WO2007018332A1

WO2007018332A1 - The combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2007018332A1
Application number: PCT/KR2005/003345
Authority: WO
Inventors: Yong Jae Sa; Jae Yoon Park; Young Gyun Jin; Tae Woo Kim
Original assignee: E Woo Technology Co Ltd; Vatech Co Ltd
Current assignee: E Woo Technology Co Ltd; Vatech Co Ltd
Priority date: 2005-08-08
Filing date: 2005-10-07
Publication date: 2007-02-15
Anticipated expiration: 2008-02-08
Also published as: ES2375043T3; US7236563B2; EP1752099A2; ATE530119T1; KR100794563B1; HK1101496A1; EP1752099A3; US20070030950A1; CN100477963C; KR20070017664A; JP4480041B2; EP1752099B1; PL1752099T3; JP2007526103A; DK1752099T3; CN1787779A

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus. The apparatus includes, an X-ray light source part, an X-ray sensor part having a panoramic sensor and/or a CT sensor for detecting X-rays which are generated from the X-ray light source part and pass through an object, a rotary arm for arranging the X-ray light source part and the X-ray sensor part thereon in such a way as to be opposed to each other, a rotary arm supporting member, and rotary arm driving means, wherein a distance between the X-ray light source part and the X-ray sensor part arranged opposed to each other with respect to the rotary arm is variable. The apparatus can conduct all of panoramic photographing and CT photographing, and provide the optimum enlargement ratio according to whether the panoramic photographing or the CT photographing is conducted.

Description

THE COMBINED PANORAMIC AND COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY PHOTOGRAPHING APPARATUS

Technical Field

[1] The present invention relates to a combined panoramic and computed tomographic photographing apparatus, more particularly, to a combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus, which can vary a distance between an X-ray light source part and an X-ray sensor part arranged on a rotary arm in such a manner as to be opposed to each other. Background Art

[2] In the field of the medical diagnosis, conventionally, an X-ray CT (Computerized

Tomography) imaging apparatus is a photographing apparatus in which an X-ray beam of a predetermined amount is transmitted to a patient's site to be imaged or photographed, the transmitted X-ray amount is measured by an X-ray sensor and the measured data is recorded in a memory, and an X-ray absorbing rate of each point of the captured bodily region of the patient is obtained by a computer and is reconstructed into an image. In the field of the dental diagnosis, an X-ray panoramic photographing apparatus is an apparatus for conducting tomography while rotating along a locus suitable for the form of a dental arch.

[3] The conventional X-ray CT photographing apparatus can obtain only a CT image, and the conventional panoramic photographing apparatus can obtain only a photographic image. Therefore, recently, combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatuses have been proposed.

[4] U.S. Patent No. 6118842 discloses an X-ray imaging apparatus which can conduct both the CT imaging and the panoramic imaging. The apparatus includes: an X-ray source for generating X-rays, an X-ray sensor for detecting X-rays having passed through an object, and supporting means for supporting the X-ray source and the X-ray sensor so that the X-ray source and the X-ray sensor are opposed to each other across an object; and mode switching means for switching between a CT mode and a panorama mode. To detect X-rays, only one X-ray sensor is used, and the X-ray sensor is an area sensor which is capable to detect a large area. The X-ray imaging apparatus can obtain the tomography image by converting the photographic mode into the panoramic mode after obtaining the CT image by selecting the CT mode.

[5] However, the conventional imaging apparatus conducts the CT photographing and the panoramic photographing using only one sensor, and hence, needs an expensive sensor capable of carrying out the two photographing functions. Additionally, the con- ventional imaging apparatus has another problem in that it is difficult to obtain the optimum image according to the CT photographing or the panoramic photographing since a distance between the X-ray sensor and the X-ray source is uniform. Disclosure of Invention

Technical Problem

[6] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus, which can take a CT image and a panoramic image by using a CT sensor and a panoramic sensor mounted in one photographing apparatus, and which can apply the optimum enlargement ratio according to panoramic photographing or CT photographing. Technical Solution

[7] To achieve the above object, the present invention provides a combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus. The combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus includes: an X-ray light source part for generating X-rays; an X-ray sensor part having a panoramic sensor and/or a CT sensor for detecting X-rays which are generated from the X-ray light source part and pass through an object; a rotary arm for arranging the X-ray light source part and the X-ray sensor part thereon in such a way as to be opposed to each other; a rotary arm supporting member for supporting the rotary arm; and rotary arm driving means interposed between the rotary arm and the rotary arm supporting member for driving the rotary arm, wherein a distance between the X-ray light source part and the X-ray sensor part arranged opposed to each other with respect to the rotary arm is variable.

[8] The combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus further includes X-ray light source part driving means mounted at a location where the rotary arm and the X-ray light source part are connected with each other. The X-ray sensor part is fixed on the rotary arm, and the X-ray light source part is horizontally moved in a direction to get near to the X-ray sensor part or in a direction to get away from the X-ray sensor part without regard to the rotary arm.

[9] The combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus further includes X-ray light source part driving means mounted at a location where the rotary arm and the X-ray light source part are connected with each other, and X-ray sensor part driving means located at a location where the rotary arm and the X-ray sensor part are connected with each other. The X-ray sensor part is rotated without regard to the rotary arm, and the X-ray light source part is horizontally moved in a direction to get near to the X-ray sensor part or in a direction to get away from the X- ray sensor part without regard to the rotary arm.

[10] The combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus further includes X-ray sensor part driving means mounted at a location where the rotary arm and the X-ray sensor part are connected with each other. The X-ray sensor part is rotated without regard to the rotary arm, and the X-ray light source part is fixed on the rotary arm.

Advantageous Effects

[11] The combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to the present invention allows the user to take an image in the optimum enlargement ratio according to whether the panoramic photographing or the CT photographing is conducted by varying and regulating a distance between the X-ray light source part and the X-ray sensor part. Furthermore, the present invention is very convenient since it allows the user to conduct all of the panoramic photographing and the CT photographing. Moreover, conventionally, only one expensive X-ray sensor for conducting both of the panoramic photographing and the CT photographing has been used. However, the present invention uses a dedicated X-ray sensor for panoramic photographing and a dedicated X-ray sensor for CT photographing, thereby reducing costs.

[12] While the present invention has been described with reference to the particular illustrative embodiments, it is not to be restricted by the embodiments but only by the appended claims. It is to be appreciated that those skilled in the art can change or modify the embodiments without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Brief Description of the Drawings

[13] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[14] FIGS. 2 to 4 are front views for showing an operation of an X-ray light source part of the combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to the first preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[15] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[16] FIGS. 6 and 7 are front views for showing an operation of an X-ray light source part of the combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to the second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[17] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to a third preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[18] FIGS. 9 and 10 are front views for showing operations of an X-ray light source part and an X-ray sensor part of the combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to the third preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[19] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to a fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[20] FIGS. 12 and 13 are front views for showing an operation of an X-ray light source part of the combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to the fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[21] <Explanation on essential reference numerals in drawings>

[22] 100,200,300,400: combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus

[23] 110,210,310,410: X-ray light source part

[24] 120,220,320,420: X-ray sensor part

[25] 221,321, 421: panoramic sensor

[26] 223,323,423: CT sensor

[27] 115,215,315: X-ray light source part driving means

[28] 325: X-ray sensor part driving means

[29] 140,240,340,440: rotary arm

[30] 150: rotary arm supporting member

[31] 160: rotary arm driving means

[32] 170: elevation member

[33] 180: chin supporting member

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[34] Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The present invention is not restricted to the embodiments of the present invention but can be embodied in other various forms. The same reference numerals designate the same parts in the present invention.

[35] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 2 to 4 are front views for showing an operation of an X-ray light source part of the combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to the first preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[36] Referring to FIG. 1, the combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus 100 includes a base 195, a supporting pole 190, an elevation member 170, a rotary arm supporting member 150, a rotary arm 140 on which an X- ray sensor part 120 and an X-ray light source part 110 are opposed to each other, a chin supporting member 180, head fixing means 185, and rotary arm driving means 160, and can conduct CT photographing and panoramic photographing.

[37] The base 195 supports the supporting pole 190 on which the above components are mounted, and the supporting pole 190 stands and is mounted at a side of the base 195.

[38] The elevation member 170 is mounted on the supporting pole 190. The elevation member 170 includes a control motor for allowing a vertical displacement. Therefore, the apparatus 100 can regulate its own height according to a patient'ss height.

[39] The chin supporting member 180 is mounted at the lower portion of the elevation member 170 in nearly orthogonal direction to the elevation member 170. The chin supporting member 180 is formed to position the patient's chin thereon. At this time, the patient's head is located between the X-ray sensor part 120 and the X-ray light source part 110 disposed on the rotary arm 140. The chin supporting member 180 can be driven without regard to driving of the elevation member 170.

[40] The rotary arm supporting member 150 is mounted at the upper portion of the elevation member 170 in nearly orthogonal direction to the elevation member 170. The rotary arm supporting member 150 supports the rotary arm 140 by the rotary arm driving means 160. The rotary arm supporting member 150 has lines (not shown) formed to allow movement of the rotary arm driving means 160, so that the rotary arm driving means 160 can move along the lines.

[41] The rotary arm driving means 160 moves in a direction that the rotary arm supporting member 150 is connected to the elevation member 170 (X-axis movement), and in a horizontal direction which is orthogonal to the X-axis movement direction (Y-axis movement). Furthermore, the rotary arm driving means 160 can be rotated on a central axis. That is, the rotary arm driving means 160 conducts the CT photographing or the panoramic photographing by driving the rotary arm 140. In case of the CT photographing, the rotary arm driving means 160 rotates the rotary arm 140 on the central axis in order to conduct photographing, and in case of the panoramic photographing, the rotary arm driving means 160 drives the rotary arm 140 on the X-axis and the Y- axis and drives the rotary arm 140 rotationally in order to conduct photographing. The rotary arm supporting member 150 and the elevation member 170 respectively includes mechanical components, such as a control motor, therein which are necessary for driving of the rotary arm driving means 160, and a rotary arm driving means controller for controlling the rotary arm driving means 160 to move the rotary arm 140 along the fixed locus according to the CT photographing or the panoramic photographing. The mechanical function will not be described since it is clear to those skilled in the art.

[42] The X-ray light source part 110 is connected to an end of the rotary arm 140, and the X-ray sensor part 120 is connected to the other end of the rotary arm 140. The X- ray sensor part 120 and the X-ray light source part 110 are opposed to each other.

[43] The X-ray light source part 110 emits and irradiates X-rays to a patient 130 or an object. The X-ray light source part 110 includes an X-ray light source and a collimator, so that the emitted X-rays pass through the object and are irradiated to the X-ray sensor part 120.

[44] The X-ray light source part 110 can be driven without regard to the driving of the rotary arm 140. That is, X-ray light source part driving means 115 is mounted at a part where the rotary arm 140 and the X-ray light source part 110 are connected with each other, so that the X-ray light source part 110 can be moved. Therefore, the X-ray light source part 110 can be horizontally moved in a direction to get near to the X-ray sensor part 120 or in a direction to get away from the X-ray sensor part 120 without regard to the rotary arm 140. The rotary arm 140 includes mechanical components, such as a control motor, therein necessary for driving the X-ray light source part 110. Therefore, the CT photographing or the panoramic photographing can be conducted by varying a distance between the object 130 and the X-ray light source part 110 and regulating an enlargement ratio. Referring to FIGS. 2 to 4, the operation of the present invention will be described in more detail.

[45] The X-ray sensor part 120 is to convert X-rays into electric signals. The X-ray sensor part 120 detects X-rays generated from the X-ray light source part 110, obtains an image, and transmits the obtained image to the outside. The X-ray sensor part 120 is fixed on the rotary arm 140, and includes a sensor mounting part 122 for detaching and attaching a sensor 121. The sensor 121 may be a panoramic sensor or a CT sensor. Therefore, to conduct the CT photographing, a user selects the CT sensor and mounts the CT sensor onto the sensor mounting part 122 manually. To conduct the panoramic photographing, the user separates the CT sensor from the sensor mounting part 122 and mounts the panoramic sensor onto the sensor mounting part 122 manually. That is, in the present invention, the CT sensor for dedicated use of the CT photographing and the panoramic sensor for dedicated use of the panoramic photographing are used according to their use purpose.

[46] It would be appreciated that the sensor mounting part 122 may have one of various shapes besides a slot form shown in the drawings.

[47] The head fixing means 185 is located between the X-ray light source part 110 and the X-ray sensor part 120. The head fixing means 185 is in the form of a hair band for surrounding the forehead part of the object (patient) 130, and fixes the head part of the patient. That is, the head fixing means 185 serves to fix the patient's head part together with the chin supporting member 180. Particularly, in case of the CT photographing, a clear image can be obtained without distortion when the patient's head part is not shaken, and so, the head fixing means 185 have an important role in the present invention. The head fixing means 185 is connected to a predetermined portion of the rotary arm supporting member 150 through the rotary arm 140 without being influenced by the driving of the rotary arm 140.

[48] Hereinafter, referring to FIGS. 2 to 4, a process to vary the distance between the X- ray light source part 110 and the X-ray sensor part 120 and conduct the CT photographing or the panoramic photographing will be described.

[49] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the patient's head part is located on the chin supporting member 180, and fixed by the head fixing means 185.

[50] On the rotary arm 140 supported by the rotary arm supporting member 150, the X- ray light source part 110 and the X-ray sensor part 120 are opposed to each other. At this time, the X-ray sensor part 120 is fixed on the rotary arm 140. However, the X-ray light source part 110 is not fixed on the rotary arm 140 but movable by the X-ray light source part driving means 115.

[51] First, to conduct the panoramic photographing, the panoramic sensor 121 is mounted on the sensor mounting part 122 disposed on the X-ray sensor part 120. The panoramic sensor 121 may use a line scan sensor such as a single line scan sensor or a multi line scan sensor.

[52] In case of the panoramic photographing, after a central axis (x) is set at a predetermined part of the patient's body, a rotation axis of the rotary arm 140 is set, and then, the rotary arm 140 is rotated along the circumference of the central axis and along the fixed locus of the rotation axis.

[53] At this time, to obtain a clear image, it is preferable to conduct photographing after regulating the obtained image into the optimum enlargement ratio. The enlargement ratio means a ratio of the distance between the object 130 and the X-ray light source part 110 to the distance between the X-ray sensor part 120 and the X-ray light source part 110, and the obtained image is enlarged when the enlargement ratio is increased. When the enlargement ratio is too large, it is harmful to the patient since an amount of the generated X-rays is increased. On the contrary, when the enlargement ratio is too small, it is difficult to form a mechanical structure. Therefore, it is preferable to conduct photographing after selecting the optimum enlargement ratio in order to make the mechanical structure easy and obtain a good image.

[54] In the present invention, photographing shall be conducted by properly regulating the enlargement ratio. In case of the panoramic photographing, it is preferable that the enlargement ratio is 1:1.1 or 1:1.6. Considering the mechanical aspect and an aspect of the highly clear image, it is the most preferable to conduct the panoramic photographing after setting the enlargement ratio to 1:1.3.

[55] For instance, in the case where a distance (a¹) between the object 130 and the X-ray light source part 110 is 454mm and a distance (b¹) between the X-ray sensor part 120 and the X-ray light source part 110 is 590mm, it is preferable that the enlargement ratio is about 1:1.3. That is, the user horizontally moves the X-ray light source part 110 in the direction to get near to the X-ray sensor part 120 using the X-ray light source part driving means 115, and then, conducts the panoramic photographing.

[56] Referring to FIG. 4, after the panoramic photographing, the CT photographing is conducted. First, the user separates the panoramic sensor 121 from the sensor mounting part 122 so as not to detect X-rays generated from the X-ray light source part 110, and then, exchanges the panoramic sensor with the CT sensor.

[57] The CT sensor may be an area sensor such as a single area sensor or a multi area sensor, or a sensor of a sequentially driving type.

[58] The CT photographing is conducted by setting the central axis (X) at a predetermined position of the patient and rotating the rotary arm 140 on the central axis.

[59] At this time, it is preferable that the enlargement ratio is 1:1.3 to 1:2. Particularly, it is preferable that the enlargement ratio is 1:1.6 when the patient's anterior teeth part is took by the CT photographing, but 1:1.5 when the patient's posterior teeth part is took by the CT photographing.

[60] In the case where the patient's anterior teeth part is took by the CT photographing, if a distance (a") between the object 130 and the X-ray light source part 110 is 424mm and a distance (b") between the X-ray sensor part 120 and the X-ray light source part 110 is 678mm, the enlargement ratio is about 1:1.6.

[61] In the case where the patient's posterior teeth part is took by the CT photographing, if the distance (a") between the object 130 and the X-ray light source part 110 is 424mm and the distance (b") between the X-ray sensor part 120 and the X-ray light source part 110 is 637mm, the enlargement ratio is about 1:1.5.

[62] That is, the user can conduct the CT photographing after the X-ray light source part

110 is horizontally moved in the direction to get away from the X-ray sensor part 120.

[63] As described above, the combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to the first preferred embodiment of the present invention can conduct all of the CT photographing and the panoramic photographing, and conduct photographing after regulating the enlargement ratio by moving the X-ray light source part 110 using the X-ray light source part driving means 115. Mode for the Invention

[64] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 6 and 7 are front views for showing an operation of an X-ray light source part of the combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to the second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[65] Referring to FIG. 5, the combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus 200 includes a base 195, a supporting pole 190, an elevation member 170, a rotary arm supporting member 150, a rotary arm 240 on which an X- ray sensor part 220 and an X-ray light source part 210 are opposed to each other, a chin supporting member 180, head fixing means 185, and rotary arm driving means 160, and can conduct CT photographing and panoramic photographing.

[66] The X-ray light source part 210 is connected to an end of the rotary arm 240, and the X-ray sensor part 220 is connected to the other end of the rotary arm 240. The X- ray sensor part 220 and the X-ray light source part 210 are opposed to each other.

[67] The X-ray light source part 210 can be driven without regard to the driving of the rotary arm 240. That is, X-ray light source part driving means 215 is mounted at a part where the rotary arm 240 and the X-ray light source part 210 are connected with each other, so that the X-ray light source part 210 can be moved. Therefore, the X-ray light source part 210 can be horizontally moved in a direction to get near to the X-ray sensor part 220 or in a direction to get away from the X-ray sensor part 220 without regard to the rotary arm 240.

[68] The X-ray sensor part 220 is fixed on the rotary arm 240 and includes a first sensor mounting part 222 for mounting a panoramic sensor 221 thereon and a second sensor mounting part 224 for mounting a CT sensor 223 thereon. Preferably, the first sensor mounting part 222 is disposed at a portion which is near to the X-ray light source part 210, and the second sensor mounting part 224 is disposed at a portion which is away from the X-ray light source part 210 in order to regulate the enlargement ratio.

[69] It would be appreciated that the first and second sensor mounting parts 222 and 224 may select one of various forms besides a slot form shown in the drawings.

[70] The second preferred embodiment of the present invention includes the X-ray sensor part 220 having all of the panoramic sensor 221 and the CT sensor 223.

[71] At this time, in the case where the CT photographing is conducted after the panoramic photographing is first conducted, the panoramic sensor 221 is separated from the first sensor mounting part 222, and then, the CT photographing is conducted.

[72] In a different way, to conduct the CT photographing, the first sensor mounting part

222 on which the panoramic sensor 221 is mounted may slide in a predetermined direction. That is, the first sensor mounting part 222 can slide in the predetermined direction so as not to detect X-rays generated from the X-ray light source part 210. The above is profitable when the first sensor mounting part 222 takes the slot form for fitting the panoramic sensor thereinto or a form that the panoramic sensor is mounted thereon.

[73] Hereinafter, referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, a process to vary the distance between the X-ray light source part 210 and the X-ray sensor part 220 and conduct the CT photographing or the panoramic photographing will be described.

[74] Referring to FIG. 6, first to conduct the panoramic photographing, the panoramic sensor 221 is mounted on the first sensor mounting part 222 disposed on the X-ray sensor part 220. After that, the user conducts the panoramic photographing after horizontally moving the X-ray light source part 210 using the X-ray light source part driving means 215. That is, the X-ray light source part 210 is horizontally moved in order to regulate the enlargement ratio properly.

[75] Referring to FIG. 7, to conduct the CT photographing after the panoramic photographing, the user separates the panoramic sensor 221 from the first sensor mounting part 222 or slides the first sensor mounting part 222 in a predetermined direction. After that, the user conducts the panoramic photographing after horizontally moving the X- ray light source part 210 in a proper direction using the X-ray light source part driving means 215.

[76] At this time, if the locations of the first sensor mounting part 222 and the second sensor mounting part 224 are previously set according to a proper enlargement ratio, the user can conduct the photographing without movement of the X-ray light source part 210. However, if a different enlargement ratio is applied, the user can conduct the photographing by moving the X-ray light source part 210.

[77] Excepting the above description, the second preferred embodiment of the present invention has the same operation as the combined panoramic and CT photographing apparatus according to the first preferred embodiment.

[78] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to a third preferred embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 9 and 10 are front views for showing operations of an X-ray light source part and an X-ray sensor part of the combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to the third preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[79] Referring to FIG. 8, the combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus 200 includes a base 195, a supporting pole 190, an elevation member 170, a rotary arm supporting member 150, a rotary arm 340 on which an X- ray sensor part 320 and an X-ray light source part 310 are opposed to each other, a chin supporting member 180, head fixing means 185, and rotary arm driving means 160, and can conduct CT photographing and panoramic photographing.

[80] The X-ray light source part 310 is connected to an end of the rotary arm 340, and the X-ray sensor part 320 is connected to the other end of the rotary arm 340. The X- ray sensor part 320 and the X-ray light source part 310 are opposed to each other.

[81] The X-ray light source part 310 can be driven without regard to the driving of the rotary arm 340. That is, X-ray light source part driving means 315 is mounted at a location where the rotary arm 340 and the X-ray light source part 310 are connected with each other, so that the X-ray light source part 310 can be moved. Therefore, the X-ray light source part 310 can be horizontally moved in a direction to get near to the X-ray sensor part 320 or in a direction to get away from the X-ray sensor part 320 without regard to the rotary arm 340.

[82] The X-ray sensor part 320 is not fixed on the rotary arm 340, and rotated without regard to the rotary arm 340. That is, X-ray sensor part driving means 325 is disposed at a location where the rotary arm 340 and the X-ray sensor part 320 are connected with each other, so that the X-ray sensor part 320 can be rotated.

[83] The X-ray sensor part 320 includes a first sensor mounting part 322 for mounting a panoramic sensor 321 thereon and a second sensor mounting part 324 for mounting a CT sensor 323 thereon. Preferably, the first sensor mounting part 322 is disposed at a portion which is near to the X-ray light source part 310, and the second sensor mounting part 324 is disposed at a portion which is away from the X-ray light source part 310 in order to regulate the enlargement ratio.

[84] The third preferred embodiment of the present invention includes the X-ray sensor part 320 having all of the panoramic sensor 321 and the CT sensor 323, and can drive both of the X-ray light source part 310 and the X-ray sensor part 320.

[85] At this time, to conduct the CT photographing after the panoramic photographing, the user rotates the X-ray sensor part 320 to 180° using the X-ray sensor part driving means 325 so that the CT sensor 323 is directly opposed to the X-ray light source part 310, and then conducts the CT photographing.

[86] Hereinafter, referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, a process to vary the distance between the

X-ray light source part 310 and the X-ray sensor part 320 and conduct the CT photographing or the panoramic photographing will be described.

[87] Referring to FIG. 9, first to conduct the panoramic photographing, the panoramic sensor 321 is mounted on the first sensor mounting part 322 disposed on the X-ray sensor part 320. After that, the user conducts the panoramic photographing after horizontally moving the X-ray light source part 310 using the X-ray light source part driving means 315. That is, the X-ray light source part 310 is horizontally moved in order to regulate the enlargement ratio properly.

[88] At this time, to conduct the panoramic photographing after the CT photographing, since the panoramic sensor 321 must be directly opposed to the X-ray light source part 310, the X-ray sensor part 320 is rotated to 180° so that the panoramic sensor 321 gets nearer to the X-ray light source part 310 than the CT sensor 323.

[89] The X-ray sensor part driving means 325 can rotate the X-ray sensor part 320 on a central axis which is a central point located between the panoramic sensor 321 and the CT sensor 323. When the X-ray sensor part 320 is rotated on the central axis which is the central point located between the panoramic sensor 321 and the CT sensor 323, a distance (b, b') between the panoramic sensor 321 or the CT sensor 323 and the X-ray light source part 310 is the same. However, when the X-ray light source part 310 is horizontally moved, the user can conduct the photographing while regulating the enlargement ratio differently since the distance can be regulated.

[90] Referring to FIG. 10, to conduct the CT photographing after the panoramic photographing, the X-ray sensor part 320 is rotated on the central axis which is the central point located between the panoramic sensor 321 and the CT sensor 323. That is, the X- ray sensor part 320 is rotated in order to locate the CT sensor 323 nearer to the X-ray light source part 310 than the panoramic sensor 321.

[91] Excepting the above description, the third preferred embodiment of the present invention has the same operation as the combined panoramic and CT photographing apparatus according to the first preferred embodiment.

[92] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to a fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 12 and 13 are front views for showing an operation of an X-ray light source part of the combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to the fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[93] Referring to FIG. 11, the combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus 200 includes a base 195, a supporting pole 190, an elevation member 170, a rotary arm supporting member 150, a rotary arm 440 on which an X- ray sensor part 420 and an X-ray light source part 410 are opposed to each other, a chin supporting member 180, head fixing means 185, and rotary arm driving means 160, and can conduct CT photographing and panoramic photographing.

[94] The X-ray light source part 410 is connected to an end of the rotary arm 440, and the X-ray sensor part 420 is connected to the other end of the rotary arm 440. The X- ray sensor part 420 and the X-ray light source part 410 are opposed to each other.

[95] The X-ray light source part 410 is fixed on the rotary arm 440. Therefore, the X-ray light source part 410 is moved together with the rotary arm 440.

[96] The X-ray sensor part 420 is not fixed on the rotary arm 440, and so, can be driven without regard to the driving of the rotary arm 440. That is, X-ray light source part driving means 415 is mounted at a location where the rotary arm 440 and the X-ray sensor part 420 are connected with each other, so that the X-ray sensor part 420 can be moved.

[97] The X-ray sensor part 420 includes a first sensor mounting part 422 for mounting a panoramic sensor 421 thereon and a second sensor mounting part 424 for mounting a CT sensor 423 thereon. Preferably, the first sensor mounting part 422 is disposed at a portion which is near to the X-ray light source part 410, and the second sensor mounting part 424 is disposed at a portion which is away from the X-ray light source part 410 in order to regulate the enlargement ratio.

[98] The fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention suggests the apparatus including the X-ray sensor part 420 having all of the panoramic sensor 421 and the CT sensor 423, wherein the X-ray light source part 410 is fixed on the rotary arm 440 but the X-ray sensor part 420 is movable.

[99] At this time, to conduct the CT photographing after the panoramic photographing, the user rotates the X-ray sensor part 420 to 180° using the X-ray sensor part driving means 425 so that the CT sensor 423 is directly opposed to the X-ray light source part 410, and then conducts the CT photographing.

[100] Hereinafter, referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, a process to vary the distance between the

X-ray light source part 410 and the X-ray sensor part 420 and conduct the CT photographing or the panoramic photographing will be described.

[101] Referring to FIG. 12, first to conduct the panoramic photographing, the panoramic sensor 421 is mounted on the first sensor mounting part 422 disposed on the X-ray sensor part 420.

[102] At this time, to conduct the panoramic photographing after the CT photographing, since the panoramic sensor 421 must be directly opposed to the X-ray light source part 410, the X-ray sensor part 420 is rotated to 180° so that the panoramic sensor 421 gets nearer to the X-ray light source part 410 than the CT sensor 423.

[103] The X-ray light source part driving means 415 rotates the X-ray sensor part 420 on an eccentric axis which is located at a predetermined point between the central point between the panoramic sensor 421 and the CT sensor 423 and the CT sensor 423. As described above, in case of the panoramic photographing, it is preferable that the enlargement ratio is 1:1.3, but in case of the CT photographing, it is preferable that the enlargement ratio is 1: 1.5 or 1:1.6. Therefore, it is preferable that the X-ray sensor part 420 is rotated on the eccentric axis so that the distance (b) between the panoramic sensor 421 and the X-ray sensor part 410 which are opposed to each other is shorter than the distance (b¹) between the CT sensor 423 and the X-ray light source part 410 which are opposed to each other.

[104] Referring to FIG. 13, to conduct the CT photographing after the panoramic photographing, the X-ray sensor part 420 is rotated on the eccentric shaft which is located at the predetermined point between the central point between the panoramic sensor 421 and the CT sensor 423 and the CT sensor 423. At this time, the distance (b¹) between the CT sensor 423 and the X-ray light source part 410 gets longer than the distance (b) between the panoramic sensor 421 and the X-ray sensor part 410. The distance (a, a') between the object 130 and the X-ray light source part 410 is the same. [105] To conduct the panoramic photographing again after the CT photographing, the X- ray sensor part 420 is rotated on the eccentric axis to 180

so that the panoramic sensor 421 gets nearer to the X-ray light source part 410 than the CT sensor 423.

[106] Excepting the above description, the fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention has the same operation as the combined panoramic and CT photographing apparatus according to the first preferred embodiment. Industrial Applicability

[107] The combined panoramic and CT photographing apparatus according to the present invention is usable in various fields such as a medical treatment, dental treatment, and so on. The combined panoramic and CT photographing apparatus can conduct both of the panoramic photographing and the CT photographing using the dedicated X-ray sensors for the panoramic photographing and the CT photographing. Furthermore, the present invention provides the optimum enlargement ratio according to whether the panoramic photographing or the CT photographing is conducted, by regulating the distance between the X-ray light source part and the X-ray sensor part, thereby allowing the user to take the image.

[108]

Claims

[1] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus comprising: an X-ray light source part for generating X-rays; an X-ray sensor part having a panoramic sensor and/or a CT sensor for detecting

X-rays which are generated from the X-ray light source part and pass through an object; a rotary arm for arranging the X-ray light source part and the X-ray sensor part thereon in such a way as to be opposed to each other; a rotary arm supporting member for supporting the rotary arm; and rotary arm driving means interposed between the rotary arm and the rotary arm supporting member for driving the rotary arm, wherein a distance between the X-ray light source part and the X-ray sensor part arranged opposed to each other with respect to the rotary arm is variable.

[2] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising X-ray light source part driving means mounted at a location where the rotary arm and the X-ray light source part are connected with each other.

[3] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the X-ray sensor part is fixed on the rotary arm, and wherein the X-ray light source part is horizontally moved in a direction to get near to the X-ray sensor part or in a direction to get away from the X-ray sensor part without regard to the rotary arm.

[4] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the X-ray sensor part includes a sensor mounting part to attach and detach a sensor.

[5] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein one of the panoramic sensor and the CT sensor is mounted on the sensor mounting part.

[6] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the X-ray sensor part includes the first sensor mounting part for mounting the panoramic sensor and the second sensor mounting part for mounting the CT sensor.

[7] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the first sensor mounting part is located near to the

X-ray light source part, but the second sensor mounting part is located away from the X-ray light source part.

[8] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein in case of a CT photographing, the panoramic sensor is separated from the first sensor mounting part so as not to detect X-rays generated from the X-ray light source part.

[9] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein in case of the CT photographing, the first sensor mounting part on which the panoramic sensor is mounted slides in a predetermined direction so as not to detect X-rays generated from the X-ray light source part.

[10] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising X-ray sensor part driving means located at a location where the rotary arm and the X-ray sensor part are connected with each other.

[11] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the X-ray sensor part is rotated without regard to the rotary arm, and wherein the X-ray light source part is horizontally moved in a direction to get near to the X-ray sensor part or in a direction to get away from the X-ray sensor part without regard to the rotary arm.

[12] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the X-ray sensor part includes the first sensor mounting part for mounting the panoramic sensor and the second sensor mounting part for mounting the CT sensor.

[13] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the X-ray sensor part is rotated on a central axis which is a central point between the panoramic sensor and the CT sensor mounted thereon.

[14] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein in case of the CT photographing, the X-ray sensor part is rotated so that the CT sensor is located nearer to the X-ray light source part than the panoramic sensor, and wherein in case of the panoramic photographing, the X-ray sensor part is rotated so that the panoramic sensor is located nearer to the X-ray light source part than the CT sensor.

[15] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising X-ray sensor part driving means mounted at a location where the rotary arm and the X-ray sensor part are connected with each other.

[16] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the X-ray sensor part is rotated without regard to the rotary arm, and the X-ray light source part is fixed on the rotary arm.

[17] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the X-ray sensor part includes the first sensor mounting part for mounting the panoramic sensor and the second sensor mounting part for mounting the CT sensor.

[18] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the X-ray sensor part is rotated on an eccentric axis which is located at a predetermined point between a central point between the panoramic sensor and the CT sensor and the CT sensor.

[19] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 18, wherein in case of the CT photographing, the X-ray sensor part is rotated so that the CT sensor is located nearer to the X-ray light source part than the panoramic sensor, and wherein in case of the panoramic photographing, the X-ray sensor part is rotated so that the panoramic sensor is located nearer to the X-ray light source part than the CT sensor.

[20] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an enlargement ratio means a ratio of a distance between the object and the X-ray light source part to a distance between the X- ray sensor part and the X-ray light source part, and wherein in case of the CT photographing, the enlargement ratio is 1:1.3 to 1:2.

[21] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 20, wherein in case of the CT photographing, the enlargement ratio is 1:1.5 or 1:1.6.

[22] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an enlargement ratio means a ratio of a distance between the object and the X-ray light source part to a distance between the X- ray sensor part and the X-ray light source part, and wherein in case of the panoramic photographing, the enlargement ratio is 1:1.1 to 1:1.6.

[23] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 20, wherein in case of the panoramic photographing, the enlargement ratio is 1:1.3.

[24] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the panoramic sensor is a line scan sensor. [25] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the CT sensor is an area sensor. [26] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a rotary arm driving means controller for controlling the rotary arm driving means to move the rotary arm along the fixed locus according to the CT photographing or the panoramic photographing. [27] A combined panoramic and computed tomography photographing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a supporting pole standing on a base; an elevation member mounted on the supporting pole in such a way as to elevate and displace in a vertical direction; a chin supporting member connected to the lower portion of the elevation member; and head fixing means located between the X-ray light source part and the X-ray sensor part, and connected to a predetermined portion of the rotary arm supporting member, wherein the rotary arm supporting member is connected to the upper portion of the elevation member.