Matrix-Addressable X-ray Source for Medical Imaging

描述（由申请人提供）： 我们建议开发一种新的X射线源用于医学研究和诊断应用。该源的开发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。所提出的源是一个高带宽，矩阵可寻址阵列的个人冷阴极X射线点源，可以覆盖面积约1平方毫米到几平方米。该平板X射线源可用于构造例如紧凑的、基于平板的断层摄影系统，用于现场、实验室和农村诊所。 拟议的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。这个为期2年的研究计划的具体目标是：（1）设计，建造和表征原型X射线源和（2）使用传统的X射线照片演示源操作，并使用标准图像评估技术量化源性能。 在成功完成该计划后，我们将申请后续拨款，以继续改进和开发X射线源。这项研究将涉及更详细的图像评估研究，结合进一步量化的各种源准备和操作参数如何影响X射线面板源的输出，再现性和寿命。

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.