JPH11104127A - Panoramic radiography device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To make the structure of an X-ray detection part less complicated, and to enable a film cassette and a digital sensor cassette to be easily exchanged mutually and further, to freely select between a panoramic radiography using the film cassette and a panoramic radiography using the digital sensor cassette. SOLUTION: An X-ray detection part 7 provided on the end part of a gyrating arm 5 opposite to an X-ray generator 6 is equipped with a cassette holder 9 which can easily hold either of a film cassette incorporating a radiographic film or a digital sensor cassette incorporating an electrical X-ray image detector. When the film cassette is adapted to the cassette holder 9, a panoramic radiography using the radiographic film can be performed and when the digital sensor cassette is adapted to the cassette holder 9, the electrical panoramic radiography using the electrical X-ray image detector can be performed as a constructional feature.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a panoramic X-ray apparatus used for, for example, dental care for performing full jaw photography and the like.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In a panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus used in dentistry, otolaryngology, etc., a swing arm is swingably supported by a support, and an X-ray generator is attached to one end of the swing arm and the other end. An X-ray detection unit is provided at the end of the camera, and a film cassette with a built-in X-ray film is attached to the X-ray detection unit. It is configured to perform. In addition, instead of a film cassette, a digital sensor cassette with a built-in electric X-ray image detector is attached to the X-ray detection unit, and the electric X-ray image detector is operated while being controlled by a control signal corresponding to the turning of the turning arm. It is also known to obtain an image signal necessary for generating a panoramic X-ray image by causing the panoramic X-ray image to be generated (for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 9-135829, US Pat. No. 557).
9361).

[0003] The above-mentioned Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 9-135829 is provided with both a film cassette and a digital sensor cassette so that any one of the cassettes can be selectively used according to the purpose. However, the structure of the X-ray detection unit becomes complicated, and a general X-ray detection unit for a film cassette cannot be used and requires a dedicated one. In the latter US patent specification, the cassette holder is moved even when the digital sensor cassette is mounted on the cassette holder, and a structure for detecting the moving speed is required, and the X-ray detection unit is required. The configuration becomes complicated, and there is no specific disclosure about the configuration in which the film cassette and the digital sensor cassette can be replaced, and it is difficult to easily perform the replacement.

Also, a panorama X using a digital sensor
The X-ray imaging apparatus has an advantage over a panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus using a film, such that a panoramic X-ray image can be obtained immediately without the need for development and can be utilized in various ways as diagnostic information using a computer. However, most panoramic X-ray apparatuses already used in clinics and the like use a film cassette and cannot use a digital sensor cassette. Therefore, if the panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus using the film cassette can be used together with the digital sensor cassette by only slightly modifying it, a great advantage can be expected.

[0005]

The present invention pays attention to these points, does not complicate the structure of the X-ray detecting section, facilitates the exchange of the film cassette and the digital sensor cassette, and realizes the conventional panoramic X-ray imaging. An object of the present invention is to make it possible to easily attach a digital sensor cassette to an X-ray detector of an apparatus.

[0006]

In order to achieve the above object, a panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 1 of the present application is provided.
When a cassette holder that can be attached to both a film cassette with a built-in X-ray film in the X-ray detection unit and a digital sensor cassette with a built-in electrical X-ray image detector is provided, and the film cassette is mounted in the cassette holder The cassette holder on which the film cassette is mounted according to the rotation of the rotation arm is mechanically moved at a predetermined speed in a direction substantially orthogonal to the X-ray beam emitted from the X-ray generator with respect to the X-ray detection unit. Panoramic X-ray photography using film is performed by moving, and when a digital sensor cassette is attached to the cassette holder, the cassette holder with the digital sensor cassette attached is fixed to the X-ray detection unit. The control signal corresponding to the rotation of the swivel arm is transmitted from the panoramic X-ray imaging device Supplied to Le sensor cassette, and a control means, for electrically controlled to obtain an image signal required for generating a panoramic X-ray image by operating the electric X-ray image detector.

[0007] With such a configuration, any of the film cassette and the digital sensor cassette can be easily attached, and it is possible to obtain a required panoramic X-ray image by exhibiting the respective features.

The apparatus according to the present invention is provided with a detecting means for detecting that one of the film cassette and the digital sensor cassette is mounted on the cassette holder, and the photographing mode according to the type of the cassette is automatically set. And the photographing conditions in that mode are set. As the detection means, for example, as is performed with an audio cassette tape or the like, a concave portion or a convex portion having a different position for each type is provided on a part of the exterior of the cassette, and this is mechanically or optically or Well-known means such as electrical detection can be appropriately employed. As will be described later, the digital sensor cassette may be mounted on a cassette holder and electrically connected to the main body of the panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus to perform the detection.

The digital sensor cassette used in the present invention is disposed opposite to the X-ray generator via an X-ray shielding plate having a secondary slit provided in the X-ray detecting section.
In addition to an electric X-ray image detector that converts a line into an electric signal, the electric X-ray image detector is driven by the control signal so as to obtain an image signal necessary for generating a panoramic X-ray image. A / D for converting an analog signal output from the electrical X-ray image detector into a digital signal
At least a conversion unit, an input / output unit for communicating with an external circuit, and a control unit for electrically controlling the operation of each unit are provided.

The control unit includes a CPU, an MPU, and a storage device for storing obtained image information as necessary, and communicates with the apparatus main body through an input / output unit or with another external device such as a personal computer. It is configured to be able to.

Panorama X by communication through the input / output unit
The control signal supplied to the digital sensor cassette from the main body of the X-ray imaging apparatus includes a clock signal for time delay integration control corresponding to the rotation of the swing arm, at least the start and end of X-ray irradiation, the X-ray imaging mode, Various information associated with imaging, such as the tube voltage and current and the imaging region, is included. As is well known, a clock signal for time delay integration control is essential when performing panoramic X-ray imaging using an electric X-ray image detector using a solid-state imaging device such as a CCD. When a film cassette is used, signal processing corresponding to mechanically moving a film at a predetermined speed can be performed. Further, the information accompanying the imaging is useful for obtaining an appropriate panoramic X-ray image or for subsequent diagnosis.

The signal is also sent from the digital sensor cassette to the apparatus main body through the input / output unit, and the operation of the apparatus main body is controlled. This signal indicates an operation signal of the digital sensor cassette, that is, an operation state such as data processing, data transfer, setting, etc. The operation of sending an instruction that cannot be responded to by the operation signal during, for example, the operation is performed by the user. However, this command is not accepted and the operation is restricted.

A conventionally used film cassette has no communication means, and cannot communicate with the main body of the panoramic X-ray photographing apparatus. Therefore, the communication through the input / output unit detects that the digital sensor cassette is attached to the cassette holder, and when the attachment of the digital sensor cassette to the cassette holder is detected, the photographing mode using the digital sensor cassette is selected, When the attachment of the digital sensor cassette to the cassette holder is not detected, the photographing mode using the film cassette may be selected.

As the input / output unit, a wired type that connects between the apparatus main body and other external devices via a connector and a cable, and a wireless type that connects via a medium such as an infrared ray or a radio wave. Can be used.

The conditions of the photographing mode using the digital sensor cassette include that the amount of X-ray irradiation from the X-ray generator is reduced as compared with the case of the photographing mode using the film cassette. Electrical X-ray image detectors are generally more sensitive than X-ray films, so even if the X-ray dose is reduced,
X-ray images can be obtained, thereby reducing the X-ray exposure of the subject.

The conditions of the photographing mode using the digital sensor cassette include fixing the digital sensor cassette in the X-ray detecting section without driving the cassette holder. This is because when performing panoramic X-ray photography by performing time-delay integration control of the electric X-ray image detector, it is necessary to fix the cassette to the X-ray detection unit, for example, provided in the X-ray detection unit. By mechanically connecting the main body-side fastening member and the cassette-side fastening member provided on the digital sensor cassette to each other, the digital sensor cassette can be mechanically fixed to a predetermined position in the X-ray detection unit.

In the X-ray detecting section, in the case of photographing using a film, a cassette holder having a film cassette attached thereto is substantially orthogonal to the X-ray beam emitted from the X-ray generator with respect to the X-ray detecting section. Since a motor for driving the cassette holder for moving the cassette integrally with the cassette in the direction is provided, it is possible to electrically fix the cassette holder using this motor. In this case, for example, a detection unit having a light emitting element and a light receiving element is provided in the X-ray detection unit, thereby detecting the position of the reflection unit provided in the digital sensor cassette, and driving the cassette holder driving motor. After the digital sensor cassette is moved to a predetermined position in the X-ray detection unit, the motor is stopped and locked to fix the digital sensor cassette.

[0018]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to illustrated examples. FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of the entire panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus, and FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an X-ray detection unit.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes a main body of a panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus. A support 3 is erected on a base 2, and a support 4 is attached to the support 3 so as to be able to move up and down.
A swing arm 5 is attached so as to be swingable. A support arm 4a and a patient frame 4b extending substantially horizontally are provided at the upper end and the lower end of the support 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 freely moved in the X and Y directions by a step motor. The swing arm 5 is suspended via the XY table so that it can move freely in a horizontal plane. Has become. Reference numeral 4d denotes a patient head holder provided on the lower surface of the support arm 4a so as to penetrate the turning arm 5, and is provided with a position adjusting mechanism.

The turning arm 5 is provided with a turning mechanism for turning the turning arm 5 with respect to the support arm 4a by a step motor. The turning arm 5 is moved along a vertical axis while moving the turning center by the XY table. It is configured to be able to turn with respect to. The swing arm 5 has both ends hanging down, and an X-ray generator 6 is provided at one end 5a.
The X-ray detectors 7 are provided opposite to each other at the other end 5b. The X-ray generator 6 includes an X-ray tube,
An X-ray shielding plate having a secondary slit and an adjustment mechanism for changing the shape of the primary slit are provided.

The X-ray detecting section 7 is provided with a vertical secondary slit 8a corresponding to the primary slit and a shielding plate 8 having a mechanism for adjusting the secondary slit 8a, facing the X-ray generator 6, and behind the cassette. A holder 9 is arranged. As shown in FIG. 2, the cassette holder 9 is supported by a slide bearing 9a so as to be horizontally movable in a direction perpendicular to the plane of FIG. 2, and a driving motor 9 for moving the cassette holder 9 is provided.
b is provided.

The slide bearing 9 of the X-ray detector 7
A control unit 11 composed of a printed circuit board or the like incorporating various circuits and an operation panel 12 covering the outside thereof are provided behind the control panel a. Various switches and a liquid crystal display unit (not shown) are provided on the operation panel 12. ) Is attached. Further, a remote control box 13 connected to the apparatus main body 1 by an operation code 13a is provided. The remote control box 13 is provided with, for example, a power ON / OFF main switch and an X-ray irradiation switch.

When performing full-jaw panoramic X-ray photography using a film, the patient's head is fixed at a predetermined position on the patient frame 4b, and the film cassette 21 loaded with the X-ray film is indicated by a chain line in FIG. After being mounted on the cassette holder 9, X-rays are emitted from the X-ray generator 6 toward the X-ray detection unit 7, and the turning center is moved along a predetermined trajectory while turning the turning arm 5. In synchronization with this, the cassette holder 9 with the film cassette 21 mounted thereon is moved in a horizontal direction at a predetermined speed integrally with the cassette. This movement is performed by the drive motor 9b,
The direction is substantially perpendicular to the X-ray beam emitted from the X-ray generator 6 to the X-ray detector 7. FIG. 3 shows an example of a film cassette 21 in which an X-ray film and an intensifying screen are exchangeably stored. Here, a film cassette generally used conventionally is used as it is.

Since the above operation and the basic structure and operation of the apparatus main body 1 are well known as an apparatus using a film cassette, further description is omitted, but as will be described later, In the apparatus, various circuits necessary for using the digital sensor cassette are also provided in the control unit 11, and the X-ray detection unit 7 is further provided with a connector 14 for connecting the digital sensor cassette as shown in FIG.

FIG. 4 illustrates a digital sensor cassette 22 used in this apparatus. As described above, in the case where a film cassette 21 that has been generally used in the past is used as it is, the cassette holder 9 can also use the conventional cassette holder for the film cassette as shown in FIG. The upper and lower edges are provided with cassette support pieces 9c having an L-shaped cross section. Accordingly, the dimensions and shape of the outer housing 23 of the digital sensor cassette 22 are substantially the same as those of the film cassette 21. In particular, the upper edge 23a and the lower edge 23b are located between the cassette supporting pieces 9c, 9c of the cassette holder 9. The size and shape are selected so that they can be inserted and mounted.

The cassette holder 9 of the X-ray detector 7 may be configured so that the film cassette 21 and the digital sensor cassette 22 can be mounted without any trouble.
For example, each of the cassettes 21 and 22 is not used as the film cassette 21 but is generally used.
Can be used exclusively for this apparatus, and a cassette holder 9 having a structure corresponding to this can be adopted.

The digital sensor cassette 22 has an electric X-ray image detector and various circuits related to the electric X-ray image detector inside an exterior housing 23. One side of the housing 23 has a connector for connection to an external circuit. 24 are provided. The connector 24 is normally connected to the connector 14 of the X-ray detection unit 7 by a cable in which a power line and a signal line are integrated, but can also be used for connection to another external device such as a personal computer. The outer housing 23 is made of an appropriate material such as a metal such as an aluminum plate or a synthetic resin such as an ABS resin, which can provide a necessary strength. Is provided with an X-ray light receiving portion 25 made of a shielding material, for example, a dark colored ABS resin or the like, corresponding to the secondary slit 8a in the vertical direction, and an electric X-ray image detector is arranged inside the X-ray receiving portion 25. Have been.

FIG. 5 is a view showing a schematic structure of an electric X-ray image detector, a protective case, and the like.
Is a luminous body that emits light by irradiated X-rays, that is, a scintillator 26a, an optical fiber device 26b that transmits light emitted from the luminous body 26a, and a semiconductor sensor such as a CCD or a MOS in which pixels of an image sensor are two-dimensionally arranged. An image sensor 26c having a three-layer structure has a ceramic base 2
The structure is provided integrally on 6d. 27 is a protective case, 27a is a sealing material.

Although the thickness is exaggerated in FIG. 5, the actual thickness of each component of the electrical X-ray image detector 26 is, for example, 0.3 mm for the luminous body 26a and 1. mm for the optical fiber device 26b. 5 mm, the imaging element section 26c is 0.5 mm, and the ceramic base 26d is 1 mm. The pixel configuration of the image sensor unit 26c is, for example, a two-dimensional arrangement of square pixels each having a side length of 96 μm in a rectangular shape having a width of about 6 mm and a length of about 150 mm. 2
It is taken out from the electrode 26e on the back surface of 6d.

The protective case 27 is provided with an electric X-ray image detector 26.
The electric X-ray image detector 26 is covered with this protective case 27, and the front surface is covered with the X-ray light receiving unit 25. It is housed in a housing 23. Note that the protective case 27 can be omitted if the housing 23 is light-shielding.

Next, the positioning and fixing of the digital sensor cassette will be described. 6 to 9 show examples of mechanical means, and FIGS. 10 and 11 show examples of electrical means.

The cassette holder 9 has a slide bearing 9
6A, the pivot arm 5 is supported on the end 5b side. In FIG. 6, 9a-1 is an arm-side sliding member fixed to a member of the end 5b via a spacer 9d, 9a-2.
Is a cassette holder side sliding member fixed to the back of the cassette holder 9. A rod-shaped fastening member 10a having a male screw 10b at the tip is fixed to the arm-side sliding member 9a-1 by a fixture 10c in parallel with the longitudinal direction. Further, as shown in FIG.
2, a mounting plate 10d is screwed to one side surface, and a positioning plate 10e is fixed to the mounting plate 10e as shown in the figure, and a fastening member 10f having a female screw 10g at the tip end is rotatably mounted.

In order to mount the digital sensor cassette 22 on the X-ray detector 7, first, the cassette 22 is mounted on the cassette holder 9 as shown in FIGS. 6 (b) and 8 (a). Part to the cassette holder side sliding member 9a-
2 is brought into contact with the end face. Since the cassette holder 9 and the digital sensor cassette 22 have the same longitudinal dimension, in this state, the center of the cassette holder 9 indicated by the line A and the X
The center of the digital sensor cassette 22 provided with the line light receiving unit 25 coincides with the center. Next, the cassette holder 9 and the digital sensor cassette 22 are inserted into the back of the shielding plate 8 by moving in the direction of the arrow, and as shown in FIG.
The tip of e is brought into contact with the end surface of the arm-side sliding member 9a-1. In this state, the size and shape of each member are such that the center of the X-ray light receiving portion 25 at the center of the digital sensor cassette 22 and the center of the secondary slit 8a of the shielding plate 8 shown by B line coincide, and Male screw 10 of fastening member 10a
The digital sensor cassette 22 is fixed at a predetermined position by screwing the male screw 10b to the female screw 10g and tightening the fastening member 10f.

The above-described fastening member 10f and the fastening member 1
It is also possible to use a ball plunger as shown in FIG. That is, the fastening member 10f
Instead, a fastening member 10h having an engaging recess 10j is fixed to the mounting plate 10d, and a ball 10k protruding from the inner surface of the engaging recess 10j is pressed by a screw 10m and a spring 10n. 10h, an engagement member 10r having an engagement groove 10q corresponding to the engagement portion 10p is provided at the tip of the fastening member 10a. With this configuration, when the digital sensor cassette 22 is inserted into the back surface of the shielding plate 8 to a predetermined position, the engaging member 10r is inserted into the engaging concave portion 10j of the fastening member 10h, and the ball of the engaging portion 10p is inserted. 10k is engaged with the engagement groove 10q, and the positioning and fixing of the digital sensor cassette 22 are performed simultaneously. To release this fixation, use a spring 10
The fastening member 10h may be pulled out with a force equal to or greater than the engagement force between the engagement groove 10q and the ball 10k corresponding to the pressure n.

In the example using the electric means shown in FIG. 10, a small slot 10s is provided at the end of the cassette holder 9, and the digital sensor cassette 22 corresponding to the slot 10s is provided.
The reflection member 10 is provided on the rear surface of
t is provided. The reflection member 10t is formed by, for example, attaching a reflective sheet. A detection sensor 1 having a light emitting element and a light receiving element is provided at an end 5 b of the swing arm 5.
0u is provided, and its position is selected so that the cassette holder 9 and the digital sensor cassette 22 can face the reflecting member 10t when the digital sensor cassette 22 is mounted at a predetermined position.

A stepper motor is used as the cassette holder driving motor 9b. After the digital sensor cassette 22 is mounted on the cassette holder 9 and moved to a substantially predetermined position by hand, the procedure shown in FIG. Is used to perform position control. That is, first, the output of the detection sensor 10u is read, and the drive motor 9b is moved one step in either direction in accordance with the presence or absence of reflection, and the detection sensor 10u is again read.
The operation of reading the output of u is repeated, and the motor is stopped and locked at a position where the presence or absence of reflection is reversed. That is, in this procedure, it is determined that the digital sensor cassette 22 has been mounted at the predetermined position when the boundary between the side edges of the reflection member 10t has just come to the position facing the detection sensor 10u. And the position of the detection sensor 10u are selected such that this condition is satisfied.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a control circuit of the panoramic X-ray apparatus main body 1, and FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a control circuit of the digital sensor cassette 22. As shown in FIG. 12, the control unit 11 includes M which is the center of operation control of the entire apparatus.
Control unit 11a such as PU or CPU, input / output port 1
1b, a memory 11c, an X-ray irradiation control circuit 11d, an X-ray irradiation detection circuit 11e, and an X-ray generation circuit 11
f, primary slit width adjusting circuit 11g, secondary slit width adjusting circuit 11h, cassette position detecting circuit 11j, cassette driving circuit 11k, turning arm rotation detecting circuit 11m, TD
An I clock generation circuit 11n and the like are provided, and these are connected to the control unit 11a via the input / output port 11b.

Although the above circuits are basically provided in a conventional apparatus using a film cassette, the present invention further provides a communication control circuit 11p, a cassette type detecting circuit 11q, a photographing mode setting circuit 11r, and a power supply circuit. 11s
Are provided, and these circuits, various switches and display units of the operation panel 12, the remote control box 1
3, various switches and connectors 14 are connected as illustrated in the figure.

As shown in FIG. 13, the operation of each circuit in the cassette 22 and the entire apparatus including the apparatus main body 1 are provided in the digital sensor cassette 22 alone or in combination with the control section 11 of the apparatus main body 1. MPU and C that control the operation of
A control unit 22a such as a PU, an input / output port 22b,
TDI clock conversion circuit 22c, imaging device drive circuit 22
d, an A / D converter 22e, a memory 22f, a communication control circuit 22g, a power supply circuit 22h, and the like. These circuits are connected to the electrical X-ray image detector 26 and the connector 24 as illustrated in the figure. ing.

Next, panoramic photography using the digital sensor cassette 22 will be described with reference to FIGS. First, the digital sensor cassette 22 is mounted on the cassette holder 9, the cassette position detecting circuit 11j and the cassette driving circuit 11k are operated and fixed at a predetermined position by the above-mentioned means. They are interconnected by a cable 15 such as a lead wire or an optical fiber having both ends 14 'and 24'. Since a predetermined signal circuit is formed by this connection, communication between the digital sensor cassette 22 and the panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus main body 1 is enabled, various signals are transmitted and received, and the cassette type detection circuit 11q When it is detected that the digital sensor cassette 22 is mounted, a photographing mode using the digital sensor cassette is selected, and various conditions according to this mode are determined by the photographing mode setting circuit 11.
Preparation for shooting is performed by setting r.

Photographing is performed by the remote control box 13
Is started by turning on the X-ray irradiation switch of
X-rays are emitted from the X-ray generator 6 toward the X-ray detection unit 7,
At the same time, the movement and turning of the turning center of the turning arm 5 are performed. At this time, the driving motor 9b of the cassette holder 9 does not operate, and the TDI clock output in the shooting operation using the normal film cassette and synchronized with the turning of the turning arm 5, that is, the signal for the time delay integration control is output. The image is sent to the digital sensor cassette 22 by the operation of the rotation arm rotation detection circuit 11m and the control unit 11a, and the imaging element unit 26c is driven in accordance with this. The signal of the TDI clock is supplied in a digital or analog form, and the cassette 22 is configured to be able to respond to any signal.

When the imaging element section 26c is driven, linear X-ray image information necessary for generating a panoramic X-ray image is sequentially output from the electrical X-ray image detector 26, and the A / D converter 22
Then, the panoramic X-ray image is transferred to the memory 22f via e and stored while sequentially generating the panoramic X-ray image from the end. This operation is performed from transmission and reception of the X-ray irradiation start signal to transmission and reception of the irradiation end signal. The image processing performed here is based on the principle of capturing a panoramic X-ray image by sequentially exposing a linear X-ray image to the film while moving the film cassette in synchronization with the turning of the turning arm. It has been replaced.

In the photographing mode using the digital sensor cassette, the electric X-ray image detector 26 has a higher sensitivity than that in the case of film, so that the X-ray irradiation amount may be lower than in the photographing mode using the film cassette. The X-ray exposure of the subject can be reduced by reducing the irradiation amount. In this case, the voltage and the current of the X-ray tube are detected by the imaging element unit 26c when the attachment of the digital sensor cassette 22 is detected.
The X-ray irradiation control circuit 11d is automatically controlled on the main body side of the panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus according to the type of the semiconductor sensor used for, for example, whether it is a CCD or a MOS, and is set to an appropriate value. It is also possible to set an appropriate value from the digital sensor cassette 22 side.

Digital sensor cassette 22 and panorama X
Communication between the X-ray imaging apparatus main bodies 1 is performed under the control of the communication control circuit 11p. In the mutual communication other than the above, for example, the cassette serial number, information about the cassette, the imaging preparation state, the operation state, etc. Is sent,
A part of the operation of the apparatus main body 1 is controlled in accordance with the information on the operation state, and even if the apparatus main body 1 is operated so as to perform operations that cannot be performed simultaneously during data processing or transfer, even if those operations are performed. Instructions are not accepted. The information sent from the control unit 11 includes, in addition to the above-described TDI clock, a shooting mode, a shooting preparation state, X
Various information accompanying the imaging, such as the start and end of the irradiation of the radiation, the voltage and current of the X-ray tube, and the imaging site, are included. In addition, the primary slit and the secondary slit are adjusted at the time of slit imaging, and their states are transmitted. At the time of quadrant imaging, information such as which part is being captured is also transmitted.

The X-ray image information output from the electrical X-ray image detector 26 is not stored in the memory 22f of the digital sensor cassette 22, but is stored in the memory 1 of the control unit 11 of the apparatus main body.
1c may be stored. As shown in FIG. 13, an external device 30 such as a personal computer or a large-sized computer or a network thereof is further connected via the control unit 11 of the panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus main body 1 connected to the connector 24. A panoramic X-ray image can be displayed on the display of the device in real time. In addition, it is also possible to connect the external device 30 to the connector 24 after the photographing and to directly transfer the image to the external device 30.

By using a device having a high processing capability as the external device 30, not only a panoramic X-ray image but also data accompanying the photographing, such as a photographing mode, a tube voltage, a tube current, and a photographed part, are displayed. In addition, these methods can be used in various ways, such as registering them in a database together with data on the patient such as a patient name and an ID and providing them to a subsequent diagnosis.

The digital sensor cassette 22 can be supplied with power via a connector 24 or via a separately provided power connection. However, since the digital sensor cassette 22 is an active device having a memory 22f and a control unit 22a therein, the application range can be increased by connecting a dry battery or a secondary battery from inside or outside and using it as a power source. It becomes possible to spread. FIG. 14 shows the configuration of FIG.
The battery connecting portion 32a is provided at an appropriate position of the housing 23 without being built in the housing 23, and the external battery 32 is connected to the battery connecting portion 32a via a required lead wire, or is detachably mechanically held. Alternatively, the connection may be made directly by using a possible connector. With such a configuration, there is no need to provide a power supply circuit on the main body side of the panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus, and a power supply cable is not required. It is easy to modify the sensor cassette so that it can be used.

As described above, especially when the secondary battery 31 is mounted, there is no need to connect a power supply cable. Therefore, it is better to use a wireless communication instead of a wired communication using a cable. No cables are required, and the need to connect both power supply and communication cables is eliminated, which is reasonable. In this case, in addition to the configuration shown in FIGS.
A non-contact wireless communication means may be added, and the connector 24 can be omitted. In addition, even when the secondary battery 31 is not mounted on the digital sensor cassette 22, it is needless to say that a wireless communication means can be employed.

FIG. 15 shows an example in which infrared communication means is provided. An infrared control circuit 33a and its transmission / reception section 33b are provided in the control section 11 of the panoramic X-ray apparatus main body, and the infrared sensor is provided in the digital sensor cassette 22. A control circuit 34a and its transmission / reception unit 34b are provided. Transmission / reception units 33b and 3
4b, for example, one using a light emitting diode and a phototransistor is used.
2 are arranged at positions facing each other when they are mounted on the cassette holder 9. In particular, if the two are opposed to each other at a position very close to each other, the output can be reduced and the influence of disturbance can be reduced.

FIG. 16 shows an example in which a radio communication means is provided. A radio control circuit 35a and its transmission / reception section 35b are provided in the control section 11 of the apparatus main body.
Is provided with a radio wave control circuit 36a and its transmission / reception unit 36b. An appropriate radio wave frequency and modulation method may be adopted, and the arrangement of the transmission / reception units 35b and 36b can be selected much more freely than in the case of the infrared type.

[0051]

As is apparent from the above description, the panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention uses either a film cassette containing an X-ray film or a digital sensor cassette containing an electric X-ray image detector. The X-ray detection unit is provided with a cassette holder that can also be mounted, and when a film cassette is mounted on the cassette holder, the cassette holder with the film cassette attached to the X-ray detection unit according to the rotation of the swivel arm. Panoramic X-ray photography using a film is performed by mechanically moving the X-ray beam emitted from the X-ray generator in a direction substantially orthogonal to the X-ray beam at a predetermined speed, and a digital sensor cassette is attached to the cassette holder. The cassette holder with the digital sensor cassette attached to the X-ray detector A control signal corresponding to the turning of the turning arm is supplied from the main body of the panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus to the digital sensor cassette, and an image signal necessary for generating a panoramic X-ray image by operating an electric X-ray image detector. Control means for performing electrical control so as to obtain

Therefore, both a film cassette and a digital sensor cassette which can obtain a panoramic X-ray image immediately without the need for development and can be used for diagnosis using a computer can be used. Thus, a required panoramic X-ray image can be obtained. In particular, the panorama X of the film type that has already spread
It is possible to obtain an apparatus which can be used together with the digital sensor cassette according to the present invention by only slightly modifying the radiographic apparatus.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a detecting means for detecting whether one of the film cassette and the digital sensor cassette is mounted on the cassette holder,
In a device configured so that a shooting mode according to the type of a cassette is automatically selected and shooting conditions in the mode are set, an operator can select a shooting mode according to a cassette to be used, and can select a shooting mode. It is not necessary to set the number, and the handling becomes easy.

A digital sensor cassette according to claim 3 used in this apparatus is an electric X-ray converter for converting X-rays into electric signals.
In addition to the line image detector, the electric X-ray image detector is driven by a control signal supplied from the main body of the panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus, so as to obtain an image signal necessary for generating a panoramic X-ray image. Unit, an A / D converter for converting an analog signal output from the electrical X-ray image detector into a digital signal, an input / output unit for communicating with an external circuit, and a control unit for controlling the operation of each of the above units , And at least.
Therefore, the obtained panoramic X-ray image can be output to an external device such as a main body of the panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus or a personal computer through the input / output unit.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the control signal supplied from the apparatus main body to the digital sensor cassette through communication through the input / output unit includes a clock signal for time delay integration control corresponding to the swing of the swing arm. , At least X
An apparatus that includes information associated with imaging, such as the start and end of X-ray irradiation, the voltage and current of the X-ray tube, and the imaging site, can obtain an appropriate panoramic X-ray image by utilizing such information. Or for post-hoc diagnosis.

Further, as in the apparatus according to the fifth aspect, an operation signal indicating the operation state is output from the digital sensor cassette to the main body of the panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus by communication through the input / output unit, and the panoramic X-ray imaging is performed by the operation signal. In the case where the operation of the apparatus main body is controlled, for example, even if the user performs an operation to send a command that cannot be responded during the operation, the command is not accepted and the operation can be limited. There is no malfunction and the reliability of operation is increased.

In the apparatus according to the sixth aspect, the attachment of the digital sensor cassette is detected by communication through the input / output unit.
When the attachment of the digital sensor cassette is not detected, the photographing mode using the film cassette is selected, so that the photographing mode can be automatically selected even when using a film cassette without a communication function. .

Further, in the case of a wired type in which the input / output unit is connected to the connector via a cable, the communication circuit is automatically configured by connecting the cable. Communication can be performed, handling is easy and operability is good.

Further, in the case where the wireless input / output section is connected via infrared rays, radio waves, or the like, the communication cable is not required.
The time and effort for connection when using the digital sensor cassette can be saved.

According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, in the imaging mode using the digital sensor cassette, the amount of X-ray irradiation from the X-ray generator is smaller than in the imaging mode using the film cassette. X-ray exposure of the person can be reduced.

Further, by fixing the digital sensor cassette in the X-ray detection section in the photographing mode using the digital sensor cassette, it is necessary to obtain a panoramic X-ray image by electrical processing. One of the conditions can be reliably executed.

According to the eleventh aspect, the main body-side fastening member provided in the X-ray detection unit and the cassette-side fastening member provided in the digital sensor cassette are mutually connected to fix the digital sensor cassette. In this case, the digital sensor cassette can be fixed at a predetermined position in the X-ray detection unit by mechanical means.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the position of the reflecting section provided on the digital sensor cassette is detected by a detector provided with the light emitting element and the light receiving element provided on the X-ray detecting section.
This type of apparatus is used for driving a cassette holder driving motor provided in the X-ray detector to move the digital sensor cassette to a predetermined position in the X-ray detector and then keeping the motor stopped. Thus, the digital sensor cassette can be fixed by effectively utilizing the cassette holder driving motor which is always provided.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view of a panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an X-ray detection unit in the same device.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an example of a film cassette in the apparatus.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an example of a digital sensor cassette in the same device.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a structure of an electric X-ray image detector of the digital sensor cassette.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view and a side view of a main part of a film cassette in the apparatus.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view and a plan view of a main part of a digital sensor cassette in the same device.

FIG. 8 is a plan view for explaining how to attach a digital sensor cassette in the apparatus.

FIG. 9 is a partially broken plan view showing another example of the fixing means of the digital sensor cassette in the same device.

FIG. 10 is a partially broken plan view showing still another example of the fixing means of the digital sensor cassette in the same device.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a procedure of position control by the fixing means.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a control circuit on the device main body side of the device.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a control circuit on the digital sensor cassette side in the same device.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing another example of the control circuit of the digital sensor cassette in the same device.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing another example of the control circuit in the device.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing still another example of a control circuit in the device.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus 5 Revolving arm 6 X-ray generator 7 X-ray detecting part 9 Cassette holder 10a, 10f, 10h Fastening member 10e Positioning plate 10t Reflecting member 10u Detection sensor 11 Control part 11a, 22a Control unit 21 Film cassette 22 Digital sensor cassette 26 Electrical X-ray image detector 33b, 34b Transmitter / receiver 35b, 36b Transmitter / receiver

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (72) Inventor Junichi Furukawa 680, Higashihamananamicho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto-shi, Japan Morita Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Inventor Masaya Tatsumi 680 Higashihamanamachi, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto Morita Manufacturing Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Eiki Yoshikawa 680 Higashihamanamachi, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto Morita Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

Claims (12)

[Claims] 1. A panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus having a swing arm rotatably supported by a support, an X-ray generator provided at one end of the swing arm, and an X-ray detector at the other end. The X-ray detection unit includes a cassette holder to which a film cassette containing an X-ray film and a digital sensor cassette containing an electric X-ray image detector can be attached. When the cassette is mounted, the cassette holder on which the film cassette is mounted is moved to the X-ray detector in a direction substantially orthogonal to the X-ray beam emitted from the X-ray generator in accordance with the rotation of the rotation arm. Panoramic X-ray photography using film by mechanically moving at the speed of In a case where the cassette holder on which the digital sensor cassette is mounted is fixed to the X-ray detection unit, a control signal corresponding to the turning of the turning arm is supplied from the panoramic X-ray apparatus main body to the digital sensor cassette, A panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus, comprising: control means for electrically controlling an electric X-ray image detector to obtain an image signal necessary for generating a panoramic X-ray image by operating the electric X-ray image detector. 2. A photographing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising detecting means for detecting whether one of a film cassette and a digital sensor cassette is mounted on the cassette holder, and a photographing mode corresponding to the type of the cassette is automatically selected to perform photographing in that mode. The panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a condition is set. 3. A panoramic X-ray image is generated by a digital sensor cassette driving an electric X-ray image detector according to the control signal in addition to an electric X-ray image detector for converting X-rays into an electric signal. For electrically controlling an image signal necessary for the image signal, an A / D converter for converting an analog signal output from an electrical X-ray image detector into a digital signal, and communication with an external circuit. The panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising at least an input / output unit and a control unit that electrically controls the operation of each unit. 4. A control signal supplied from the main body of the panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus to the digital sensor cassette by communication through the input / output unit includes a clock signal for time delay integration control corresponding to the turning of the turning arm, At least X
The panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus includes information associated with imaging, such as start and end of irradiation of a ray, voltage and current of an X-ray tube, and an imaging region. 5. An operation signal indicating an operation state of the panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus is output from the digital sensor cassette to the panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus main body by communication through the input / output unit, and the operation of the apparatus main body is controlled by the operation signal. Item 7. A panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus according to item 4. 6. The detecting means detects that the digital sensor cassette is attached by communication through the input / output unit, and when the attachment of the digital sensor cassette is detected, a photographing mode using the digital sensor cassette is selected. The panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein an imaging mode using a film cassette is selected when the attachment of the digital sensor cassette is not detected. 7. The panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 6, wherein said input / output unit is of a wired type connected to a connector via a cable. 8. The panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 6, wherein said input / output unit is of a wireless type connected via infrared rays, radio waves or the like. 9. The panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the conditions for the imaging mode using the digital sensor cassette include reducing the amount of X-ray irradiation from the X-ray generator as compared with the case of the imaging mode using the film cassette. . 10. The panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the condition of the imaging mode using the digital sensor cassette includes fixing the digital sensor cassette in the X-ray detection unit without driving the cassette holder. 11. The digital sensor cassette is mounted inside the X-ray detection section by mechanically connecting the main body-side fastening member provided on the X-ray detection section and the cassette-side fastening member provided on the digital sensor cassette to each other. The panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus is fixed at a predetermined position. 12. A cassette holder provided in the X-ray detection section, wherein the position of the reflection section provided in the digital sensor cassette is detected by a detector provided with a light emitting element and a light receiving element provided in the X-ray detection section. 11. The digital sensor cassette is fixed by driving the drive motor to move the digital sensor cassette to a predetermined position in the X-ray detection unit and then keeping the motor stopped.
The panoramic X-ray imaging apparatus as described in the above.