Technological pathways for 21 st century active matrix x-ray imager development

Larry E. Antonuk, Youcef El-Mohri, Kyung Wook Jee, Qihua Zhao, Amit Sawant, Zhong Su, Robert A. Street

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

5 Scopus citations

Abstract

In recent years, as a direct result of extensive research and development, a growing number of x-ray imagers based on the powerful concept of active matrix addressing have been introduced to clinical environments worldwide. These imagers consist of thin, large area, glass substrates onto which two-dimensional, pixelated arrays are deposited. Each pixel comprises an amorphous silicon thin-film switch coupled to some form of pixel storage capacitor. The radiation is detected indirectly, by means of an overlying scintillator, or directly, by means of a photoconductor layer. While existing active matrix imagers offer many advantages, the present technology suffers from a variety of distinct limitations and disadvantages that pertain to imaging performance under conditions of low exposure per image frame, as well as to issues of mechanical robustness and cost. In this paper, the possibility that these restrictions could be removed through the adoption of novel, emerging technologies is discussed. The focus of the discussion is primarily on technologies (such as poly-Si circuits, organic circuits, and micromachining) under independent development for large-area electronics and other applications and for which a plausible chance of convergence with x-ray imaging technology exists.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
EditorsL.E. Antonuk, M.J. Yaffe
Pages1-8
Number of pages8
Volume4682
DOIs
StatePublished - 2002
EventMedical Imaging 2002: Physics of Medical Imaging - San Diego, CA, United States
Duration: Feb 24 2002Feb 26 2002

Other

OtherMedical Imaging 2002: Physics of Medical Imaging
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Diego, CA
Period2/24/022/26/02

Keywords

  • Active matrix flat-panel imager
  • AMFPI
  • Direct detection
  • Indirect detection
  • TFT
  • Thin-film transistor

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • Condensed Matter Physics

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