U.S. patent application number 11/063621 was filed with the patent office on 2006-08-24 for image capture device and methods.
Invention is credited to Barry R. Margraf, Michael R. Razzano, Ronald C. Webb.
Application Number | 20060188070 11/063621 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36927996 |
Filed Date | 2006-08-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060188070 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Razzano; Michael R. ; et
al. |
August 24, 2006 |
Image capture device and methods
Abstract
A novel image capture device, system and method are disclosed
for use in capturing dental images. A novel collimator tube
includes one or more devices integrated within its wall, such as a
radio frequency transmitter, a camera, a frame grabber, or a
transilluminator light. The integrated devices are used instead of
or in addition to an x-ray generator, which is coupled to the
collimator tube. The camera is used to capture digital images. The
camera is either a camera port for plugging in an external camera,
such as an intra-oral camera, or is wholly contained within the
collimator tube. The radio frequency transmitter transmits digital
data to a remote computer. The frame grabber captures digital data
for display on a display device. The transilluminator light can
illuminate an area for digital capture. A novel receptor holder
includes a docking port for docking a sensor that is used for
digital x-ray capture.
Inventors: |
Razzano; Michael R.;
(Marietta, GA) ; Webb; Ronald C.; (Red Lion,
PA) ; Margraf; Barry R.; (Chalfont, PA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WOODARD, EMHARDT, MORIARTY, MCNETT & HENRY LLP
111 MONUMENT CIRCLE, SUITE 3700
INDIANAPOLIS
IN
46204-5137
US
|
Family ID: |
36927996 |
Appl. No.: |
11/063621 |
Filed: |
February 23, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
378/168 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 6/4435 20130101;
A61B 5/0088 20130101; A61B 6/4411 20130101; A61B 6/566 20130101;
A61B 6/563 20130101; A61B 5/0035 20130101; A61B 6/145 20130101;
A61B 6/08 20130101; A61B 6/4417 20130101; A61B 6/4233 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
378/168 |
International
Class: |
A61B 6/14 20060101
A61B006/14; G03B 42/02 20060101 G03B042/02; G03C 5/16 20060101
G03C005/16 |
Claims
1. A receptor holder comprising: a connection end operable to
couple the receptor holder to a collimator tube; a bar coupled to
the connection end; a holder end coupled to the bar, said holder
end having a sensor docking port; a wire coupled to the connection
end and the sensor docking port; and wherein the receptor holder is
operable to allow digital data to be transmitted from a sensor
docked on the docking port through the wire and to the connection
end.
2. The receptor holder of claim 1, wherein the wire is contained
within the bar.
3. The receptor holder of claim 1, wherein the bar contains a radio
frequency transmitter, said radio frequency transmitter being
operable to transmit digital images to a computer device.
4. The receptor holder of claim 1, wherein the holder end is
operable to hold an x ray film.
5. The receptor holder of claim 1, wherein the connection end is
square in cross section shape.
6. The receptor holder of claim 1, wherein the connection end is
rectangular in cross section shape.
7. The receptor holder of claim 1, wherein the bar is
adjustable.
8. The receptor holder of claim 7, wherein the bar includes notches
which are adapted to indicate the distance between the connection
end and the holder end.
9. The receptor holder of claim 1, wherein the holder end is
adapted to hold a mirror.
10. A receptor holder adapted for use with a collimator tube and an
X-ray generator; the collimator tube having a contact sensor
receptacle; the receptor holder comprising: a connection end
operable to couple the receptor holder to the collimator tube; a
contact sensor on said connection end adapted to connect with the
contact sensor receptacle when said connection end is coupled to
the collimator tube; a bar coupled to said connection end; a holder
end coupled to the bar.
11. The receptor holder of claim 10, wherein a light illuminates
when said contact sensor connects with the contact sensor
receptacle.
12. The receptor holder of claim 10, wherein an audible sound is
emitted when said contact sensor connects with the contact sensor
receptacle.
13. The receptor holder of claim 10, wherein the X-ray generator
will not fire unless said contact sensor is connected with the
contact sensor receptacle.
14. The receptor holder of claim 10, further comprising: a sensor
docking port located in the holder end, said sensor docking port
operable to make an electrical connection with an X-ray sensor
docked on the docking port.
15. The receptor holder of claim 14, further comprising: a radio
frequency transmitter electrically mated to the sensor docking port
when said connection end is coupled to the collimator tube; wherein
said radio frequency transmitter is operable to transmit digital
data from a sensor docked on the docking port.
16. The receptor holder of claim 10, wherein the receptor holder is
adapted to be magnetically coupled to the collimator tube when the
receptor holder is positioned adjacent to the collimator tube.
17. The receptor holder of claim 16, further comprising: a metal
snap ring coupled to the connecting end; wherein said snap ring
contacts a magnet in the collimator tube when the receptor holder
is positioned adjacent to the collimator tube; wherein said snap
ring is said contact sensor.
18. A receptor holder adapted to hold an X-ray sensor, the receptor
holder also adapted to be used with a collimator tube, the receptor
holder comprising: a connection end operable to couple the receptor
holder to the collimator tube; a bar coupled to said connection
end; a holder end coupled to the bar; a sensor docking port
proximate to said holder end, said sensor docking port operable to
make an electrical connection with the X-ray sensor when docked on
the docking port.
19. The receptor holder of claim 18, further comprising a contact
end coupled to said bar proximate to said connection end, said
contact end being operable to make an electrical connection with
the collimator tube.
20. The receptor holder of claim 19, further comprising a wire
which electrically couples said contact end to said sensor docking
port.
21. The receptor holder of claim 18, wherein the holder end is
adapted to hold a digital charge-coupled sensor.
22. The receptor holder of claim 18, further comprising a contact
sensor on the connection end adapted to connect with a contact
sensor receptacle in the collimator tube when said connection end
is coupled to the collimator tube.
23. The receptor holder of claim 18, wherein the holder end is
adapted to hold an X-ray film.
24. The receptor holder of claim 18, wherein said electrical
connection is an edge contact connection.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] In today's medical profession, there are various ways to
capture images of patients, such as images captured for diagnostic
purposes. For example, a medical professional such as a dentist can
use a traditional x-ray device to capture a film-based x-ray image
of the patient's mouth. Medical professionals can also capture an
x-ray image in a digital fashion using a digital x-ray device that
has a computer workstation and a sensor. Digital cameras are also
used by medical professionals to capture still and video images for
later storage on a computer in the patient record. Each of the
devices and systems typically require separate systems and pieces
of equipment. There is a need for improved devices, systems and
methods for capturing images.
SUMMARY
[0002] One form of the present invention is a unique image capture
device. Other forms include unique systems and methods to capture
images. Yet another form includes a unique collimator tube. Another
form includes a unique receptor holder.
[0003] Another form includes a unique image capture device, system
and method for use in capturing dental images. A unique collimator
tube includes one or more devices integrated within its wall, such
as a radio frequency transmitter, a camera, a frame grabber, or a
transilluminator light. The integrated devices are used instead of
or in addition to an x-ray generator, which is coupled to the
collimator tube. The camera is used to capture digital images. The
camera is either a camera port for plugging in an external camera,
such as an intra-oral camera, or is wholly contained within the
collimator tube. The radio frequency transmitter transmits digital
data to a computer. The frame grabber captures digital data for
display on a display device. The transilluminator light can
illuminate an area for visual inspection and/or digital capture. A
unique receptor holder includes a docking port for docking a sensor
that is used for digital x-ray image capture.
[0004] Yet other forms, embodiments, objects, advantages, benefits,
features, and aspects of the present invention will become apparent
from the detailed description and drawings contained herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an image capture device with
an x-ray collimator tube of one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0006] FIG. 2 is a front end view of a collimator tube of one
embodiment of the current invention.
[0007] FIG. 3 is perspective view of an intra-oral camera that can
be connected to the collimator tube in one embodiment of the
current invention.
[0008] FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view of a collimator tube of
one shape being converted to a collimator tube of another shape
using a collimator tube adapter in one embodiment of the current
invention.
[0009] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a collimator tube and an
insert in one embodiment of the present invention.
[0010] FIG. 6 is a front end view of an x-ray device without a
collimator tube attached for one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0011] FIG. 7 is a partial elevational view of a collimator tube
mating with the x-ray device of FIG. 6 in a manner that allows
rotation of the collimator tube.
[0012] FIG. 8 is a side perspective view of a first embodiment
receptor holder of the current invention.
[0013] FIG. 9 is a back end view of a connection end of the
receptor holder of FIG. 10.
[0014] FIG. 10 is a partial cross-section view of the connection
end of the receptor holder of FIG. 10.
[0015] FIG. 11 is a side perspective view of a second embodiment
receptor holder of the current invention.
[0016] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an image capture device
illustrating an x-ray generator, collimator tube, and receptor
holder of one embodiment of the present invention.
[0017] FIG. 13 is a side perspective view of an image capture
device illustrating an x-ray generator, collimator tube, and
receptor holder of one embodiment of the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 14 is a diagrammatic view of a system of one embodiment
of the present invention for use with the image capture device of
FIGS. 1-13.
[0019] FIG. 15 illustrates a high-level process flow diagram for
the system of FIG. 1 and the image capture device of FIGS.
1-13.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0020] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the
principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the
embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will
be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood
that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby
intended. Any alterations and further modifications in the
described embodiments, and any further applications of the
principles of the invention as described herein are contemplated as
would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the
invention relates.
[0021] The present invention relates to an image capture device,
system and method for use in capturing medical images. A collimator
tube includes one or more integrated devices, such as a radio
frequency transmitter, a camera, a frame grabber, or a
transilluminator light. In one embodiment, the integrated devices
are integrated within one or more walls of the collimator tube. The
integrated devices are used instead of or in addition to an x-ray
generator, which is coupled to the collimator tube. The camera is
used to capture digital images. The camera is either a camera port
for plugging in an external camera, such as an intra-oral camera,
or is wholly contained within the collimator tube. The radio
frequency transmitter transmits digital data to a computer. The
frame grabber captures digital data for display on a display
device. The transilluminator light can illuminate an area for
visual inspection and/or digital capture. A receptor holder
includes a docking port for docking a sensor that is used for
digital x-ray image capture.
[0022] Referring to FIG. 1, one embodiment of the image capture
device of the present invention is illustrated and indicated
generally at 10. Image capture device 10 is operable to capture
x-ray images. The image capture device 10 illustrated in FIG. 1
includes x-ray generator 12 and collimator tube 14. Collimator tube
14 serves as the means for focusing x-rays produced by the x-ray
generator 12. Alternatively or additionally, collimator tube 14
also decreases scatter radiation and/or decreases absorbed
radiation, thereby lowering the patient's x-ray dose. In one
embodiment, collimator tube 14 has a square shape in cross section.
Collimator tube 14 can also be rectangular, star, cross or round in
cross section shape, as a few additional non-limiting examples.
[0023] In one embodiment, collimator tube 14 is fixed to x-ray
generator 12 and cannot be removed. In another embodiment,
collimator tube 14 is detachable from x-ray generator 12, such as
by removing one or more screws or other securing means.
Alternatively or additionally, collimator tube 14 can be a
collimator tube of one shape that replaces a previously attached
collimator tube of a different shape. One non-limiting example
includes detaching a round-shaped collimator tube and replacing it
with a rectangular-shaped collimator tube.
[0024] Collimator tube 14 has a tunnel 16 for emitting x-rays and a
receptacle 30 for receiving a sliding bar of a receptor holder.
Collimator tube 14 has an end 17 that serves one or more purposes.
One purpose of end 17 is for coupling a receptor holder to
collimator tube 14. Collimator tube 14 has one or more devices
integrated within walls 18. In one embodiment, at least one
integrated device is visible at least in part from end 17. In one
embodiment, collimator tube 14 has a radio frequency transmitter
20, a camera/port 22, a frame grabber 24, and/or a transilluminator
light 26 integrated within one or more of walls 18.
[0025] Each of these integrated devices will now be described in
further detail with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. Radio frequency
(RF) transmitter 20 is operative to send data captured with image
capture device 10 to an RF receiver external to image capture
device 10. For example, the RF receiver may be coupled to a
remotely-located computer for the display and/or processing of
images captured by the device 10. As one non-limiting example, RF
transmitter 20 can transmit data captured with camera 22 to an
external computer. In this way, images captured by image capture
device 10 may be downloaded to a computer system for current and/or
later use without the need to physically couple the image capture
device 10 to the computer. This greatly improves the
maneuverability and usefulness of the image capture device 10.
[0026] In one embodiment, the camera 22 is built into the
collimator tube 14 and is able to capture images visible from a
lens or aperture formed into the end of the collimator tube 14. In
another embodiment, camera 22 is an electrical port for allowing an
external camera device to plug into collimator tube 14 for
transmission of data from the external camera device to the
collimator tube 14 integrated devices. One non-limiting example of
an external camera device includes intra-oral camera 32 as shown in
FIG. 3. The intra-oral camera 32 includes an electrical plug 33
that interfaces with the camera 22 port in the collimator tube 14
for transmitting data captured by the camera 32. Cameras 22 and 32
are operative to capture still images and/or video images in
various embodiments. Provision of the external intra-oral camera 32
allows for easy access to the inner regions of the patient's
mouth.
[0027] In one embodiment, frame grabber 24 is operative to capture
still and/or video images for display on an external video display
device, such as on a television or a computer display, as is known
in the art. Frame grabber 24 is integrally formed with collimator
tube 14 to receive image information from one of the image devices
integrated with image capture device 10, such as camera 22/32 or
the x-ray image receptor 44 (see FIG. 4). The output of frame
grabber 24 is preferably coupled to the RF transmitter 20 for
transmission of the frame data to a receiving computer and/or
display device.
[0028] Transilluminator light 26 aids the image capture process by
allowing for a light to be shined through a tooth, body or organ,
as a few non-limiting examples. The light that is transmitted
through the tooth can then be captured using the camera 22/32. For
use with the camera 22 formed integrally with the collimator tube
14, means must be provided for directing the light from the
transilluminator light 26 to the opposite side of the tooth as the
camera 22. This may be done by use of an appropriate mirror (not
shown), or by making the transilluminator light 26 an external
device that plugs into a port in the collimator tube 14, similar to
the intra-oral camera 32. Additionally, the transilluminator light
26 may emit light from the collimator tube 14 and the light
transmitted through the tooth may be captured using the intra-oral
camera 32.
[0029] Various other device combinations are also possible, such as
fewer or additional devices than described herein, or a combination
of those described. Power may be supplied to these devices by using
the internal power supply of the image capture device 10, as will
be apparent to those skilled in the art after reference to the
above description.
[0030] In one form of the invention, collimator tube 14 has contact
sensor receptacles 28 that are used to mate an image receptor
holder (see FIGS. 8-10) to the collimator tube 14. Contact sensor
receptacle 28 can be one or more of various types, such as
electrical, mechanical, optical, fiber optic, magnetic or of other
connection types as would occur to one in the art. As one
non-limiting example, contact sensor receptacles can be used to
form a purely mechanical connection between the image receptor
holder and the collimator tube 14. Alternatively or additionally,
contact sensor receptacles 28 can be used to ensure a receptor
holder is attached before firing x-ray generator 12. Alternatively
or additionally, one or more lights can be illuminated to indicate
the status of the connection, such as green to indicate a proper
connection with collimator tube 14 has been made and the x-ray
generator is ready to fire, and red to indicate the x-ray generator
is not ready to fire, to name a few examples. Alternatively or
additionally, a light can be illuminated to indicate that a proper
connection has been made, and the light is not illuminated when a
proper connection is not made. Alternatively or additionally, an
audible sound can be emitted to indicate that a proper connection
has been made. In one embodiment, contact sensor receptacles 28 are
used with receptor holder 50 illustrated in FIGS. 8-10.
Alternatively or additionally, collimator tube 14 has a contact end
receptacle 30 formed therein and operative to receive a contact end
of a receptor holder. In one embodiment, contact end receptacle 30
is used with the receptor holder illustrated in FIG. 11.
[0031] In yet another embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 4,
collimator tube adapter 34 is used to convert collimator tube 38 to
a different shape. As one non-limiting example, collimator tube
adapter 34 is used to convert collimator tube 38 from a round shape
to a rectangular or other shape. Collimator tube adapter 34
includes cone 35, cap 36, and spacer 37. Cap 36 can slide to adjust
cone 35 to different depths so cone 35 can fit properly inside
collimator tube 38. Various mechanisms can be used to lock cap 36
into a desired location on cone 35, such as using detents or a snap
ring, to name a few non-limiting examples. Spacer 37 is used to
help secure cone 35 inside collimator tube 38, since cone 35 is a
different shape than collimator tube 38. Various types of spacers
can be used, such as a washer or an o-ring, to name a few
non-limiting examples. Cap 36 is operable to form a seal around end
39 of collimator tube 38.
[0032] Although not numbered on FIG. 4 to preserve clarity, in one
embodiment, collimator tube adapter 34 has one or more devices
integrated within its walls. These devices can be integrated within
walls of collimator tube adapter 34 instead of or in addition to
devices integrated in collimator tube 38. Collimator tube adapter
34 and collimator tube 38, when used together, can include the same
devices and perform the same functions as described herein with
respect to collimator tube 14 of image capture device 10 on FIG.
1.
[0033] As shown in FIG. 5, insert 40 is a step-down insert that can
be inserted into collimator tube 42 to make the image capture area
smaller. Alternatively or additionally, insert 40 can be used to
add integrated devices to existing collimator tube 42. One
non-limiting example of a situation in which insert 40 can be used
is to capture an image more precisely on a smaller image receptor
than collimator tube 42 would capture alone. Alternatively or
additionally, insert 40 can be inserted into collimator tube
adapter 34 of FIG. 4 to make the image capture area even smaller.
Although not numbered on FIG. 5 to preserve clarity, instead of or
in addition to the integrated devices included within the walls of
collimator tube 14 or collimator tube adapter 34, insert 40 can
optionally include one or more devices integrated within its walls.
Insert 40 can optionally have at least one integrated device
visible at least in part from end 41. Details about these
integrated devices and how they function are described in detail in
reference to FIGS. 1 and 4. Alternatively or additionally, insert
40 can be used to add one or more integrated devices to existing
collimator tube 42 without reducing the size of the image capture
area any more than necessary to house the integrated devices.
[0034] As shown in FIG. 6-7, in one embodiment, a collimator tube
and/or x-ray generator can rotate with respect to the other. Front
end of x-ray generator 43 can optionally include a circular or
other path 44 with indentations 45. Collimator tube 46 mates with
front end of x-ray generator 43 with one or more detents 47 that
lock and unlock into one or more of indentations 45 when rotated
along path 44. Circular or other path 44 can be a track or other
types as would occur to one of ordinary skill in the art so as to
allow collimator tube 46 inserted therein to remain physically
attached to the front end of x-ray generator 43 and then click into
position when coming into contact with one or more detents 47. In
an alternative embodiment, the indentations and path are present on
collimator tube 46 and one or more detents are present on front end
of x-ray generator 43.
[0035] Referring now to FIGS. 8-10 with continued reference to
FIGS. 1-2, a first embodiment receptor holder 50 is illustrated.
Receptor holder 50 has a holder end 52 that is operative to hold an
image receptor 54, such as x-ray film or a digital charge-coupled
device (CCD) sensor, as a few non-limiting examples. Receptor
holder 50 has an adjustable bar 56 for adjusting the distance of
holder end 52 from a connection end 58. In one embodiment,
connection end 48 has a square shape. Connection end 58 can also be
rectangular, star, cross or round in cross section shape, as a few
additional non-limiting examples.
[0036] As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, connection end 58 may have
contact sensors 59 that are operative to be connected with
collimator tube 14 through contact end receptors 28 formed in
collimator tube end 17. In one embodiment, contact sensors 59 are
used to ensure that the receptor holder 50 is attached to
collimator tube 14 before firing the x-ray generator 12. In this
embodiment, contact end receptors 28 are formed with sensors that
determine when contact sensors 59 are inserted therein. As one
example, each receptor 28 may have two metallic elements that are
short circuited by a conductive contact sensor 59 when the
connection end 58 is fitted to the collimator tube end 17. Coupling
these metallic elements to the firing circuitry of the image
capture device 10 can prevent the image capture device 10 from
being fired unless the receptor holder 50 is properly fitted, as
will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the above
description. In one embodiment, receptor holder 50 is used to
capture film-based x-ray images. In another embodiment, receptor
holder is used to capture digitized x-ray images. Alternatively or
additionally, receptor holder 50 can be used to hold a mirror for
reflecting an image to be captured with camera 22, or for
reflecting transilluminator light 26 for capture with camera
22.
[0037] Referring now to FIG. 11 with continued reference to FIGS.
1-2, a second embodiment receptor holder 60 is illustrated.
Receptor holder 60 has a holder end 62 that is operative to hold a
digital sensor 64 or x-ray film 66. Alternatively or additionally,
receptor holder 60 can be used to hold a mirror for use with camera
22 or transilluminator light 26, as described hereinabove. Holder
end 62 contains a docking port 68 to enable connection of digital
sensor 64, which includes a sensor end 70 for electrical mating to
docking port 68 of holder end 62. In one embodiment, wiring 72 is
connected to docking port 68 at holder end 62. Wiring 72 runs
through adjustable bar 74 and connects to contact end 76. Receptor
holder 60 has adjustable bar 74 for adjusting the distance of
holder end 62 from contact end 76. Contact end 76 can be inserted
into contact end receptacle 30 of collimator tube 14 to couple
receptor holder 60 to collimator tube 14.
[0038] Upon insertion of contact end 76 into contact end receptacle
30, connection frame 78 fits over end 17 of collimator tube 14. In
one embodiment, when digital sensor 64 is docked in docking port 68
and x-ray generator 12 is fired, digital data is captured using
sensor 64 and travels through wiring 72 to contact end 76 and to
frame grabber 24 of collimator tube 14. In another embodiment,
digital data captured using sensor 64 travels through wiring 72 to
contact end 76 and to radio frequency transmitter 20 of collimator
tube 14. In this embodiment, a frame grabber may be present in the
remote computer.
[0039] In an alternate embodiment, receptor holder 50 (FIG. 8)
and/or receptor holder 60 (FIG. 11) has an integrated radio
frequency transmitter, such as within the walls of the holder.
[0040] FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of the system of the
present invention, comprising image capture device 10 with x-ray
generator 12, collimator tube 14, and receptor holder (50 or 60)
attached.
[0041] FIG. 13 illustrates an image capture device having an x-ray
generator 80, collimator tube 81, and receptor holder 82 of another
embodiment of the present invention. Film alignment ring 86 of
receptor holder 82 fits around outer perimeter 87 of collimator
tube 81. In one embodiment, notches 89 in receptor holder 82 are
tapered and/or indented to help film alignment ring 86 align
properly with collimator tube 81. Receptor holder 82 can be coupled
to collimator tube 81 by magnetism when magnets 83 of collimator
tube 81 come into contact with conductor/magnet interface metal
snap ring 84 of receptor holder 82. Alternatively or additionally,
snap ring 84 completes the circuit between low voltage electrical
contact 85 and magnets 83, causing LED lights 88 to illuminate to
indicate that receptor holder 82 is properly coupled to collimator
tube 81. Magnets 83 and/or electrical contacts 85 can be located at
one or more of various locations on outer perimeter 87 or other
locations as would occur to one of ordinary skill in the art. In
one embodiment, collimator tube 81 is a replacement for a prior
collimator tube of a differing shape, such as a rectangular tube
replacing a round tube, to name a non-limiting example.
Alternatively or additionally, magnets 83, electrical contacts 85,
and LED lights 88 can be included in an adaptor that is attached to
an existing collimator tube. In one embodiment, receptor holder 82
and collimator tube 81 maintain a magnetic connection sufficient to
couple them together but to also to allow them to easily separate
from each other upon contact, such as with a doctor or patient
touching receptor holder 82. Alternatively or additionally, the
positioning bar of receptor holder 82 has notches that allow the
user to identify the distance at which the film was positioned,
such as to allow for re-taking another image in the future at the
same distance.
[0042] Although not shown on FIG. 13 to preserve clarity, in one
embodiment, collimator tube 81 has one or more devices integrated
within its walls. Collimator tube 81 can include the same devices
and perform the same functions as described herein with respect to
collimator tube 14 of image capture device 10 on FIG. 1.
[0043] Reference will now be made to FIGS. 14 and 15 with continued
reference to FIGS. 1-13 to illustrate a system and method for using
image capture device 10. The same reference numerals are used to
refer to elements that have already been introduced. FIG. 14 is a
diagrammatic view of system 100 of one embodiment of the present
invention. System 100 includes computer 102, x-ray generator 12,
collimator tube 14, receptor holder (50 or 60), and video display
device 104. It should be understood computer 102 may be arranged to
include both a client and server, just a client, or just a server.
Furthermore, it should be understood that while one computer is
illustrated, more than one computer may be utilized in alternative
embodiments.
[0044] Computer 102 includes one or more processors or CPUs 106 and
one or more types of memory 108. Each memory 108 may include a
removable memory device, although not shown to preserve clarity.
The processor 106 may be comprised of one or more components
configured as a single unit. Alternatively, when of a
multi-component form, a processor 106 may have one or more
components located remotely relative to the others. One or more
components of each processor 106 may be of the electronic variety
defining digital circuitry, analog circuitry, or both. In one
embodiment, processor 106 is of a conventional, integrated circuit
microprocessor arrangement, such as one or more PENTIUM III or
PENTIUM 4 processors supplied by INTEL Corporation of 2200 Mission
College Boulevard, Santa Clara, Calif. 95052, USA.
[0045] Memory 108 (removable or generic) is one form of
computer-readable device. Memory 108 may include one or more types
of solid-state electronic memory, magnetic memory, or optical
memory, just to name a few. By way of non-limiting example, memory
108 may include solid-state electronic Random Access Memory (RAM),
Sequentially Accessible Memory (SAM) (such as the First-In,
First-Out (FIFO) variety or the Last-In-First-Out (LIFO) variety),
Programmable Read Only Memory (PROM), Electronically Programmable
Read Only Memory (EPROM), or Electrically Erasable Programmable
Read Only Memory (EEPROM); an optical disc memory (such as a DVD or
CD ROM); a magnetically encoded hard disc, floppy disc, tape, or
cartridge media; or a combination of any of these memory types.
Also, memory 108 may be volatile, nonvolatile, or a hybrid
combination of volatile and nonvolatile varieties.
[0046] Computer 102 includes a display 110 and one or more input
devices 112. Input devices 112 may include one or more operator
input devices such as a keyboard, electronic pen input device,
mouse, track ball, light pen, to name just a few representative
examples. Computer includes a radio frequency (RF) receiver 114 for
receiving data transmitted by radio frequency transmitters.
Alternatively or additionally, computer 102 includes a printer. In
one embodiment, computer 102 is disconnected from computer network
116. In another embodiment, computer 102 is connected to network
116.
[0047] Although only one computer 102 is shown to preserve clarity,
more computers could also be present. In such instances, multiple
computers 102, displays 110, and input devices 112 may be of the
same respective type, or a heterogeneous combination of different
computing devices. When more computers are present, computer 102
can be coupled to other computers over computer network 116.
Computer network 116 could be in the form of a Local Area Network
(LAN), Municipal Area Network (MAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), such
as the Internet, a combination of these, or such other network
arrangement as would occur to those skilled in the art. The one or
more features provided by computer 102 can be provided on the same
computer or varying other arrangements of computers at one or more
physical locations and still be within the spirit of the
invention.
[0048] X-ray generator 12 is operable to generate x-ray images.
Collimator tube 14 serves as the means for focusing x-rays for
x-ray device 12, and also includes additional integrated devices.
Alternatively or additionally, collimator tube 14 also decreases
scatter radiation and/or decreases absorbed radiation, thereby
lowering the patient's x-ray dose. In one embodiment, collimator
tube 14 has a radio frequency (RF) transmitter 20 that can
communicate with RF receiver 114 of computer 102. Alternatively or
additionally, collimator tube has an integrated camera 22. In one
embodiment, camera 22 is a camera port for allowing an external
camera device to plug into collimator tube 14. One non-limiting
example of an external camera device includes an intra-oral camera
32 of FIG. 3. In another embodiment, camera 22 is wholly contained
within collimator tube 14.
[0049] Alternatively or additionally, collimator tube 14 includes
frame grabber 24 for capturing of and transmission of still and/or
video images to video display device 104 and/or to display 110 of
computer 102. Frame grabber 24 may also transfer data to rf
transmitter 20. In one embodiment, collimator tube 14 includes
transilluminator light 26. Transilluminator light 26 allows for
shining a light through a tooth, body or organ, to name a few
non-limiting examples.
[0050] X-ray generator 12 and collimator tube 14 are coupled to
firing switch 118 and device selector 120. In one embodiment, a
single firing switch 118 is used to fire whatever device is
selected by device selector 120. In another embodiment, each image
capture device has its own firing switch 118, and thus device
selector 120 is not used. In some embodiments, firing switch 118
comprises a pair of switches which must both be pressed to activate
the chosen device.
[0051] The operating logic of system 100 can be embodied in signals
in programming instructions, dedicated hardware, transmitted over
computer network 116, or a combination of these.
[0052] As one non-limiting example, system 100 can be used by a
dentist to capture patient images. The image capture apparatus,
system and method of the current invention are not limited to use
in dentistry, or the field of medicine, as will be understood by
one in the art. The current invention can be used in various
industries where capturing an x-ray image or digital image would be
useful.
[0053] Referring additionally to FIG. 15, one embodiment for
implementation with system 100 is illustrated in flow chart form as
procedure 200, which demonstrates a high level process flow diagram
of some of the features provided by system 100. In one form,
procedure 200 is at least partially implemented in the operating
logic of system 100. Procedure 200 begins at start point 201 with
selecting an image capture type (stage 202). In one embodiment,
image capture type is selected using device selector 120.
[0054] If the image to be captured by image capture device 10 is an
x-ray image (decision point 204), then a receptor holder (50 or 60)
is attached to collimator tube 14 (stage 206). If the image is to
be captured on x-ray film (decision point 208), then x-ray film is
attached to receptor holder (50 or 60) (stage 210). If the image is
to be captured using digital x-ray (decision point 208), then
digital sensor 64 is attached to receptor holder 60 (stage 212).
The x-ray generator 12 is then fired using firing switch 118 (stage
214) and the x-ray image(s) and/or video are captured (stage 216)
by the film or the sensor 64.
[0055] If the image to be captured by image capture device 10 is
not an x-ray image but instead is to be captured by digital camera
(decision point 204), then digital camera 22 is fired using firing
switch 118 (stage 218) and the digital image(s) and/or video are
captured (stage 220).
[0056] If image(s) and/or video captured digitally with the x-ray
generator 12 or the digital camera 22 are to be transmitted to a
remote computer (decision point 222), then RF transmitter 20 sends
the digital file(s) to RF receiver 114 of computer 102 (stage 224).
If the image(s) and/or video captured digitally with the x-ray
receptor 64 or the digital camera 22 are to be displayed in
real-time (decision point 226), then frame grabber board 24
intercepts the images captured with sensor 64 or digital camera 22
accordingly and transmits them (using RF transmitter 20) to
computer 102, video display device 104, or computer display 110
(stage 228). The process then ends at stage 230.
[0057] In another embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus
for use with an x-ray generator is disclosed that comprises a
collimator tube coupled to the x-ray generator; a camera integrated
with the collimator tube, said camera being operable to capture
digital images; and a radio frequency transmitter integrated with
the collimator tube and operably coupled to the camera, said radio
frequency transmitter being operable to transmit digital images
captured by the camera to a remote receiver.
[0058] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, an
apparatus for use with an x-ray generator is disclosed that
comprises a collimator tube coupled to the x-ray generator; a
digital sensor operable to capture x-ray images; and a frame
grabber integrated with the collimator tube, said frame grabber
operatively coupled to the sensor and operable to capture images
for display on an external display device.
[0059] In yet a further embodiment of the present invention, a
method is disclosed that comprises providing an image capture
device having a plurality of devices to use for capturing an image,
wherein one of the plurality of devices for capturing an image is
an x-ray generator and one of the plurality of devices for
capturing an image is an image capturing device integrated within a
collimator tube; from the image capture device, receiving a
selection for an image capture type that specifies at least one of
a plurality of devices to use for capturing an image; receiving a
fire command to fire the image capture device; and capturing at
least one image with the image capture device.
[0060] In another embodiment of the present invention, a system is
disclosed that comprises: an external device, said external device
having at least a display; an x-ray generator; a collimator tube
coupled to the x-ray generator, said collimator tube having at
least one integrated digital image capture device; means for
receiving a fire command and capturing at least one image with the
at least one integrated digital image capture device; and means for
transmitting the captured image to the external device upon
receiving the fire command.
[0061] In another embodiment, an apparatus for use with an x-ray
generator is disclosed that comprises a collimator tube coupled to
the x-ray generator, said collimator tube having one or more walls;
and at least one device contained within said one or more walls of
the collimator tube.
[0062] In yet a further embodiment, an apparatus for use with an
x-ray generator is disclosed that comprises: a collimator tube
coupled to the x-ray generator; and a plurality of magnets coupled
to collimator tube, said magnets being operable to couple the
collimator tube to a receptor holder through magnetism.
[0063] In another embodiment, a receptor holder is disclosed that
comprises: a connection end operable to couple the receptor holder
to a collimator tube; a bar coupled to the connection end; a holder
end coupled to the bar, said holder end having a sensor docking
port; a wire coupled to the connection end and the sensor docking
port; and wherein the receptor holder is operable to allow digital
data to be transmitted from a sensor docked on the docking port
through the wire and to the connection end.
[0064] All publications, prior applications, and other documents
cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety
as if each had been individually incorporated by reference and
fully set forth.
[0065] A person of ordinary skill in the computer software art will
recognize that the client and/or server arrangements could be
organized differently to include fewer or additional options or
features than as portrayed in the illustrations and still be within
the spirit of the invention.
[0066] While the invention has been illustrated and described in
detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be
considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it
being understood that only the preferred embodiment has been shown
and described and that all equivalents, changes, and modifications
that come within the spirit of the inventions as described herein
and/or by the following claims are desired to be protected.
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