object fixed on the X-ray sensor.

  At this time, the X-ray sensor cassette 1, the subject, and the X-ray generator 6 are aligned, and the distance ratio is the distance between the subject and the X-ray generator 6: X-ray sensor cassette 1-X-ray generator 6 The distance is set to 1: 1.1.

  In this state, the X-ray generator 6 rotates with respect to the end portion 5a of the swivel arm 5, and at that time, the cephalo device 8 for the cephalo device 8 is adapted to the movement of the X-ray beam emitted from the X-ray generator 6. The cassette holder 8c moves in a horizontal direction substantially perpendicular to the X-ray beam, and cephalometric X-ray imaging is performed by the X-ray sensor cassette 1 mounted on the holder 8c.

  Thus, in this X-ray imaging apparatus 50, both the panoramic X-ray imaging and the cephalometric X-ray imaging can be performed by one X-ray sensor cassette 1, and therefore, an expensive X-ray sensor cassette is separately provided exclusively for the panorama and the cephalo. This is not necessary, and the rotation mechanism for the cephalo has a very simple structure, so that the cost of the entire apparatus can be reduced.

  2A is an external perspective view of the X-ray sensor cassette of FIG. 1, FIG. 2B is a view taken along the arrow A, and FIG. 2C is a longitudinal sectional view of the X-ray detection unit. Accordingly, the same portions are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 2A, the X-ray sensor cassette 1 is provided with an X-ray light receiving portion 1o in the longitudinal direction in the center front, and an electric X-ray detector (such as a CCD (solid-state imaging device)) (inside this) (Not shown, described later) and various circuits related thereto are accommodated, and are externally provided with an external housing 1p. A connector 1n for connection with an external circuit is provided on one side surface of the external housing 1p. On the upper and lower sides, guide ribs 1g are slidably fitted in the guide grooves of the cassette holders 7a and 8c.

  The X-ray light receiving unit 1o has good transparency to X-rays, but is made of a material that blocks visible light, for example, a dark ABS resin. The length of the X-ray light receiving unit 1o is long in the vertical direction so that cephalometric imaging can be performed as compared with a conventional panoramic one. Specifically, the vertical length is about 25 cm, but this is just adapted to the length of the light receiving part necessary for normal cephalometric imaging, and is not limited to this value.

  The connector 1n is usually connected to the connector (not shown) of the X-ray detection unit 7 by a cable (not shown) in which a power supply line and a signal line are integrated, but connected to other external devices such as a personal computer. Can also be used for. The exterior housing 1p is made of an appropriate material that can provide the necessary strength, such as a metal such as an aluminum plate or a synthetic resin such as ABS resin.

  As can be seen from FIG. 2B, two limit switches 1 r are provided at different positions on the opposite side of the connector 1 n of the X-ray sensor cassette 1.

  When the sensor cassette 1 is completely attached to the cassette holders 7a and 8c, the limit switch 1r abuts against the limit contacts provided at different positions of the cassette holders 7a and 8c, and the panorama on the sensor cassette 1 side. It is for detecting which cassette holder 7a, 8c is used.

  As can be seen from FIG. 2C, the X-ray detector 7 includes a panoramic cassette holder 7a, and a vertical secondary slit 7ba corresponding to the primary slit of the generator 6 on the X-ray generator 6 side. A shielding plate 7b provided with the X-ray generator 6 is provided.

  The cassette holder 7 a is provided with a pair of guide grooves 7 aa for guiding the X-ray sensor cassette 1 and for detachably mounting the cassette holder 7 a. At the rear of the X-ray detector 7, an apparatus main body controller 11 composed of a printed circuit board incorporating various circuits and an operation panel 12 are provided so as to cover the outside thereof. A switch and a liquid crystal display (not shown) are attached.

  At the rear end of the panorama cassette holder 7a, a limit per 7c is provided, and this per limit 7c turns on only one of the limit switches 1r of the X-ray sensor cassette 1 to turn on the sensor cassette side 1. It is detected that the panorama cassette holder 7a is mounted.

  FIG. 3 shows an electrical X-ray image detector built in the X-ray sensor cassette.

  This detector 1a is installed on the back side of the X-ray light receiving unit 1p, and a light emitter (scintillator) 1aa that converts the irradiated X-rays into visible light, and the light emitted from the light emitter 1aa on the light receiving surface of the image sensor 1ac. An optical fiber 1ab for transmission and a connection type imaging device 1ac are provided. 1pa is a protective case, 1pb is a sealing material, 1ad is a base, and 1ae is a signal pin of the image sensor 1ac.

  As described above, in the X-ray sensor cassette 1, the length of the X-ray light receiving unit 1p in the vertical direction is the length for the longer cephalo of the panorama and the cephalo, and the detector 1a The length is also corresponding to this.

  The image pickup device 1ac has a configuration in which three partial image pickup devices 1ac-1, 1ac-2, and 1ac-3 are connected in the longitudinal direction, and is either panoramic X-ray photography detected by itself or cephalo X-ray photography. In the case of cephalometric X-ray imaging, all the partial image sensors 1ac-1, 1ac-2, 1ac-3 are driven in correspondence with the imaging mode or the imaging mode based on communication data from the X-ray imaging apparatus side. In the case of panoramic X-ray imaging, only the partial image sensors 1ac-1 and 1ac-2 or only the partial image sensors 1ac-2 and 1ac-3 are driven. .

  As described above, only the necessary partial image pickup device is driven according to the photographing purpose, so that the power consumption can be reduced, the control of the device can be simplified, the control burden can be reduced, and the obtained transmission X can be obtained. The size of the line image data can be adjusted to a required size.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the main part of the X-ray sensor cassette of FIG.

  The X-ray sensor cassette 1 includes an MPU (CPU that controls the operation of each circuit in the cassette 1 and the operation of the entire apparatus including the apparatus main body alone or together with the apparatus main body control unit 11. ) Composed of a control unit 1b, an input / output port 1c, a TDI clock generator 1d for generating a TDI clock signal, an image sensor driving circuit 1e, an A / D converter 1f, a memory 1i, a communication control circuit 1j, and a power supply circuit 1k. The connector 1n and the like are provided, and these circuits are connected as illustrated in the figure.

  The X-ray sensor cassette 1 is used by being detachably attached to the cassette holders 7a and 8c of the X-ray imaging apparatus, and the connector 1n is provided on a connection cable 15 led out from the apparatus main body control unit 11. The connector 15a is used for electrical and control connection with the main body. In addition, the apparatus main body control unit 11 is an external device configured with a personal computer or the like to input control information or the like to the control unit 11 or the X-ray sensor cassette 1 or to output and store data. 30 can be connected.

  Further, the X-ray sensor cassette 1 may be configured to output a digital signal by performing AD conversion inside, or to have an AD converter in the apparatus main body control unit, and to output an analog signal from the cassette 1, It may be a digital signal on the device side.

  The sensor cassette 1 is characterized in that the TDI clock generator 1d described above is provided in the inside thereof, and the TDI clock generator 1d is controlled based on TDI frequency control information for controlling the frequency of the TDI clock signal corresponding thereto. The control unit 1b is provided with TDI clock control means 1ba for generating a TDI clock signal and controlling the time delay integration of the charge image generated on the image sensor in response to the TDI clock signal. The memory 1i has a TDI frequency control. The clock control information storage memory 1ia that stores information is provided.

  That is, this sensor cassette itself has a TDI clock generator and TDI clock control means, and can perform TDI control of the image pickup element without receiving a TDI clock signal from the X-ray imaging apparatus. This is a sensor cassette. Therefore, TDI imaging can be realized without a TDI clock generator on the X-ray imaging apparatus main body side. Even if the X-ray imaging apparatus does not support TDI imaging, TDI imaging can be performed only by exchanging the detector with that of the present invention, and the industrial effect is great.

  Further, in this sensor cassette 1, since the TDI clock control means 1ba includes the clock control information storage memory 1ia, the TDI frequency control information stored in advance by the manufacturer is taken out from the memory 1ia, and the TDI control mode is set. It is convenient because it can shoot. If the clock control information storage memory 1ia is rewritable, the TDI frequency control information can be rewritten to match the product specifications of the X-ray imaging apparatus at the time of shipment from the manufacturer. Conveniently, it is convenient to shoot in the TDI control mode according to the main body of the apparatus simply by mounting the detector on the apparatus.

  The control information storage memory 1ia is preferably composed of a flash memory, an EEPROM, or the like, but any storage contents can be rewritten so that the contents are retained even when the power is turned off. Good.

  Further, the sensor cassette 1 is provided with a clock selection means 1e for storing a plurality of patterns of TDI frequency control information in the memory 1ia and selecting a desired one from the plurality of patterns. When the X-ray imaging apparatus is a panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus, it is possible to control enlargement imaging, maxillary sinus imaging, temporomandibular joint imaging, etc., and to select adults, children, etc., which is convenient.

  In addition, when performing time delay integration control on the charge image generated on the image pickup device 1ac, binning processing is performed, and at least a standard shooting mode and a high-speed shooting mode capable of shooting at a higher speed are selected. A mode selection unit 1m is provided, and any mode can be selectively executed. In each imaging mode, the frequency of the TDI clock signal and information for binning processing are used as control elements. It is convenient and each shooting mode can be performed well. The binning process will be described later.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an image sensor provided in the X-ray sensor cassette of FIG.

  The image pickup device 1ac is constituted by an FFT type (full frame transfer type) CCD image sensor, and Ca is a sensor matrix constituting a light receiving portion, and a horizontal shift register portion Cb for transferring signal charges in the horizontal direction. A plurality of rows are formed on the upper and lower sides, and the pixels e arranged in rows and columns are formed by potential wells formed in these horizontal shift register portions Cb.

  Cc is a coupling shift register that accumulates and couples the charge images transferred in parallel in the horizontal direction at the same time in the potential well of the horizontal shift register unit Cb formed by forming a plurality of columns vertically, and Cd is a coupling shift. An output well Ce for further storing and coupling the combined charge image serially transferred from the register Cc in the vertical direction, and the combined charge image sequentially output from the output well Cd to the voltage signal. It is an amplifier that converts and outputs as a sensor signal.

  The sensor signal output from the amplifier Ce is zero-corrected by the zero offset correction circuit Cf and then sent to the AD converter 1f. Cg is used to send and control necessary control signals including a TDI clock signal in order to perform charge image transfer and binning processing to a shift register unit, a combined shift register, an output well, and the like constituting the CCD image sensor. Controller.

  Here, a process for binning the signal charge specific to the present invention and speeding up the TDI clock will be described.

  In the present invention, for example, in the case of high-speed imaging, that is, medical panoramic X-ray imaging such as dental use in which the swivel arm 5 shown in FIG. Required. For this reason, the charge image accumulated on the light receiving surface of the image sensor is transferred by a TDI clock signal having a high frequency. However, the charge image generated by the CCD sensor is converted into a voltage and directly output to the AD converter as a sensor signal. For example, since an AD converter needs to convert an analog signal into a digital signal at a high speed corresponding to the AD converter, it is necessary to improve the capability of the sensor, and in many cases, the entire configuration of the X-ray imaging apparatus is required. It will be forced to change.

  The easiest way to solve this is to reduce the output interval of the sensor signal output from the CCD sensor to the AD converter by thinning out part of the sensor signal output from the CCD sensor in the form of an analog signal. However, since a part of the sensor signal obtained by such a method is missing, it becomes a rough digital image lacking information.

  However, the binning process employed in the present invention solves such a problem, and the charge transfer in the CCD sensor is performed according to the turning speed of the turning arm without missing important information as an image. It can speed up and shorten the shooting time.

  When the X-ray transmission image hits the light emitter 1aa (see FIG. 4), the X-ray is converted into visible light, and the visible light forms a charge image on the sensor matrix Ca of the image sensor 1ac via the optical fiber 1ab. Thus, when the image pickup device 1ac receives the TDI clock signal, the charge image generated in the sensor matrix Ca is confined in the potential well and is in a state of one column up and down from the first column to the last column (hereinafter, the column signal). Are transferred all at once (that is, TDI delay time integration control).

  When the signal charges in such a column are transferred to the coupling shift register Cc, here, the signal charges in a plurality of columns are accumulated and combined according to preset binning information. For example, when the binning information is set to bin 3 × 3 pixels and 4 × 4 pixels, here, the signal charges of 3 and 4 columns, which means the coupling in the column direction, are accumulated and coupled. Then, the storage-coupled charge image is transferred to the next output well Cd.

  For example, the charge image transferred to the output well Cd from the combined shift register Cc (hereinafter referred to as a row signal charge) is set so that binning information bins 3 × 3 pixels and 4 × 4 pixels. Here, the signal charges in three and four rows, which mean the coupling in the row direction, are accumulated and coupled.

  Transfer of the combined charge from the coupled shift register Cc to the output well Cd is sequentially performed until the transfer of one column charge accumulated and coupled in the coupled shift register is completed, and the output well Cd is transferred from the coupled shift register Cc. The transferred charge is accumulated by the number of bins in the row direction, and every time it is output, the charge remaining in the output well Cd is discharged and cleared repeatedly, so that the remaining unnecessary charge is coupled shifted. The combined charge sequentially transferred from the register Cc is not added.

  In this way, when the charge transferred from the sensor matrix Ca to the coupling shift register Cc and accumulated for the number of bins in the column direction specified by the binning information is sent to the output well Cd, the coupling shift is performed. The register Cc accumulates the charge signals of the columns specified by the number of bins in the column direction, and similarly, the charges of the storage-coupled columns are sequentially sent to the output well Cd. The number of charges specified by the number of binning is accumulated and coupled and output.

  In such binning processing, the output well Cd is confined by the potential well of the sensor matrix Ca, and a plurality of delay-integrated pixels are added to one new pixel in the state of charge and output. Therefore, after the voltage conversion from the output well Cd, the time interval of the sensor signal output to the AD converter becomes long as if the added portion is thinned out.

  Therefore, the AD converter 1f in the subsequent stage does not require so high speed processing, and if the transfer rate of the data output from the CCD sensor is adapted to the processing capability of the existing AD converter 1f as a result of the binning processing in advance. The present invention can be applied only by changing the frequency included in the TDI frequency control information of the X-ray sensor cassette 1.

  In this case, the most important thing is that the added charge image includes the integrated charge image as a component thereof, so that an X-ray transmission image as integral information leaks information. In addition, since the total number of pixels as a digital image can be reduced, there are advantages such as easy data processing and data storage.

  In addition to the CCD illustrated here, the image sensor may be CdTe, CdZnTe, PbI2, TIBr, a-Se, or MOS.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the main part of the apparatus main body control unit of the X-ray imaging apparatus of FIG.

  The control unit 11 includes a control unit 11a, an input / output port 11b, and a memory 11c that are configured by an MPU (CPU) that is the center of operation control of the entire apparatus, and an X-ray irradiation control circuit 11d and an X-ray irradiation. Detection circuit 11e, X-ray generator 11f, primary slit width adjustment circuit 11g, secondary slit width adjustment circuit 11h, turning arm rotation detection circuit 11m, imaging mode setting circuit 11r, detector type detection circuit 11q, communication control circuit 11p A power circuit 11s is provided, and these are connected to the control unit 11a via the input / output port 11b.

  Further, in order to connect the X-ray sensor cassette 1 of FIG. 5, a connector 11t corresponding to the connector 15b of the connection cable 15 is provided. The connector 11t includes an input / output port 11b, a communication control circuit 11p, and a power supply circuit 11s. Is connected.

  An operation panel 12 for inputting various operation data or a remote control box 13 for inputting similar input from a position away from the main body is connected to the input / output port 11b.

  The controller 11 does not include a TDI clock generator necessary for X-ray imaging in the TDI control mode. However, X-ray imaging in the TDI control mode can be performed by detachably mounting the above-described X-ray sensor cassette 1 and electrically and controlably connecting with the connection cable 15.

  That is, when the X-ray sensor cassette of the present invention is used, X-ray imaging in the TDI control mode can be realized even with an existing X-ray imaging apparatus that does not include a TDI clock generator.

  The X-ray sensor cassette of the present invention is characterized in that it includes a TDI clock generator, TDI clock control means, etc. necessary for X-ray imaging in the TDI control mode. There is little difference from the line sensor cassette. Correspondingly, on the X-ray imaging apparatus side, a TDI clock generator is unnecessary, and other components are hardly different from the conventional one.

  On the other hand, if the X-ray sensor cassette does not have the TDI clock generator and TDI clock control means necessary for X-ray imaging in the TDI control mode, the same TDI clock generation is performed on the X-ray imaging apparatus side. TDI imaging is possible by providing a device, TDI clock control means, and the like.

  FIG. 7A is a conceptual explanatory diagram of panoramic X-ray imaging using the X-ray sensor cassette of the present invention, FIG. 7B is a diagram showing an example of a panoramic X-ray image, and FIG. 7C is the same X-ray sensor cassette. FIG. 3D is a conceptual explanatory diagram of the cephalo X-ray imaging, and FIG.

  When the X-ray sensor cassette of the present invention is mounted on a panorama cassette holder, panoramic X-ray imaging can be performed as shown in FIG. 7A to obtain a panoramic X-ray image as shown in FIG. When mounted on the cassette holder for cephalos, cephalometric imaging can be performed as shown in (c), and a cephalometric X-ray image as shown in (d) can be obtained.

  In FIG. 7 (d), lines in which an image is gradually generated are shown not only on the left and right but also on the top and bottom. This is the case with cephalometric radiography, as described above. This indicates that the X-ray beam may be moved not only in the case of moving the beam but also in the vertical direction, and the feature of sharing the sensor cassette of the present invention is also applicable to this case. .

  8A and 8B show an X-ray generator rotating mechanism, in which FIG. 8A is a top view of the main part and FIG. 8B is a longitudinal sectional view thereof.

  FIG. 8A shows the X-ray generator rotating mechanism 51 as viewed from above. From this figure, the mechanism 51 drives the entire X-ray generator 6 so as to be capable of angular positioning, A worm gear 51b that is rotationally driven by the motor 51a, a worm wheel 51c that meshes with the worm gear 51b, and a base 51d on which these are mounted.

  The worm wheel 51c is engaged with a support shaft 6c that supports the entire X-ray generator 6 with respect to the end 5a of the swivel arm 5, and the X-ray generator rotating mechanism 51 generates X-rays. The container 6 can be rotated with respect to the end portion 5a so as to be capable of being positioned at an angle.

  As shown in FIG. 8B, the X-ray generator 6 includes an X-ray tube (X-ray generation source) 6a, a shielding box 6b that shields an X-ray beam generated from the X-ray generator so as not to leak unnecessarily. X-ray slit means 6h provided on the opening side of the shielding box 6b is provided.

  The X-ray slit means 6h has a structure that slidably supports two types of mask portions 6e and 6f in which a slit having a predetermined shape is formed by a support mechanism 6d. The mask portions 6e and 6f are independently positioned. A drive mechanism that imparts a moving force is provided, and a desired slit shape is selectively formed by combining the slits of both mask portions 6e and 6f.

  FIG. 9 is an external perspective view of the X-ray slit means.

  The support mechanism 6d includes a support plate 6da and two sets of four guide rollers 6db and 6dc provided on the support plate 6da. The guide roller 6db supports the mask portion 6e so as to be slidable, and the guide roller 6dc supports the mask portion 6f so as to be slidable.

  The mask portion 6e is a guide frame 6ea guided by a guide roller 6db, a mask plate 6eb fitted into the guide frame 6ea in a replaceable manner, and provided with a slit 6ec having a predetermined shape, and a drive plate for applying a sliding force to the mask plate 6eb. 6ed, and a servo motor 6ef that applies a rotational driving force to the drive plate 6ed through a female screw and a screw shaft so as to be positioned.

  The mask portion 6f also includes a similar guide frame 6fa, a mask plate 6fb provided with a slit 6fc having a predetermined shape, a drive plate 6fd, a screw shaft 6fe, and a servo motor 6ff. The two types of servo motors 6ef and 6ff are supported by a support plate 6da. Further, the support plate 6da is attached to the opening of the shielding box 6b, and the X-ray slit means 6 passes through the opening from the X-ray tube 6a. The irradiated X-ray beam is regulated.

  The mask plates 6eb and 6fb are made of an X-ray shielding metal such as lead or a lead-based alloy like the shielding box 6b. 6g is an X-ray translucent soft tissue resolving filter made of brass, tin or the like. When a transmission image of soft tissue having a high X-ray transmittance is particularly required, an X-ray generator 6 is used to reduce the energy of the X-ray beam emitted from the beam 6. The filter 6g is preferably configured such that its side edge is processed into a concave curve and the thickness gradually decreases toward the edge of the curve edge.

  FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C show a slit selection mode of the X-ray slit means of FIG. In the figure, the hatched portion indicates the portion through which the X-ray beam passes.

  10A and 10B, a desired X-ray beam can be obtained by changing the relative positions of the mask plates 6eb and 6fb. For example, in FIG. 10A, it is a slit for panoramic photography, and in FIG. 10B, it is a slit for cephalometric photography.

  The mask plates 6eb and 6fb can be exchanged. For example, as the mask plates 6eb 'and 6fb' having the slits 6ec 'and 6fc' as shown in FIG. Can be formed.

  The above-mentioned X-ray slit means uses two mask plates and shows an example in which X-rays are irradiated in a slit shape determined by superposition of the two mask plates. It goes without saying that several types of slit openings may be provided in the mask plate, and the slit shape may be determined only by movement of the mask plate.

  FIG. 11 is a front view showing a cephalo X-ray imaging cassette holder moving mechanism.

  The cephalo X-ray imaging cassette holder moving mechanism 8e is provided at the tip of the cephalo arm 8a, and slides the cephalo cassette holder 8c in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the drawing, and the sliding direction to the cassette holder 8c. A screw shaft mechanism 8eb that applies a driving force to the servo shaft 8b, a servo motor 8ec that drives the screw shaft mechanism 8eb so as to be able to rotate and position, a slide mechanism 8ea, a screw shaft mechanism 8eb, and a base 8ed on which the servo motor 8ec is placed. This base 8ed is fixed to the tip of the cephalo arm 8a.

  In this way, the cephalo cassette holder 8c is fixed to the moving side of the screw shaft mechanism 8eb of the moving mechanism 8e, and is slidable relative to the cephalo arm 8a so as to be positioned in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface.

  With such a structure, the moving mechanism 8e can move the X-ray sensor cassette 1 along with the movement of the X-ray beam emitted from the X-ray generator 6 at the time of cephalometric imaging.

  8d per limit is provided at the abutting portion of the cefaro cassette holder 8c, and the 8d per limit is set on the sensor cassette side 1 by turning on only one of the limit switches 1r of the X-ray sensor cassette 1. , It is detected that the cassette holder 8c is attached to the cephalo cassette holder 8c.

  Instead of hitting the limit, the cassette holder 8c can be provided with a limit switch for detecting that the cassette 1 has been mounted. In this case, the X-ray imaging apparatus side places the cassette 1 into the cassette holder 8c. It is possible to detect wearing, that is, cephalometric imaging.

  12A is an overall front view of an example of the X-ray imaging apparatus of the present invention, and FIG. 12B is a plan view thereof.

  This X-ray imaging apparatus 50 is the same as that shown in FIG. 1, and the X-ray generator 6 rotates with respect to the revolving arm 5, and during the cephalo imaging, the revolving arm 5 rotates as shown in FIG. The X-ray generator 6 is rotated at the moving position, and the X-ray generator 6 is rotated to irradiate the X-ray beam indicated by X in the horizontal direction, and correspondingly, the X-ray mounted on the cefaro cassette holder 8c. The sensor cassette 1 also moves in a horizontal straight line to perform shooting.

  FIG. 13A is an overall front view of another example of the X-ray imaging apparatus of the present invention, and FIG. 13B is a plan view thereof.

  In the X-ray imaging apparatus 50A, the X-ray generator 6A does not rotate with respect to the turning arm 5A and the turning arm 5A moves horizontally with respect to the support 4A, compared to the X-ray imaging apparatus 50 in FIG. It is like that. At the time of cephalometric imaging, the swing arm 5A stops at the position where the X-ray generator 6A faces the X-ray sensor cassette 1 as shown in the figure, and the panoramic X-ray detector 7A is retracted as shown in FIG. 13B. Position.

  In this state, when the revolving arm 5A moves horizontally, the X-ray generator 6A irradiates the X-ray beam indicated by X in the figure while moving horizontally, and correspondingly attaches it to the cefaro cassette holder 8c. The X-ray sensor cassette 1 thus moved also moves in a horizontal straight line to perform imaging.

  FIG. 14A is an overall front view of another example of the X-ray imaging apparatus of the present invention, and FIG. 14B is a plan view thereof.

  In the X-ray imaging apparatus 50A, the X-ray generator 6A does not rotate with respect to the turning arm 5A, and the panoramic X-ray detector 7A does not rotate during the cephalometric imaging as compared with the X-ray imaging apparatus 50 of FIG. The retracted position is as shown in FIG. In this state, when the turning arm 5A is turned, the X-ray generator 6A irradiates the X-ray beam indicated by X in the figure while moving horizontally, and is attached to the cefaro cassette holder 8c correspondingly. The X-ray sensor cassette 1 also moves in a horizontal straight line to perform imaging.

  The X-ray sensor cassette 1 can also be used in common with panoramic imaging when performing any of the above-described cephalometric imaging, and exhibits the same effects as in the case of FIG.

  The panorama cassette holder 7a and the cefaro cassette holder 8c can be provided with a detecting means for detecting the mounting of the cassette 1. In this case, it is determined whether the panorama shooting or the cephalo shooting is performed by detecting the mounting. Based on this, the related device can be set to the panorama shooting mode or the cephalo shooting mode.

  In this example, the detection means is provided in the panorama cassette holder 7a and the cephalo cassette holder 8c. However, the detection means may be provided not in the holder itself but in a portion near the cassette holder.

  On the other hand, when the X-ray sensor cassette 1 is provided with detection means for detecting whether it is attached to the panorama cassette holder 7a or the cephalo cassette holder 8c, an imaging mode signal from the sensor cassette 1 The imaging mode on the apparatus side can be set, for example, the slit of the X-ray slit means can be selected.

  FIG. 15 shows an example of a signal transmission method between the X-ray sensor cassette and the X-ray imaging apparatus of the present invention, (a) shows an example using infrared rays, and (b) shows an example using radio waves. FIG.

  The signal transmission / reception means between the X-ray sensor cassette 1 and the main body control unit 11 of the X-ray imaging apparatus 50 is not limited to the wired type already described, and uses infrared rays as shown in FIG. Also good.

  In this case, in order to enable infrared communication, the X-ray sensor cassette 1 and the main body control unit 11 are provided with infrared control circuits 33a and 34a and infrared transmission / reception units 33b and 34b.

  In this case, for example, in the case of panorama and cephalo, it is possible to detect which cassette holder 7a, 8c is mounted with the X-ray sensor cassette 1 by transmitting and receiving a specific identification code.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 15 (b), radio wave control circuits 35a and 36a and radio wave transmission / reception units 35b and 36b are provided in the X-ray sensor cassette 1 and the main body control unit 11, and signals are transmitted and received by radio waves. Similarly, in this case, it is possible to detect which cassette holder 7a, 8c is loaded with the X-ray sensor cassette 1.

  FIG. 16 illustrates a method for mounting and using the X-ray sensor cassette of the present invention on a panoramic X-ray imaging cassette holder for a conventional film cassette. FIG. (B) is a side view thereof, (c) is a plan view when the cassette is inserted, and (d) is a plan view when the cassette is completely installed.

  The panoramic X-ray imaging cassette holder 7d can be mounted with the X-ray sensor cassette 1 of the present invention. On the other hand, the cassette holder 7d is supported by the end portion 5b of the turning arm 5 by the slide means 7da so that the film-type cassette can be mounted and used, and can slide relative to the end portion 5b. Yes.

  However, when the X-ray sensor cassette 1 is mounted, at the time of imaging, the cassette 1 needs to be fixed so that the center portion does not move at the position of the secondary slit 7ba of the shielding plate 7b. The cassette holder 7d is provided with a cassette fixing means 10.

  The cassette fixing means 10 is fixed to the end portion 5b of the swivel arm 5 by a block 10c and a fixing rod 10a having a male screw 10b formed at the tip, and correspondingly, the X-ray sensor cassette 1 is attached to the X-ray sensor cassette 1 with screw means. The mounting plate 10d, the positioning plate 10e, and the mounting plate 10d to be attached are rotatably inserted into the fixing plate 10d, and the fixing screw 10f is internally provided with a female screw 10g that is screwed into the male screw 10b of the fixing rod 10a. .

  Thus, as shown in FIG. 16 (c), when the X-ray sensor cassette 1 is inserted into the cassette holder 7d and further pushed into the back, that is, toward the left in the figure, the state as shown in FIG. 16 (d). Thus, the male screw 10 b of the fixing rod 10 a fixed to the end 5 b side of the swivel arm 5 contacts the fixed female screw 10 f attached to the cassette 1. In this state, when the fixed female screw 10f is turned clockwise, the male screw 10b of the fixed rod 10a is screwed into the female screw 10g of the fixed female screw 10f, and the positioning plate 10e is attached to the fixed rod 10a. It is fixed at a position that regulates the relative position between the plates 10d.

  As shown in the figure, this position is a position where the center A of the cassette 1 and the center B of the secondary slit 7ba of the shielding plate 7b coincide with each other, and the cassette 1 is fixed at this position, which is suitable for panoramic X-ray photography. Can be done.

  Further, as shown in the figure, the cassette holder 7d is provided with a limit switch 7e that is turned on when the cassette 1 is in a fastening state and detects that the X-ray sensor cassette 1 is completely attached to the cassette holder 7d. In this case, the X-ray imaging apparatus can detect that the cassette 1 is mounted on the cassette holder 7d, that is, panoramic imaging should be performed.

  FIG. 17A is a detailed view of the main part of the cassette fixing means 10 fixed in this way.

  In view of this, it is often the case that the male screw 10b of the fixed rod 10a is screwed into the female screw 10g of the fixed female screw 10f, and the positioning plate 10e regulates the relative position between the fixed rod 10a and the mounting plate 10d. I understand.

  FIG. 17B is a cross-sectional view of the main part of another example of the cassette fixing means.

  In this fixing means, the mounting plate 10d is provided with a fitting hole 10j instead of the fixing female screw 10f, and a fixing bush 10h provided at a predetermined position of the fitting hole 10j so that the tip of the plunger 10p protrudes. It is fixed.

  On the other hand, the tip of the fixing rod 10a is not a male screw but a fitting end 10r corresponding to the fitting hole 10j, and an alignment groove 10q is formed on the outer periphery in accordance with the protruding position of the plunger 10p.

  Even with such a configuration, as can be seen from the drawing, the X-ray sensor cassette 1 can be fixed so that the center A of the cassette 1 and the center B of the secondary slit 7ba of the shielding plate 7b coincide.

  FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the main part of another example of the cassette fixing means.

  In this case, a predetermined window 10s is formed in the cassette holder 7d so that the back side of the X-ray sensor cassette 1 attached thereto can be viewed. On the other hand, a reflecting member 10t is attached to the sensor cassette 1 at a position corresponding to the window 10s. A detection sensor 10 u having a light emitting element and a light receiving element is provided at a position corresponding to the window 10 s of the end 5 b of the turning arm 5.

  In this way, the reflection member 10t of the sensor cassette 1 attached to the cassette holder 7d is read by the detection sensor 10u, the position of the sensor cassette 1 is detected, and the servo motor that slides the cassette holder 7d is stopped at a predetermined position. Positioning can also be performed.

  The panorama cassette holder 7d described with reference to FIGS. 16, 17, and 18 is attached to the X-ray sensor cassette 1 that can be used in common with the cephalo of the present invention, so that the longitudinal length of the cassette attaching portion is increased. However, when a conventional cassette holder for a film cassette is used as it is, an adapter may be appropriately used.

  Now, other features of the X-ray imaging apparatus of the present invention will be further described.

  FIG. 19A is an overall front view of another example of the X-ray imaging apparatus of the present invention, and FIG. 19B is a plan view thereof.

  The X-ray imaging apparatus 50C has almost the same configuration as that of the X-ray imaging apparatus 50 of FIG. 12, but when performing cephalometric imaging as shown in the figure, the X-ray imaging apparatus 50C is built in the X-ray generator 6 and generates an X-ray beam X. The X-ray tube 6d to be generated is fixed at the position shown in the figure and does not rotate or move. Instead, as described in FIGS. 8, 9, and 10, the X-ray slit means 6h is used to combine the mask plates 6eb and 6fb ( 10 (b)) and the movement can control the irradiation range and direction of the X-ray beam irradiated from the X-ray generator 6 to the cephalo X-ray imaging head fixing device 8a, and the moving speed of the irradiation direction. It has become.

  Further, on the X-ray generator 6 side of the cephalo X-ray imaging head fixing device 8a, the X-ray beam X is limited by the primary slit 6c before the subject fixed to the fixing device 8a is irradiated with the X-ray beam X. A secondary slit member 8d provided with a secondary slit 8e for further limiting the line beam X, and a secondary slit moving motor 8f that translates the secondary slit member 8 in a position and speed controllable manner are provided.

  In this example, the secondary slit moving motor 8f is fixed to a member extending from the cephalo cassette holder 8c, and moves the secondary slit member 8 relative to the cefaro cassette holder 8c. Yes.

  However, a support member (not shown) is extended from the cephalometric arm 8a, and is fixed to the secondary slit moving motor 8f on the support member, so that the secondary slit member 8 is parallel to the cephalometric cassette holder 8c. You may make it move.

  The cefaro cassette holder 8c is translated while holding the X-ray sensor cassette 1. Here, a cassette moving motor that translates the cefaro cassette holder 8c so that the position and speed can be controlled. 8g is shown.

  In this X-ray imaging apparatus 50C, as shown in the figure, the X-ray generator 6 and the X-ray sensor cassette 1 are provided so as to sandwich the subject fixing means 8b, and the subject O fixed to the subject fixing means 8b is attached to the subject O. The X-ray generator 6, more specifically, the X-ray tube 6 d is fixed, and the primary slit 6 c, the secondary slit 8 e, and the X-ray sensor cassette 1 are moved synchronously, so that X-rays emitted from the X-ray generator 6 By irradiating and scanning the X-ray beam X while the beam X and the X-ray sensor cassette 1 are synchronously moved in the same direction D, an X-ray image of the subject O can be obtained as digital data.

  Therefore, since the X-ray tube that is the irradiation center is fixed, it is possible to perform irradiation scanning of an X-ray beam with no center fluctuation, and to perform X-ray imaging more clearly.

  FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a method of cephalometric X-ray imaging in the X-ray imaging apparatus of FIG. An X-ray beam scanning method at the time of cephalometric X-ray imaging will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the figure, numerals “1” and “2” shown in square brackets after each symbol indicate an initial position and an end position of the synchronous movement, and the X-ray beam X1 is the primary slit 6j. (A slit for cephalometric imaging formed by a combination of the mask plates 6eb and 6fb in FIG. 9. The combination of the mask plates 6eb and 6fb is referred to as a “primary slit member 6i”). A beam and an X-ray beam X2 are slit beams formed by the secondary slit 8e.

  D1 is the distance between the center lines of the initial position [1] and the end position [2] of the primary slit 6i, and the movement distance D in the synchronous movement direction D2 is the initial value of the secondary slit 8e. The movement distance D in the movement direction D of the synchronous movement from the position [1] to the end position [2], D3 is also the movement direction of the synchronous movement from the initial position [1] to the end position [2] of the X-ray sensor cassette 1. The moving distance of D is shown.

  In this connection, L1 is a distance indicating the position of the primary slit 6j in the irradiation center line direction of the X-ray beam starting from the fixed X-ray tube 6d, and L2 is the position of the secondary slit 8e in the same manner. The indicated distance L3 is also a distance indicating the position of the X-ray sensor cassette 1.

In this figure, the position of the X-ray tube 6d is fixed, the primary slit 6j, the secondary slit 8e, and the X-ray sensor cassette 1 are moved synchronously, and the X-ray beam B2 scans the subject while the X-ray sensor cassette 1 In order to receive the light, the following relationship needs to be established between the distances L1, L2, and L3 and the movement distances D1, D2, and D3.

Distance L1: Distance L2: Distance L3 = Moving distance D1: Moving distance D2: Moving distance D3

That is, since the distances L1, L2, and L3 are mechanically fixed, the above relationship always holds between the primary slit 6j, the secondary slit 8e, and the movement distances D1, D2, and D3 of the X-ray sensor cassette 1. It is sufficient to move synchronously.

External appearance front view of an example of the X-ray sensor cassette of the present invention and an X-ray imaging apparatus using the same (A) External perspective view of the X-ray sensor cassette of FIG. 1, (b) A-arrow view, (c) Vertical sectional view of the X-ray detector 1 is an exploded perspective view of an electrical X-ray image detector built in the X-ray sensor cassette of FIG. The block diagram which shows the principal part schematic structure of the X-ray sensor cassette of FIG. The figure which shows schematic structure of the image pick-up element with which the X-ray sensor cassette of FIG. 1 was equipped. The block diagram which shows the principal part schematic structure of the apparatus main body control part of the X-ray imaging apparatus of FIG. (A) Conceptual explanatory diagram of panoramic X-ray imaging using an X-ray sensor cassette applied to the present invention, (b) a diagram showing an example of a panoramic X-ray image, (c) a cephalo using the same X-ray sensor cassette Conceptual explanatory diagram of X-ray imaging, (d) a diagram showing an example of a Cephalo X-ray image The X-ray generator rotation mechanism applied to this invention is shown, (a) is the principal part top view, (b) is the longitudinal cross-sectional view. External perspective view of X-ray slit means applied to the present invention (A), (b), (c) is a figure which shows the slit selection aspect of the X-ray slit means of FIG. The front view which shows the cassette holder moving mechanism for Cephalo X-ray photography applied to this invention (A) The whole front view of an example of the X-ray imaging apparatus of this invention, (b) The top view (A) Whole front view of another example of X-ray imaging apparatus of the present invention, (b) Plan view thereof (A) The whole front view of the other example of the X-ray imaging apparatus of this invention, (b) The top view The example of the signal transmission method between the X-ray sensor cassette of this invention and an X-ray imaging apparatus is shown, (a) is a figure which shows the example which uses infrared rays, (b) is a figure which shows the example which uses an electromagnetic wave. A method for mounting the X-ray sensor cassette of the present invention on a panoramic X-ray imaging cassette holder for a conventional film cassette will be described. (A) is an external perspective view of the main part of the cassette holder. b) is a side view thereof, (c) is a plan view when the cassette is inserted, and (d) is a plan view when the cassette is completely installed. (A) The principal part detailed drawing of the cassette fixing means shown in FIG. 16, (b) The principal part sectional drawing of the other example of a cassette fixing means. Sectional view of main part of another example of cassette fixing means (A) The whole front view of the other example of the X-ray imaging apparatus of this invention, (b) The top view Explanatory drawing which shows an example of the method of the cephalo X-ray imaging in the X-ray imaging apparatus of FIG.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 X-ray sensor cassette 1ac Image pick-up element 1ac-1-1ac-3 Partial image pick-up element 1ba TDI clock control means 1d TDI clock generator 1n Detection means 2 Base 3 Support | pillar 4 Support body 5 Turning arm 6 X-ray generator 6a X-ray Tube (X-ray source)
6h X-ray slit means 6i Primary slit member 6j Primary slit 7 X-ray detector 7a Panorama cassette holder 8 Cefaro device 8a Cefaro arm 8b Cefaro head fixing device 8c Cefaro cassette holder 8d Secondary slit member
8e Secondary slit 8f Secondary slit moving motor 8g Cassette moving motor O Subject X X-ray beam

Claims (7)

An X-ray sensor cassette that is used in an X-ray imaging apparatus capable of both panoramic X-ray imaging and cephalo X-ray imaging, and has a function of generating and outputting an X-ray transmission image in the form of an electrical signal. ,
It can be detachably attached to both a panoramic X-ray cassette holder and a cephalo X-ray cassette holder.
Based on TDI frequency control information for generating an X-ray transmission image, an image sensor having a length necessary for Cephalo X-ray imaging, a TDI clock generator for generating a TDI clock signal, and TDI clock signal frequency TDI clock control means for generating a TDI clock signal from the TDI clock generator and controlling the time delay integration of the charge image generated on the image sensor in response to the TDI clock signal;
An X-ray sensor cassette comprising setting means for switching the control mode of the TDI clock control means to either a panoramic X-ray imaging mode or a cephalo X-ray imaging mode. In claim 1,
A detecting means for detecting whether the X-ray sensor cassette is attached to either a panoramic X-ray imaging cassette holder or a cephalo X-ray imaging cassette holder;
Whether the detection means is attached to the cassette holder for panoramic X-ray imaging or the cassette holder for Cephalo X-ray imaging by electrical connection or mechanical connection of the X-ray sensor cassette with the X-ray imaging apparatus. An X-ray sensor cassette characterized in that In any one of Claims 1, 2.
The image sensor is configured by connecting a plurality of partial image sensors, and only a necessary partial image sensor is selectively driven in accordance with an imaging mode of panoramic X-ray imaging or cephalo X-ray imaging. An X-ray sensor cassette. The X-ray sensor cassette according to claim 1 is provided,
An X-ray generator is provided with an X-ray slit means that transmits an X-ray beam necessary for panoramic X-ray imaging and cephalometric X-ray imaging,
The X-ray imaging apparatus main body includes detection means for detecting whether the X-ray sensor cassette is mounted on a panoramic X-ray imaging cassette holder or a cephalo X-ray imaging cassette holder.
An X-ray imaging apparatus characterized in that the X-ray slit means forms a slit for panoramic X-ray imaging and cephalometric X-ray imaging in response to a discrimination signal from the detection means. The X-ray sensor cassette according to claim 2,
An X-ray generator is provided with an X-ray slit means that transmits an X-ray beam necessary for panoramic X-ray imaging and cephalometric X-ray imaging,
The X-ray slit means is configured to receive the discrimination signal from the detection means of the X-ray sensor cassette and to form the slit for panoramic X-ray imaging and cephalometric X-ray imaging. Shooting device. The X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 4 or 5,
The image sensor is configured by connecting a plurality of partial image sensors, and only a necessary partial image sensor is selectively driven in accordance with an imaging mode of panoramic X-ray imaging or cephalo X-ray imaging. An X-ray imaging apparatus characterized by comprising: In any one of Claims 4-6,
Fixing an X-ray tube for generating an X-ray beam in the X-ray generator;
A slit formed for Cephalo X-ray imaging by the X-ray slit means, a secondary slit provided on the X-ray generator side of the Cephalo X-ray head fixing device, and the X-ray sensor cassette; X-ray imaging wherein the X-ray beam is scanned in the same direction while scanning the X-ray beam onto the subject fixed to the head fixing device for cephalometric X-ray imaging. apparatus.

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