The Medical Imaging System (MIS) Research Team, part of the Assistive Technology and Medical Devices (A-MED) research group at the National Electronics and Computer Technology Center (NECTEC), under the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), is dedicated to the research and development of medical imaging instruments. Their work commenced in 2007 with the development of Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) technology. By 2011, the team successfully introduced “DentiiScan 1.1”, Thailand’s first indigenous CBCT machine tailored for dental applications. Subsequently, in collaboration with other NSTDA centers and partner organizations, the team has consistently advanced CT and Digital Radiography (DR) products to enhance accessibility to medical services for the Thai populace and to foster the growth of the domestic medical device industry.
Key Developments
2007–Present: Development and production of 3D dental CBCT machines, including DentiiScan 1.1, DentiiScan 2.0, DentiiScan Duo, and DentiiScan Trio.
2011–Present: Creation of the portable CBCT machine, MobiiScan.
2012–Present: Introduction of digital radiography devices under the BodiiRay series, such as BodiiRay, BodiiRay S, BodiiRay R, BodiiRay P, and BodiiRay PX.
2014–Present: In partnership with Prince of Songkla University, development of the high-resolution 3D CT scanner MiniiScan, designed for intraoperative assessment of breast tissue margins during surgery.
These CT and DR devices have undergone rigorous safety evaluations by the Department of Medical Sciences, Ministry of Public Health, and electrical and electronic safety assessments by the Product Testing Center (PTEC). Furthermore, they have achieved ISO 13485 certification from TÜV SÜD and have been registered as medical devices with the Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Vision
To pioneer innovations in medical imaging technology, leading to the establishment of a high-caliber medical device industry in Thailand, ensuring widespread accessibility to advanced medical technologies.
Mission
- Design, research, and develop proprietary X-ray, computed tomography (CT), and medical imaging devices that are practical for use and suitable for commercial development.
- Establish collaborative networks with governmental and private sector entities.
Core Technology
The research team possesses extensive expertise in developing CT and digital radiography machines, with core competencies in:
- X-ray and cone-beam technology
- Medical imaging and image processing
- Simulation and modeling for medical imaging systems
- Medical image software development
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Medical machine designBurapha University
- Research Information
- Medical device safety and ISO 13485 compliance
Products and Services
1. DentiiScan Series : 3D dental CBCT machines like DentiiScan 2.0, DentiiScan Duo, and DentiiScan Trio facilitate diagnosis and treatment planning in dental implantology, impacted tooth surgery, oral and maxillofacial surgery, endodontics, and orthodontics.
2. BodiiRay : 2D digital radiography devices, including BodiiRay S (chest X-rays), BodiiRay R (digital X-ray conversion kits), BodiiRay P (compact mobile digital X-ray machines), and BodiiRay PX (battery-powered portable digital X-ray machines), enable rapid, accurate, and safe imaging of various body parts such as the chest, abdomen, and bones, with immediate image display and user-friendly software supporting diverse applications.
3. MobiiScan: portable 3D CBCT machine used for diagnosing, treatment planning, and performing surgeries on patients with craniofacial abnormalities, congenital conditions, or trauma affecting the head, hands, and feet, including cleft lip and palate cases, facilitating prompt diagnosis and appropriate preliminary treatment.
4. MiniiScan : 3D CT scanner designed for intraoperative assessment of excised breast tissue margins during breast-conserving surgery, ensuring complete removal of tumor tissues. It can be stationed in operating rooms or relocated as needed.
5. DentiiPlan: Software designed to assist in dental implant surgery planning, enhancing precision and outcomes.
6. Radiiview : A cloud application designed for storing and visualizing 3D medical images from DentiiScan 2.0, DentiiScan Duo, DentiiScan Trio, and MobiiScan. It enables secure, web-based access to DICOM images via smartphones, tablets, and computers, allowing for remote consultations among dentists and medical professionals from any location.
Award
- Outstanding Technologist Award (2019) – Group Category, awarded by the Foundation for the Promotion of Science and Technology under the Patronage of His Majesty the King.
- Best Paper Award (2015) – ECTI-CON Conference.
- First Prize, ICT Award (2011) – For the development of DentiPlan, a dental implant surgery planning software.
National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) - Invention Award (2009) – Honorable Mention in the field of Medicine and Public Health, awarded by NRCT for the development of DentiPlan.
- Young Technologist Award (2008) – Awarded to Dr. Saowapak Thongvigitmanee by the Foundation for the Promotion of Science and Technology under the Patronage of His Majesty the King.
Members & Expertise
- Dr. Saowapak Thongvigitmanee (Research team leader, Senior Researcher) : X-Ray technology, Cone-beam CT, image reconstruction, image processing, medical imaging, ISO 13485
- Dr. Walita Narkbuakaew (Researcher) : Cone-beam CT, image reconstruction, medical Image processing, computer graphics and visualization, software Development, expert rule-base system, ISO 13485, IEC62304
- Dr. Sorapong Aootaphao (Researcher) : Cone-beam CT, image reconstruction, X-ray technology, medical imaging, deep learning
- Dr. Nattawut Sinsuebphon (Researcher) : Medical Image processing, digital radiography, medical imaging AI
- Dr. Kittipong Kasantikul (Researcher) : Control system, cone-beam CT, image processing, machine learning, data analytics
- Mr. Parinya Junhunee (Senior Engineer) : Machine design, CAD/CAM/CAE software design and analysis, machine element, automachine, automation, fluid mechanics
- Mr. Atthasak Kiang-ia (Senior Engineerส) : Cone-beam , x-ray CT system, biomechanics, mechatronics, control system, preventive and breakdown maintenance, ISO 13485
- Miss Chalinee Thanasupsombat (Senior Research assistant) : Cone-beam CT, CT reconstruction, X-ray physics and simulation, X-ray detector
- Mr. Kongyot Wangkaoom (Senior Engineer) : Computer architecture, software analysis and design,
web services, web applications - Miss Duangkamol Banarsarn (Senior Engineer) : Web development, data visualization, computer graphics, medical image processing, software engineering
- Miss Saowanee Iamsiri (Engineer) : Software analysis and design, web services, 3D visualization, web applications, medical image processing
- Mr. Sathid Rukkhong (Engineer) : Cone-beam , X-ray CT system, biomechanics, control system, electronics, preventive and breakdown maintenance
- Miss Nopawan Kangsumrith (Technical Specialist): Quality Management System Standards for Medical Devices (ISO 13485)
Contact
Dr. Saowapak Thongvigitmanee
Medical Imaging System Research Team (MIS)
Assistive Technology and Medical Devices Research Group (A-MED)
National Electronics and Computer Technology Center (NECTEC)
email: saowapak.tho@nectec.or.th
Tel. : (+66) 2-564-6900 ext 2282