Matrix-Addressable X-ray Source for Medical Imaging

描述(由申请人提供)： 我们建议为医学研究和诊断应用开发一种新的X射线源。这种光源的发展可能会从根本上改变X射线在从数字断层合成到计算机断层扫描(CT)等领域的使用。建议的光源是一个高带宽、矩阵可寻址的单个冷阴极X射线点源阵列，可以覆盖大约一平方毫米到几平方米的面积。例如，该平板X射线源可用于构建用于野外、实验室和乡村诊所的紧凑型、基于平板的断层成像系统。 拟议研究的目的是通过演示功能原型来验证平板X射线源的操作。这项为期两年的研究计划的具体目标是：(1)设计、建造和表征原型X射线源；(2)用传统的X射线照相演示源操作，并使用标准图像评估技术来量化源性能。 在这项计划成功完成后，我们将申请后续拨款，以继续完善和开发X射线源。这项研究将涉及更详细的图像评估研究，并进一步量化各种源准备和操作参数如何影响X射线面板源的输出、重复性和寿命。

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): We propose to develop a new x-ray source for medical research and diagnostic applications. The development of this source could radically change the use of x-rays in areas ranging from digital tomosynthesis to computed tomography (CT). The proposed source is a high-bandwidth, matrixaddressable array of individual cold-cathode x-ray point sources that can be made to cover areas of roughly one square millimeter to several square meters. This flat panel x-ray source could be used to construct, for example, compact, flat-panel-based tomography systems for use in the field, laboratory, and rural clinic. The objective of the proposed research is to validate the operation of the flat panel x-ray source by demonstrating a functional prototype. The specific aims of this 2-year research program are to: (1) design, build, and characterize a prototype x-ray source and (2) demonstrate source operation with conventional xray radiographs and quantify source performance using standard image assessment techniques. Following the successful completion of this program we will apply for a follow-on grant to continue the refinement and development of the x-ray source. This research will involve more detailed studies of image assessment combined with further quantification of how various source preparation and operating parameters influence the x-ray panel source's output, reproducibility, and lifetime.