UNIVERSAL RADIOGRAPHIC/FLUOROSCOPIC DIGITAL ROOM

A universal radiographic/fluoroscopic "room" (100) is constructed by combining X-ray examination system components, electrical and mechanical drive components, and sensing components, under the supervision of a control system (510), to form a universal diagnostic medical imaging system capable of performing radiographic, fluoroscopic, tomographic, and stepped examinations in several different operator-selectable configurations. The control system (510) automatically determines which system components are required to perform that type of examination, moves the components into operational or storage positions as required, and prepares each component for operation. In the "stepped-digital" modes, an X-ray tube (182) and image intensifier (166) execute a series of radiographic exposures at preselected locations. For each step, a test fluoroscopic exposure is performed under automatic brightness control to determine an optimum technique. The technique so determined is converted for use in subsequent radiographic exposure.